In the news1594
1594 water engine and wheat crisis
In 1594, a failed attempt was made to supply London with water using a horse-powered engine, and wheat prices reached 3 pounds 4 shillings per quarter due to wet weather.
Fife, 19 Aug 1596 – London, 13 Feb 1662
13 facts3 sources
19 Aug 1596
Born in Fife
1614–1632
13 children are born
13 Feb 1662
Dies in London, aged 65
She lived through 8 decades. Pick one to hear and see what it was like around Fife.
General history, not a record about the family: each item says where it comes from.
In the news1594
In 1594, a failed attempt was made to supply London with water using a horse-powered engine, and wheat prices reached 3 pounds 4 shillings per quarter due to wet weather.
Getting around
Walking and traveling in groups
Ordinary people frequently traveled on foot, covering an average of 15 to 20 miles a day in good conditions. For added safety against highwaymen, travelers often rode in armed groups.
In the news1592–1593
A major plague outbreak between 1592 and 1593 caused over 19,000 deaths in London, leading to the closure of theaters.
Daily life
The arrival of the humble chimney
Ordinary people began using chimneys in their homes during this period, which allowed buildings to grow upwards and enabled heating in multiple rooms instead of just the main hall.
What people wore
Sunday Best Attire
Ordinary people typically aimed to own at least two complete outfits, keeping their best clothes specifically for Sundays, holidays, and other special occasions.
Music
Communal Celebratory Singing for Accession Day
Starting in the late 1570s, communal singing became a key way to celebrate Queen Elizabeth's Accession Day on November 17, with songs circulating orally or through broadside prints. These songs, which shifted from religious psalms to celebratory ballads, were sung in churches, homes, and alehouses.
At the table
Pottage as a Staple Dish
Pottage, a thick soup made of vegetables, cereals, pulses, and occasionally meat, served as the primary daily dish for many ordinary families.