Vintage Backyard Games Projects from 1970

Family Handyman

DIY Backyard Games from 1970

Family Handyman launched in 1951, so 2021 marks our 70th anniversary. We’re celebrating with some of our favorite content from over the years. This project about creating backyard games ran in our June 1970 issue.

As the article says, “Put some more fun into your family life. One or more of these court games is sure to appeal to the entire family — even including grandpa.”

Do you love the ’70s? Check out these vintage Family Handyman covers from the ’70s.

Family Handyman

DIY Croquet

“To play croquet by the official rules, one requires a level area of close-cropped lawn. Wickets and stakes may be pushed into the earth and withdrawn at any time,  or if you are an enthusiast, they can be placed in sod covered cement permanently.”

Here are eight more projects for backyard fun.

Family Handyman

DIY Badminton

“A badminton court may be set up on any reasonably sized area of level lawn with no special preparation. Beware, though, of ground depressions which may catch a running player by surprise and cause a turned ankle.”

Check out these things everyone had in their house in the ’80s.

Family Handyman

DIY Basketball Court

“While a hard-surfaced court is desirable for basketball, many of the game’s greats learned the fundamentals by shooting at a hoop hung on a tree in the middle of a field, or on the side of a barn or garage.”

Family Handyman

DIY Putting Green

“If there is a golfer alive who doesn’t think his putting game could stand improvement, we have never met him. If you are a devotee of this grand old game of the Scots, why not build a practice green right in your own backyard?”

Family Handyman

DIY Night Games

“Many, if not all, of the games shown in this article can be enjoyed after dark if provision is made for good lighting. Arrange spotlights so that their beams overlap, lighting the playing area fully.”

For more amazing vintage Family Handyman content, visit our 70th Anniversary Page.