That's not to say I've ignored the dark side of that period. I've spent a great deal of time, as a hobby, studying the era, and find it fascinating for all its flaws and imperfections. But then, our own 21st century is hardly problem free. Still, I am very grateful for the battles won by those who came before us that have enabled us to live with the freedoms and luxuries we enjoy today.
I've always imagined, had I lived as a Victorian, my family might have been something like Frederick Treves family (for those who know what that means!). My father is also a well known doctor - within his field of course, not to the general public! I say that not to brag, but because I'm extremely proud of everything he's accomplished, he's worked very, very hard to be where he is. He's often called to give talks in different places around the world, but mostly spends time at the university hospital in Utah taking care of patients and teaching students. My mother is a nurse. Of course, they have two daughters, my sister and myself. Therefore, I've always thought we'd be somewhat like the Treves family had we lived at that time - comfortably well off, but not overly wealthy. I've never wanted to be one of those terribly wealthy Victorian families, the type with a city house, a country house, and a large staff - not for me thank you! No, I rather like my family as it is. Though I realize this would cause some difficulty, as my sister and I are both performers, and this was not quite as accepted in that time! One change I would have to make - I think I would've preferred living in 19th century England rather than 19th century North America!
Obviously, I'm referring to my family as I was growing up rather than my present family of myself, my husband and our two cats!
I watched a program once on PBS -'Manor House' - wherein a family and staff of modern people inhabited a turn of the century mansion and lived as Edwardians for 3 months. I believe the show covered the years 1906-1914. True, not quite Victorian, but the Edwardian era was very beautiful as well. The thing that struck me the most was something that the lady of the house said shortly before she had to return to the 21st century. She'd found she was much more comfortable in the Edwardian period and, referring to going back to the 21st century, said "I will be going back - but I won't be going home". This touched me very deeply - I often feel the same.
At any rate, I decided to dust of some of my Victorian style clothing, put them to use, and post some photos on this site to share. I hope you'll enjoy them - or at least get a laugh from it!
