The Victorian Household

Queen Victoria’s long reign (1837-1901) saw many fundamental changes to British life, which affected households in all parts of society. The Industrial Revolution brought about massive change; machinery largely took over agricultural tasks, meaning workers moved to the cities in search of employment in the mills and factories which produced the goods which the new upper and middle classes were able to buy –and to employ increasing numbers of servants to run their households. By 1851 there were one million domestic servants in a total population of 20 million. 

The items in this exhibition represent those used to carry out everyday tasks in households rich and poor, whether by the householders themselves or their servants. Mrs Beeton’s ‘Book of Household Management’ gave hints and instructions for many household tasks including food preparation and preservation. 

Sewing was another task largely carried out at home, as was laundry. These, and the business of keeping the home clean, benefited from the machines which were being invented and brought into use by the end of Victoria’s reign, paving the way for all the sophisticated gadgets seen today in the modern household.

The more well off were able to buy luxury items such as china for their afternoon teas and dinner parties, and the pottery, cutlery and glassware produced in the new factories. The fabrics woven in the new mills were made into elaborate furnishings for the home and clothing for their occupants. 

Lawrence House Museum has an extensive collection of domestic items and costumes from the Victorian era. More will be put on display over the coming months.

Open in 2024 until further notice, updated regularly with fresh exhibits from the Lawrence House Collection.