Dancing in Regency times

Dancing in the eighteenth century was more than an entertainment for the gentry and those of great wealth. It was an art form. The England's love for France's style and dress lasted even through the war years.

However the French minuet dominated English ballrooms in the mid to late 1700’s. Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the minuet as  “a slow graceful dance in ¾ time characterized by forward balancing, bowing and toe pointing."   

In the minuet, each couple danced one at a time while all the guests watched. It was greatly praised if it was masterly performed with elegance. Each couple would take their turn to dance it from the highest-ranking persons to the lowest. 

However during the time of the Regency, dances held in the country or in the assembly rooms were slightly different. Couples would make their way down the set and would interact with all types of people—tradesmen, soldiers, the gentry and perhaps even a servant if they needed people to make up the set.

In Pride and Prejudice when Mr. Darcy does not make a point to dance at the assembly, everyone at the assembly is highly offended. 

In not dancing, he was announcing to everyone that he was unwilling to associate with people of low position, which because of his social status, was everyone at the assembly. Who wouldn't be insulted?   

Women’s Clothing in Regency England

It is always so very interesting to see the changes in women’s fashions. What was considered fashionable at one time is now obsolete. Gowns from long ago are called dresses today. We wear hats occasionally. But at one time they were a necessity.

Today, most people wear underwear beneath clothes. Some people don’t. No one seems to care one way or another. Children are forever trying to get a way without wearing underwear.

But in Regency England, underwear was not an article of clothing the women wore. It seems it was risqué to wear any type of drawers. Of course, they had layer upon layer of clothing, so I suppose one more layer might be too much. And it was one less thing to worry about when using the privy. It just seems so odd, that a culture so taken with propriety gave way to convenience.

For to me it seems very inconvenient

1st layer - shift. A formless type gown that would fall to your knees with a drawstring neckline.
2nd layer - corset. It was pulled tight and tied in the back by a maid or a sister.
3rd layer- waist petticoat. This was slipped on beneath your corset to cover your shift and was made of wool or muslin. Some petticoats would go with certain gowns if the gown had an opening in the front and would complement the outer gown’s colors.
4th layer - the gown. But even that is divided up into two categories.
1. Morning gown worn from breakfast until dinner
a. Made of heavy or sturdy fabric
b. No low necklines
c. If your gown has a low neckline, wear a chemisette, a fichu or gauze to fill in the space between your neck and the gown.

2. Evening gown
a. Worn for dinner
b. Elegant and flimsy, lowest neckline possible

Regency Celebrations after Christmas and Boxing Day include New Year’s Eve and Twelfth Night.

After Boxing Day, the day after Christmas December 27^th through January 5^th, there are evening parties and gatherings at homes or at your neighbors’ homes. Everyone is home so there are a lot of people to see and to renew acquaintances with during charades, dancing, music nights, games, small theater productions etc. Sometimes the evenings will last clear into the next morning. The women will be able to sleep in, but the men will get up early and go hunting.

December 31^st whatever party you attend or if you choose to stay home, you will ring in the New Year with drink and song.

New Year’s Day was usually spent at home since the night before was a late evening either out or at home.

January 2^nd through January 5^th would be a continuation of the above parties, dinner, dancing, perhaps even a ball to close the holiday Season.

The final day of the Christmas and New Year’s holiday is call Twelfth Night which is January 6^th   which is as you would guess 12 days after Christmas. This is called Epiphany in the Church and is the celebration of the Magi bringing gifts to Baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph. A huge ball would be planned for this night and even the children of the family and neighbors would be invited to attend.

Finally, we come to January 7^th when guests begin to leave, family members return to London or to their estates and decorations are taken down.  It was considered bad luck for decorations to remain up after January 7^th.

I personally would like to take down Christmas Decorations down on December 6^th. I love Christmas but I don’t want to start the New Year with a Christmas tree or decorations still up.    

How were Christmas celebrations different in Regency England.

Christmas Trees weren't a part of Christmas
celebrations until the mid 1800's

As we near Christmas time, we usually celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with family and friends. So things have not changed all that much since the late 1700's through the early 1800's. The Gentry and the Nobles would go to their country estates and the family and close friends would congregate. Because of the remote locations of these estates and the slow mode of travel, guests would stay. 

Christmas Eve - Dinner and afterwards games or dancing. Retire at a reasonable hour. 

Christmas Day - Get up early and go to church. Drop money into the poor box at church. Enjoy a turkey dinner with your family. None of the homes around will drop in for visits, but you can still play games in the evening.

The Day after Christmas called Boxing Day. If you are the lord and lady of the home, you will have made up boxes filled with clothing and food that you will distribute to your tenants. The servants are given a holiday and if not a holiday a holiday bonus. The money you gave to the poor box will be distributed to the poor on this day. Usually a fox hunt will be planned for the day.

   

What jobs were open to women in the Regency period?

There were only a few occupations that women could hold that would still be deemed respectable. Anything to do with the shop was not. However, a woman with good breeding fallen on hard times could be a governess. Her charges were usually girls, however, she could also watch the younger boys of the family. It was a lonely position with no servants being your equal so they would not talk with you. You would have to take your meals alone or with the children. The family sadly ignored their governesses most of the time.

A companion was another job a woman could hold. But again it was not ideal. If you were a younger lady you might become a companion to an older relative. You would be at their beck and call. 

Sometimes a younger widow would require a companion. That position might prove slightly better as you would be able to go places, but you would also live in the shadows. No matter which type of companion type situation that you would be able to hold, you would be considered a dependent and anyone without money was looked down on.

  

Who was called an accomplished Woman in Regency England

In pride and prejudice, Mr. Darcy talks about what it means to be an accomplished woman. 

The problem is that there were so little for women to do if they were of the aristocracy or of the gentry classes. They could not work. They may be able to garden. But even that was limited to an herb garden for medicinal reasons or to oversee the growing of flowers in their conservatories. Managing the house, servants and dinners took up some time. But that leaves a large part of the day open. Visiting the poor was another one of the duties of the upper class. But a monthly visit would suffice.

So they worked on becoming accomplished. Accomplished in what you might ask. 

Pretty much accomplished meant being skillful in activities of no practical use. But they did have their benefits. To be able to speak fluently in French or Italian was considered an accomplishment as was becoming a proficient in music: singing, playing the piano or harp. Drawing or painting, needlework or dancing were considered  wonderful accomplishments.  And all of these activities did bring enjoyment to those who were able to excel at these arts. But for those who did not, it was a grudgingly done task that regardless of their interests, they were forced to pursue.

According to Regency England, I would not have been considered accomplished.  

Colorado Mountains

Hiking this weekend was amazing. Colorado is the place to be. There were still flowers blooming even though the aspens were changing. The air was charged with heat and coolness at the same time. We crossed 9 log bridges over the same creek throughout the hike. There is nothing like the beauty of the Colorado Mountains.

A great time to get rejuvenated to keep on writing. To see such beauty and to be a part of it makes you believe you can achieve anything. So even though I'm still in the dusty chapters of revisions, I am not down in the dumps but soaring with the eagle in the sometimes dark and other times bright and billowy clouds.    

What are the differences between a rector, a vicar and a curate?

Manners. Manners were very important in Regency times just as they are important today. In our ever changing political climate, manners go a long way. If you are kind, thoughtful and can express your thoughts eloquently you have manners. If you point out others flaws than you are considered uncouth. There is a fine line between speaking the truth and good manners.

The gentry in the 1800’s were caught in between the aristocracy and those who had made a fortune in trade. The gentry usually didn’t have much land if any. Their wealth had long since vanished and so they had to fall back on the four acceptable professions—the church, the law, the military or medicine.

These professions were honorable.  I’ve posted before on the differences concerning doctors, surgeons and apothecaries.  

What are the differences between a rector, a vicar and a curate?

A rector was the business man of the church. He did not have to be ordained. He took care of the clerical duties such as recording births, deaths, marriages and often sat on the magistrate bench. He entered into the social life of the community. He also received 10% of the cereal crops grown in his region. This could amount to quite an income.

A vicar had to go to the university, then ordained a deacon followed by assisting an ordained priest for a year, which gave him the ability to administer sacraments. After that he had to secure a “living”. Once secured he was there for life. He lived off the lower tithes. 10% of the produce and livestock sold. He lived in his home for free and could stay there until he died. When he was ready to retire, he would hire a curator.

A curator was usually a young man recently ordained. He would assist the vicar in the hopes of taking over his living when the vicar passed away. It was not a sure thing. Their salaries were sometimes as little as 50 pounds per year. However, even with this paltry wage a curacy was hard to obtain. The only way a curator could retire would be if he had previous means that would allow him the luxury. The gentry did not associate with him.  

Phantom of the Opera

Went to Phantom of the Opera last weekend with my girls. 

It was wonderful. The Buell Theater was spectacular and our seats were wonderful even though we were in the balcony. 

The chandelier was impressive. The sets were beyond what I've ever seen done. 

The lighting phenomenal. The orchestra magnificent 
The actors & actresses 
unbelievably talented. Even getting out of Downtown Denver was a breeze. 

An amazing night in wonderful company.   

Camping in Colorado

Camping this weekend. 

There is something about being up in the mountains that refreshes a soul.

We thought we would do more camping this summer but time got away from us.

 A few more day hikes and summer will be gone. 


Here's one of the deer we saw, and the bird in the sky is a vulture circling    

Social Order

All through history, people with money, land and homes rule over those who have less money, tiny plots of land or small homes. If the wisest man of all times lived on the street who would listen to him. But if a fool has money, land or a large home, his opinion counts. 

Sometimes we see this very thing in Hollywood.   

Money equals power, influence and more money.

In Regency England, they divided their social order according to wealth.

Royalty – George III and Queen Charlotte / Prince Regent George IV and Queen Caroline  

Aristocrats – These are the Lords and Ladies that were very wealthy and their families. (titled or untitled) Very wealthy personages and those descending of old families that were peers of the realm.

Gentry – These are very old families that usually have large estates. People that made their money in trade can buy a very old home and will be included into this category only if they have very nice manners and never engage or talk about trade.

Tradesmen – They work and therefore must be avoided at all costs. Except if you need their services. Do not strike up a conversation with them. They are not your equals.

Laborers – All the people that work. Servants, groomsmen, cooks, butlers, etc. Only give them orders.

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Colorado

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Hiking above Nederland in Colorado

Hiking this weekend near Diamond Lake. We walked through two waterfalls and a couple of streams. And then far off we could see another waterfall. The whole hike was in the shade with flowers blooming and the smell of pine trees accompanying every step. The rush of the river from below told us we were close to the lake. 

July

 Between community gardens and fishing with my husband July slowly ebbed away. 

Bridges, Streams and Paths

Summertime in Colorado is truly amazing—from the peaceful hum of rivers to the roaring currents of streams. 

One of my favorite places in the world hidden in the mountains where you can see wildlife and wildflowers. Feast on raspberries, bird-watch or fish. 

This is where I write best. Not what I write is best, but where I enjoy writing the most.

Gladiolus

Gladiolus are a flower that can change my whole day. 

This year I have counted 27 blooms. They only last for such a short time, especially in Colorado's hot summer. 

But I truly love them. 

They are said to symbolize strength of character, honor and conviction. 

If given to someone it may represent an infatuation, that the recipient has pierced your heart with passion.

Foxgloves

Foxgloves is symbolic of  insincerity since the chemicals in it are very potent. 

It is used for heart medicine. When it is not taken correctly, it can kill. 

Children have been warned against touching this poisonous plant for some have died from drinking the water from the vase that a foxglove flower was in. 

It has other names besides foxglove such as dead man’s bell and witches gloves.

Brooks's

Brooks's was one of the top three clubs for gentlemen in the Regency era. Not as prestigious as White's but still respected. Brooks's was for the Whig party who in their very nature were liberal. The Prince Regent favored Brooks's until they blackballed a friend of his by the name of Jack Payne. It was on St. James Street which meant it was in the right place.

As in White's and Boodles you could read your newspaper, talk to friends, drink coffee and of course play cards and gamble. Brooks's stakes were very high. Some members would play cards all night and lose fortunes. It was said Charles Fox and his brothers lost in hazard thousands of pounds in any given night.

Day Lilies

Yellow Day Lilies – symbolizes thankfulness and desire for enjoyment

Amazing day at Coors Field watching the Rockies. A walk-off Home Run in the bottom of the 9th. Doesn't get better than that unless you are with your family watching it.  

I don't approve of surprises. The pleasure is never enhanced and the inconvenience is considerable ~ Jane Austen

Nature in Colorado

There is nothing better than getting away and going up to the mountains to get rejuvenated. The sounds of the river and the light breezes seem to put everything back in perspective again. To dip your toes in the freezing water and watch butterflies fly all around you. To let nature unfold around you and know you are a part of this creation

Red Geraniums

Red Geraniums – are said to represent hope and friendship

Red Roses

Red Roses are typically thought of as symbolizing romance or passionate love, but they also represent sacrifice or memorial.

My Summer Flowers

In writing there are so many articles, places or things that can be  symbolic of what is happening or what is going to happen.

I researched what flowers might symbolize or foretell.

Pink Geraniums –  gentility,  determination

Physicians, Apothecaries or Surgeons

Who would be called to your home if you were sick and living during the Regency era?

Most likely it would be a physician (doctor). But there have been references to apothecaries and surgeons. What distinguishes one from the other? I wondered that, too.

It seems to become a physician a gentleman had to be well-educated, studied Latin and had to pass a physician’s examination. Since the physician was a gentleman he did not use his hands. He was called to see only the wealthy people of England. To use one’s hands meant you were a laborer. Thereby, vicars, lawyers, military officers and physicians were gentlemen.  

An apothecary administered the physician’s instructions. He made the medicine and prepared the dosage. He put the leeches on the patient. The poor would visit an apothecary or have an apothecary come to their home. If servants in a wealthy home became ill, an apothecary might be called to examine the patient.

A surgeon had no education. He set bones, stitched up wounds, and removed appendages that were infected. He was a hand-on guy that did what needed to be done the best way he knew how. That’s why a surgeon by 1837 (After the Regency Period) got the nickname ‘Sawbones’. 

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Bathroom Breaks in Regency England

The little girls I watch recently asked if Princesses ever go to the bathroom, which got me thinking of Regency England. We know everyone goes to the bathroom and yet in books unless it’s non-fiction, we never write about it. Why would we? But there are interesting facts that I thought I’d write on my blog instead of in my books.

After a long dinner, the women would withdraw from the dining room or hall. Thereby, the room they went into was given the name of the withdrawing room. Later, it was shortened to just the drawing room. However, when they left, it was also to use the chamber pots ie bathroom in their rooms or in a room assigned for this purpose for the guests. Then the women would meet again in the drawing room. 

The men also took a bathroom break, however, they did not leave the dining room. Chamber pots were brought in with port and cigars. A bit disgusting, especially for the servants who had to remove these pots from the room after the men finished. 

Back to the beginning, I told the little girls, of course, they go to the bathroom, but they do it when no one is looking. 

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Writing and Colorado

The contest I entered for A Series of Scandals will announce semi-finalists next Friday. 

I’m hopeful so you can see I’ve not been rejected enough to be jaded. 

I’m working on the sequel as I have posted many times before. It seems such a shame that it takes so long to write a book and such a short time to read it.

 

Colorado Mountains up near Golden.  

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Going for a drive last weekend with my husband, we found ourselves in Kiowa, an hour out of Denver. So we drove up the long dirt road that led to my grandparents' old farm. From the road, we saw the house now painted a chocolate brown. A new barn was added in front of the old barn my grandpa spent hours in there -milking cows and then in his later years working on repairing TV’s in the hay loft.

It was bittersweet looking up to the rock hill where my brothers and sisters used to play. The truth about that rock hill is - I loved playing up there and I hated it. We were sent out to play. The 5 room house (kitchen, living room, two small bedrooms and bathroom) wasn't large enough for 8 children and my parents and my grandparents to hang out for any length of time. 

Rain or shine, we went up that hill behind the house. I can remember each of us commandeering certain sections of the rock hill as our own homes. One of the rocks, we named the Queen's chair. There was a King's chair also but it was smaller. The beauty of having five sisters and only two brothers, girls ruled. 

I think that is why I like writing about an obscure place in time. The Regency Period. A time that lasted less than twenty years. In writing about it, we can go back and imagine a time that is gone. People who lived and breathed, had dreams and disappointments. The phrases they used and the styles they wore. 

  

I can't go back to the rock hill. I will never play there again. It is enough to see it from the road, and remember another time. 

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Snowy and cold in Colorado today, a perfect time to write. But instead, I watched the mail truck slip and slide around our cul-de-sac. Kept thinking I should go out and help when it got stuck and was facing sideways against our neighbor's fence. Then I said to myself, how would I help? I certainly can't push the truck out. I don't know any super- secret ways of steering while a truck slips into countless snowbanks. And lastly, it looked rather cold outside and the wind was blowing. So in the end, I just watched.  And then wrote about it, so you see I’ve come full-circle.  

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The Open Road

I love reading any story whose main character perseveres. Where they may hold so many secrets, but never let those burdens detract from their mission. I’m inspired by such writing, if it is a true story I’m in awe of someone with such integrity.

In truth, we’re all a mixture of the very best and the very worst. We smile and say, “No problem, I can do this.” But our hearts wonder, “Can I?” We live within work days that make it hard to see the beauty of life, itself.

I’ve begun working on the sequel to my first book. Editing, mapping, outlining. I have the story and need to figure out the best way to present it. Both of my main characters are incredibly flawed. Within the first chapter, they are thrown together and in the end must use the skills they’ve developed due to their flaws to save each other. 

So here's to the open road where the sky and the earth seem to touch. And if you look around, you may see some antelope break free.