The Value of Housework

Roses and Lilacs - 1890 painting (LOC).

 

I am often walking about the house looking for ways to make things look pleasant and lovely.   It is important to keep things organized, dusted, swept, and in order. But this can be difficult when there is little time and limited energy.  I have to take a lot of breaks in the midst of a great many little efforts, throughout the days and weeks, to keep this house looking nice and welcoming.

Sometimes I think about how nice it would be to buy some beautiful flowers for the table. I am always so happy to see a fresh bouquet of loveliness in a delicate vase.  I like to see it as I walk along, doing my work at home. It always makes me smile. When there isn't money for such luxuries, I try to set the table with a tablecloth. It is possible to keep things looking cheerful with candles, cloth napkins and such. On those days when flowers are available, I am always delighted to place them in the center of the parlour table. 

To cook nourishing food and to serve it with pretty things brings comfort and a bit of joy to the family. How restful and happy we can make the home when we do the housework with great care and contentment! 

In the old days, when keeping house was incredibly labor intensive, it was often necessary to hire outside help.  Some of the poorest families even needed to at least have one girl to help with the work. There is an excellent example of this in the 1800's book, "Aunt Jane's Hero" by Elizabeth Prentiss.  Another book that offers a detailed look at what it was like to hire domestic workers is the book "Born to Serve." This story was originally published in the year 1900.  When we look back to the old days to see how difficult housework used to be, it will inspire us with a sense of appreciation for the work we are doing today. 

A copy of our edition of the book, "Born to Serve." (Photo by Karen Andreola.) 

As we think about the wonderful gift of having homes and families to take care of, it is nice to read about housework. This will bring us some much-needed encouragement!

A few years ago, we republished the book, "Born to Serve," as part of a series of classic books through The Legacy of Home Press.  A lovely review has just been posted on Instagram. It is by Karen Andreola:

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As you go about the work of keeping house this coming week, I hope you will find peace and rest in making things look lovely for your family.

Blessings

Mrs. White

From the Archives -

Old Time Manners - Waiting for the Door to Be Opened.  

A Simple Life - How to Stop Buying Things that Clutter up the Home. 

Ration Books from 1942 and helpful advice - Adapting to the High Cost of Living.

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Find cleaning inspiration and encouragement in Mrs. White's book, "Gracious House Keeping."

"Gracious House Keeping: Advice, Encouragement, and Cleaning Help for the Christian Housewife."

Complete with Encouragement and Work Charts to cheer you along in your homemaking!

115 pages, paperback.

The Legacy of Home Press presents our special edition of -

"Aunt Jane's Hero" -  by Elizabeth Prentiss.

185 pages, paperback.