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CB2 -19th Century British Isles Pub/Tavern Table Setting Box
History of a Pub
There is a rich history of drinking pubs and taverns in the British Realm. Pubs, which is short for "public houses", can be dated to the Roman occupation of Britain and Anglo-Saxon Alehouses. It was not until the early 19th century that we see the rise in Pubs in how we know them today. There are four basic elements for being a Pub. The first being that it is open to all that enter with no membership required. Second, that draft beer or cider is served without the purchase of food. Third, that there is at least one indoor area that is not laid out for meals.
Typical Tavern Box
And the last element is that drinks can be bought at a bar and not from table service. In the past 200+ years, the Pub has become the social center and an important aspect of culture in local communities. Often close to home and work, they are the focal point for "locals" in the village for social gatherings, good food, drink and just a good 'Ole time. Often, the locals would keep a locked settings box at the Pub for those times when they felt like eating. In the early 19th century this was commonplace practice because the Pub did not have the means to supply all that were needed for meals. So below, pull up a chair, get a beer and have a good time.
This tavern box is very simple and utilitarian in purpose. It is a plain pine box with a top hinged lid and brass handles for carrying. The box has a very popular, for-it's-time, faux painting applied to the outside for a richer and expensive look. The hand painted design mimics the grain of bird's eye maple, which is a more sought-after wood. In the center photo above, a keyhole can be seen along with the details of the painted wood.
The boxes were very plain on the inside. They would include other items that are not shown here. Such as more mugs, bowls and knives & spoons. Sometimes there would be a cover for the table. Candle sticks and candles were also very necessary for when it got dark.
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