The "Gay 90's" is a decade well known for the evolution of the leisure and entertainment culture. By this time, the sport of horseracing began to flourish in New York City as new and improved racetracks emerged. The development of private clubs and attractive hotels and casinos appealed to the social elite class. Characters such as James Buchanan Brady, also known as Diamond Jim and our own Yankee Doodle Dandy were included in this lavish and flashy class. The emphasis on money, play, and luxurious lifestyles dominated this culture. The term 'conspicuous consumption' can be used in this society as a way of expressing its culture and maintaining its elite status.
             Horseracing was used as a way to segregate social classes. The American Jockey Club was established and provided a sense of prestige and social exclusiveness among others. "Gentlemen of the highest social position, wealth, intelligence, and influence unhesitatingly became active participants..." (Reiss, 143). This materialistic society was status climbers who sought power, wealth, and elitism. On the opening day of the Jerome Park Race Track, the public was charged an admission fee and an additional fee for better seats (Reiss, 143). In this society, moneymaking came first and was a business.
             Along with moneymaking came play and entertainment. Gambling, of course, was a way to signify social status. Not only was horserace betting popularized, but casinos were established for additional entertainment. "Rich visitors descended on New York City to be amused...bringing their check books with them (Dizikes, 75). The 24-hour poker tables with unlimited betting was just one of the many attractions. Flashy hotels and women were included in this culture as well. Women were used as another option of entertainment for guests. "Having eaten and drunk, and having been to the theaters and race tracks, the big spenders looked for women (Dizi...