Kelly's Directory Of Dorsetshire 1898

Victorian Dorsetshire in 1898 with Kelly's Directory

More than a book, it's a time capsule. Unlock the secrets of your ancestors, your town, and your home.

The year is 1898. Queen Victoria reigns, horse-drawn carts still clatter through the cobbled streets of Dorchester, and the rugged beauty of the Dorset coast remains unchanged. Now, you can walk the streets of Victorian Dorsetshire with this incredible, complete facsimile of Kelly's Directory of Dorsetshire 1898.

An essential resource for genealogists, historians, and anyone with a love for local heritage, this directory is the definitive snapshot of life at the end of the 19th century. It’s not just a list of names; it's a vibrant, detailed portrait of an entire county.

What You'll Discover Inside:

Comprehensive Resident & Trade Directories: Find your ancestors by name, profession, and address. Discover who the blacksmith in Sherborne was, where the grocer in Weymouth had their shop, or which families were the landed gentry of the village.
Meticulous Town & Village Histories: From bustling market towns to quiet hamlets, each settlement is described in fascinating detail, including its history, topography, major landmarks, churches, schools, and local institutions.
Official & Court Information: A complete listing of public officials, clergy, magistrates, and doctors, providing invaluable context for the power structures and community services of the day.
Private Residents Directory: A separate, alphabetically arranged list of the county's private residents, making it easier than ever to locate individuals and their homes.
Transport & Communication: Detailed information on railway lines, stations, post offices, and carrier services, showing how people and goods moved around the county.
Authentic Victorian Advertisements: A treasure trove of period advertising, promoting everything from patent medicines and agricultural implements to the latest fashions, offering a charming and authentic glimpse into the consumer culture of the era.
Who Is This For?

The Genealogist: Break down brick walls in your family tree by placing your relatives in a specific location and profession.
The Local Historian: Understand the social and economic fabric of Dorsetshire at the close of the Victorian era.
The Homeowner: Uncover the history of your house and the stories of the people who lived there over 125 years ago.
The Fiction Writer: Add rich, authentic detail to your historical novels set in Thomas Hardy's Wessex