Kelly's Directory Of Taunton & Neighbourhood 1928 Census Substitute

Kelly's Directory of Taunton & Neighbourhood 1928 - The Essential Census Substitute (Digital Download or CD)

Product Description:

Unlock the history of Taunton and its surrounding villages with this exact digital reproduction of Kelly's Directory of Taunton & Neighbourhood 1928. An invaluable resource for genealogists and local historians, this directory serves as a vital "Census Substitute," filling the critical gap left by the destruction of the 1931 Census and the 20-year wait until the 1951 Census.

Whether your ancestors were shopkeepers on Fore Street, farmers in the neighbouring hamlets, or prominent citizens residing in the grander terraces, this book provides a snapshot of their lives between the World Wars.

Product Format & Navigation

Please note that this directory is a scanned facsimile of the original book, provided in high-quality PDF format. The text is not digitally embedded (searchable) in the traditional sense; however, due to the highly structured alphabetical nature of Kelly's Directories, navigation is straightforward and intuitive.

• Easy Browsing: The Private Residents and Trade sections are arranged alphabetically, making it easy to scan for specific surnames or trades.
• Modern Reader Compatibility: While the file itself is an image scan, most modern PDF readers (such as Adobe Acrobat or browser-based viewers) now feature "OCR on the fly." This means you can often use the search function (Ctrl+F) to highlight names instantly, though we recommend manual browsing for the most accurate results.

Available as a Digital Download (Immediate delivery) or a Physical CD.

What’s Inside the Directory?

This comprehensive volume is packed with details that bring the era to life. It includes:

1. Street Directory: A listing of the head of households for principal streets in Taunton, allowing you to pinpoint exactly where your ancestors lived.
2. Private Residents Directory: An alphabetical list of private residents, often including their occupations—a crucial tool for distinguishing between individuals with the same surname.
3. Commercial & Trades Directory: A detailed classified list of businesses and tradesmen. From Blacksmiths to Wheelwrights, this section illustrates the industrial and commercial landscape of the town.
4. Official & Municipal Information: Listings for the Borough Council, Magistrates, Public Officials, and local institutions, including The Hospital, Workhouse, and Schools.
5. Neighbourhood Directory: Coverage of the surrounding villages and parishes, including Bishop's Hull, Norton Fitzwarren, Trull, and Creech St. Michael.

Local History & Context: Taunton in 1928

This directory captures Taunton at a time of transition, blending its ancient market town heritage with modern interwar developments.

Filling the Census Gap: With the 1931 Census lost to fire during WWII and the 1941 Census cancelled due to the war, the 1928 Directory is a critical resource. It acts as a time capsule, showing where families were located just 7 years after the 1921 Census and 11 years before the 1939 Register.

Notable Residents & Connections: While directories list thousands of names, this era covers the residency period of several figures of interest to local historians. You may find references to the families of:

• Cricketers: Taunton is the home of Somerset County Cricket Club. In 1928, the club was establishing itself at the County Ground. You may find listings for players or cricket administrators of the era.
• Military Figures: Being a traditional garrison town with nearby Norton Manor Camp, the directory often lists retired military officers residing in the area.

Industry & Famous Facts:

• The Silk & Industry Legacy: While the silk industry of the 19th century was waning, Taunton in 1928 remained a bustling hub for agriculture and brewing. Look for entries related to Cider Making—Taunton is famous for its cider, and local brewers are prominent in the trade sections.
• The Market Town: Known as the "Heart of Somerset," the directory details the vibrant market days and fairs that drew people from across the county.
• Transport: The GWR (Great Western Railway) was the lifeblood of the town. The directory details railway officials and agents, highlighting Taunton's status as a major junction between the West Country and London.

**Map Disclaimer & Bonus

If the map is present in your edition, treat it as a fascinating bonus addition that provides geographic context to the names listed within.