Student Question

What jobs were common in colonial New York and what products were made from fur?

Quick answer:

In colonial New York, job roles varied by location. Rural areas primarily had farmers who cared for livestock and harvested crops, while urban regions had various professionals like doctors, teachers, blacksmiths, and merchants. A few women worked as school teachers, dressmakers, milliners, and midwives. Fur trading was prevalent in the rural parts, with fur being used to create coats and blankets, and animal hides used for leather production.

Expert Answers

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People living in New York during the era of the Thirteen Colonies had different jobs depending on where they lived.  Farming was common in rural areas.  Farmers harvested crops and cared for cattle and other livestock.  In towns and cities, there were doctors, lawyers, teachers, printers, tanners, coopers, blacksmiths, gunsmiths, bankers, saddle makers, bakers, butchers, wheelwrights, and tavern keepers.  Some men were merchants who managed bookshops, tea shops, and other stores.  

Most women did not work, but there were some occupations that were considered acceptable for ladies.  Some women taught at dame schools, which were educational establishments that taught basic reading and other skills to children.  Other women were dressmakers, milliners, and midwives.  

In rural parts of New York, there were fur trading posts.  Fur was often used to make coats and blankets.  The hide from animals was used to make leather.

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