Self-Care Like a Victorian Series, Part 1: 19th Century Activities Using Objects Found in Nature

March 25th, 2020 |

This is part one of a three-part blog series dedicated to Self-Care in the 1800s. Victorian people believed that a brisk walk in fresh air could do a world of good for the body, mind, and spirit. Hobbies or activities that kept hands busy were also favored. This is why our first Victorian Self-Care post focuses on five activities a person can do with objects they find might find while taking a walk outdoors! 

Victorians loved nature. They studied it, wrote about it, and collected it. Below are five popular uses for items from nature in the 1800s. Perhaps you’ll be inspired to collect a few things while on your next walk! 

1. Collecting and replanting ferns (and other plants found in nature) Victorian fern collecting was called “pteridomania.” Going out to find beautiful and unusual plants to bring home was made increasingly popular due to the use of glass cases that resemble what we call a terrarium today. Now be mindful not to take or clip plant-life that is not yours! Perhaps you want to start out with a clipping from your own backyard. Or, try replanting some produce from your refrigerator!

2. Drying flowers- Not to worry if you had trouble keeping your plants alive, you could dry and press them between the pages of a heavy book. The final product could be framed or glued to a card. Many pressed flowers are forgotten, and a reader will eventually happen upon this happy surprise! 

3. Send a Message- Victorians were required to adhere to strict social rules. You would not be permitted to simply say what was on your mind. Instead, you might give coded messages. The Language of Flowers was published in 1884. This volume would function as a translator to tell the recipient of a beautiful bouquet what the giver intended to convey. For example, Purple Lilac indicates Early feelings of Love, while Lavender means distrust. You can see the entire book here.

4. Create Nature Prints- using printers ink (or a stamp pad) press a found leaf or flower into the ink and then press it onto paper, pressing firmly and evenly to ensure a consistent impression. Young Victorians would make an “Impression Album” to keep all their prints in one book.

5. Draw it! Set to recreating your collection. Flowers and other plant life were popular subject matter for young artists learning to draw or paint. The goal for students in Bethlehem in the 1800s was to create the most realistic drawing possible. See tips and techniques here.

Look for parts two and three of the Self-Care like a Victorian series. 

We hope that you enjoyed learning about self-care in the Victorian era! Please consider supporting content like this at HBMS! https://www.historicbethlehem.org/support/donate/

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