Workhouses cast deep shadows over Victorian Britain and terrified the poor
for generations. Known for their soul-numbing routines, deprivation and cruelty,
they were after 1834 almost the sole source of relief for paupers across the
land. For old couples and orphans, starving families and single mothers, these
institutional monsters became what the New Poor Law Act intended - the last
resort of the desperate.
This compelling book takes you through the workhouse doors to reveal the
reality behind the legend. It explores all aspects of institutional life, from
everyday details of food, uniform and the daily grind to the scandals that
shocked society and were an impetus for change. It traces the experiences of the
guardians and staff who governed inmates' fates and celebrates the men and women
who tried to improve on the official regime.
The narrative describes how workhouses preoccupied literary giants such as
Charles Dickens and George Orwell, were condemned by Florence Nightingale, and
yet became deeply rooted in their communities.
The many personal stories told range from that of the anonymous 'Indoor
Pauper' to accounts from famous figures like Charlie Chaplin. Reports and
complaints, ballads and graffiti, as well as rarely-seen images from the
National Archives and local sources, bring workhouses across England and Wales
vividly to life.
Contents:
Introduction: The Problem of the Poor
1. The World of the Workhouse
2. The Life Behind Doors
3. 'Harnessed to the House'
4. 'Fit for 'purpose': The Able-bodied Poor
5. Suffer the Children ...
6. Sick Bodies and Old Bones
7. Casual Encounters at the 'Spike'
8. Closing the Doors at Last
Conclusion: Learning from Poor Law
Appendix 1. Workhouse Museums
Appendix 2. Workhouse Records
Select Bibliography
Index
Acknowledgements
