In the annals of history, the smallest artifacts often carry the greatest weight. A simple, handwritten shopping list, dated October 1633, was discovered beneath the floorboards of a London home, offering a rare glimpse into the daily lives of people in the 17th century. The note, penned by Robert Draper, lists various household necessities, including greenfish, pewter spoons, and a frying pan. This remarkable document, now housed in the National Trust collection, allows modern readers to step back in time and experience the everyday concerns and routines of the people who lived nearly four centuries ago.
At first glance, a shopping list might seem like an unremarkable historical artifact. However, this document serves as a window into the economic and social realities of the time. The list is not merely a collection of items; it is a reflection of the priorities and living conditions of a household in early 17th-century England. Draper’s note was addressed to a Mr. Bilby, presumably a merchant or supplier, requesting the delivery of specific goods by cart the following day. The inclusion of items such as greenfish—a term likely referring to dried or salted cod—suggests the household’s diet and reliance on preserved foods, a necessity in an era without refrigeration.
The mention of pewter spoons, an everyday utensil, highlights the materials commonly used in domestic settings during this period. Pewter, an alloy primarily composed of tin and lead, was a popular choice for household items due to its affordability compared to silver. The request for “one greate fireshovell for ye nursery” indicates the presence of a fireplace in the nursery, signifying the importance of maintaining warmth in rooms where children or other household members resided. The reference to “o[t]hers which were sent to be exchanged for some of a better fashion” suggests a keen awareness of style and quality, demonstrating that even in the 17th century, individuals sought to refine their living spaces with improved household goods.
Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of this shopping list is the insight it provides into the logistics of supply and trade during the period. The letter implies a structured system of ordering and delivering goods, with merchants fulfilling requests and sending carts with supplies. This speaks to the well-established commercial networks that allowed people to access goods beyond what was locally available. The note also suggests that written records and correspondence played a crucial role in household management. The fact that Draper took the time to list the items, specify quantities, and include instructions for exchanges reflects the importance of detail and accuracy in transactions.
Beyond the practicalities of the list, this document also highlights the linguistic style of the time. The spelling, phrasing, and use of abbreviations such as “ye” instead of “the” provide valuable insight into the evolution of the English language. The format and tone of the letter, signed “Your loving friend Robert Draper,” suggest a level of familiarity and trust between Draper and Bilby, indicating that business transactions were often conducted in a more personal manner than what is common in today’s commercial world.
To truly appreciate the historical significance of this document, it is essential to place it in the broader context of 17th-century England. The early 1600s were a period of transition, marked by economic expansion, increasing global trade, and shifts in social structures. London, as a bustling commercial hub, was home to a growing middle class that sought to improve their living conditions through access to a wider variety of goods. The presence of imported foods and manufactured household items on Draper’s list suggests a society that was becoming increasingly connected to markets beyond its immediate surroundings.
The discovery of this letter beneath the floorboards of a London home raises intriguing questions about how it came to be there. Was it intentionally stored away, or did it simply slip through the cracks of history? The preservation of such a fragile document for nearly 400 years is a testament to the durability of written records and the conditions in which they were kept. It also serves as a reminder that even the most ordinary aspects of life—such as making a list of household needs—can become invaluable historical artifacts when viewed from the perspective of time.
Artifacts like this shopping list remind us that history is not solely shaped by grand events or famous figures but also by the daily activities and personal experiences of ordinary people. They offer a tangible connection to the past, allowing us to see, in minute detail, how people lived, what they valued, and how they interacted with their world. This discovery is particularly valuable for historians and archaeologists who study domestic life, as it provides a real-life example of how people procured and managed their resources.
Moreover, this document allows us to reflect on how much has changed over the centuries while also recognizing the similarities that persist. Today, we write shopping lists on paper, phones, or apps, carefully planning our purchases just as Draper did in 1633. The need to maintain a household, ensure food supply, and seek quality goods is a universal human concern that transcends time. While the means of procurement have evolved—moving from handwritten notes to digital transactions—the fundamental purpose remains unchanged.
This shopping list also raises awareness of the importance of historical preservation. Had it not been for careful excavation and the work of historians, this small but significant piece of the past might have been lost forever. It serves as a reminder that the study of history is not just about wars and politics but also about understanding the daily lives of those who came before us. Every artifact, no matter how small, adds to the rich tapestry of human experience.
In conclusion, Robert Draper’s shopping list is far more than a simple note requesting household supplies. It is a window into the past, offering insight into diet, material culture, trade, language, and social relationships in 17th-century England. Its discovery beneath the floorboards of a London home underscores the value of even the most mundane historical artifacts. This letter, penned nearly four centuries ago, invites us to reflect on the everyday lives of those who came before us and appreciate the enduring human connections that link the past to the present.
