The largest town, London, had a population of about 70,000. Other
towns had a population less than 20,000. The population was
increasing, but did not reach the level of the period just before
the black death.
In most large towns, there were groups of tailors and hatmakers,
glovers, and other leatherworkers. Some towns had a specialization
due to their proximity to the sources of raw materials, such as
nails, cutlery, and effigies and altars. Despite the spread of
wool manufacturing to the countryside, there was a marked increase
of industry and prosperity in the towns. The principal streets of
the larger towns were paved with gravel. Guild halls became
important and imposing architecturally.
A large area of London was taken up by walled gardens of the
monasteries and large mansions. There were some houses of stone
and timber and some mansions of brick and timber clustered around
palaces. In these, bedrooms increased in number, with rich bed
hangings, linen sheets, and bolsters. Bedspreads were introduced.
Nightgowns were worn. Fireplaces became usual in all the rooms.
Tapestries covered the walls. Carpets were used in the private
rooms. Some of the great halls had tiled floors. The old trestle
tables were replaced by tables with legs. Benches and stools had
backs to lean on. Women and men wore elaborate headdresses. There
are guilds of ironmongers, salters, and haberdashers [hats and
caps].
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