Meaning
A craftsman who covered roofs with straw, reed or heather to provide weatherproof insulation.
Description
Thatchers applied layers of straw, water reed or heather to roof timbers using traditional techniques that produced a thick, weatherproof and insulating covering. The craft required skill in cutting and laying the material evenly and securing it against wind. Thatched roofs were common throughout rural England and remain a feature of older buildings. Thatchers travelled between villages to carry out repairs and re-thatching work as needed. The occupation is found throughout rural census and parish records.
Also Known As
Reed Thatcher, Straw Thatcher
Commonly Found In
- Census Returns
- Parish Registers
- Estate Records
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