The "Express Directory of Wakefield, Outwood and Belle Vue" gives an alphabetical list of all householders with their addresses and occupations; also a street directory and a classification list by trade.

With all this information it is a very useful, as well as fascinating, publication. A quick browse throws up some occupations that are no longer with us - Knocker-Up; Whitesmith; Brickburner; Gentleman; Asylum Attendant; Corporation Horsekeeper; and Scourer for example. It also shows how dependent the area was on the coal industry for jobs at that time.

As well has including a large number of adverts inside the directory (see below for links to examples), there is also an interesting advertisement on the front cover. Unfortunately the black type on red makes it very difficult to read, so a scan of the original has not been included. The advert  (with some unusual wording) is as the following:-

W. Griffiths,  High-Class Draper   2 Silver Street, Wakefield Linen Warehouseman Furrier of the First Rank Costumier of High Repute Modiste of Becoming Millinery Efficiency of Lingerie Controller of Funerals Best Goods only Offered at Keenest Prices...

A copy of this directory is available to view at the Local Studies Library, Balne Lane, Wakefield.