Peterson Sorenson
Ever wonder what life was like a century ago? The skills we take for granted today were once critical for survival. Just imagine relying on the power of your hands and mind for everything, from communication to transportation—this glimpse into the past will leave you amazed at how resourceful people had to be. Before the rise of technology, these 10 pieces of expertise were essential to everyday life—and they will make you appreciate modern conveniences even more.
Basket Weaving
In rural areas, basket weaving served a practical purpose. People wove baskets to store food, carry supplies, and even make tools. Knowing this craft was key for those living off the land, where handmade goods weren’t an Etsy luxury but rather necessary for daily life.
Radio Operation
In a world lacking smartphones and instant communication, radio served as the primary medium. Operating a radio kept people informed about news, weather, and, most importantly, wartime broadcasts. Shortwave radios were like today’s wifi: significant for staying connected over long distances.
Water Purification
Can you imagine there was a time when drinkable water didn’t just run from taps? Purifying water was once a daily task. Without modern filtration systems, people had to handle it manually. Boiling or using basic methods to cleanse water was pivotal to avoiding disease and staying healthy.
Candle Making
Before electric bulbs illuminated homes, candles provided more than just an aesthetic for your cottagecore-themed room. In fact, mastering the art of crafting candles ensured a steady source of income rather than just another small business. From reading to cooking and safety, it was critical for survival.
Using Compass And Maps
Satellites and smartphones are fairly modern inventions; before that, navigation was a hands-on skill. A simple wrong turn could mean hours or days of disorientation. Travelers had to trust their compasses or maps and let experience guide them through unknown terrain.
Morse Code
Just imagine a time when a few dots and dashes could mean the difference between life and death. Morse code wasn’t just another way to communicate—it was a critical tool for sending urgent messages, especially in wartime. If you couldn’t decode it, you were out of the loop.
Home Medicine
When professional medical help wasn’t always accessible through just one click of an application service, home medicine became essential during dire emergencies. Families turned to natural remedies, herbal concoctions, and other homemade treatments to treat common illnesses, and this knowledge was often shared through generations.
Operating A Phonograph
In the absence of television and modern entertainment, the phonograph brought music into the home. Plus, operating this device required skill to ensure proper maintenance of the machine and records. In fact, in social gatherings, it was equivalent to being the DJ of the time—choosing the right records and carefully placing the needle was a real pressure.
Horseback Riding
A hundred years ago, horses weren’t just for weekend trail rides—they were the original mode of transportation. Whether you needed to get to town or move supplies, knowing how to ride and care for a horse wasn’t just a hobby of an equestrian; it was part of everyone’s everyday life.
Shepherding
Shepherding shaped entire communities, providing food, income, and a way of life. More than just herding animals, it required protecting them from predators, guiding them across tough terrains, and ensuring their well-being. This time-honored skill kept rural societies running for generations.
