Robert Killigrew

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.

Daily life

Fetching water from public conduits

Domestic water was not piped to most homes; families typically had to fetch it from public conduits that opened at ornamental spouts.

Work

Sunday was a busy workday

Although Sunday was meant to be a day of rest, nearly one-third of all work activities for female servants occurred on that day.

Music

Widespread Passion for Traditional English Dancing

English people were passionate about dancing at festivals such as Easter, Whitsuntide, and May Day, often dancing around a Maypole or a bonfire. In London, apprentices and girls frequently danced in the streets after shops closed, accompanied by the music of a pipe and tabor.

At the table

Bread Color and Social Status

Bread color reflected social status; while the wealthy ate fine white wheat bread, ordinary families typically relied on darker breads made from rye or barley.

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.

What it cost

Cost of shoes and boots

While basic items were affordable, clothing was costly, with a simple pair of child's shoes costing 7d and boots ranging from £4 to £10.