Kelly's Directory Of Birmingham & Smethwick 1913

Kelly's Directory of Birmingham & Smethwick, 1913: A Window into the Eve of the Great War

Step back in time to the bustling, industrial heart of England as it was in 1913. This is not just a book; it is a time capsule. This meticulously reproduced facsimile of Kelly's Directory captures a pivotal moment in history, preserving the life of Birmingham and Smethwick just before the world was irrevocably changed by the First World War.

Imagine the "Workshop of the World" at the zenith of its power—the clatter of machinery, the hum of trams, and the gas-lit streets teeming with life. Within these pages, you can walk those very streets and meet the people who defined the era.

An Indispensable Resource for:

Family Historians & Genealogists: Pinpoint your ancestors' homes, discover their occupations, and build a vivid picture of their daily lives. Find the street, the house number, and often the name of the head of the household.
Local & House Historians: Trace the history of your property or street. Who lived there before you? What shops were on the high street? Uncover the forgotten stories etched into the very foundations of your community.
Social Historians & Researchers: Gain unparalleled insight into the social and commercial fabric of a major Edwardian industrial centre. From the grand residences of the Court Directory to the workshops listed in the Commercial Trades section, this is a primary source document of immense value.
Inside You Will Discover:

Street Directory: A comprehensive, street-by-street listing of private residents and businesses.
Commercial Directory: An alphabetical list of trades and professions, from accountants and engineers to zinc workers and watchmakers.
Court Directory: A listing of private residents, often the more prominent citizens of the area.
Official Information: Details of local councils, officials, magistrates, clergy, doctors, schools, and public institutions.
Fascinating Advertisements: Original period ads offering a glimpse into the products, services, and language of the time.
This is more than a list of names and addresses; it is the key to unlocking a world on the brink of a new age. Whether you are tracing your family tree or exploring the rich history of the West Midlands, this 1913 directory is your essential guide.