History of the Happy Hooker

I promised Lottie a little history on crochet. Though there is a great deal more to be found on the subject, I was referring to this information about Lace, and the women who made handmade lace in the early 1800's.

Here is a bit from the Library of Industry and Consumerism:

LACE

During the early nineteenth century lace production became mechanized, first in Europe, then in America. Although the quality could never surpass that of hand-made lace, the amount of time required to make even a single hand-made garment was extensive and the price so high that the market for hand-made lace soon dwindled. Lace-making by hand, using such tools as needles and bobbins, had become a novel pastime and prestigious activity for daughters of wealthy families. These changes forced many lace-makers into factories, and those who remained working in the cottage industries turned to piecework activities, such as mending and hemming factory laces. Crochet emerged from lace making as an alternative that was more profitable as a business, and more enjoyable and less tedious as a leisure activity.

The beauty of lace masked the grim realities of how it was produced. Families who made lace in their homes as piecework, would often enlist the labor of children as young as three. Families survived on the meager wages provided by their employers through collaboration, but the individual pieceworker could barely make a living. Charlotte Elizabeth Tonna, in her 1844 exposé The Lace-runners, questioned a manufacturer's wage policies only to be told that he expected women to supplement heir income by engaging in prostitution.

Hence the name, "Hookers" was born!

I do love crochet and the beautiful fabric produced with simple yarn and a hook. It is an easy hobby that can go anywhere with you packed neatly in a purse or book bag. I take mine everywhere I go, the libarary, the cafe, the carpool line. You name it, I am never without a project to pass the time. Call me what you may, I am indeed a Happy Hooker, and I hope you will not let the name prevent you from joining in the fun! Here is a great "How to" link to get you started.

Have a great day!
Liz