Mary Tridgetts - Still Room Maild
(She thinks it's 1871.  You will usually find her in the Servants' Quarters)

My name is Mary Trudgetts, and I’m the 1st Still room maid. I started off my service at Shugborough as a kitchen maid, but after only 4 years I was promoted, which means I get an extra £4 a year, as well as lots of responsibility. I was brought up on a farm, so I’m used to hard work and getting up very early, which is just as well! My mother taught me to cook and clean, and my grandmother taught me to sew and mend. I was lucky to have an aunt who was a schoolmistress, so I learnt to read and write at a young age, which has always impressed employers.

I mainly look after the breakfasts and afternoon teas, both for the family and for the senior servants who eat in the housekeeper’s room. I am expected to rise at 6am, and after my morning tasks I assist Mrs. Bonham, the housekeeper, throughout the day.

Now and again I am allowed to write a letter home, my family are very proud of me for doing so well for myself. When I have time off I visit my aunt in the village, and I also have a sweetheart who is one of the gardeners – although I am not allowed to engage with him in working hours, as Mrs. Bonham strictly forbids this. I have a cheeky side, which always gets me into strife, but I do moan a bit in winter as my hands and feet get terribly cold, but I am fortunate that I am able to use the vinegar in the still room to bathe my feet.

I intend to remain loyal to Lord and Lady Anson, although I do dream of some rich gentlemen coming to whisk me away!