Question: While reviewing some church records for my ancestor in London I found his occupation. In 1717 in the burial register he is listed as an "oilman". I think of the oil man who brings home heating oil, however I feel this was much different then.
Answer: An Oil man in 1717 London would have sold the oil used for lamps. He may have also been involved in the sales of oil lamps. I would examine a probate for him and see the contents of his personal estate.