Kelly's County Topography Somersetshire 1875

Kelly's County Topography, Directory, and Gazetteer of Somersetshire, 1875

Step back into the Somerset of Queen Victoria's reign with this definitive and fascinating snapshot of county life in 1875. Published by the revered Frederick Kelly, this "County Topography" is far more than a simple directory; it is a comprehensive social, historical, and commercial record of a bygone era.

This volume is an indispensable key that unlocks the world of your Somerset ancestors. Within its pages, you will find a meticulously detailed survey of the entire county, from the bustling spa city of Bath to the smallest rural hamlet. It provides an unparalleled view of Somerset on the cusp of modernity, where horse-drawn carts still shared the roads with steam trains and the rhythms of agriculture dictated the pace of life.

A Glimpse Inside:

County-wide Information: A detailed overview of Somerset's geology, agriculture, railways, postal services, and public institutions.
Parochial Histories: In-depth histories for every town, village, and parish, describing their origins, notable landmarks, manorial history, churches, and schools.
The Court Directory (Private Residents): A listing of the county's gentry, clergy, professionals, and principal landowners, providing a clear picture of the social hierarchy.
The Trades & Professions Directory: A treasure trove for genealogists and social historians, listing every shopkeeper, artisan, farmer, and publican—from the blacksmith in Bruton to the innkeeper in Ilminster.
Contemporary Advertisements: Intriguing period advertisements for patent medicines, agricultural implements, and local businesses, offering a vivid glimpse into Victorian commerce.
An Indispensable Resource For:

Genealogists: Trace your Somerset family, discover their occupations, and understand the community they lived in. This is a vital "census substitute."
Local Historians: Access primary source material for researching the history of your town or village, its buildings, and its people.
Collectors & Antiquarians: Add a classic and increasingly scarce piece of Victorian topography to your collection.