Discover the history of butter-making Butter has had a long history – likely at least 9,000 years – and was traditionally made in Britain from March until September when cows were being milked. Many museum collections contain an array of associated...
Exploring lacemaking The skilled craft of lace-making was important in Britain from the 17th century, but became more widespread during the 18th and 19th centuries. Lace was used to decorate garments and accessories, such as collars, cuffs, veils, and gloves. It was...
Moustache cup and portraits Ryedale Folk Museum and others This unusual cup at Ryedale Folk Museum was produced with a special ledge or guard inside, giving us a clue to its owner. Towards the end of the 19th century, any respectable Victorian gentleman would likely...
Straight ShoesRyedale Folk Museum These decorative shoes show the importance of appearing fashionable when in polite company at a time when women’s feet were preferred to be small and dainty. Each shoe measures just six centimetres across. During the 18th and early...
Children’s toys – the ‘make do and mend’ way For centuries, children’s toys were generally home-made, created out of other everyday objects. But many museums also have toys that were home-made as a result of rationing resulting from the...
