Did rag-and-bone men have any competitors?
Frequently Asked Question about the extinct profession: Rag-and-Bone Man
Yes, rag-and-bone men faced competition from various sources. Other collectors, such as itinerant traders and local scrap dealers, also gathered discarded items. Additionally, municipal waste management services began to emerge, which further reduced the need for rag-and-bone men. The rise of recycling initiatives and changes in waste disposal practices in the 20th century also impacted their business.