Russell, Lillian – Lads Clubs. Their History, Organization and Management

Description

Russell, Lillian ‘Lads Clubs. Their History, Organization and Management’ 1932 1st ed. 272-pages. Good condition, no dust jacket.

The 1932 hardcover titled Lads’ Clubs: Their History, Organisation and Management, written by Lilian M. Russell (née Rigby) and published by A. & C. Black, Ltd. in London, is a 272-page authoritative guide on youth welfare and the establishment of community clubs for working-class boys. The volume serves as a heavily revised, updated, and expanded edition of the highly influential 1908 sociology text, Working Lads’ Clubs, which she originally co-authored with her late husband, Charles E. B. Russell.

Book Synopsis & Editorial Focus:
The book is a deeply practical manual designed to offer structured advice to social reformers, community organizers, and philanthropists looking to establish and navigate youth clubs in early 20th-century Great Britain. Lilian Russell draws from decades of collective field experience to evaluate the changing social landscape and the evolving ethos of youth welfare. Key thematic areas include:
• Operational Logistics: Granular advice on local club foundation, building designs, equipment requirements, optimal club size, and financial budgeting.
• The “Membership Contribution” Philosophy: A core argument that boys should pay a nominal subscription fee to foster personal responsibility and community ownership.
• Holistic Development: Methods for integrating recreation, formal and informal education, physical training, and moral or religious development to shape character and future prospects.
• Historical Evolution: A breakdown of how lads’ clubs shifted from basic, rainy-day recreational shelters into vital, disciplined institutions molding the young working-class men of the era.

Physical Design & Features:
• Binding & Boards: Bound in vibrant orange cloth over sturdy boards. The title and spine details are typically stamped in black ink.
• Dust Jacket: Originally issued with a matching paper dust jacket designed to protect the bright orange cloth panels.