What is a night knocker?

A night knocker (also sometimes called a "midnight knocker") was a person employed, primarily in 18th and 19th century England, to rouse sleepers so they could get to work on time. Think of them as a very early, low-tech, human alarm clock.

• Job Description: Their main duty was to tap on windows or doors with a long stick, often made of bamboo or ratan, or sometimes to use a short, soft hammer to create a gentle knocking sound. The goal was to wake the client without startling them or disturbing the entire neighborhood.

• Target Clientele: Common customers included factory workers, tradespeople, and anyone who needed to adhere to a strict morning schedule.

• Payment: They were paid a modest weekly fee for their services.

• Methods: Some <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/night%20knockers">night knockers</a> used a pea shooter to fire dried peas at windows, which was a less jarring method. Others might shout softly or whistle.

• Decline: The profession declined with the advent of affordable alarm clocks and, later, electric alarm clocks.