Britain’s First Census and Extinct Professions

Posted on by Chris The Story Reading Ape

These should stir your creative juices šŸ˜„šŸ˜„šŸ˜„

Nicholas C. Rossis's avatarNicholas C. Rossis

Odor Judge | From the blog of Nicholas C. Rossis, author of science fiction, the Pearseus epic fantasy series and children's books Photograph: Nancy Rica Schiff. Image: Daily Mail (click for more photos)

In 1801, Britainā€™s first census was begun. AĀ subsequent survey, conducted in 1881, asked residents to declare their ā€œrank, profession or occupation.ā€ Here are some of the more puzzling responses, as preserved by the London Genealogical Society and Jeff Kacirk of Sellers Publishing, Inc:

  • Colorist of artificial fish
  • Knight of the Thimble
  • Disinfector of railways
  • Examiner of underclothing
  • Invisible net maker
  • Electric bath attendant
  • Proprietor of midgets
  • Fifty-two years an imbecile
  • Knocker-up of workpeople
  • Maker of sand views
  • Gymnast to house painter
  • Turnip shepherd
  • Emasculator
  • Sampler of drugs
  • Fatuous pauper
  • Drowner
  • Fish-bender
  • Goldfish-catcher
  • Cow-banger
  • Running about
  • Grape-dryer
  • Beef twister
  • Random waller

If youā€™re on the lookout for some more obscure modern-day equivalents, check out this Daily Mail post on Nancy Rica Schiffā€™s photographs of people with odd jobs.

Now, where is a good turnip shepherd when you needā€¦

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8 thoughts on “Britain’s First Census and Extinct Professions”

  2. First off . . . is “limey” a derogatory term? I’m of Irish descent and don’t mind being called a mick as long as you say it with a smile on your face, stranger. Anyway, I’m gonna use it and if I offend anyone then mea culpa (that’s Latin and don’t get me started on that language. Okay . . . focus, Andrew, focus!).

    I beg to differ with my esteemed friends, Nick and Mr. Ape, but Britain’s first census (the Doomsday Book) was is Anno Domini (more Latin!) 1086. Ordered by William the Conqueror. I mean, why conqueror a bunch of limeys if you don’t know how many you’ve conquered? Am I right?

    If the damn Normans had just stayed in Merry Old England, all would be well, but in 1167 ol’ Henry ll had to send Richard fitz Godbert de Roche to invade us peace-loving micks. Of all the nerve!!!

    I reckon I’m getting a bit off topic here. If I have not offended at least one person, then I’m slipping.

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