Life in the 19th century - Writers Forum

LadyBard · 08-25-2005, 01:12 PM

I'm looking for information about how life would have been for a 12 yr.
girl at this time in history. I also need information about what songs or
music was popular. Any links or information would be gratefully appreciate it.

I didn't know research could be this frustrating especially when you feel
you can move ahead in your story until you have the proper information!!

Thanks a lot for any help you can give me !!

JustJim · 08-27-2005, 12:39 AM

Try asking the social science librarian at your library. The reason I suggest this is that while I was searching shelves for a specific book I ran across some books relating to children in the middle ages. I wouldn't be surprised to learn that there are books about children in the nineteenth century. Again, I'd be surprised if you can't find music in the fine arts section. Luck.

I just Googled as follows:

"nineteenth century" +children +new york

If you decide to try this, use the quotes and the plus signs in the search request. There seems to be a lot of stuff, but you'll need to sort through it all. One of the things I do when searching is to open word pad and keep it on the Task Bar, putting words and phrases that might be good search term down there. Then when I feel I've exhausted the present search I use a new term and start over.

falco · 08-27-2005, 08:08 PM

What continent is this taking place on? I ask because I know of several very helpful books if you are in Europe, especially England, though they may be somewhat helpful no matter where you are.

Try:

What Jane Austen Ate and Charles Dickens Knew by Danial Pool

An Elegant Madness by Venetia Murray (for earlier in the 19th century)

I've used both of those and they are quite good.

One more I haven't gotten to but would like to:

Everyday Life in the 1800s: A Guide for Writers, Students, and Historians by Marc McCutcheon (this one seems to have an American focus)

good luck!