Lindsey Becker

In the world of old trades and forgotten skills, the role of a cutler stands out as both essential and fascinating. A cutler was a skilled craftsman who created knives, scissors, razors, and other cutting tools, often by hand. The craft was an integral part of daily life, providing essential tools for households and even … Read more

A tinker was a metalworker who repaired household items like pots and pans. This occupation was common in earlier centuries when people often needed to repair rather than replace metal goods. Tinkers played a vital role in communities by fixing everyday items, making them essential before mass production made goods more disposable. Tinkers were often … Read more

A wainwright was a skilled tradesperson responsible for making and repairing wagons and carts, an essential job when these vehicles were the mainstay of transportation and farming. In a world before cars and trucks, the work of a wainwright was vital for moving goods and people. The term “wainwright” combines the words “wain,” meaning a … Read more

The coalmonger was a staple profession in many communities during a time when coal was the primary energy source for heating and industry. A coalmonger supplied coal to households and businesses, ensuring people had the fuel they needed for warmth and work. As technology advanced and new energy sources became popular, the need for coalmongers … Read more

Stepping back in time to bustling drugstores of the early 20th century, one would likely encounter a soda jerk expertly fulfilling orders at the soda fountain. A soda jerk was a young worker dedicated to crafting soda drinks and ice cream treats in a drugstore setting. Though now considered an obsolete occupation, it played a … Read more

The sound of a street organ drifting through busy city streets is a memory of a bygone era. Street organists once added music and life to towns and cities, playing catchy tunes with large, intricate instruments. These musicians were not just performers; they were also a vital part of the social fabric, bringing joy and … Read more

Imagine a time when industries relied on human hands to process raw materials. One such job was the hemp dresser, a once-common occupation in the linen industry. Hemp dressers were responsible for separating the coarse parts of hemp from linen, a task that required skill and precision. It might be hard to picture children working … Read more

The life of a scullery maid was both challenging and intriguing, offering a window into the past. These maids were often the youngest and lowest-ranking staff in the household, usually tasked with cleaning kitchen utensils and maintaining the cleanliness of work areas. Their duties were crucial to the smooth operation of a bustling kitchen. Living … Read more

Log driving might not be a familiar term today, but it was once a crucial job in the lumber industry. This occupation involved guiding logs down rivers to sawmills, ensuring a steady supply of timber. Technological advancements have replaced log drivers, marking it as an obsolete job. The work of a log driver required agility … Read more

The mountebank was once a captivating figure in marketplaces and fairs. A mountebank was a person who sold quack medicines from a platform, often entertaining the crowd with vibrant tales and performances. This occupation thrived when medical knowledge was scarce, and people sought easy cures for their ailments. In the bustling days of yore, mountebanks … Read more