CHIMNEY SWEEPS

Although chimneys started appearing on British buildings in around 1200, it was not until the 17th century, when it became common to burn coal instead of wood, that chimney sweeps were needed. Sea coal left layers of flammable creosote inside the flues, and it was essential to remove it.

By the 18th century, British domestic chimneys had become narrower to create a better draught; 9x14 inches was the standard size. There were frequently several flues in one chimney serving separate fireplaces. These narrow chimneys often had right-angled bends, making them impossible for an adult to sweep by hand. This led to the use of child apprentices, known as ‘climbing boys’, who