Kelly's Directory Of Kent 1903

Kelly's Directory of Kent 1903: A Time Capsule to Edwardian England

Short Summary:
Step back in time to the dawn of the 20th century with this fascinating and indispensable volume. Kelly's Directory of Kent for 1903 is more than just a book; it's a complete snapshot of life in the county as it was under the reign of King Edward VII. Whether you are tracing your family history, researching the evolution of your town, or simply captivated by the past, this directory is your key to unlocking the world of your Kentish ancestors.

Detailed Description:
Published in a period of great transition, as horse-drawn carts began to share the road with the first motor cars, this directory provides an unparalleled, detailed portrait of Kent. It is a primary source document, offering a wealth of information that brings the county's history to life.

This comprehensive volume is divided into several key sections, each a treasure trove for the researcher:

1. County Information & Statistics:
The directory begins with a detailed overview of Kent as a whole. You'll find historical sketches, geographical information, topographical details, and official statistics. This section lists the county's magistrates, public officials, members of Parliament, clergy, and principal landowners, providing a clear picture of the county's governance and social hierarchy.

2. Town, City & Village Histories:
From the grandeur of Canterbury and the naval importance of Chatham and Dover to the smallest rural hamlet, every major settlement is afforded its own descriptive section. Discover the history of your local parish church, learn about its schools, inns, and landowners, and understand its unique character at the turn of the century.

3. The Private Residents Directory:
An alphabetical list of the county's private residents, this is the cornerstone for any genealogist. It includes not only the gentry and landed aristocracy but also farmers, professionals, and tradesmen who owned their homes. Note: This is not a complete census but a crucial directory of householders, often revealing a family's location between census years.

4. The Court Directory (or "Baronetage, Knightage, etc."):
A formal listing of the county's nobility, major landowners, and professionals, providing a clear view of the established social structure of Edwardian society.

5. The Professional & Trades Directory:
This is the most extensive section and a vibrant window into daily life and commerce. It is a classified, alphabetical list of every conceivable trade and profession. Find your ancestor the baker in Broadstairs, the blacksmith in Bromley, the draper in Deal, or the publican in Pembury. For larger towns like Maidstone, Rochester, and Tunbridge Wells, this section is often broken down street-by-street, allowing you to pinpoint exactly who lived and worked at a specific address

Who Is This Directory For?
Genealogists & Family Historians: Trace ancestors, locate family homes, and discover their occupations.
Local Historians: Research the history of your town or village, its prominent citizens, and its commercial development.
House Historians: Uncover the past residents of your property and learn about its place in the local community.
Social & Economic Historians: Gain a primary-source understanding of the social structure, economy, and daily life in Edwardian England.
Collectors: A must-have for collectors of antique books, local directories, or Kentiana (items related to the county of Kent).
Writers & Researchers: Seeking authentic details and atmosphere for a novel, article, or academic paper set in this period