I have a collection of handwritten diaries from the North east States for the late 19C early 20C. These are all written by adults, mainly farmers, and I was initially surprised to read that a number of them attended "Spelling School" of an evening. Apparently these were held during the winter, in barns as well as schools, and were the entertainment equivalent to the movies and baseball. Day-time bees would help in the selection of a school team who would compete against a visiting team. But they were not just spelling bees they were also opportunities for the adults, who in addition to watching and encouraging their offspring would take part by giving "declamations", recitations and dramatic performances. It was not usual to provide refreshments and each family brought its own candle .I am not aware of such events in England. Has anyone heard of them ? David