Prince Gustav of Denmark

What people wore

Heavy Hat for Amager Men

The Dutch-style hat worn by Amager men was made from angora goat hair and weighed 10 lbs.

Getting around

Travel across frozen waters

In severe winters, when the Great Belt froze, mail and passengers were transported in large boats that men pulled across the ice.

At the table

Sugar becomes an affordable staple

Falling sugar prices made it affordable even in the poorest homes, which contributed to dental decay overtaking malnutrition as a primary medical concern.

Music

Transition in Danish folk dances and instruments

During the 19th century, traditional folk dances like the minuet and polska gradually declined in popularity, while newer round dances such as the polka, waltz, and mazurka became widespread. Violin and wind instruments like the clarinet and flute were preferred for these dances.

Daily life

Low wages for domestic help

A maidservant, who might serve a family faithfully for a lifetime, earned only 6–8 kroner per month.

What it cost

Earnings from making fire-lighters

A mother could earn 25 øre by making 500 small fire-lighters, which was just enough to buy a quarter of a loaf of rye bread and 2 kg of fat.