How May We Direct You?

Did you know the Fall River Directories tell a story if you let them guide you through the years?

Not only did they provide advertisements, but the publisher also provided readers with witty remarks suggesting they advertise. Many establishments used a directory for business purposes, but they would less likely be seen in private residences.

Within the pages one finds a myriad of helpful information, such as home or business address, how long a business was in operation, where people moved throughout the city or if they moved elsewhere, their occupations, dates of death, and more.

The collection of directories at the FRHS span the years 1853 to 1997 and were generously donated by various sources. They prove to be extremely useful daily, and we find ourselves turning to them for information when conducting research. All it takes is a trade card, an advertising bag for a tea company, or the name of a worker in a factory to inspire us to open the cover and take a walk back in time.

These resources are also helpful in understanding what products and services were important or popular in the past. Small family-run businesses were listed in the general directory but, at times, would not be seen in the advertisement section, due to higher costs. Larger, more established companies would take out full pages for marketing purposes.

In fact, what becomes oddly satisfying is following someone throughout their life from beginning to end. As your “fingers do the walking,” flipping excitedly from one year to another – chronologically of course – you produce a detailed narrative and actively watch as it unfolds.

In the end, most of us will forget more aspects of the history of Fall River than we will remember, but the directories provide a permanent record.

Did one of your family members grow up in the city? Do you want to know what they did for work or where they lived? Are you curious about an old shop that was open when you were younger? Do you want to know more about it? We would love to help tell their story.

So, the only thing left to ask is: How may we direct you?