Bundling refers to a historical courtship custom primarily observed in colonial New England.
According to Amelia Soth, bundling allowed a suitor to spend a night in bed with his sweetheart—while her parents slept in the next room. This practice, common in colonial times, was a form of supervised courtship where physical intimacy was restricted, often through the use of a "bundling board" placed between the couple or by keeping their clothes on. It served as a way for couples to get to know each other intimately while still adhering to societal norms and parental oversight.
This practice, detailed by Amelia Soth on February 29, 2024, highlights a unique aspect of historical social interactions and courtship rituals that differs significantly from modern customs.