About the Towel Horse Profession
The towel horse was a common fixture in Victorian households, serving as a practical solution for drying and airing out freshly laundered towels. This job involved the creation and maintenance of these wooden frames, which were designed to hold towels in a way that maximized air circulation and minimized mildew. Craftsmen known as towel horse makers would construct these items from sturdy wood, often incorporating decorative elements to enhance their aesthetic appeal. The towel horse was not merely a functional item; it was a symbol of domesticity and cleanliness in an era that placed great emphasis on hygiene and the proper management of household chores.
In the bustling homes of the Victorian middle class, the towel horse was an essential accessory, often placed in bathrooms or near wash basins. It allowed families to dry their towels efficiently, reflecting the era's values of order and propriety. The towel horse was typically designed with multiple rungs or bars, allowing several towels to be hung at once, and was often collapsible for easy storage.
As the Victorian Era progressed, the towel horse became a staple in many households, with variations in design reflecting the tastes and preferences of the time. Craftsmen took pride in their work, often handcrafting each piece with attention to detail, ensuring that the towel horse was both functional and visually appealing.
However, as the 20th century approached, the advent of modern plumbing and the introduction of electric dryers began to change domestic practices. The need for towel horses diminished as households adopted new technologies that made drying towels faster and more efficient. The towel horse, once a common sight in homes, gradually faded into obscurity, becoming a relic of a bygone era.
Day in the Life of a Towel Horse Maker
Morning: Crafting the Frame
The day begins early for a towel horse maker, often at dawn. The workshop is filled with the scent of freshly cut wood, and the sound of saws and chisels fills the air. The craftsman selects high-quality timber, typically oak or pine, known for its durability and resistance to moisture. Using a combination of hand tools and simple machinery, he measures and cuts the wood into precise lengths, preparing the frame that will support the towels.
Midday: Assembly and Finishing Touches
As the sun rises higher, the craftsman assembles the pieces, carefully joining them with dowels and glue to ensure stability. He takes pride in the craftsmanship, often adding decorative carvings or a coat of varnish to enhance the appearance of the towel horse. This part of the day is labor-intensive, requiring both skill and patience as he ensures that each joint is secure and the finish is flawless.
Afternoon: Quality Control and Delivery
After lunch, the craftsman inspects his completed towel horses, checking for any imperfections. Once satisfied, he prepares them for delivery to local households or shops. This may involve loading them onto a horse-drawn cart, a common mode of transport at the time. The afternoon is often spent visiting clients, discussing custom orders, and building relationships within the community.
Evening: Record Keeping and Planning
As the day winds down, the towel horse maker returns to his workshop to record sales and plan for the next day. He reflects on the designs that have been popular and considers new ideas to attract more customers. The evening is a time for creativity, as he sketches out potential new designs that could appeal to the evolving tastes of Victorian households.
