Countess Albertine Agnes of Nassau

At the table

Beer as a safer everyday drink

Because water was frequently contaminated, ordinary families drank beer with every meal, including breakfast. This beer was typically a low-alcohol variety, often called small beer, which was safer to consume than water.

What people wore

Layering wool for winter warmth

During winter, Dutch people of all classes wore extra layers of wool under their indoor clothes to keep warm while skating.

Getting around

The reliable horse-drawn towboat system

The trekschuit, a horse-drawn passenger boat, was a reliable and popular way to travel between towns on a vast network of tow-canals. Passengers could choose between sitting in the hold or the more comfortable cabin for a higher fee.

What it cost

Weekly wages for workers and craftsmen

An outdoor laborer in the 17th century typically earned 6.50 guilders per week, while a master carpenter earned 9 guilders per week.

Music

Music in daily Dutch life

The Dutch enjoyed music at home in small amateur groups called Collegia Musica or during family gatherings, while common folk played instruments like fiddles, bagpipes, and hurdy-gurdies at taverns, weddings, and seasonal festivals. Songs were integral to daily life, with maids singing during housework and lullabies used to put children to sleep.

Daily life

Split Doors Kept Children Safe

Families often used split doors, which allowed the top half to be opened for fresh air while keeping the bottom half closed to keep animals out and small children safely inside.