Bricksetter/builder - Difference????

[louise renfrey]

Can anyone tell me, in simple terms, the difference between a bricksetter and a builder? We have someone who was a bricksetter who then went on to build the Wesleyan Chapel in Kingsley, Cheshire. Did the bricksetter make the bricks???? They must be similar. Remember, no technical jargon!!!!!!! Many thanks!!!!!

[busyglen]

Hi Louise,

Had a `Google' around, and came up with someone who was a `Bricksetter' who built chimneys and fire grates, so sounds like he was a sort of Bricklayer. Hope that is of some help?

Glenys

[Ladkyis]

My first husband was a "bricksetter" in a brick works. He worked in the Kilns stacking or 'setting' the bricks ready for firing. because the bricks were taken out of the kilns as soon as the men could stand the heat it meant that the next lot of bricks would be put into a still warm kiln so it was hot dirty work, the sort of thing that people don't want to do now - and they don't have to because the kilns are automated and machines put the bricks in and out.
To go on to build a chapel or build a chimney was a step up the ladder of advancement and meant working outdoors in all sorts of weather so conditions no better but on the social scale a much better class of labourer.
Ann

[louise renfrey]

Thank you both!!!!!! Very interesting. This man was illiterate as well. Bravo, him!!!! kindest regards.

[busyglen]

This is very interesting Ann, glad you have been able to shed more light on it for Louise and for increasing my knowledge of occupations. :)

Glenys