Kelly's Directory Of Derbyshire 1895

Step Back in Time Explore Derbyshire in 1895 with Kelly's Directory

The Definitive Guide to Victorian Life in the Peak District and Beyond

Imagine the year is 1895. Queen Victoria reigns over a vast empire, the clatter of industry echoes from the mills of the Derwent Valley, and the quiet beauty of the Peak District remains timeless. Now, you can hold a piece of that world in your hands.

This is more than just a book; it's a time capsule. Kelly's Directory of Derbyshire 1895 is an indispensable key that unlocks the Victorian era, offering an unparalleled snapshot of the county's people, places, and professions at the height of the Industrial Revolution.

What You'll Discover Inside:

A Complete Census of the Community: Meticulously compiled lists of private residents, from the gentry in their country manors to the tradespeople in bustling market towns. Find your ancestors and discover the names of their neighbours.
The Commercial Heartbeat of Derbyshire: A comprehensive Commercial and Trades Directory detailing every shop, business, and artisan. Find out who sold the best cheese in Ashbourne, where the blacksmith was in Bakewell, or which mill owner dominated the skyline in Glossop.
Official & Clerical Information: Detailed listings of county officials, magistrates, clergy, doctors, and schoolmasters, providing a clear picture of the county's administrative and social structure.
Village by Village, Town by Town: In-depth profiles of every major town and village, including their history, local landmarks, transport links (including railway stations!), and public facilities.
Authentic Victorian Advertisements: Charming and often elaborate period advertisements for everything from patent medicines and horse-drawn carriages to the latest fashions and local inns. These ads provide a fascinating and often humorous glimpse into the priorities and desires of the time.
Who Is This For?

The Family Historian: Break down brick walls in your research by locating your Derbyshire ancestors between census years. Discover their occupations, addresses, and place them in their community.
The Local Historian: Reconstruct the high street of your town, understand the local economy, and trace the development of your community over a century ago.
The House Historian: Uncover the history of your period property by finding out who lived there in 1895.
Anyone with a Love for Derbyshire: Connect with the rich heritage of the county and see the familiar streets and landscapes through the eyes of a bygone generation