Gordon F.
Yelp
Great place to find out what social lifestyles within the city was like a few hundred years ago(around 18th century) for working-class folks and those less fortunate.
Exploring the ordinary life of punters at work or play, a collection of still life is housed within the ground and first floor of this 16th century tolbooth within the Canongate area.
Imagine a dressmaker, a prison, workshops, laundrette, public houses, and then place yourself in these situations 300 odd years ago, you can get a pretty good mental picture of how grim daily life would be; without any form of modern technology.
Tried to find fun and amusement within the history of this exhibit but just couldn't as the images depicted how difficut 1800's life actually was. The phrase "Laissez-faire" meant the goverment of the period believed that to leave the poor alone without interference was for the best.
Later towards the 1940's standards of living improved greatly, by goverment intervention during war, which was supported by the people of the city, as illustrated by the exhibit.
A kitchen dating from the 40's, brought back memories for me as some of the items featured here I remember using in the late 70's; just shows you the duration and durability of some components that you could use without electricity.
Sights smells and sounds made this visit all the more real, like going back in time within a photograph and being able to move and explore. a kind of time capsule without "the machine".
Entrance to the museum is free, but a donation is welcolme.