Buffalo Address Book and Family Directory
This collection consists of select Address Books, or "Blue Books," from the City of Buffalo, including the first of this type of directory published for the City (1883). These directories list prominent residents recognized as prestigious community members and club members of the time. Each book contains an alphabetical and numerical street listing of heads of household, followed by an alphabetical index of names of individuals. The directories also include charitable organizations and their officers and members, social and business clubs, and advertising. The first truly distinct published city directory appeared in the United States in 1785 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As early as 1665, first under the Dutch and British, and then under American auspices, individuals published lists of city residents in New Amsterdam (now New York City), Baltimore, and Charleston, but the efforts were not consistent or uniform. By the beginning of the 19th century, directories appeared routinely in New York, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, and Hartford. This new industry was started by school principals, businessmen, and postmasters, but most commonly by newspaper editors who had printing presses and a strong interest in the private and commercial residents who were their customers. By the mid-1800s, full-time directory publishers appeared in most major U.S. cities.
Collection owner: Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society