Besley's Directory Of Exeter & Suburbs 1914

Besley's Directory of Exeter & Suburbs 1914 A Time Capsule of a City on the Brink of Change

Unlock the door to Exeter’s past with this meticulous and fascinating facsimile of the 1914 Besley’s Directory. Published in a pivotal year, just as the world stood on the precipice of the Great War, this directory offers an unparalleled, street-by-street view of the city and its surrounding suburbs at the height of the Edwardian era. It is more than a list of names; it is a living document of a community about to be transformed forever.

Within these pages, you will find a vivid snapshot of daily life, preserving the names of tradespeople, professionals, and private residents who walked the same streets we do today.

What You'll Discover Inside:

Private Residents Directory: An alphabetical list of householders, making it an invaluable tool for family historians and genealogists.
Commercial & Trades Directory: A comprehensive, classified list of every business and tradesperson in the city, from bakers and butchers to solicitors and seed merchants.
Street Directory: A detailed listing of residents and businesses, organized street by street, perfect for house history research.
Official & Court Directory: Information on the city council, magistrates, clergy, public institutions, and officials who governed Exeter.
Authentic Advertisements: A captivating collection of contemporary ads for local and national products, offering a unique glimpse into the consumer culture and fashions of 1914.
Who Is This For?

Family Historians: Trace your Exeter ancestors and discover their occupations, addresses, and neighbours.
Local History Enthusiasts: Build a detailed picture of Exeter's social and commercial landscape before the First World War.
House History Researchers: Uncover the story of your home and its former inhabitants.
Writers & Researchers: An authentic primary source for adding historical detail to novels, articles, or academic studies