Edwardian Household Organization:
An Edwardian household was typically organised with a clear hierarchy of staff, each with specific duties. The head of the household and their family resided in the 'upstairs' areas, while the domestic staff worked 'downstairs'.
- People and their Duties:
- The Family: Often lived a life of leisure, with minimal involvement in household management, especially the women of the house.
- Butler: Often in charge of the 'front of house' duties, managing male staff, overseeing the wine cellar, and serving the family and guests.
- Housekeeper: Responsible for the 'back of house' duties, managing female staff, overseeing cleanliness, and ensuring the smooth running of the household's daily operations.
- Cook: Prepared all meals for the family and staff.
- Kitchen Staff (e.g., maids): Assisted the cook, cleaned, and performed various other tasks as required.
- Footmen: Assisted the butler, served meals, and performed general duties.
- Maids (e.g., housemaids, scullery maids): Cleaned rooms, washed dishes, and performed other domestic tasks.
- Stable Staff (if applicable): Cared for horses and carriages.
The organisation ensured that the family's needs were met efficiently, with strict codes of conduct and clear divisions of labour.