Below Stairs

We started the new year with a visit from Timespan Historical Presentations who told us all about Life Below Stairs in 1880 - 1914. Tony and Lizzie Gilks arrived with boxes full of really interesting objects that members had a look at before the talk began. Some things bought the comment, ‘I remember my mum using one of these’ and others it was a guessing game - what could this be for?! We settled down and were welcomed by Tony and Liz, dressed as the House Keeper and Butler for an imaginary Petworth House. For the next hour they entertained us with descriptions of life below stairs, details of what servants wore and their various duties. With each new story came objects that might be used; irons for sealing the ink on the daily newspaper; brushes for cleaning top hats; linens and cooking utensils. Lizzie showed us the layers of her costume, explaining petticoats, corsets, red striped stockings and shoes or boots. It was a really entertaining evening with plenty of laughter as well as being informative and interesting.

Delicious refreshments were served by Vanessa and Linda and there was plenty of lively New Year chat before a pampering themed raffle and notices.