We have trade directories from the 1800s to the 1970s. They contain details of public institutions, charities, a brief history of the town and adverts.
Some towns and villages have street directories which list residents, these can be useful, especially for gaps in electoral registers in the 1930s and 1940s.
Here's a full list of the trade directories held in the archives.
- Trade directories only show the owner of a business or the head of the household.
- People renting weren't usually included.
- Private residents might choose not to be listed.
If you can't come and visit the archives, you'll find some trade directories available to view online at