Speaking to Broughton WI at their monthly meeting on "Great Grandma's workbox", Jean explained the history, not only of the boxes but the fascinating tools which were carried in them.

The first known box was fashioned in the time of Charles the first but was fitted with legs in Victorian times.

Before the invention of the needlework box ladies would carry tools in voluminous skirts, sometimes with embroidered pockets. They had chatelaines with keys and scissors attached.

It was easy to forget where tools had been put down when in charge a large household!

When fashions changed during the French Revolution there was nowhere to hang a chatelaine.

By about 1900 boxes and baskets were being shipped from China, India and Vietnam and they eventually became compartmentalised.

Ladies were able to have more than one precious needle when manufacturing started in the Industrial Revolution here in Lancashire.

In the 1920s a needle monitor would pass the needle through her hair to give a fine film of grease to prevent rusting.

No clean shampooed hair in those days! Needles were made in Threeneedle Street, now called Threadneedle Street.

Reels of bone and ivory, pincushions, darning mushrooms, stilettos, bodkins, needle cases, so many interesting items for drawn thread work, lace, eyelet work, broidery anglaise, rag work, gold work and pouncing, were on display.

And why would a corkscrew be needed? Because when gentlemen came to call it could be used to open the eau de cologne bottle to overcome any noxious smells before meeting the visitors!

For more information email: juliarutter@blueyonder.co.uk or call 01772 717483.

To see your news in 'Your News' on lep.co.uk:

• Call 01772 838104


• Fax 01772 880173


• Email yoursay@lep.co.uk


• Or write to: Community Reporter, Lancashire Evening Post Ltd, Oliver's Place, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 9ZA