Kelly's Directory Of Kennington South Lambeth Clapham 1885-1886

Kelly's Directory of Kennington, South Lambeth & Clapham, 1885-1886

Step back in time to the gaslit streets and bustling communities of Victorian South London. This exquisite facsimile reprint of Kelly's Directory for 1885-1886 is more than just a book; it's a time capsule, offering an unparalleled snapshot of life in Kennington, South Lambeth, and Clapham at the height of Queen Victoria's reign.

Imagine walking down the Kennington Road, where the clatter of horse-drawn carts fills the air, or peering into the elegant homes of Clapham's professional class. Within these pages, you won't just find names and addresses—you'll find the very fabric of a community. Discover the local baker on your ancestor's street, find the pub where they gathered, and see the names of the officials who governed their daily lives.

This directory is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to connect with the past. It serves as a crucial "census substitute," perfectly bridging the gap between the 1881 and 1891 national censuses and helping you trace family movements and occupations year by year.

Inside this invaluable volume, you will discover:

A Complete Street-by-Street Directory: Meticulously listing the head of each household and their occupation, allowing you to pinpoint exactly where your ancestors lived and worked.
A Comprehensive Commercial Directory: A fascinating A-Z of local trades and businesses, from master bootmakers and publicans to grocers and solicitors. Discover the shops and services that defined the local economy.
A Court & Official Directory: Names and addresses of local gentry, magistrates, clergy, and public officials, providing a clear picture of the area's social hierarchy.
A Private Residents Directory: A separate listing of the more prominent citizens and professional classes of the district.
Essential Local Information: Details on post offices, churches, schools, hospitals, and transport links, building a complete picture of the local infrastructure.
Who is this for?

Genealogists & Family Historians: Trace your South London ancestors, break down brick walls, and enrich your family tree with contextual detail.
Local & House Historians: Research the history of your street, your house, or the entire neighbourhood, uncovering its former inhabitants and commercial life.
Writers & Researchers: Add authentic detail to novels, articles, or academic studies set in Victorian London.
Anyone with a love for London's rich history.
Open the pages of Kelly's Directory and let the voices of Victorian South London speak to you across the centuries. It’s not just a record of people; it’s the story of a place