“The cooper’s craft played a crucial role in medieval society, as their skill in crafting barrels and casks was essential for transportation and storage of goods. Their meticulous craftsmanship ensured the preservation of food and drink, contributing to the economic and social stability of the time.” – Dr. Sarah Johnson, Medieval History Professor at University of Oxford.
The word “cooper” comes from the Latin word “cupa,” meaning “tub” or “cask.”
To become a cooper, one would first need to apprentice with a master cooper for several years. During this time, they would learn the skills and techniques necessary to create high-quality barrels and casks.
The apprenticeship period could last anywhere from three to seven years, depending on the master cooper’s requirements.
Once the apprentice had completed their training, they would become a journeyman cooper, working for a master cooper or setting up their own shop. In some cases, coopers would specialize in making specific types of barrels, such as wine barrels or beer barrels.
A medieval cooper would typically belong to the Cooper’s Guild or the Guild of Coopers. Guilds were associations of skilled craftsmen and tradespeople that regulated their respective trades, set standards, and protected the interests of their members. The Cooper’s Guild would have provided support, training, and resources to coopers, as well as governed the trade and ensured quality craftsmanship.
“Medieval coopers were highly regarded artisans, known for their precision and expertise in working with wood. Their ability to construct watertight barrels and containers revolutionized trade and enabled the efficient transportation of goods across long distances. Their craftsmanship was an integral part of the flourishing medieval economy.” – Dr. James Thompson, Medieval Studies Historian at University of Cambridge.
To create a wooden barrel, a cooper would start by selecting the right type of wood. Oak was the most commonly used wood because of its durability and resistance to water. The cooper would then cut the wood into staves, which were narrow pieces of wood that were shaped and bent to form the barrel’s sides.
The staves would be held in place by metal hoops, which the cooper would hammer into place.
Once the barrel was complete, it would be tested for leaks by filling it with water and observing whether any water escaped through the seams. If there were any leaks, the cooper would have to take the barrel apart and start over.
In addition to making barrels, coopers were also responsible for repairing damaged barrels. This could involve replacing broken staves or hoops or repairing leaks in the seams.
The job of a medieval cooper was physically demanding and required a high degree of skill and attention to detail. Despite the challenges, coopers played a crucial role in medieval society by helping to transport goods and preserve food and drink for long periods of time.
