Photo and "expert opinon"

[gardener]

I just got this in my email
http://blog.findmypast.co.uk/category/a ... s_fee=0.00

The expert says "Clearly this group represents two or more domestic servants so perhaps all of these people comprised the staff of a country house, enjoying a day out in the local countryside."

I'm wondering why a couple of housemaids would jaunt around the Derbyshire (if it is) countryside wearing white caps and aprons. That makes no sense to me at all.

[grangers14]

And take dining chairs with them too?

[Antie Em]

Perhaps they were in the garden having a picnic

[SRD]

I recall reading a description of a middle class picnic where light weight furniture, full crockery sets as well as kettles etc. for heating water for tea were all loaded up onto a cart and transported into the countryside where the servants would set up what was basically the dining room. The members of the household would either be carried to the spot in carriages, ride there on horseback, or even walk, to enjoy the 'picnic'. Service was provided just as it was at home, by 'properly attired' servants. Formal dress was not required for those taking part in the repast.