Tennis: Origins and Mysteries [with an Historical Bibliography]

2013 Reprint of 1932 Edition. Full facsimile of the original edition, not reproduced with Optical Recognition Software. Illustrated Edition. Amusing and informative for readers of all ages, this compilation of tennis lore and legend was written by an undefeated Davis Cup champion. Blending fact with humor and philosophy, it recounts the origins of the game, uses of the terms and equipment, scoring methods, and other elements, and features 29 illustrations. The game of Tennis originated in France sometime in the 12th century and was referred to in ecclesiastical manuscripts as "jes de paume," the game of the palm, played with the bare hand. As early as the 12th century, a glove was used to protect the hand. Starting in the 16th century and continuing until the middle of the 18th century, rackets of varying shapes and sizes were used. Around 1750, the present configuration of lopsided head, thick gut, and longer handle were used. The shape of the racket enabled the player to scoop balls out of the corners (walls and floor were considered in-bounds) and also to put 'cut' or 'spin' on the ball. Royalty and the very wealthy mainly played. There are surprisingly few bibliographies on tennis. Henderson's bibliography is by far the most comprehensive, listing 1500 items. The bibliography follows Whitman's history, and is arranged chronologically. There are two main divisions, lawn tennis and court tennis.