Overseeing most domestic work was the housekeeper. In a modest dwelling such as this; a housekeeper would have lived in the basement, a governess in the attic, and a man servant, perhaps with a family, in the coach house at the rear.
A maid might also have been employed. Casual staff may have been hired on special occasions. The housekeepers room in Number 29 allowed her to keep a watchful eye on both the pantry and cellar. She was a trusted member of the household and therefore she held the keys to the house itself and also the food store, wine cellar and the silverware.
The only key holders were the Master and Mistress together with the housekeeper.
Made with bent wood. Late 18th Century, English.
A Triple Goffering Iron was used to iron the rows of delicate fills, which were the chief decoration on nightgowns, aprons, chemises and caps.
ALSO IN THE BASEMENT: