Search United States Directories & Almanacs

Each record is available in a PDF format. Use the previous and next buttons at the top of the page to browse through the publication. The PDF search experience can be different from searching transcribed records. Use our search tips below to get the most out of this collection.

The detail in each record will vary depending on the publication. The publications will include business listings and usually descriptions of the local area. In the records you may find a combination of the following information:

• Name
• Address
• Occupation
• Business name

Additional detail found in these types of publications will provide a more in-depth study of your ancestor’s life and the local area.

To the left of the PDF, you will find the Transcription Box, which includes:

• Publication – the title of the publication
• State – where the publication is based
• City
• Image number and image count – this will tell you where you are in the publication and help you to explore the publication further.

For a full list of all the titles available, view the United States Directories & Almanacs publication list available in the Useful links and resources section.

Explore dozens of directories from the United States which covers three centuries of history. For a full list of all the titles available, view the United States Directories & Almanacs publication list available in the Useful links and resources section.

Almanacs and directories are an excellent resource for anyone researching their family history and want to understand more about their ancestor’s life. They provide insights into when the courts would sit and the presiding judge, as well as full listings of notable individuals such as President John Adams residing at 190 High Street in the 1798 Directory for Pennsylvania, business owners, trades people, civil servants, church leaders, school teachers and much more. Furthermore, you can explore the history of your home by searching the publications by address, where you may discover previous proprietors.

These directories are a good substitute for the 1890 Census for the United States that was lost to fire.