Tag Archive: servants

The Servant Problem in the 1860s

Here are a few more cartoons from Punch, in 1861 and 1862.  One thing I like is that the cartoonists are sympathetic towards honest ignorance, and aim their wit mostly at pretension. I… Continue reading →

Domestics and the Crinoline in 1862

Yesterday we went to an estate sale at a huge ranch.  Thousands of items were being sold, but most of them were just ordinary things like throw pillows or boxes of glassware from… Continue reading →

Properly Attired Servants, 1907-style

Now that we have sprung forward, I’m sure spring cleaning is on your mind.  Which inevitably brings up questions, “How many servants should I have?” “How shall I occupy myself while they are working?” and… Continue reading →