Almanacs and Directories are a valuable resource for local, family and social historians as well as for researchers in other fields of Australian history.

The 1835 edition of the Australian Almanac published by E. O'Shaugnessey totals over 450 pages. Designed to be a handy reference work, it is full of everyday information, and it certainly would have been one to have on your shelf.

It is titled 'Australian', but it is primarily about New South Wales, there really is a bit of everything in this book. The contents list over 120 different topics, ranging from port regulations, the rules of practice in Court, to a listing of auctioneers and licenced publicans. As well you will find information on the Botanical Garden, and Post Offices, many societies and the military, and banks. The Directory section covers both Sydney and country New South Wales.

As genealogists we like finding out the names and dates of family members, but don't dismiss the social history aspect of it. Historians in other fields would already know that understanding the era gives us a far better perspective of just what life was like for our ancestors. This guide provides a wonderful record of life as it was in New South Wales in 1835.

Title from caption. Compiled by E.W. O'Shaughnessey.