Pre-Industrial Era
Fuller
An extinct profession from Pre-Industrial Era that became obsolete due to technological advancement and societal change.
Media Gallery
Related Exhibits
Human Fly
The Human Fly was a unique and daring performer who captivated audiences during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These individuals, often acrobats or daredevils, specialized in climbing tall buildings and structures, showcasing their remarkable agility and fearlessness. The Human Fly would often scale skyscrapers, bridges, and other urban landmarks, performing stunts that left spectators in awe. Their performances were not merely about the climb; they often included intricate routines, such as hanging from ledges, performing flips, or even playing musical instruments while suspended high above the ground. This job was emblematic of the era's fascination with spectacle and the extraordinary, as cities began to rise higher and the public's appetite for thrilling entertainment grew.
Breaker Boy
The role of a Breaker Boy emerged during the Industrial Revolution, particularly in the coal mining regions of the United States, where the demand for coal surged to fuel the burgeoning industries. Breaker Boys were young boys, often between the ages of 8 and 12, who worked in coal breaker facilities. Their primary responsibility was to separate impurities from coal, a crucial step in preparing the coal for market. This labor-intensive job involved sitting on a high platform above a conveyor belt, where they would pick out rocks, slate, and other debris from the coal as it passed by. The work was not only monotonous but also hazardous, as the boys were exposed to coal dust and the risk of injury from the machinery. Breaker Boys typically worked long hours, often from dawn until dusk, in poorly ventilated and unsafe conditions, earning a meager wage that reflected the exploitative labor practices of the time. The job was emblematic of the harsh realities faced by child laborers during the Industrial Revolution, highlighting the intersection of economic necessity and social injustice.
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