In the early 1830s, while most households still relied on smoky coal ranges and temperamental open fires, something remarkable was happening in Northampton. Inside a lecture room belonging to the town’s Mechanics’ Institute, a crowd gathered to watch what must surely count as the world’s first gas-cooked dinner party. A full meal. Multiple courses. All… Continue reading The World’s First Gas Cooked Dinner Party
Tag: Victorian
Northamptonshire’s Lace-Making Schools
The Victorian era saw a rise in the lace-making industry. But this had a dark side, especially in rural schools in some parts of Northamptonshire. Lace schools were essentially cottage workshops where children, mostly girls, were taught to produce bobbin lace – but in reality they functioned more like child labour camps than schools. Reverend… Continue reading Northamptonshire’s Lace-Making Schools
Jack Preston 