The 'Ragged Victorians - the great unwashed' are the UK's first living history group to authentically portray the early Victorian, lower classes. Combining authenticity with first person, at award winning standards, we respectfully show a side of the industrial revolution that has been brushed under the carpet and forgotten.
Simon Strain, Active Interpretation Manager - Brunel’s SS Great Britain.
“Few historic interpreters delight and disgust in equal measure quite like the “Ragged Victorians”. They are dedicated to portraying the daily life of the Victorian poor as authentically as possible. Their thorough research and commitment to authenticity is matched only by their enthusiasm and passion for what they do. From “Peeler’s” to prostitutes, rat catchers to bare knuckle fighters, whatever the character they are guaranteed to entertain and inform with a lightness of touch suitable for all audiences.”
Paul Ullson, Events Coordinator - Arundel Castle
"Thank you to all in the Ragged Victorians who participated in last years events at Arundel Castle. Your groups attention to historical accuracy and detail is excellent, and the wide range of period characters you offer is outstanding.
It’s great to meet people who are so enthusiastic about the history they portraying…having you at events really helps to bring history alive. We look forward to welcoming you all back".
Elizabeth Stevens, Cardiff Castle
"We loved having you with us and as well as all of the wonderful entertainment and information you provided for our visitors, it was lovely to see how much the rest of our staff enjoyed having you around. Several of them came to tell me how great they thought you all were. Your presence caused a real buzz about the place, which was very infectious. What was also a real pleasure, was working with people who are easy to have around and just get on with the job in hand".
References
Mhairi Smith, Events Manager - Marketing Gloucester Ltd
"I have worked with the 'Ragged Victorians' on our
'Tall Ships Festival' events and can highly recommend them. They're easy to communicate with, low maintenance and take great pride in what they do.
Their commitment and professionalism shines through".
Letter of Recommendation
A big thank you to the 'Ragged Victorians' for attending 'Fortress Wales 2014' and congratulations for winning the 'Best in Show' award.I can honestly say that I heard more comments from the public about your group than any other. I was very impressed with all the groups characters and the way you all embraced that character.
I have to say the humor of the ladies selling rhubarb was refreshing and for the 'poor child' who lay ill consistently for two days was shear dedication to the art. I would have no hesitation to recommend your group to anyone requiring authentic, dedicated Victorians.
John Sterry, Site Manager - Old Station Tintern & Caldicot Castle Country Park
Claire Kennelly - Richmond Events Managment
"The Ragged Victorians are a great addition to 'A Victorian Festival of Christmas' in Portsmouth. From start to finish they are exceptionally professional and clearly take great pride in what they do. Their costumes and props are all of high quality and provide a very authentic feel which made them really standout, not only among the crowd but also amongst our other performers. Their interaction with both visitor and client was exceptional – both in and out of character! – and I would have no hesitation in recommending them for any event".
Andrew Mitchell-Stead - Peel Outlets
"I've enjoyed working with members of the Ragged Victorians for a number of years on a hugely successful Victorian Christmas Market, and look forward to continuing with them for many years to come. Their characters are authentic, beautifully detailed and certainly larger-than-life, high impact and popular with audiences. The team are friendly, flexible and willing to go that extra mile to help create events that stand out above the rest".