I’m continuing to research Emma (Joulson) Peterson, the Hormel family’s upstairs maid.

While I track down some of her descendants, I’m finding some interesting information on the life of a house servant in the early 1900s.

These are rules for servants to follow, found at www.ourwardfamily.com:

1. When being spoken to, stand still, keeping your hands quiet, and always look at the person speaking.

2. Never let your voice be heard by the ladies and gentlemen of the household, unless they have spoken directly to you a question or statement which requires a response, at which time, speak as little as possible.

3. In the presence of your mistress, never speak to another servant or person of your own rank, or to a child, unless only for necessity, and then as little as possible and as quietly as possible.

4. Never begin to talk to the ladies or gentlemen, unless to deliver a message or to ask a necessary question, and then, do it in as few words as possible.

5. Whenever possible, items that have been dropped, such as spectacles or handkerchiefs, and other small items, should be returned to their owners on a salver [Editor: serving tray].

6. Always respond when you have received an order, and always use the proper address: “Sir”, “Ma’am”, “Miss” or “Mrs,” as the case may be.

7. Never offer your opinion to your employer.

8. Always “give room”: that is, if you encounter one of your betters in the house or on the stairs, you are to make yourself as invisible as possible, turning yourself toward the wall and averting your eyes.

9. Except in reply to a salutation offered, never say “good morning” or “good night” to your employer.

10. If you are required to walk with a lady or gentleman in order to carry packages, or for any other reason, always keep a few paces back.

11. You are expected to be punctual to your place at mealtime.

12. You shall not receive any relative, visitor or friend into the house, nor shall you introduce any person into the Servant’s Hall, without the consent of the Butler or Housekeeper.

13. Followers [Editor: boyfriend or suitor] are strictly forbidden. Any member of the female staff who is found to be fraternizing shall be immediately dismissed.

14. Expect that any breakages or damages in the house shall be deducted from your wages.

This week at the HHH

Sunday, Jan. 30: Austin Wedding Showcase sponsored by The Knot, noon

The place for Austin brides to plan, sample and save with fashions by Belles & Beaus and stage show produced by ViDeyo Arts. Kicks off with Prom Fashions at noon, followed by Vendor Fair at 12:30 p.m.and Bridal Fashions at 3 p.m. $3 per person admission.

All brides receive a copy of the new The Knot magazine and an information bag. First 100 brides receive a free gift.

Coming Soon to the HHH

Saturday, Feb. 12: Sweetheart Dinner, call for details

Tuesday, Feb. 15: Social Concerns: Yes, that Really Happened: Humorous Stories from Mower County History by Dustin Heckman.