Actually, this job still exists. I have friend growing up who worked part-time as a Chimney Sweep for someone else.

After graduating high school he started his own Chimney Sweeping company and put himself through college to become an Engineer.

However, by the time he graduated his Chimney Sweeping business was doing so well, and paid more than any Engineering job at the time, he stuck with it.

To this day he has a successful Chimney Sweeping company which employs many.

In fact, I remember having to wear an old fashioned 19th century black coat with tails and a 19th century top hat with him when going to customers homes. It was all part of the presentation and service..