Public television did some historical reality shows earlier in the decade. The one I watched was "Frontier House". I am trying to find the name of another I saw advertised. It was set in wartime Britain, and the families had to endure the same govt rationing that English families went through, among other experiences.

I know that there may not be many PBS geeks here, but you are my only chance. Otherwise I will keep on googling.

EDIT: Found it, should have persevered. Adding it to netflix queue.