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

The arrival of the humble chimney

Ordinary people began using chimneys in their homes during this period, which allowed buildings to grow upwards and enabled heating in multiple rooms instead of just the main hall.

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

Pottage as a Staple Dish

Pottage, a thick soup made of vegetables, cereals, pulses, and occasionally meat, served as the primary daily dish for many ordinary families.

Getting around

A record-breaking long-distance ride

In an extraordinary feat of endurance, Sir Robert Carey rode 397 miles from London to Edinburgh in just three days following the Queen's death in 1603. Such journeys were physically demanding and could involve dangerous road conditions, including mud and flood-prone paths.

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.