Ep 1. The 1860s

In Victorian Slum House season 1 episode 1, titled The 1860s, we are introduced to a group of modern-day families as they embark on an experience like no other. They are tasked with living in a re-created slum house in the East End of London during the 1860s, a time when squalor, poverty, and disease were rampant.

As the families arrive at their new home, they are immediately struck by how small and cramped the living quarters are. With just one main room for eating, sleeping, and cooking, they quickly realize how challenging life would have been for the poor families who once occupied this space.

Over the course of the episode, we see the families living through the trials and tribulations of everyday life in the 1860s slums. From washing clothes by hand to cooking on a coal stove, nothing comes easily in this new world. The families must adjust to their new living conditions and learn to live on a tight budget, shopping at local markets for food and trading for other goods they need.

One of the most challenging aspects of life in the slums is the lack of sanitation and the spread of disease. With no running water or indoor plumbing, families are forced to use a communal privy, which is overflowing with waste. As the families struggle to keep their living quarters clean and avoid getting sick, they are reminded of how lucky they are to have access to modern amenities.

Throughout the episode, we also learn about the social and political climate of the time. As Queen Victoria reigns over the country, tensions are high between the wealthy and working-class citizens. With the Industrial Revolution in full swing, many are struggling to find work and provide for their families. This instability is reflected in the slums, where families are forced to live in cramped, dirty conditions just to make ends meet.

Overall, The 1860s is a compelling and eye-opening introduction to Victorian Slum House. As we watch these modern-day families struggle to survive in the slums, we are reminded of just how far we've come in terms of sanitation, healthcare, and social welfare. It's a stark reminder of the inequalities that still exist in our world today, and a testament to the resilience of those who have lived through such difficult circumstances.