'Bassett’s County Down' is both a directory and a guide to the entire county in 1886. It is one of the most important sources published for late nineteenth century Down, recording details (addresses and occupations) for over 10,000 people in the county. It contains 414 pages of detailed information, as well as an excellent full colour map.
The book begins with the history, economy, geology and social life of the county. This is followed by a full directory for every town and village, giving the names and details for all office-holders, professionals, merchants and tradesmen, as well as a full alphabetical directory of farmers and other residents not listed by trade. There is a detailed introduction to each town and village, with information about the economy, history, religion, railways, post, and general character of the place. It includes an extended treatment for the borough of Newry. The book finishes with an index of places, and includes many commercial advertisements.
High quality scanned images of the whole of the original book. This CD has been bookmarked for easy navigation, and pages can be searched, browsed, enlarged and printed out if required.
