Billing's Directory Of Devon 1857

Billing's Directory of Devon 1857

Unlock the door to Victorian Devon. This is not merely a book; it is a time capsule, a detailed snapshot of life in the county as it was over 165 years ago. For genealogists, local historians, and anyone with a love for Devon's rich past, Billing's Directory is an indispensable primary source that brings the 19th century to life.

Imagine walking the cobbled streets of Exeter, Plymouth, or Torquay in 1857. Who were the merchants, the craftsmen, the innkeepers, and the farmers? Within these pages, you will find them. This comprehensive directory provides a fascinating and practical guide to the entire county, preserving the names, trades, and addresses of its residents.

What you'll discover inside:

Court Directory (Private Residents): A list of private households, featuring the names of the gentry, professionals, and other prominent residents county-wide.
Commercial & Trades Directory: The most extensive section, detailing thousands of traders and businessmen—from blacksmiths and bakers to solicitors and shipwrights. Essential for understanding the local economy.
Parish & Town Information: In-depth descriptions of hundreds of towns and villages, including their history, topography, principal landmarks, and local facilities.
Official Information: A complete listing of public officials, clergy, doctors, bankers, and post masters, providing a clear picture of the county's administration.
Transport & Communication: Details of coach and carrier services, showing how people and goods moved around the county before the railway dominated.
Authentic Victorian Advertisements: A captivating collection of contemporary ads for everything from patent medicines to agricultural tools, offering a unique glimpse into the consumer culture of the era.
Who is this for?

Family Historians: Trace your Devon ancestors, pinpoint their homes, discover their occupations, and build a vivid picture of their daily lives.
Local Historians: Research the history of your town or village, identify key figures from its past, and understand its social and commercial structure.
House Historians: Uncover the previous occupants of your property and learn about its place in the local community.
Writers & Researchers: Immerse yourself in authentic details to lend accuracy and atmosphere to historical novels or academic work