Pike's Blue Book Weald Of Kent & Romney Marsh Directory 1884-1885

Discover Your Ancestors in Victorian Kent, 1884-1885

Have you ever wondered what life was really like for your ancestors in the Weald of Kent or on the unique Romney Marsh? Was your great-great-grandfather a blacksmith in Tenterden, a merchant in Ashford, or a farmer in Lydd? Now you can walk in their footsteps.

Pike's Blue Book for 1884-1885 is more than just a list of names; it's a vibrant snapshot of a community on the cusp of the modern era. This invaluable genealogical resource allows you to piece together the world your family knew, providing the crucial details that turn names on a chart into real people with real lives.

Inside This Digital Time Capsule, You Will Uncover:

Comprehensive Resident Directory: An alphabetical list of thousands of private residents, tradespeople, and professionals, complete with their occupations and street addresses.
Court & Professional Directory: Find the local gentry, clergy, doctors, solicitors, and public officials who held influence in the district.
Classified Commercial Listings: See every butcher, baker, innkeeper, and dressmaker in the area at a glance. Understand the local economy and find your ancestors' place within it.
Village & Town Information: Fascinating historical notes and descriptions of the major towns and villages, from bustling market towns to quiet marshland communities.
Authentic Victorian Advertisements: Browse the original ads for goods and services, offering a unique and often charming insight into the daily life and concerns of the time.
Why This Directory is Essential for Your Research:

The Perfect Census Substitute: Bridge the gap between the 1881 and 1891 censuses. If a family has disappeared, this directory could be the key to finding their new location.
Add Rich Detail to Your Family Tree: Go beyond names and dates. Discover your ancestor's trade, their exact address, and their neighbours, bringing your family history to life.
Break Down Brick Walls: Stuck on a common name like Smith or Taylor? The combination of a name, occupation, and location can help you confirm you've found the right person.