Looks like a baby shower to me. Who knows how they used to celebrate. Not sure about the picture, but I vote for camp stove
No, it was sponsored by the library where I work. Lots of libraries are starting to host these. Ours last year was called a Mini Comic Con. Fig
Well, I'm too tired to follow up this evening... I will look at the lamp tomorrow, and also look for more dolls in the photo!
Sorry not to come back earlier. I was busy today with some other things. So, I looked as carefully as I could with a magnifier and did not see any other dolls. All of the men except the one with the dolls are either holding or smoking cigars. Here is a cropped version of the lamp, slightly darkened, and I heightened the contrast just a little. Fig