Genealogy Chat

I've just been Googling and found a few references to mat-making in prisons. Here's one description of the trade: 'Mat making This was introduced in Victorian times as a more constructive form of employment, and involved workers forcing together the cords of a mat with a mallet. Quite often this would involve coconut fibres and these would be called cocoa-mats. Again this task could be done in the solitude of the prisoner’s cell.' I guess if this job could be done in a cell, it was more than likely to have been something one could do from home. For women this was handy because they could do their normal household duties, look after kids and do a bit of mat-making in-between.

Hi Tiger Lily That's a coincidence - I have a family from Walworth (Southwark) who were matmakers, also! The woman was living in Kent Rd on the 1841 census, with various mat makers in the same street. She continued her trade even after marrying and after the death of two husbands I suppose it just about brought enough money in for her to live on and not become destitute. I've often wondered what kind of mats they made - woven, straw-type mats perhaps? If you find anything out, I'd be interested to learn of it - and likewise if I come across anything interesting, I will let you know. Regards Athena

Thanks all!! TGx

You need to look at the address - everyone then worked within walking distance. LOL Paul.

Have you found the families on the 1881 census? Maybe looking at neighbours' occupations will give a clue as to whether or not you are looking for a factory. Gwyn

I bet they always gave you a good welcome.

I didn't think of that Merry, but it sounds very likely. Not much money around in South London in those days was there. Could never get my children to run an errand never mind make dozens of mats! TGx

They may have worked in a factory, but equally they may have worked from home......probably paid per dozen or hundred mats, or whatever.....if they worked from home they would get other family members to join in and so earn a bit more. Merry

I love to put ‘the meat on the bones’ of my family tree. I have a marriage cert for my g.grandparents who married in 1880 in Walworth, South London. Both fathers were present and both gave their jobs as Mat-makers, so I’m guessing that they worked together. How can I find out if there was a factory that made mats, in this area, at this time? I have googled like mad but have come up with nothing. Thanks all. TGx