During the Victorian era, outdoor play areas around cottage houses were usually maintained by the occupants or hired help. Here are some common practices for maintaining these spaces:
1. Regular cleaning: The outdoor play areas were swept and cleaned regularly to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Occupants would often use brooms or rakes to keep the area tidy and presentable.
2. Lawn and garden care: The grass in the play areas was typically mowed to maintain a neat and manicured appearance. In addition, any weeds, shrubs, or other plants were pruned or trimmed to ensure they didn't encroach upon the play area.
3. Fencing and boundary maintenance: Victorian cottage houses often had fences around their outdoor areas to define the play space and keep children safe. These fences were regularly inspected for any damages and repaired as needed. Any gates or latches were also checked to ensure they were in proper working condition.
4. Repair and painting: If the play area included wooden structures like swings, slides, or playhouses, they would occasionally require repair and repainting. Rotted or damaged parts would be replaced, and the entire structure would be painted or varnished to maintain its appearance and durability.
5. Safety checks: Regular safety inspections would be conducted in the play area to identify any hazards. Loose screws or nails, sharp edges, or any other potential dangers were addressed promptly to ensure the safety of the children.
6. Seasonal maintenance: Depending on the region and climate, there might be specific seasonal maintenance tasks. For example, in autumn, leaves and debris would be cleared from the play area, and in winter, snow would be shoveled or cleared to make the space usable.
7. Planting and gardening: Some play areas had small gardens or flower beds. These would be maintained through regular watering, weeding, and planting of seasonal blooms. Flowers and plants were chosen for their aesthetic appeal and ability to thrive in the given climate.
Overall, while Victorian cottage house play areas weren't as elaborate as modern playgrounds, they were cared for diligently to ensure cleanliness, safety, and an aesthetically pleasing environment for children to play.
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