The new workhouse was run by a Master and Matron who were usually a married couple.

The cutting shown here, taken from an unknown newspaper, shows the Machynlleth Union advertising in 1861 for the first Master and Matron to look after the new workhouse.

The job applications had to be in the applicants' own handwriting, which would prove that they could read and write. A great many adults were not able to do so at this time.
A testimonial is a document supplied by a worthy person such as a previous employer to confirm that people looking for a job are suitable.

The salary of £40 was for a year, shared between the two of them.

Back to Machynlleth poor menu