George Oldenburg

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.

Daily life

Varied schooling for children

There was no national education system, and children might attend a variety of settings ranging from charitable schools for the poor to private grammar schools.

Work

Agricultural labor was the most common occupation

The most common job in the 18th century was agricultural labour, where workers, their wives, and children performed seasonal tasks like harvesting and weeding. Agricultural labourers often lived in tied cottages and were hired annually at Martinmas fairs.

Music

Masked performers singing for eggs and beer

Groups known as pace-eggers would travel from house to house wearing masks and fantastic costumes, singing and dancing in exchange for rewards like eggs and strong beer.

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.

Getting around

Costs of pack horse transport

Transporting goods by pack horse cost about 5 shillings for 112 pounds of weight carried over 100 miles. Summer travel was generally cheaper and faster than in the winter months.

What it cost

Daily wages for skilled building trades

In 1729, a carpenter earned 2s. 6d. per day, while a mason also received 2s. 6d. per day.