"Tha Wurkus Van" by Edward Slow (1841-1925)
This piece appeared in Edward Slow's 1881 edition of Wiltshire Rhymes, and to some extent reflects his own working class opinions and experience.
Edward was born in 1841 in Wilton Workhouse - his family at that time being in some poverty - and although he later traded successfully as a wheelwright in Wilton, and rose to become mayor of Wilton, Slow never forgot his roots.
He spent many years writing down the stories of the labouring classes around him, and reflecting the great events of the area through the working man's eyes and ears. Discover more of his works on my website about his life, at www.edwardslow.wordpress.com .
I have illustrated with a couple of old postcards, and a photograph of Wilton Workhouse, which still exists, now converted as modern flats. My granny used to say "Keep away from The Grubber," so I shall not be living there!