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Trade Directories
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What are they?
Trade directories were issued from the mid 18th century until around 1945. Sometimes described as the ‘Yellow Pages’ of their day, they were commercial ventures which reflected the business and interests of their compilers.
What dates do they cover?
1774 - 1974.
Where can I see them?
A comprehensive collection is available at the Sheffield Local Studies Library in the Central Library, whilst a smaller selection is available at Sheffield Archives at Shoreham Street.
What format are they in?
Directories are printed books. Most are available on the library/search room shelves.
Do I need to order them in advance of my visit?
In most cases, trade directories can be made available to you within a matter of minutes. A few of the early directories (pre-1830s) may be subject to restricted access.
Can I get copies?
Yes, we can normally supply copies (either prints from microfiche or photographic prints) for private study purposes, subject to the usual copyright regulations. Please contact us at localstudies.library@sheffield.gov.uk for further information.
Further information
Directories are arranged in three ways:-
- As an alphabetical listing of names (giving address and occupation).
- Street by street (giving names of occupiers of the properties).
- By listing trades (similar to the modern Yellow Pages.
The first Sheffield Directory appears in 1774 listing specialised trades (such as Cutlers, Silversmiths etc) the second appears in 1787 listing the professional classes, local gentry, tradespeople and manufacturers. By the 1820's the directories of Baines included geographical and historical information. Whites Directories in the 1830's were compiled following door to door canvassing whilst Kellys Post Office directories are so called because information was collected on slips delivered by postmen.
The directories are a very useful source for the family historian, the alphabetical listing sorts names in an easy to read format. The street by street index can be useful to gain access to census returns.
Telephone directories
A comprehensive collection from 1960 onwards including alphabetical, classified and Yellow Pages is available at Sheffield Local Studies Library. There are a few telephone directories from before 1960.
Downloads
Downloadable copy of a list of trade directories 1771–1974 available at Sheffield Central Library and Sheffield Archives (108 KB)
Downloadable copy of a list of trade directories 1771–1974 available at Sheffield Central Library and Sheffield Archives (137 KB)
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