Most of my ancestors had labouring occupations, working from what we would consider today as childhood until old age, injury or, in some cases, death prevented them earning a living. Until means-tested Old Age Pensions were introduced on January 1st 1909 for those over 70 , the norm for the working classes was to work, be supported by relatives or rely on poor relief or the workhouse.

On these pages I will examine some of the main occupations done by my ancestors over the centuries. I plan to include a section on 19th century workhouses and the history of Poor Law.