Catalogue

Interview
891, LO/255/206
Leicester Oral History Archive Collection

Speaker: Thurban, John, - , Interviewee, Male, Butler
Speaker: Aucott, S, Interviewer, Female

Summary of interview item: Recalls starting his career in service as a hall boy near Park Lane, London in 1928. Describes pay and conditions, uniform, job titles and pecking order of servants, also the need for a good reference. Outlines a typical day where guests would come for dinner. Describes perks of being a travelling footman, and financial perks of being a butler. Recalls good quality of servants' food, going on holidays, and dinner table etiquette. Describes cleaning and housework in detail. Anecdotes of spilling food and drinks. Talks about the work required for a day's hunting, and also for a hunt ball. Worked at Quenby Hall, Leicestershire as butler after Second World War and describes how reduced staff meant more work. Briefly describes a few home remedies, and riding accidents.
Place of birth: Stratford, London
Education:
Marital Status: , Children:
Father's Occupation:
Mother's Occupation:
Location: County: Leicestershire
Location: Town/Place: London, Quenby
Periods Covered: 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s
Language: English

Recording Date: 27/2/1986
Playing time: 1 hr 23 mins
Access Restrictions: Restricted Item Copyright: EMOHA
Summary: Yes
Transcription: No
Copies: Yes
Cross Reference:

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Last updated: 08/05/02 East Midland Oral History Archive Web maintainer This document has been approved by the head of department or section.