Kelly's Directory Of Leeds 1888

Kelly's Directory of Leeds, 1888: A Comprehensive Guide to Victorian England's Industrial Powerhouse

Imagine the clatter of horse-drawn carts on cobblestones, the grand architecture of a city confident in its wealth, and the endless hum of industry. This is the Leeds of 1888, and now you can walk its streets from the comfort of your home.

Kelly's Directory is more than just a book; it's a time capsule. For historians, genealogists, and curious souls, this meticulously detailed volume is the key to unlocking the stories of a bygone era. It serves as a perfect "census substitute," bridging the gap between the 1881 and 1891 national censuses and providing a unique, street-level view of life in Victorian Leeds.

What You'll Discover Inside:

Street-by-Street Directory: A complete, alphabetical listing of Leeds's streets, with the names and occupations of virtually every head of household. Find out who lived in your house over 130 years ago!
Commercial Directory: A classified list of traders and businesses. Need a blacksmith, a draper, or a watchmaker? Find them here, along with countless other professions that have since vanished.
Court & Alley Directory: A fascinating glimpse into the homes of the working class, often missed by other records.
Official Information: Details of the City Council, officials, magistrates, public institutions, and emergency services.
Ecclesiastical & Educational Directory: A guide to the city's churches, chapels, schools, and their respective clergymen and masters.
Private Residents Directory: An alphabetical list of the city's more prominent citizens and their addresses.
Captivating Advertisements: Original period ads for local businesses, offering a unique and often charming insight into the products, services, and language of the time.
Who Is This For?

The Family Historian: Trace your Leeds ancestors, pinpoint their exact address, and learn their professions.
The Local Historian: Research the development of your neighbourhood, local buildings, and the evolution of trade.
The Social Historian: Gain an unparalleled understanding of Victorian social structures, commerce, and daily life.
Writers & Researchers: Add authentic, rich detail to your historical novels or academic work.