The term "you silly goose" has been around for a long time. Recently one of my historical writer buds was asked to verify the use of this expression to a copy editor. The copy editor thought it was too modern of an expression. To the copy editor's credit, it would have been my first thought too because it is an expression we still use. However, it turns out that the use of this expression was used before 1826 and all the way through the 19th century. Below is a list I sent my friend with the proof of the expression based on the copyrights of the works.
1826 The london literary gazette and journal of belles letters, arts... pg.70 (And another publication same year, same story)
1846 A Dictionary of the English & German, and the German and English... Vol. 2 pg 407
1866 Saturday Reader Vol 2 pg 53
1869 Once a Week pg 131
I'm sharing this with all of you to point out that when researching and writing historicals we might use an expression that is historically correct but might not be thought of as historical. To check on expression type the expression in quotes and search libraries like google books. Narrow the search by selecting free books and 19th century (If that is the time period you are writing in.) and see if the expression you wish to use was used then.
Another point to remember: Editor's still might ask you to change the expression because they feel it might jar the reader out of the story even though you know you are historically accurate. In which case, you change the expression. I try to write expressions that are unique to the character, their surroundings and their personality. Sometimes I've come up with more powerful expressions for my characters. Other times, a common expression is the way to go because the reader zooms right past and doesn't require additional musing over your word choice. In the end work it out with your editor and be true to your story and characters.
Showing posts with label 1869. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 1869. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 9, 2017
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
1869 Advertising
Below is an Lord & Taylor ad from the New York Tribue, Apr. 21, 1869. What I find useful from this is the pricing of the various clothing items in this newspaper ad. It starts with the Black silk dress for $2.50 worth $3.50. A point to remember is that 1869 is one of the recovery years from the Civil War.
Here's the Ad:
Here's the Ad:
Friday, June 9, 2017
Sprained Ankle Part 1
Below are some additional examples of various treatments for Sprained Ankles. I've tried to arrange them in the order of their publication. From what I've read it seems that wrapping the sprain was quite common and in the earlier part of the century the use of leeches to help bring down the swelling.
In this account you'll find the mention of the treatment of leeches but the physician came up with another alternative.
1838
"The external appearance of the leg, and particularly the redness and tightness of the skin, would have tempted me under ordinary circumstances to prescribe the application of several leeches, and some embrocation afterwards; but I knew such a course would not greatly expedite her recovery, and the object in this case was to shorten the usual period of confinement. With confidence therefore I recommended a moderately strong ammoniated lotion, all over the leg and instep, which was applied and kept on for five minutes.' It took away the inward pain in that time, though it augmented apparently the exteral soreness and redness of the skin. After the lapse of half an hour from the first application, seeing that no blister was produced (none being desirable) I repeated the lotion, considerably diluted. and recommended that the compress should be suffered to remain on the leg during the night. The lady of the house, under my instruction, applied that same night similar compresses, with the diluted lotion, to the bruises on the knee and hips. On the following morning every thing had returned to its natural state, the swelling and redness had disappeared, and the patient could put her foot to the ground and walk without inconvenience."
Source: Dunglison's American Medical Library Part 3 pg155 ©1838
(ammoniated - To treat or combine with ammonia)
1869
In the Retrospect of Medicine Vol. 59 pg 165 I found the quote below which is in keeping with yesterday's post giving us a better time frame for when this practice was begun.
I tightly strapped the foot and ankle, from the toes to the middle of the leg, with strips of ordinary adhesive plaster.
1871
"Severe sprains are often serious fractures, though no bone be broken, or only a bit may be chipped off; the ligaments and fascise are ruptured, blood being extravasated into the joints, into the sheaths of tendons, and for some distance not infrequently between the layers of muscles. The swelling is great, the pain intense. The orthodox treatment by leeches and fomentations is valueless, compared with circular compression and perfect immobilisation." (Gamgee on Fractures, 1871.)
Source: The Retrospect of Medicine Vol. 74 pg 175 ©1877
The circular compression is described below:
1879
"For a sprained ankle, place the end of the bandage upon the instep, then carry it round, and bring it over the same part again, and from thence round the foot tow or three times, finishing off with a turn or two round the leg above the ankle."
Source: Ayer's Every Man His Own Doctor" ©1879
In this account you'll find the mention of the treatment of leeches but the physician came up with another alternative.
1838
"The external appearance of the leg, and particularly the redness and tightness of the skin, would have tempted me under ordinary circumstances to prescribe the application of several leeches, and some embrocation afterwards; but I knew such a course would not greatly expedite her recovery, and the object in this case was to shorten the usual period of confinement. With confidence therefore I recommended a moderately strong ammoniated lotion, all over the leg and instep, which was applied and kept on for five minutes.' It took away the inward pain in that time, though it augmented apparently the exteral soreness and redness of the skin. After the lapse of half an hour from the first application, seeing that no blister was produced (none being desirable) I repeated the lotion, considerably diluted. and recommended that the compress should be suffered to remain on the leg during the night. The lady of the house, under my instruction, applied that same night similar compresses, with the diluted lotion, to the bruises on the knee and hips. On the following morning every thing had returned to its natural state, the swelling and redness had disappeared, and the patient could put her foot to the ground and walk without inconvenience."
Source: Dunglison's American Medical Library Part 3 pg155 ©1838
(ammoniated - To treat or combine with ammonia)
1869
In the Retrospect of Medicine Vol. 59 pg 165 I found the quote below which is in keeping with yesterday's post giving us a better time frame for when this practice was begun.
I tightly strapped the foot and ankle, from the toes to the middle of the leg, with strips of ordinary adhesive plaster.
1871
"Severe sprains are often serious fractures, though no bone be broken, or only a bit may be chipped off; the ligaments and fascise are ruptured, blood being extravasated into the joints, into the sheaths of tendons, and for some distance not infrequently between the layers of muscles. The swelling is great, the pain intense. The orthodox treatment by leeches and fomentations is valueless, compared with circular compression and perfect immobilisation." (Gamgee on Fractures, 1871.)
Source: The Retrospect of Medicine Vol. 74 pg 175 ©1877
The circular compression is described below:
1879
"For a sprained ankle, place the end of the bandage upon the instep, then carry it round, and bring it over the same part again, and from thence round the foot tow or three times, finishing off with a turn or two round the leg above the ankle."
Source: Ayer's Every Man His Own Doctor" ©1879
Monday, March 13, 2017
Corsets
In the Herald of Health there is an interesting article about the problems of corsets and the harm they can do to the body. The article came out in 1869. The use of a corset during the 19th century changes from place to place and decade to decade. Also, corsets came in a variety of styles and in the amount of restriction it causes the body. They were front laced and a few back laced. The back laced corset is what we've seen through the eyes of Hollywood. The front laced was more practical for the single woman, or the frontier and farm woman. This article shows that by 1869 there was concern about the health issues from wearing a corset.
Below is the excerpt from Herald of Health©1869
And now for the corsets! Why are they worn? To improve the figure, many say. And yet some of the finest forms I have ever seen wore no corsets, but were supposed to do so because of the fine bust. In reference to these, I have been asked what corsets or shoulder braces they wore, the inquirer wishing to secure the same, because the chest was so complete in its contour. Now, the peculiarity with these very young ladies was that they had never worn corsets or been compressed, padded, or braced in any way, but had dressed loosely and taken gymnastics,
which aro better than corsets to improve the bust.
And Encyclopaedia Americana ©1830 has this interesting set of recommendations about wearing corsets.
We may conclude what we have to say on the use of the corset, by imbodying the whole in a few plain, general rules:—1st. Corsets should be made of smooth, soft, elastic materials. 2d. They should be accurately fitted and modified to suit the peculiarities of figure of each wearer. 3d. No other stiffening should be used but that of quilting or padding ; the bones, steel, &c., should be left to the deformed or diseased, for whom they were originally intended. 4th. Corsets should never be drawn so tight as to impede regular, natural breathing, as, under all circumstances, the improvement of figure is insufficient to compensate for the air of awkward restraint caused by such lacing. 5th. They should never be worn, either loosely or tightly, during the hours appropriated to sleep, as, by impeding respiration, and accumulating the heat of the system improperly, they invariably injure. 6th. The corset for young persons should be of the simplest character, and worn in the lightest and easiest manner, allowing their lungs full play, and giving the form its fullest opportumty for expansion.
If one wishes a fine figure, do not encase it in whalebone, so as to limit muscular motion, but rather encourage the free development of every organ within and without by appropriate action; that is, take in the most air possible, so as to make lungs full and free; throw shoulders back so as to make the chest broad and erect; give free play to all tho muscles, so that they will grow strong and support the body well without artificial aid.
Below is the excerpt from Herald of Health©1869
And now for the corsets! Why are they worn? To improve the figure, many say. And yet some of the finest forms I have ever seen wore no corsets, but were supposed to do so because of the fine bust. In reference to these, I have been asked what corsets or shoulder braces they wore, the inquirer wishing to secure the same, because the chest was so complete in its contour. Now, the peculiarity with these very young ladies was that they had never worn corsets or been compressed, padded, or braced in any way, but had dressed loosely and taken gymnastics,
which aro better than corsets to improve the bust.
And Encyclopaedia Americana ©1830 has this interesting set of recommendations about wearing corsets.
We may conclude what we have to say on the use of the corset, by imbodying the whole in a few plain, general rules:—1st. Corsets should be made of smooth, soft, elastic materials. 2d. They should be accurately fitted and modified to suit the peculiarities of figure of each wearer. 3d. No other stiffening should be used but that of quilting or padding ; the bones, steel, &c., should be left to the deformed or diseased, for whom they were originally intended. 4th. Corsets should never be drawn so tight as to impede regular, natural breathing, as, under all circumstances, the improvement of figure is insufficient to compensate for the air of awkward restraint caused by such lacing. 5th. They should never be worn, either loosely or tightly, during the hours appropriated to sleep, as, by impeding respiration, and accumulating the heat of the system improperly, they invariably injure. 6th. The corset for young persons should be of the simplest character, and worn in the lightest and easiest manner, allowing their lungs full play, and giving the form its fullest opportumty for expansion.
If one wishes a fine figure, do not encase it in whalebone, so as to limit muscular motion, but rather encourage the free development of every organ within and without by appropriate action; that is, take in the most air possible, so as to make lungs full and free; throw shoulders back so as to make the chest broad and erect; give free play to all tho muscles, so that they will grow strong and support the body well without artificial aid.
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
Carrot Pie
I stumbled on this recipe in The New England Economical Housekeeper ©1845.
Carrot Pie
A very good pie may be made of carrots in the same way that you make pumpkin pies.
Yes, that's all they had for the recipe. So, I decided to hunt down a few more.
Carrot Pie. from The American Housewife and Kitchen Directory ©1869
Scrape the skin off from the carrots, boil them soft, and strain them through a sieve. To a pint of the strained pulp put three pints of milk, six beaten eggs, two table-spoonsfu of melted butter, the juice of half a lemon, and the grated rind of a whole one. Sweeten it to your taste, and bake it in deep pie plates without an upper crust.
The New England Cook Book's recipe is similar but slightly different. Original publication 1836
Scrape three good sized carrots, boil them till very tender. Then rub them through a sieve, and mix them with a quart of milk, four beaten eggs, a piece of butter of the size of half an egg, a table spoonful of lemon juice, and the grated peel of half of a one. Sweeten it to your taste. Bake it in deep pie plates with an under crust and rim.
I could find recipes from other sources but they were all similar to the ones above.
Carrot Pie
A very good pie may be made of carrots in the same way that you make pumpkin pies.
Yes, that's all they had for the recipe. So, I decided to hunt down a few more.
Carrot Pie. from The American Housewife and Kitchen Directory ©1869
Scrape the skin off from the carrots, boil them soft, and strain them through a sieve. To a pint of the strained pulp put three pints of milk, six beaten eggs, two table-spoonsfu of melted butter, the juice of half a lemon, and the grated rind of a whole one. Sweeten it to your taste, and bake it in deep pie plates without an upper crust.
The New England Cook Book's recipe is similar but slightly different. Original publication 1836
Scrape three good sized carrots, boil them till very tender. Then rub them through a sieve, and mix them with a quart of milk, four beaten eggs, a piece of butter of the size of half an egg, a table spoonful of lemon juice, and the grated peel of half of a one. Sweeten it to your taste. Bake it in deep pie plates with an under crust and rim.
I could find recipes from other sources but they were all similar to the ones above.
Saturday, October 29, 2016
Block Planes
Hi all,
My dad has an incredible antique tool collection. I was hoping to photograph these tools to show on my blog but that wasn't possible without taking apart his display. I managed to pick up a couple of his planes and was surprised to find the bottoms weren't all flat.
Okay, some of you probably knew this but I didn't. My dad went on to explain that the various designs in the planes were for different cuttings, in much the same way we use a router today. This made me think back on the numerous door casings I'd seen over the years in older and Victorian homes and gave me a greater appreciation for all the hard work that went into making them. Think of the crown molding, the chair rails, etc. All of those curves were done by hand.
There's an article in American Woodworker Jun 1999 about Hand-Planned Moldings if you'd like to read further. There are a couple of photographs in which you'll see Wooden Block Planes.
I hope to have some photographs in the future but that will be quite a few months away. In the meantime you can search for Wooden Block Planes and find some images. Few show the bottom of the plane, the actual working edge, but you'll get the idea. And the articles gives you a greater appreciation for how the intrigue molding was made.
Wooden Block Planes have been around for centuries, in 1860 a cast iron bodied planes were developed by Leonard Bailey who sold his patents to Stanley Rule & Level in 1869. This design is still produced today.
If you'd like more information about Block Planes there is a great book out there "The Handplane Book" by Garrett Hack, John S. Sheldon, several pages of which are available for preview at Google books.
Here are a couple of pages from the 1894-1985 Fall Montgomery Ward Catalogue in full scan so you can read the details.
Pages 1 & 2
Pages 3
My dad has an incredible antique tool collection. I was hoping to photograph these tools to show on my blog but that wasn't possible without taking apart his display. I managed to pick up a couple of his planes and was surprised to find the bottoms weren't all flat.
Okay, some of you probably knew this but I didn't. My dad went on to explain that the various designs in the planes were for different cuttings, in much the same way we use a router today. This made me think back on the numerous door casings I'd seen over the years in older and Victorian homes and gave me a greater appreciation for all the hard work that went into making them. Think of the crown molding, the chair rails, etc. All of those curves were done by hand.
There's an article in American Woodworker Jun 1999 about Hand-Planned Moldings if you'd like to read further. There are a couple of photographs in which you'll see Wooden Block Planes.
I hope to have some photographs in the future but that will be quite a few months away. In the meantime you can search for Wooden Block Planes and find some images. Few show the bottom of the plane, the actual working edge, but you'll get the idea. And the articles gives you a greater appreciation for how the intrigue molding was made.
Wooden Block Planes have been around for centuries, in 1860 a cast iron bodied planes were developed by Leonard Bailey who sold his patents to Stanley Rule & Level in 1869. This design is still produced today.
If you'd like more information about Block Planes there is a great book out there "The Handplane Book" by Garrett Hack, John S. Sheldon, several pages of which are available for preview at Google books.
Here are a couple of pages from the 1894-1985 Fall Montgomery Ward Catalogue in full scan so you can read the details.
Pages 1 & 2
Pages 3
Thursday, September 8, 2016
Islay Bowmore Baptist Church
During the rennovations of this church a letter was found dated 1869.
Baptist Church Bowmore: A letter from the year 1869.
Return to Churches Index Page
During renovation works in 1992 on the Baptist Church in Bowmore a copy of a letter was found in a bottle under the pulpit. Closer examination learned the letter dated back to more than 120 years ago. A stunning discovery. The original letters are kept safe in the Islay Museum. I received a copy from Rae Woodrow who was kind enough to "translate" the letter into a readable Word document. Please find below the original text, it may contain some errors because the original letter wasn't of the best quality after so many years.
Bowmore, Islay
23rd Sept. 1869.
This is intended to preserve the remembrance of the repairing of this place of worship, which is (henceforth to be called The Bowmore Tabernacle). Previously to these repairs, the place was most unsightly to behold, and most uncomfortable as a place of worship, by reason of cold and damp. The house was built about the year 1849 while the Rev, Angus Mc Naughton was minister of the church. Mr Mc Naughton was minister of the church, Mr McNaughton having emigrated to Canada, he was succeeded as missionary in Islay by the Rev James Miller who was minister of this church for upwards of twenty years, until the end of 1868, when being nearly 87 years of age, he retired on a small allowance granted by the Baptist Home Missionary Society for Scotland, which Society has supported the causes in Islay from its commencement.
Towards the end of February 1869, the present missionary, Mr Alexander McDougall who was formerly pastor of the Baptist Church in Rothesay, and had been educated at Mr Spurgeon’s College London, was engaged by the acting committee of the Baptist Home Missionary Society for Scotland, to labour in connection with the above Society in Islay and Colonsay, preaching in Gaelic and English. Immediately on entering upon this field of labours, Mr McDougall determined to make an effort towards repairing the place of worship and the ministers’ dwelling house above it, neither of which had ever been of ?? Although the house had been built 20 years.
For the rest of the post go to: Link It's quite a letter to read.
Baptist Church Bowmore: A letter from the year 1869.
Return to Churches Index Page
During renovation works in 1992 on the Baptist Church in Bowmore a copy of a letter was found in a bottle under the pulpit. Closer examination learned the letter dated back to more than 120 years ago. A stunning discovery. The original letters are kept safe in the Islay Museum. I received a copy from Rae Woodrow who was kind enough to "translate" the letter into a readable Word document. Please find below the original text, it may contain some errors because the original letter wasn't of the best quality after so many years.
Bowmore, Islay
23rd Sept. 1869.
This is intended to preserve the remembrance of the repairing of this place of worship, which is (henceforth to be called The Bowmore Tabernacle). Previously to these repairs, the place was most unsightly to behold, and most uncomfortable as a place of worship, by reason of cold and damp. The house was built about the year 1849 while the Rev, Angus Mc Naughton was minister of the church. Mr Mc Naughton was minister of the church, Mr McNaughton having emigrated to Canada, he was succeeded as missionary in Islay by the Rev James Miller who was minister of this church for upwards of twenty years, until the end of 1868, when being nearly 87 years of age, he retired on a small allowance granted by the Baptist Home Missionary Society for Scotland, which Society has supported the causes in Islay from its commencement.
Towards the end of February 1869, the present missionary, Mr Alexander McDougall who was formerly pastor of the Baptist Church in Rothesay, and had been educated at Mr Spurgeon’s College London, was engaged by the acting committee of the Baptist Home Missionary Society for Scotland, to labour in connection with the above Society in Islay and Colonsay, preaching in Gaelic and English. Immediately on entering upon this field of labours, Mr McDougall determined to make an effort towards repairing the place of worship and the ministers’ dwelling house above it, neither of which had ever been of ?? Although the house had been built 20 years.
For the rest of the post go to: Link It's quite a letter to read.
Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Mark Twain
One of the famous authors from the 19th century and also continued work in the 20th was Mark Twain. Below is a list of the novels/books he published during the 19th century. Many of these books can be downloaded at various internet sites, my favorite is Gutenburg's.
The Innocents Abroad 1869
Curious Republic of Gondour 1870
A Burlesque Autobiography 1871
Roughing It 1872
The Gilded Age 1873
Sketches New and Old 1875
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer 1876
Carnival of Crime in CT 1877
A Tramp Abroad 1880
1601 1880
The Prince and the Pauper 1881
The Stolen White Elephant 1882
Life on the Mississippi 1883
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn 1885
A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court 1889
The American Claimant 1892
Tom Sawyer Abroad 1894
The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson 1894
Tom Sawyer, Detective 1896
Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc Vol 1 1896
Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc Vol 2 1896
How to Tell a Story and Others 1897
Following the Equator 1897
The Innocents Abroad 1869
Curious Republic of Gondour 1870
A Burlesque Autobiography 1871
Roughing It 1872
The Gilded Age 1873
Sketches New and Old 1875
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer 1876
Carnival of Crime in CT 1877
A Tramp Abroad 1880
1601 1880
The Prince and the Pauper 1881
The Stolen White Elephant 1882
Life on the Mississippi 1883
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn 1885
A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court 1889
The American Claimant 1892
Tom Sawyer Abroad 1894
The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson 1894
Tom Sawyer, Detective 1896
Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc Vol 1 1896
Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc Vol 2 1896
How to Tell a Story and Others 1897
Following the Equator 1897
Saturday, August 13, 2016
Gold
Below is a picture taken from page 30 of Houghtaling's Handbook. It's the high and low of the value of gold for each month over a sixteen year period. Since many write historical novels during that time period I thought it might be of value to some of you.
Here's the link to an enlarged image of the page. Link
Here's the link to an enlarged image of the page. Link
Tuesday, August 9, 2016
Fanny Crosby
One of my favorite hymn writer's is Fanny Crosby. On this Sunday morning sing with me the hymn Fanny wrote in 1869 known today as "Near the Cross"
"Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross" (1869)
[aka "Near the Cross"]
Words by Francis "Fanny" Jane Crosby
[Mrs. Alexander Van Alstyne], 1820-1915
Music by William Howard Doane, 1832-1915
1.
Jesus, keep me near the cross--
There a precious fountain,
Free to all, a healing stream,
Flows from Calv'ry's mountain.
CHORUS
In the cross, in the cross
Be my glory ever,
Till my raptured soul shall find
Rest, beyond the river.
2.
Near the cross, a trembling soul,
Love and mercy found me;
There the Bright and Morning Star
Sheds its beams around me.
3.
Near the cross! O Lamb of God,
Bring its scenes before me;
Help me walk from day to day
With its shadows o'er me.
4.
Near the cross I'll watch and wait,
Hoping, trusting ever,
Till I reach the golden strand
Just beyond the river.
"Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross" (1869)
[aka "Near the Cross"]
Words by Francis "Fanny" Jane Crosby
[Mrs. Alexander Van Alstyne], 1820-1915
Music by William Howard Doane, 1832-1915
1.
Jesus, keep me near the cross--
There a precious fountain,
Free to all, a healing stream,
Flows from Calv'ry's mountain.
CHORUS
In the cross, in the cross
Be my glory ever,
Till my raptured soul shall find
Rest, beyond the river.
2.
Near the cross, a trembling soul,
Love and mercy found me;
There the Bright and Morning Star
Sheds its beams around me.
3.
Near the cross! O Lamb of God,
Bring its scenes before me;
Help me walk from day to day
With its shadows o'er me.
4.
Near the cross I'll watch and wait,
Hoping, trusting ever,
Till I reach the golden strand
Just beyond the river.
Monday, February 22, 2016
Types of Sheets
This tidbit comes from "A House and Its Furnishings" ©1869 with regard to the types of sheets available at the time. What I love about this tidbit is how the author wrote it as a young woman was asking her mother advice for setting up her home. Enjoy!
"But, dear mamma, not very much linen will be required. I do not expect to have linen sheets. Calico will do very well."
"True, Lizzie; but there is calico-and-calico, now-a-days. Ten years ago that valuable material was differently manufactured. If a piece of calico be held against the light, in some you will see knots all over it. This is made with the short-length cotton, and is badly spun, will not wear well, and, when washed, will be rough. Calico should have a regular selvage, and be made with evenly-spun cotton; the threads should be round, and the weaving regular, and it should have very little dress in it.
"The same evidences of excellence are applicable to linen as to cotton textures, only the uneven threads in linen are more mischievous than in calico, inasmuch as the coarse thread will, with wash and wear, separate from the fine, and thus leave a space in the material unfilled. Never buy a piece of linen with uneven selvage; it is a sure indication of being irregularly woven.
"For health, cotton sheets are generally preferable to linen, though by many the latter is preferred. Persons subject to rheumatism should not wear, or sleep in linen; indeed, should sleep in blankets only. Persons so liable to be afflicted would find a slight attack yield to this remedy, and the painful disease most likely be warded off altogether by a continuance in thepractice—at least, I have known many cases of such cure. It is singular that those who have been once induced to try to sleep in blankets never forsake them; but it is very difficult to find one willing to adopt the plan."
"But, dear mamma, not very much linen will be required. I do not expect to have linen sheets. Calico will do very well."
"True, Lizzie; but there is calico-and-calico, now-a-days. Ten years ago that valuable material was differently manufactured. If a piece of calico be held against the light, in some you will see knots all over it. This is made with the short-length cotton, and is badly spun, will not wear well, and, when washed, will be rough. Calico should have a regular selvage, and be made with evenly-spun cotton; the threads should be round, and the weaving regular, and it should have very little dress in it.
"The same evidences of excellence are applicable to linen as to cotton textures, only the uneven threads in linen are more mischievous than in calico, inasmuch as the coarse thread will, with wash and wear, separate from the fine, and thus leave a space in the material unfilled. Never buy a piece of linen with uneven selvage; it is a sure indication of being irregularly woven.
"For health, cotton sheets are generally preferable to linen, though by many the latter is preferred. Persons subject to rheumatism should not wear, or sleep in linen; indeed, should sleep in blankets only. Persons so liable to be afflicted would find a slight attack yield to this remedy, and the painful disease most likely be warded off altogether by a continuance in thepractice—at least, I have known many cases of such cure. It is singular that those who have been once induced to try to sleep in blankets never forsake them; but it is very difficult to find one willing to adopt the plan."
Monday, February 15, 2016
Beds in particular the mattresses
There are some among us who can sleep on anything. I lean more to the princess and the pea type. The type of beds our characters sleep on, or prefer can make some fun moments in our books. Below are excerpts about various beds in 19th Century homes. It comes from "A House and Its Furnishings" ©1869 What I didn't find mentioned in this excerpt were straw mattresses.
BEDS
"I must say I never could see the comfort of such an appliance to an English bedstead; but in French bedsteads the palliasse is sunk between the sides of the bedstead to within a few inches of the floor, and upon this a comfortable wool mattrass is placed, and again, one of horse-hair upon the top. Then, Lizzie, the arrangement is not barbarous, but exquisitely comfortable. The palliasse is no longer seen in well furnished French houses . it is re-placed by the luxurious spring mattrass. We have taken from the French the idea of both, but omitted to adopt the manner of using them. Just observe how we arrange them. The sides of our bedsteads are high from the ground, and, instead of being made for sinking a mattrass within, the sides have laths, upon which to rest the palliasse or mattrass, both being a quarter of a yard in thickness, which is again surmounted by a feather bed. This formidable affair, when the bedclothes are on, is now midway between the floor and ceiling, and requires steps to mount. Anything more inconvenient and uncomfortable can hardly be conceived; the getting in and out of such a bed requiring more manual dexterity than many delicate women possess. How it came to be the fashion in England I cannot imagine, but I believe it is fast going out.
FRENCH SPRING MATTRESS
"The French spring mattress is very comfortable, but expensive; and if the springs get out of order, they make a disagreeable noise, and are not very often effectually repaired. I have slept on a patent mattrass, made of laths running from head to foot of the bedstead, and mounted on springs, and this, being scarcely raised above the sides of the bedstead, is not open to the objection of increasing the height of the sides from the floor. Some such as this you must select, and, with two wool mattrasses on the top, a feather bed will not be needed."
HOW TO ASCERTAIN THE QUALITY OF A FEATHER BED
"One feather bed we must have, mamma, for visitors."
"Visitors, Lizzie! and two hundred a year! You must be dreaming, child! No, no; the spare bed is a long way off yet."
"But, mamma, Edward is to have an increase of salary as soon as we return."
"True, my child; but let it be reserved for some future demand, which is sure to come—don't spend it on visitors. Keep true friends by every means in your power, and true friends will never seek to occupy a spare bed in a house where the income is known to be so limited."
"WelL then, mamma, I must confess to a weakness for a feather bed; you know I have always had one, and with a sacking to the bedstead; no excruciating laths for the mattrass to drop between and create ridges, which cannot be compensated for by the softest bed."
"If you prefer a feather bed, there is no reason why you should not have it—only it must be a good one—and such will be expensive."
"I saw some very cheap beds in a window the other day; these will be good enough, mamma."
"We will see if they answer my requirements, which are somewhat exacting. For instance, Lizzie, when the bed is pressed with the hand, the feathers must rise up instantly. If there be no elasticity, the bed is not good—the feathers are old—the down is wom off them—and they will readily lump together; or, perhaps, the bed has been bought at an auction, and the feathers without re-dressing or steaming, have been placed in a new tick, and thus offered for sale. Of all cheap things, a cheap bed is to be avoided. A manufacturer of beds who supplies them in numbers is the best to apply to. Again, the bed must be bordered, and the tick of linen; and finally, according to the weight of feathers, it must readily swell out, whether it be large or small, and be free from every musty smell; and when all this is secured, and you are in possession of your coveted treasure, the bed must be sewed into thin calico, or two old sheets, to keep it clean."
SERVANT'S BEDS
"And now, mamma, while we have leisure, tell me what counterpanes and bed-furniture I should have, and about the servant's bed. You cannot tell me your reasons for choosing this or that when we are buying, and I am just as likely to wish to have the wrong as the right articles."
"As regards the servant's bed, have an iron bedstead, with cross-bands, or laths of iron, a bolster, and two mattrasses, both of wool, and inexpensive; but allow a feather pillow, three white blankets, and a coloured one for counterpane. The sheets should be of unbleached cotton, not thick, but tolerably wide, and two yards and a-half long, and as these should be changed every fortnight, it will be necessary to have six sheets. At the time of changing the sheets, the mattrass should be taken out of doors, placed on a table—never on the ground, and be well beaten and aired in the sun. The bedstead should be brushed and dusted, and the floor be washed with salt and water. Unless a mistress sees that this is done, and that the blankets are well shaken, no directions will avail. The salt and water, as you know, is to prevent or kill insects of all kinds. You should have no bed-hangings in a servant's room, but the bed must be placed out of all draught from window, door, or chimney. Remember to be careful of a servant's health and comfort; but indulgence is not apt to improve her health, temper, or manners. It is a wicked maxim that 'anything will do for servants,' and equally unwise to pamper their foibles, or give them too much liberty, or license of speech."
BEDS
"I must say I never could see the comfort of such an appliance to an English bedstead; but in French bedsteads the palliasse is sunk between the sides of the bedstead to within a few inches of the floor, and upon this a comfortable wool mattrass is placed, and again, one of horse-hair upon the top. Then, Lizzie, the arrangement is not barbarous, but exquisitely comfortable. The palliasse is no longer seen in well furnished French houses . it is re-placed by the luxurious spring mattrass. We have taken from the French the idea of both, but omitted to adopt the manner of using them. Just observe how we arrange them. The sides of our bedsteads are high from the ground, and, instead of being made for sinking a mattrass within, the sides have laths, upon which to rest the palliasse or mattrass, both being a quarter of a yard in thickness, which is again surmounted by a feather bed. This formidable affair, when the bedclothes are on, is now midway between the floor and ceiling, and requires steps to mount. Anything more inconvenient and uncomfortable can hardly be conceived; the getting in and out of such a bed requiring more manual dexterity than many delicate women possess. How it came to be the fashion in England I cannot imagine, but I believe it is fast going out.
FRENCH SPRING MATTRESS
"The French spring mattress is very comfortable, but expensive; and if the springs get out of order, they make a disagreeable noise, and are not very often effectually repaired. I have slept on a patent mattrass, made of laths running from head to foot of the bedstead, and mounted on springs, and this, being scarcely raised above the sides of the bedstead, is not open to the objection of increasing the height of the sides from the floor. Some such as this you must select, and, with two wool mattrasses on the top, a feather bed will not be needed."
HOW TO ASCERTAIN THE QUALITY OF A FEATHER BED
"One feather bed we must have, mamma, for visitors."
"Visitors, Lizzie! and two hundred a year! You must be dreaming, child! No, no; the spare bed is a long way off yet."
"But, mamma, Edward is to have an increase of salary as soon as we return."
"True, my child; but let it be reserved for some future demand, which is sure to come—don't spend it on visitors. Keep true friends by every means in your power, and true friends will never seek to occupy a spare bed in a house where the income is known to be so limited."
"WelL then, mamma, I must confess to a weakness for a feather bed; you know I have always had one, and with a sacking to the bedstead; no excruciating laths for the mattrass to drop between and create ridges, which cannot be compensated for by the softest bed."
"If you prefer a feather bed, there is no reason why you should not have it—only it must be a good one—and such will be expensive."
"I saw some very cheap beds in a window the other day; these will be good enough, mamma."
"We will see if they answer my requirements, which are somewhat exacting. For instance, Lizzie, when the bed is pressed with the hand, the feathers must rise up instantly. If there be no elasticity, the bed is not good—the feathers are old—the down is wom off them—and they will readily lump together; or, perhaps, the bed has been bought at an auction, and the feathers without re-dressing or steaming, have been placed in a new tick, and thus offered for sale. Of all cheap things, a cheap bed is to be avoided. A manufacturer of beds who supplies them in numbers is the best to apply to. Again, the bed must be bordered, and the tick of linen; and finally, according to the weight of feathers, it must readily swell out, whether it be large or small, and be free from every musty smell; and when all this is secured, and you are in possession of your coveted treasure, the bed must be sewed into thin calico, or two old sheets, to keep it clean."
SERVANT'S BEDS
"And now, mamma, while we have leisure, tell me what counterpanes and bed-furniture I should have, and about the servant's bed. You cannot tell me your reasons for choosing this or that when we are buying, and I am just as likely to wish to have the wrong as the right articles."
"As regards the servant's bed, have an iron bedstead, with cross-bands, or laths of iron, a bolster, and two mattrasses, both of wool, and inexpensive; but allow a feather pillow, three white blankets, and a coloured one for counterpane. The sheets should be of unbleached cotton, not thick, but tolerably wide, and two yards and a-half long, and as these should be changed every fortnight, it will be necessary to have six sheets. At the time of changing the sheets, the mattrass should be taken out of doors, placed on a table—never on the ground, and be well beaten and aired in the sun. The bedstead should be brushed and dusted, and the floor be washed with salt and water. Unless a mistress sees that this is done, and that the blankets are well shaken, no directions will avail. The salt and water, as you know, is to prevent or kill insects of all kinds. You should have no bed-hangings in a servant's room, but the bed must be placed out of all draught from window, door, or chimney. Remember to be careful of a servant's health and comfort; but indulgence is not apt to improve her health, temper, or manners. It is a wicked maxim that 'anything will do for servants,' and equally unwise to pamper their foibles, or give them too much liberty, or license of speech."
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Balloon Ride Tidbit
Balloons and Flying in them have been around a lot longer than the 19th Century and I have a previous post or two on these.(I've posted links below) However, I ran across these tidbits and thought it might be something some of you might enjoy and possibly spawn some creative juices for some of you.
October 19th, 1869, he ascended from Rochester again, this time with his balloon, The Hyperion. The party consisted of seven persons. The day was very unfavorable, the wind was boisterous, threatening clouds flew across the sky, flurries of snow were frequent, and the cold was searching. The ascent was made from in front of the Court House, among high buildings, and to clear these a great ascensional power was given to the balloon. It was a delicate operation to start under the circumstances wiih such an immense aerial craft, but one bound cleared it of all obstructions. Not less than fifty thousand persons witnessed the ascens:on, in spite of the disagreeable weather. In four and a-half minu;es. although gas had been discharged from the valve, they entered a snow cloud. They traveled at the rate of about forty miles an hour; the cold was intense, night came on and they were in the midst of a driving snow storm. The weight of snow gathering on top of the balloon drove them to the grcund, and they were forced to make a landing in the squall. They struck violently in an open field, the anchor did not hold, and the balloon bounded over a piece of woods, alighting on the other side. Here the anchor held for awhile, the gas escaping from the valve at the same time. Unfortunately, in the excitement, two of the party in some way got out of the basket, and the balloon thus lightened broke loose and bounded upon a side hill and at last was driven against a tree, a huge rent being made in the machine so that the gas escaped almost instantly. They had landed in the town of Cazenovia. three miles from the village of that name. From Rochester Mr. King went to Atlanta, Ga., where he made a fine ascension.
Another Story:
IN A BURSTED BALLOON ONE MILE HIGH.
After this ascension Mr. King leased the balloon to Dr. Hape, who was anxious to make an ascension alone. The time set for the ascent was New Year's Day, January I, 1870. Mr. King was present at its inflation, and superintended its management. As soon as the car had been attached to the balloon, the doctor got inside, and, before the preparations for the start were completed, suddenly gave the word to "let go." Mr. King was at the time some distance from the car getting more ballast, and was in consequence unable to prevent the premature ascent. There should have been at least two hundred and fifty pounds more of sand in the car to prevent its rising too rapidly. As it was, the balloon shot upward with such great velocity that the spectators became alarmed, and gathering around Mr. King, begged to know what would be the result. He informed them that unless the doctor should have the forethought to open the valve and allow a large quantity of gas to escape the balloon must burst from the sudden expansion of the gas; and, sure enough, when it had scarcely attained the height of one mile, it was sudderly rent from top to bottom, the gas was gone in an instant, and the balloon descended with great rapidity. The audience gazed at the sight with blanched countenances, and could not be convinced that the poor doctor would not be dashed to pieces. Yet within fifteen minutes —mounted on a policeman's horse—he was riding back through the town at full gallop. When the balloon burst it formed itself into a parachute, and thus met with a sufficient amount of resistance in falling through the air to save the voyager from any serious damage.
Below are the links from previous posts. No, I did not repeat the same information three times, however, I should have changed the titles a bit differently. Oh well. Enjoy!
Hot Air Balloons Hydrogen Filled
Hot Air Balloons
Hot Air Balloons
Hot Air Balloons
October 19th, 1869, he ascended from Rochester again, this time with his balloon, The Hyperion. The party consisted of seven persons. The day was very unfavorable, the wind was boisterous, threatening clouds flew across the sky, flurries of snow were frequent, and the cold was searching. The ascent was made from in front of the Court House, among high buildings, and to clear these a great ascensional power was given to the balloon. It was a delicate operation to start under the circumstances wiih such an immense aerial craft, but one bound cleared it of all obstructions. Not less than fifty thousand persons witnessed the ascens:on, in spite of the disagreeable weather. In four and a-half minu;es. although gas had been discharged from the valve, they entered a snow cloud. They traveled at the rate of about forty miles an hour; the cold was intense, night came on and they were in the midst of a driving snow storm. The weight of snow gathering on top of the balloon drove them to the grcund, and they were forced to make a landing in the squall. They struck violently in an open field, the anchor did not hold, and the balloon bounded over a piece of woods, alighting on the other side. Here the anchor held for awhile, the gas escaping from the valve at the same time. Unfortunately, in the excitement, two of the party in some way got out of the basket, and the balloon thus lightened broke loose and bounded upon a side hill and at last was driven against a tree, a huge rent being made in the machine so that the gas escaped almost instantly. They had landed in the town of Cazenovia. three miles from the village of that name. From Rochester Mr. King went to Atlanta, Ga., where he made a fine ascension.
Another Story:
IN A BURSTED BALLOON ONE MILE HIGH.
After this ascension Mr. King leased the balloon to Dr. Hape, who was anxious to make an ascension alone. The time set for the ascent was New Year's Day, January I, 1870. Mr. King was present at its inflation, and superintended its management. As soon as the car had been attached to the balloon, the doctor got inside, and, before the preparations for the start were completed, suddenly gave the word to "let go." Mr. King was at the time some distance from the car getting more ballast, and was in consequence unable to prevent the premature ascent. There should have been at least two hundred and fifty pounds more of sand in the car to prevent its rising too rapidly. As it was, the balloon shot upward with such great velocity that the spectators became alarmed, and gathering around Mr. King, begged to know what would be the result. He informed them that unless the doctor should have the forethought to open the valve and allow a large quantity of gas to escape the balloon must burst from the sudden expansion of the gas; and, sure enough, when it had scarcely attained the height of one mile, it was sudderly rent from top to bottom, the gas was gone in an instant, and the balloon descended with great rapidity. The audience gazed at the sight with blanched countenances, and could not be convinced that the poor doctor would not be dashed to pieces. Yet within fifteen minutes —mounted on a policeman's horse—he was riding back through the town at full gallop. When the balloon burst it formed itself into a parachute, and thus met with a sufficient amount of resistance in falling through the air to save the voyager from any serious damage.
Below are the links from previous posts. No, I did not repeat the same information three times, however, I should have changed the titles a bit differently. Oh well. Enjoy!
Hot Air Balloons Hydrogen Filled
Hot Air Balloons
Hot Air Balloons
Hot Air Balloons
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Cabins
In 19th Century literature you'll find several books, poems, etc. written with a cabin as a major focus. Below is a list with links to various resources. Something to keep in mind that during the 19th century a cabin was a single room structure.
The most common source would be Life at the South or more commonly known as Uncle Tom's Cabin ©1852
The Log Cabin ©1844
The Hunter's Cabin ©1862
Poor Paddy's Cabin ©1854
The Cabin in the Clearing & Other Pioneer Poems ©1868
The Cabin on the Prairie ©1869
The Mud Cabin ©1853 So this one is not fiction but uses the term with regard to the politics or how the author saw the politics of Britain at this time.
Of course a cabin can be more nautical in nature so we have The Cabin Boy's Story ©1854
Chronicles of Capstan Cabin ©1878
The Two Cabin Boys©1881
The Captain's Cabin ©1877
The most common source would be Life at the South or more commonly known as Uncle Tom's Cabin ©1852
The Log Cabin ©1844
The Hunter's Cabin ©1862
Poor Paddy's Cabin ©1854
The Cabin in the Clearing & Other Pioneer Poems ©1868
The Cabin on the Prairie ©1869
The Mud Cabin ©1853 So this one is not fiction but uses the term with regard to the politics or how the author saw the politics of Britain at this time.
Of course a cabin can be more nautical in nature so we have The Cabin Boy's Story ©1854
Chronicles of Capstan Cabin ©1878
The Two Cabin Boys©1881
The Captain's Cabin ©1877
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Central Park NYC
I love Central Park, not because I've been there more than driving past it but I love how NYC designed this park and what they wanted and planned it for. I've seen it from across the street and I've been at it at the Tavern on the Green Restaurant. However, I've never had the time to thoroughly enjoy the park, perhaps some day I will.
Here is a link to a book published in 1869 about the park titled A Description of the New York Central Park it has great illustrations and I think you will enjoy it as well.
Here's a pic of the Belvedere Castle which was known simply as the Belvedere back then.
Here is a link to a book published in 1869 about the park titled A Description of the New York Central Park it has great illustrations and I think you will enjoy it as well.
Here's a pic of the Belvedere Castle which was known simply as the Belvedere back then.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Historical Fashions Review of Posts
Hi all,
Below is a list with links of Historical Fashions from the 19th Century. I'm putting them all together in one location to help make it easier for others to search.
1832
1832 Fashion Descriptions
1834
1834 Fashions
1835
1835 Fashions
1840
1840 Ladies Fashions
1840 Ladies Fashions Part 2
1850
1850 Ladies Fashions
1855
1855 Fashions
1856
1856 Fashions
1860
1860 Fashions Part 1
1860 Fashions Part 2
1862
1862 Fashion Accessories
1862 Fashions
1863
1863 Fashions
1864
1864 Fashions
1864 Bonnets
1865
1865 Fashions
1865 Fashions Part 2
1866
1866 Part 1
1866 Part 2
1867
1867 Fashions Part 1
1867 Fashions Part 2
1868
1868 Fashions Part 1
1868 Fashions Part 2
1868 Fashions Part 3
1868 Fashions Part 4
1868 Fashions Part 5
1868 Fashions Part 6
1869
1869 Hair Combs
1869 Fashionable Hair and Headdresses
1869 Everyday Fashion
1870
1870 Winter Fashions for Men
1870 Ladies Fashions
1870 Riding Habit with Trousers for Women
1870 Gentlemen's Hats
1871
!871 Fashion Accessories
1871 Fashions
1871 Fashions Part 2
1872
1872 Fashions
1873
1873 Fashion Accessories
1874
1874 Fashions Part 1
1874 Fashions Part 2
1876
1876 Fashion Accessories
1876 Fashions
1877
1877 Ladies Hat & Bonnet Fashions
1878
1878 Ladies & Children's Fashions
1880
1880 Fashion Accessories
1880 Fashions
1881
1881 Winter Fashions
1881 Fashion Accessories
1881 Fashion Overcoats
1881 Men's Fashions
1881 Hats
1881 Ladies Fashions
1882
1882 Winter Fashions
1887
1887 Gentlemen's Hats
1890
1890 Ladies Hats
1890 Fashions
1891 & 1896
1891 & 1896 Winter Fashions
1894
Bustles & Dress Forms
1896
1896 Spring Gown Womens Fashions
Below is a list with links of Historical Fashions from the 19th Century. I'm putting them all together in one location to help make it easier for others to search.
1832
1832 Fashion Descriptions
1834
1834 Fashions
1835
1835 Fashions
1840
1840 Ladies Fashions
1840 Ladies Fashions Part 2
1850
1850 Ladies Fashions
1855
1855 Fashions
1856
1856 Fashions
1860
1860 Fashions Part 1
1860 Fashions Part 2
1862
1862 Fashion Accessories
1862 Fashions
1863
1863 Fashions
1864
1864 Fashions
1864 Bonnets
1865
1865 Fashions
1865 Fashions Part 2
1866
1866 Part 1
1866 Part 2
1867
1867 Fashions Part 1
1867 Fashions Part 2
1868
1868 Fashions Part 1
1868 Fashions Part 2
1868 Fashions Part 3
1868 Fashions Part 4
1868 Fashions Part 5
1868 Fashions Part 6
1869
1869 Hair Combs
1869 Fashionable Hair and Headdresses
1869 Everyday Fashion
1870
1870 Winter Fashions for Men
1870 Ladies Fashions
1870 Riding Habit with Trousers for Women
1870 Gentlemen's Hats
1871
!871 Fashion Accessories
1871 Fashions
1871 Fashions Part 2
1872
1872 Fashions
1873
1873 Fashion Accessories
1874
1874 Fashions Part 1
1874 Fashions Part 2
1876
1876 Fashion Accessories
1876 Fashions
1877
1877 Ladies Hat & Bonnet Fashions
1878
1878 Ladies & Children's Fashions
1880
1880 Fashion Accessories
1880 Fashions
1881
1881 Winter Fashions
1881 Fashion Accessories
1881 Fashion Overcoats
1881 Men's Fashions
1881 Hats
1881 Ladies Fashions
1882
1882 Winter Fashions
1887
1887 Gentlemen's Hats
1890
1890 Ladies Hats
1890 Fashions
1891 & 1896
1891 & 1896 Winter Fashions
1894
Bustles & Dress Forms
1896
1896 Spring Gown Womens Fashions
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