Princess Augusta of Great Britain

At the table

Gin and beer replaced unsafe water

The London poor consumed over six million gallons of gin annually by 1730, as it was often cheaper and safer than water. Alcohol, including small beer, was a staple because brewing removed contaminants that made water unsafe to drink.

What people wore

Maintaining two outfits for respectability

Ordinary people aimed to own at least two complete outfits, saving the better set for Sundays and holidays to demonstrate respectability.

Getting around

Common travel by foot, horse, or wagon

Most ordinary travel was done on foot, by saddle horse, or via hired pack-horse carriages, with horse-drawn wagons serving as a slow but cheap option for poorer travelers. Passenger stagecoaches were also available, though they were often uncomfortable and suffered from poor road conditions.

What it cost

Costs of meat and bread provisions

Butcher's meat cost 1s. 10d. per stone in 1729. Bread prices fluctuated, but in 1745, one penny could purchase 15 ounces and 9/16 of bread.

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.

Daily life

Cooking meat with animal power

To roast meat, some households relied on boys called 'Jacks' or even specially trained dogs to turn the heavy kitchen spits.