Skills Gallery

Boys Swimming, Training Ship Mercury, River Hamble, Hants

Boys from the Training Ship Mercury swimming nude in the River Hamble. The Mercury, established in 1885 by the London philanthropist Charles Hoare, was originally based at Binstead on the Isle of Wight, but moved in 1892 to the River Hamble, near Southampton, where shore-based premises were also provided. Boys aged 12-15 were trained in seamanship, with many going on to join the naval services.

© Mary Evans / Peter Higginbotham Collection

Official wording, Apprenticeship Indenture

Official wording of an Apprenticeship Indenture, between John Henry Watson of 3 Newland Street, Derby, and Messrs John Davis & Son (Derby) Limited. The document is signed by John Henry Watson himself (then about 17 years old), his father Walter Watson, and Henry Davis, Governing Director. The apprenticeship is for five years, dating from 25 June 1901, in the skill of instrument making. The apprentice's pay is agreed at 4 shillings and sixpence per week for the first year, rising to 6 shillings in the second year, 7/6 in the third, 9/6 in the fourth, and 12/6 in the fifth. The apprentice agrees to be obedient, not do any damage, not to take leave of absence without consent, and not to play cards, dice or other unlawful games, nor to frequent taverns or playhouses.
(2 of 2)
3 January 1902

© Mary Evans Picture Library/GILL STOKER

Laundry at Shirley Schools, near Croydon, Surrey

Inmates ironing clothes and linen in the laundry at the Shirley Schools, near Croydon, Surrey, established in 1904 by the St Olave Union to house pauper children away from the workhouse. The Schools were laid out as a 'cottage homes' development in the style of a village street, with groups of children living in cottages with a house parent. Shirley Oaks Hospital now occupies part of the site.

© Mary Evans / Peter Higginbotham Collection