Board game:Game of the Telegraph Boy

Several manufacturers made similar board games, in the later 19th century, that seem directly influenced by the popular books written by Horatio Alger, Jr. Aimed primarily at boys, as his dime novels were, these games carry titles such as "Distric Messenger Boy," and "Post Office Delivery Boy." Alger (1832-1899) wrote over 130 books which have been called "rags to riches" stories; although most of his characters achieve solid middle class status, not great wealth. Like the majority of 19th century board and card games, these games are loaded with a message--that hard work and perseverance will pay off in the end. Simple race games, they all involve entering business at the bottom, as a message- or errand-boy, then working one's way up the company ladder. Finally, a player wins by becoming the boss in the last square. The variety of titles of these similar games indicates they were popular, just as Alger's books were during those years. Undoubtedly parents, who bought the games and books, believed their message and hoped their children would benefit from it.