Description
The Post Office Directories were the forerunners of the Kelly & Co. directories. They were published on an annual basis during the 19th century. Of the 1856 version, the Illustrated London News wrote: “The proprietors of this work have now the field to themselves; but that they have not relaxed in their exertions on that account is fully evident from the completeness of the Directory for the coming year. The map has been enlarged so as to include the circle within a radius of four miles from Charing-cross. The work is corrected up to the latest period in removals, appointments, returns, and other mutations, so as to render it as complete a guide as possible of a capital constantly in perpetual change.”
Handwritten inscription on inner cover: “With care/ Map of London given to me by my Brother Joseph on my last visit to England. 1883”
Full publication information: B.R. Davies, 16 George Street, Euston Square, London
Condition: Generally very good with usual light overall toning, wear, soiling, soft creases. Map dissected and backed on linen, as issued, folding into cloth covers. Some minor separations at intersections, though not affecting the printed map itself. Few minor red ink stain spots.
Reference:
“Post Office London Directory 1856.” London Genealogy. Citation from Illustrated London News, Nov. 17, 1855. http://www.londonancestor.com/iln/london-directory.htm (9 August 2004).
