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
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
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
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
Dewsbury, a town rich in history, has connections to many unique old occupations, including the lesser-known role of the “Dewsbury hand.” This occupation involved craftsmen skilled in making handbells, a beloved local tradition. These handbells were famous for their role in the Dewsbury Hand-Bell Band of the 1880s. The role of Dewsbury hand was not … Read more
In times past, a dragoon was a soldier who could fight both on horseback and on foot. This dual capability made them versatile in battle, as they could charge as cavalry or dismount and fight like infantry. The name “dragoon” may come from the dragon-like illustration on early firearms they carried. Over time, as warfare … Read more
Long before modern machines made the process easier, there was a special craft dedicated to making sure swords shone bright and sharp. A sword polisher’s job was to clean, polish, and perfect the surfaces of swords. These skilled artisans played a crucial role in transforming rough metal into gleaming weapons of war. Sword polishers not … Read more
The role of the pew opener might sound obscure today, but at one time, it was a common and significant position in churches. Pew openers were responsible for managing the seating arrangements by unlocking private pews and helping to seat attendees without assigned places. Often, these individuals were women who knew the pew-owners and even … Read more
The calenderer was a skilled worker who played a crucial role in the textile industry during the 18th century. People in this job specialized in pressing cloth to make it smooth and glossy. In a time before modern machinery, their expertise was essential for finishing fabrics like calico. Becoming a calenderer required a seven-year apprenticeship, … Read more
The telegraph boy was once a central figure in the fast-paced world of communication. These young men raced through city streets, delivering messages that connected people across long distances. As technology advanced, the role of the telegraph boy began to fade, making way for new methods of message delivery. They zipped between offices, homes, and … Read more