Did rag-and-bone men have any notable historical figures?

Yes, rag-and-bone men, who collected and recycled waste materials, had notable historical figures, such as Joseph Bazalgette, a Victorian engineer who improved London's sewage system. While not a rag-and-bone man himself, his work was influenced by the waste management practices of the time. Additionally, the profession is often romanticized in literature, highlighting its cultural significance.