Medieval Occupations - Bowyer, Brewer, Bricklayer
Medieval Occupations
(Jobs in the Medieval Age)


BOWYER

The Bowyer (also called a Bower or Fletcher), crafted and manufactured bows, arrows, crossbows and bolts. The effectiveness of the standard bow in combat was first recognized by the Barbarian armies of Eastern Europe around 1070 AD. But it was not until October 4, 1189 that Archers and bowmen established themselves at the Battle of Acre and proved the quality of the bow as a weapon.
From that point forward, the bow became a standard weapon. It was easy to craft by those who knew the skill and was readily affordable to most people. Bowyers worked with a variety of woods and tools. A well crafted bow had durability and even balance. The skill was much in demand and remained a premier trade until the 1600s.
BREWER

The Brewer made and fermented beers and ales. The process was completed through combining and aging hops, barley, wheat, malt and grain. The beverages were served as a staple of daily life and were consumed in pubs, alehouses, taverns, castles and homes.
During sieges and combat, historical documentation often tells of 'barrels of beer' being delivered to the troops. The beverage was so important to the fighting men that a document even states that at the Battle Of Sempach on July 9, 1386, the fighting actually stopped in mid-battle so that wagoneers could deliver kegs and barrels of beer to each respective military.
Brewers were permitted their own enterprise during the Medieval Ages but since their product was so highly in demand it often fell to heavy taxes and levies being placed upon its sale and at times, even its consumption.
BRICKLAYER

Bricklaying was common labor and though it did not require vast knowledge or skill, those who showed agility at the work were often subjected to an abundance of employment and decent pay.
Often was the time when a king or noble would receive news that an approaching enemy army was marching toward his towns and castle. The agile Bricklayers were then conscripted to build retaining walls and obstacles and even reinforce the towns and communities that were threatened.
Not only did war contribute to the benefit of the Bricklayer, but events such as fires and floods were often left to his protection. By rapidly constructing walls and ducts, it was possible to divert fires and floods and thus spare an entire city, castle or town.
Bricklayers though quite common throughout the Medieval Ages were highly respected members of their social orders.

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