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In 1874 on the banks of Lake Chautauqua in New York, the Chautauqua society was formed. The original purpose was to help and instruct rural teachers but it soon became a annual gathering enjoyed by thousands. In those days rural America had very poor access to information and entertainment. Chautauqua became their main source for both. Upcoming Chautauqua's were anticipated eagerly and thousands would flock to them, often staying for days, for the entertaining, socializing and culture that they had no access to otherwise. Famous figures from the time like Carl Sandburg, Booker T. Washington and Adlai Stevenson supported this movement and would tour with the Chautauqua. Teddy Roosevelt called the tradition "The most American thing in America."

Many factors led to Chautauqua's loss of popularity. The economic factors of the Depression were not as important as the increase in rural connection to the cities. Roads became better, and more people had cars. It was now possible to go to baseball games and have access to culture and socializing outside of their towns. Radio and telephones brought communication from the outside world to more rural communities. Chautauqua will never again reach the popularity it did in the days when thousands of small towns could only wait in anticipation for the Chautauqua to come and alleviate their isolation.

Today many Chautauqua societies and gatherings still exist. The purpose of modern day Chautauqua has changed. In the past, the education provided was contemporary. Now the gatherings teach about the past or simulate original Chautauqua. The main draw for most people remains the same however: a fun time to have with friends and family, and a good reason to spend the day outside being educated and entertained.

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