| Richer families lived in much cleaner and less crowded areas of the towns and cities. However, this not prevent families from falling ill. Wealthy families had a better standard of living as they could afford to eat a more balanced diet and did not have to work in dangerous industries such as mining. With more leisure time available they could engage in exercise and outdoor activities. |
Photograph showing the back of No 7 North Bailey, a house occupied by a wealthy family in the Victorian period. DUL ref: Gibby Negatives B5. (Click image to enlarge.)
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Extract from the 1881 Census showing the details of the Robson family. Courtesy of The National Archives, ref RG 11/4960 (Click image to enlarge.)
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Families with more money could afford to pay for doctors and surgeons. In Durham these familes may have used the services of Mr Robson who lived on North Bailey with his family. The Census for 1881 records his occupation as a surgeon and general practitioner. It was obviously a family business as his son, Edward, is also listed as a surgeon and general practioner. The Robson's lived in Durham for many years - they first appear on the 1851 Census and Mr Robson is still listed as a Surgeon in the 1901 Census!
Move on to find out more about Victorian attitudes to death. |
