Lindsey Becker

In a world where modern technology powers most industries, the role of a crucible maker might seem like something from a distant past. Crucible makers were skilled artisans responsible for crafting the vessels used in melting metals at high temperatures. These craftsmen played a vital role in early manufacturing processes, especially in steelmaking during the … Read more

Long before our digital age, a bustling newsroom was a place of constant activity and communication. In this lively environment, the copy boy played a crucial but often underappreciated role. Copy boys were the runners of the newsroom, tasked with quickly delivering typed stories and photographs between reporters and editors. These individuals were often young, … Read more

Molly dancing is a fascinating yet lesser-known tradition that brings a slice of history from East Anglia to life. Emerging in the 1820s, these vibrant customs took center stage on occasions like Boxing Day and Plough Monday. Today, the art of Molly dancing is considered an obsolete occupation, but its colorful history still captivates those … Read more

In the past, being a grubman was a common job in certain places. A grubman worked in a prison, providing extra food and comforts for inmates in exchange for money. This occupation no longer exists, as prisons have changed and offer different systems now. People today may find it surprising to learn about these obsolete … Read more

In the past, a “jagger” was known as a person who transported goods, especially by carrying them over rough terrain. While today’s delivery methods have evolved, the role of a jagger was crucial for commerce in earlier times. This job provided a vital service, moving products between towns and markets when roads were unreliable. Jagger … Read more

In a world where fast digital printing is the norm, it’s hard to imagine a time when typesetting was a thriving occupation. Typesetters were skilled workers who arranged letters and characters by hand to prepare text for printing. This meticulous process required patience and precision, as each piece had to fit perfectly to create a … Read more

Imagine a time when workers felt their livelihoods were at risk due to new technology. This concern led to a group known as the “Frame-breakers,” who were active during the industrial revolution. They protested against mechanized looms, fearing these machines would replace skilled labor. These workers, often part of the Luddite movement, saw themselves in … Read more

The role of ratting, now considered an obsolete job, was once crucial in urban areas plagued by rats. Rat catchers played a vital part in maintaining public health and safety by controlling rodent populations. Their work involved using traps, poison, and sometimes even trained animals like terriers to eliminate the threat of disease-carrying rats. As … Read more

When people think about shoemakers, the term “cordwainer” might not immediately come to mind. This old occupation holds a fascinating place in history, different from the more commonly known cobbler. A cordwainer is a craftsman who made new shoes from new leather, distinguishing them from cobblers who repaired shoes using old leather. The skills of … Read more

Thatchers were once vital tradespeople, expertly crafting roofs from natural materials like straw and reeds. They played a crucial role in building and maintaining homes, helping protect them from the elements. Though this occupation is mostly obsolete today, it reflects a unique blend of skill and tradition in crafting durable, sustainable structures. A thatcher’s expertise … Read more