11 The last chapter of Dickens' A Christmas Carol famously starts off with Scrooge asking a boy on the street what day it is. After rejoicing that it is still Christmas Day, he sends the boy off to the Poulterer's ("in the next street but one, at the corner") to buy the big prize turkey that has been hanging there, and then has it delivered (via cab) to Bob Cratchit. I know Christmas wasn't universally celebrated in 19th century America, but this is in England. Wouldn't stores be closed on Christmas Day? Would the poultry shop even be open, never mind have a man available to deliver prize turkeys to Camden Town? (I was also wondering what poor Mrs. Cratchit would do with a gigantic turkey in her entirely oven-free four-room dwelling, but I guess she'd send it to the baker?) victorianchristmas Share Improve this question Follow asked yesterday MarthaMartha 21311 silver badge44 bronze badges New contributor Martha is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering. Check out our Code of Conduct. 2 "but I guess she'd send it to the baker", which means that the bakery was open for business. So... why not the Poulterer? – RonJohn Commented 13 hours ago Delivery was to be by cab, so the shop was not involved in delivery.. – Russell McMahon Commented 3 hours ago Add a comment  |