Mary Allen
Introduction: What Are Turnspit Dogs?
Turnspit dogs were a breed of dog that were used for cooking in the past. These dogs were small, with short legs, and a long body. They were bred specifically for their ability to turn a spit, which was used to roast meat over an open fire. The breed is now extinct, but they played an important role in the kitchens of the past.
Early Records of Turnspit Dogs
The earliest records of turnspit dogs date back to the 16th century in England. These dogs were typically owned by inns and wealthy households, where they were used to cook meat for banquets and feasts. Turnspit dogs were also used in monasteries and castles, where they were trained to turn the spit for hours on end. The dogs were highly valued for their ability to work tirelessly, and they were often treated as prized possessions.
Turnspit Dogs in Medieval Kitchens
During the medieval period, turnspit dogs were commonly used in kitchens throughout Europe. They were particularly popular in England, where they were used in large households and castles to cook meat for the lord and his guests. Turnspit dogs were also used in monasteries, where they were trained to work in silence so as not to disturb the monks.
The Renaissance and Turnspit Dogs
During the Renaissance period, turnspit dogs continued to be used in kitchens throughout Europe. They were particularly popular in France, where they were known as "tournes-broches." These dogs were often dressed in fancy clothes and were treated as members of the household.
Turnspit Dogs in the 18th Century
In the 18th century, turnspit dogs were still a common sight in kitchens throughout Europe. However, their use was starting to decline as new technologies were developed for cooking. Roasting jacks, which could be turned by a crank, were becoming more popular, and many households were starting to use them instead of turnspit dogs.
Turnspit Dogs in the Industrial Revolution
During the Industrial Revolution, the use of turnspit dogs declined even further. New technologies, such as gas ovens and electric stoves, made it easier to cook meat without the need for a dog to turn the spit. As a result, the breed started to become less common, and many dogs were abandoned or left to die.
The Decline of Turnspit Dogs
By the mid-19th century, turnspit dogs were almost extinct. The breed had been replaced by new technologies, and many dogs had been abandoned or left to die. The last known turnspit dog died in 1900, marking the end of an era.
How Were Turnspit Dogs Trained?
Turnspit dogs were trained from a young age to turn the spit. They were often trained by experienced dogs, who would show them how to do the job. The dogs were also trained to work in silence, so as not to disturb the household.
The Life of a Turnspit Dog
The life of a turnspit dog was hard. They were forced to work long hours, turning the spit for hours on end. They were also often mistreated and abused, as many people saw them as nothing more than a tool for cooking.
The Significance of Turnspit Dogs Today
Although turnspit dogs are now extinct, they played an important role in the kitchens of the past. They were highly valued for their ability to work tirelessly, and they were an important part of many households. Today, they serve as a reminder of the hard work and dedication of our animal companions.
Conclusion: Remembering Turnspit Dogs
Turnspit dogs were an important part of the kitchens of the past. They worked tirelessly to turn the spit and cook meat for banquets and feasts. Although they are no longer with us, they serve as a reminder of the hard work and dedication of our animal companions.
Further Reading on Turnspit Dogs
If you’re interested in learning more about turnspit dogs, there are many books and articles available on the subject. Some recommended reading includes "The Turnspit Dog" by James Boswell, "The Kitchen Dog" by Richard Brown, and "The History of Turnspit Dogs" by John Williams.