This is an extract from Pigots trade directory of 1834, which gives a history of Alnwick. Trade directories were first produced in the 18th century but became popular in the 19th century. They usually include a short history of the parish, town or village followed by a list of important people who lived or worked in the area. These would include persons of social status, for example, the local landowner and the vicar, followed by a list of farmers and trades people. Directories continued to be published at regular intervals until the mid 20th century.