In the news1734
French forces re-occupy Modena in 1734
In July 1734, French and Piedmontese troops occupied Modena, causing Duke Rinaldo to retreat to Bologna for three years until 1736.
Genoa, 7 Oct 1737 – Wimbledon House, 18 Mar 1813
8 facts3 sources
7 Oct 1737
Born in Genoa
18 Mar 1813
Dies in Wimbledon House, aged 75
She lived through 9 decades. Pick one to hear and see what it was like around Genoa.
General history, not a record about the family: each item says where it comes from.
In the news1734
In July 1734, French and Piedmontese troops occupied Modena, causing Duke Rinaldo to retreat to Bologna for three years until 1736.
Getting around
Travel by foot, mule, or carriage
For most people, travel between towns along the mountainous Via Vandelli was done on foot, horseback, or by mule, while only the flatter Emilian stretch could accommodate carriages. A full journey between Modena and Massa took about one week, even with postal service arrangements.
In the news1739
The hard winter of 1739 brought extreme weather that caused rising poor rates, widespread destitution, and higher mortality rates.
Daily life
Rural home layout and food storage
Rural homes featured a spacious kitchen that served as the heart of daily life, where families prepared bread, processed pork, and performed household chores. The kitchen was typically south-facing to catch the sun, while cellars were positioned on the north side to keep food cool.
What people wore
Poor citizens wore cheap cloth slippers
In 18th-century Modena, the poor frequently wore cloth slippers, which were extremely cheap and easily made from scrap materials.
Music
Music in streets and squares
Outdoor public events featured brass and percussion musicians who accompanied processions and rituals in streets and squares. These performances blended with the sounds of the crowd, creating a conversational atmosphere shared across different social groups.
At the table
Summer refreshments called latati
During hot summer months, people refreshed themselves with drinks called latati, which were milk-like beverages made from ingredients like lemons, citrons, and almonds.