Princess Augusta of Great Britain

At the table

Beer was common for all classes

Beer was a standard drink even for children, with working men often receiving an allowance of up to a gallon per day as part of their wages. Midday dinner for workers typically consisted of bread, beer, and cheese or fatty bacon.

What people wore

Typical working-class female attire

Working-class women typically wore a shift, petticoat, and gown, often accessorized with an apron to protect their clothes during daily labor.

Getting around

Slow, grueling stagecoach travel between towns

Stagecoach travel was slow and physically demanding; for example, a journey from London to Gloucester, 82 miles away, took an entire day. Roads were often so rocky and narrow that passengers reported being jumbled like peas in a child's rattle.

What it cost

Costs of meat and bread provisions

Butcher's meat cost 1s. 10d. per stone in 1729. Bread prices fluctuated, but in 1745, one penny could purchase 15 ounces and 9/16 of bread.

Music

Cost of musical instruments for amateurs

While professional instruments like harpsichords were expensive, costing 35 to 50 guineas, amateur musicians could purchase violins for £2 to £3 or an oboe for less than £2.

Daily life

Cooking meat with animal power

To roast meat, some households relied on boys called 'Jacks' or even specially trained dogs to turn the heavy kitchen spits.