Mentioned to my wife that I was ready for some classic cocktail stuff - so of course I got quite a bit of it. My father in law emptied out his cabinet of his old martini glasses - 2 to 4 would have been ideal but now I have 11.
They are cool though, all 50's vintage.
Coolest of all however was a book he pulled off his shelf and threw in - Esquire's Handbook for Hosts. This is a 1949 guide for Metrosexuals.
It does have lots of classic cocktail recipes of course, but great advice in many areas. Brain teasers, dating advice ("Should you invite her in?"), card games, etc.
I think my favorite may be some of the advice on cooking outdoors for friends. Here's one in the "yes" column:
Use DDT. Use generously in and around the barbecue premises. Banish all bugs and insects that creep, crawl, or fly, thus you add to the comfort of your guests and your own peace of mind. First application 1 hour before meal time-additional one just before guests arrive.
This book has been reprinted and is now available for under $5. Well worth it, quite hilarious.
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/492768.Esquire_s_Handbook_for_HostsI also got a bottle of Whistlepig Rye from my wife, along with a drink shaker. I won't be wasting the Whistlepig on a mixed drink however.