Historical Figures

What did a errand boy do in the Victorian times?

An errand boy in Victorian times was a young boy, typically between the ages of 10 and 14, who was employed to run errands and perform other tasks for a business or household. Errand boys were often employed by grocers, butchers, bakers, and other shopkeepers, as well as by wealthier families.

Errand boys were responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

- Delivering messages and packages

- Running errands to the post office, bank, or other businesses

- Cleaning and sweeping the shop floor

- Packing and unpacking goods

- Assisting customers with their purchases

Errand boys were often poorly paid and worked long hours, but the job provided them with an opportunity to earn money and learn valuable skills that could help them find better employment in the future. Some errand boys eventually went on to become successful businessmen themselves.