Prince Hendrik of the Netherlands

At the table

Coffee and gin as essential drinks

Due to polluted well water, urban workers often drank weak coffee or chicory as a safer alternative, while gin was widely consumed for stimulation.

What people wore

The multi-purpose apron

An apron, known as a 'schölk', was a versatile daily tool used not only to protect clothes but also to carry eggs, fruit, or harvest, wipe tables, and even dry children's tears. Women would roll up the bottom edge to create a convenient pouch for these everyday tasks.

Getting around

Travel by trekschuit and diligence

In the early 19th century, Dutch people traveled between towns primarily by trekschuit (tow-barge), a horse-drawn boat that was affordable and operated on a reliable schedule. For faster, more expensive travel, they used the diligence, a horse-drawn carriage that ran on roads.

What it cost

Cost of shoes and housing in 1827

In 1827, a person spent 10 guilders annually on shoes, cobbling, and straps, and 52 guilders for housing and sleeping accommodations.

Music

Dancing and Festivals in Social Life

Festivals and dances were vital for social connection, with public celebrations frequently including collective singing and dancing. For example, the Carmagnole was a popular dance performed during the revolutionary freedom tree celebrations in 1795.

Daily life

Lighting homes with candles and oil lamps

In the early 19th century, homes were lit by candles, oil lamps, and the hearth, as gas lighting was not yet widespread for residential use. Light was used sparingly, with the best illumination reserved for living rooms and kitchens, while bedrooms and storage areas often relied on simpler, cheaper sources like candles.