Kelly's Directory Of Bromley Bickley Chislehurst & Orpington 1940

Kelly's Directory of Bromley Beckenham Chislehurst & Orpington 1940

Step Back in Time to 1940: A Snapshot of Life on the Home Front

Unlock the past and walk the streets of wartime Kent with this fascinating and historically significant Kelly's Directory. Published in 1940, at a pivotal moment in world history, this directory is more than just a list of names and addresses—it's a time capsule capturing the resilience, community spirit, and daily life of the residents of Bromley, Beckenham, Chislehurst, and Orpington during the second year of World War II.

Imagine discovering who lived in your house during the Blitz, finding the shop where your great-grandfather worked as a tailor, or seeing the advertisements for local businesses that were serving the community amidst rationing and air raids. This directory provides that unique and tangible connection to the past.

What You'll Discover Inside:

Private Residents Directory: A comprehensive, street-by-street listing of householders, often including their occupation. An invaluable resource for tracing family members and building a picture of the local community.
Commercial & Trade Directory: Find every type of business, from bakers and butchers to builders and blacksmiths. See which trades were thriving and how local commerce adapted to the demands of wartime.
Official Information: Details of local councils, officials, doctors, clergy, schools, and public institutions, providing a complete overview of the area's civic structure.
Local Amenities & Transport: Information on post offices, railway stations (with timetables), and other essential services that kept the town connected.
Fascinating Advertisements: Period advertisements are a window into the culture, products, and aspirations of the era, offering rich context for social historians.
Who Is This Directory For?

Genealogists & Family Historians: Trace your ancestors who lived and worked in the area, pinpoint their exact address, and learn about their professions.
Local & House Historians: Research the history of your street, your house, or your entire neighbourhood. Discover its former occupants and how the area has evolved.
Social & Military Historians: Gain unparalleled insight into life on the Home Front. Observe the juxtaposition of everyday life with the realities of war, from the presence of the Home Guard to Air Raid Precautions.
Anyone with a Connection to the Area: A perfect nostalgic gift or a personal treasure for anyone who grew up in or has family ties to Bromley, Beckenham, Chislehurst, or Orpington.