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Newhaven fishwife Mrs Milligan and her daughter Helen
1922, Photograph
Newhaven fishwife Mrs Milligan and her daughter Helen
Newhaven fishwife Mrs Milligan and her daughter Helen
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Museums & Galleries Item
Item no
23685
Title
Newhaven fishwife Mrs Milligan and her daughter Helen
Description
Black and white studio portrait photograph of Newhaven fishwife Mrs Milligan and her daughter Helen. Mrs Milligan is seated. She wears long skirts, a blouse with turned back cuffs and a chequered shawl. Her daughter stands next to her. She wears striped petticoats, a floral blouse or 'shor' goon' and a headscarf. She holds onto a small scull (type of basket) placed next to her. A painted backdrop depicts a coastal scene, complete with lighthouse.
Date
1922
Type
Photograph
Location
Museum of Edinburgh
Accession number
Ref 3.14 C221/9
In Newhaven, fishing was often a way of life for the whole family. Sons would leave school as soon as possible to start work on the family boat. Daughters often 'took up the creel' and sold fish from as young as age 14.
Helen wears her striped petticoats or 'cots' in the manner known as 'kilted', revealing the under layer. This helped to pad the body when carrying a heavy creel, and the folds could also be used to keep money safe.
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Clothing and dress
>
Garments
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Gala costume
Clothing and dress
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Garments
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Shawls
Clothing and dress
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Garments
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Shirts
Clothing and dress
>
Garments
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Skirts
People
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Adults
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Women
People
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Agriculture and fisheries
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Fisherwomen
People
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Children
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Girls
Places
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Edinburgh areas
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Newhaven
Places
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Scotland
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Edinburgh
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