Etiquette for Gilded Age Calls

“Etiquette should wait upon custom in those little villages where the circle of native gentlewomen is invaded by the Summer wanderer or transient resident. Here is where real tact tells, and to follow it may seem primitive, even awkward, ways, is often an evidence of the best breeding.”

The new arrival in any country place receives the first call. If she is a visitor at a friend’s home, her hostess will ensure her cordial reception in the village circle, by giving a tea or “afternoon” within a day or two after her arrival. Most calling in country places is done from 11 in the morning to 1 in the afternoon and from 5 to 8 in the evening, when the visit becomes a piazza function.

All visits should be returned within a week and, except among intimates, no calls should exceed a half hour in length. Etiquette, however, should wait upon custom in those little villages where the circle of native gentlewomen is invaded by the Summer wanderer or transient resident. Here is where real tact tells, and to follow it may seem primitive, even awkward, ways, is often an evidence of the best breeding.– The New York Times, 1895

Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia