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Maids, Byfield, Northamptonshire BB98_06062
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Maids, Byfield, Northamptonshire BB98_06062
Before the liberating 1960s a career for many women meant making the choice between secretarial work, healthcare or service. These two maids were photographed in a house in Byfield, Northamptonshire, sometime between 1896 and 1920. Photographed by Alfred Newton and Son. Servant
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 5760029
© Historic England
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the daily lives of two maids working in a private home in Byfield, Northamptonshire, between 1896 and 1920. The image, titled "Maids" and taken by Alfred Newton and Son, offers a glimpse into the world of domestic service, a common career choice for women before the liberating 1960s. The maids, dressed in their uniforms, are seen engaged in their duties, one carrying a bucket and mop while the other holds a dustpan and broom. Their expressions are focused and determined, reflecting the diligence and dedication required in their line of work. The photograph also reveals the meticulous attention to detail in the household, with the polished furniture and spotless floors serving as evidence of their hard work. At the turn of the 20th century, opportunities for women in the workforce were limited, and domestic service was one of the most common careers for women. Servants played a crucial role in the running of a household, and their duties ranged from cooking and cleaning to childcare and errands. The photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the long hours and hard work that went into maintaining a well-run household in the past. The image, taken by S W A Newton for Historic England, is a valuable historical record of the lives of working-class women during this period. It offers a unique insight into the world of domestic service and the important role that women played in maintaining the homes and families of the upper and middle classes.
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