Harper's Directory Of Cheltenham 1857

Harper's Directory of 1857

A Timeless Treasure for Genealogists, Historians, and Lovers of the Past

Imagine the elegant spa town of Cheltenham in the year 1857. The clatter of horse-drawn carriages on the Promenade, the grandeur of its Regency architecture, and the bustling trade of a town at the height of its popularity. Now, you can hold that world in your hands.

Harper's Directory of Cheltenham for 1857 is more than just a book; it's a time capsule. This meticulously detailed guide offers an unparalleled snapshot of daily life, commerce, and society in mid-Victorian England. It is an indispensable primary source for anyone with a passion for Cheltenham's rich heritage.

What you'll discover within its pages:

A Complete Street Directory: A house-by-house, street-by-street listing of the town's occupants and their professions. Trace the footsteps of your ancestors or see who lived on your street over 160 years ago.
A Classified Commercial Directory: Find every trade and profession, from acclaimed physicians and solicitors to bakers, bootmakers, and watchmakers. Discover the forgotten businesses that formed the backbone of the local economy.
Official & Civic Information: Names and addresses of town officials, clergy, doctors, lawyers, schoolmasters, and public institution leaders. Understand the structure of the town's governance and society.
Essential Local Services: Details on postal services, coach and railway timetables (connecting Cheltenham to the wider world), banks, and insurance offices.
Fascinating Advertisements: Original period advertisements for everything from patent medicines and fashionable clothing to hotels and land agents, offering a unique glimpse into the consumer culture of the Victorian era.
Who is this for?

The Family Historian: Trace your Cheltenham ancestors, pinpoint their homes, and uncover their occupations.
The Local Historian: Conduct detailed research into the town's social, economic, and architectural history.
The Genealogist: A vital tool for building family trees and understanding the context of your ancestors' lives.
The Curious Resident: Explore the history of your own home and street, and connect with the deep roots of your community