Victorian Workhouses Workshop
After 1834 the workhouse became the most feared and hated aspect of the New Poor Law, well known because of its portrayal in Charles Dickens’s Oliver Twist. Although most workhouses offered at least food and shelter, the severe regime, separation of families and social isolation caused many paupers to prefer severe poverty outside. Eventually there were some improvements over the century before its abolition in 1928.
Discover what life was like in a Victorian workhouse with eminent Berkshire historian Joan Dils. What was expected of inmates and what was their diet? What were the rules governing the workhouse? What records were kept? Where can you now find those records? And, what can they tell researchers? Delve into the life of those unfortunate enough to fall on hard times, fall ill or injured, or simply just get old.
Pre-booking is required because places are limited. Bookings close one day before the event.
To be able to join this online course, you will need a computer device which has speakers and a microphone. Ideally, also a webcam. You need to be able to access your emails from this device. First-time users will be asked to download a small piece of software, this will be sent to you in advance. Technical help is available for those who need further assistance, please contact booking@berksfhs.org.uk
Image: Peter Church / Hull Royal Infirmary (2) – formerly the Workhouse/CC BY-SA 2.0
To book, scroll down.
Date
- Sat 12 Oct 2024
- Expired!
Time
- 11:00 - 13:00
Tickets
- £10.00
Organiser
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The Centre - Berkshire FHS
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Email
booking@berksfhs.org.uk -
Website
https://berksfhs.org/branches/
Speaker
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Joan DilsJoan Dils is an experienced local historian and writer specialising in 16th and 17th century Berkshire. Her books include: the first and second editions of “An Historical Atlas of Berkshire”, the latter edited in conjunction with Margaret Yates, and Reading St Laurence Churchwardens’ Accounts, 1498-1570: Parts I and II, (Berkshire Record Series). Her latest, “History of Reading”, was published in October 2019.
Joan is president of the Berkshire Local History Association and also the History of Reading Society, and an Honorary Visiting Fellow in History at the University of Reading. She taught history and local history for the former School of Continuing Education at Reading and Oxford Universities where she was a part-time lecturer.