Williamson's Edinburgh Directory
from May 1773, to May 1774

Williamson's Directory for the City of Edinburgh became a staple publication for residents of the metropolis after it was first compiled in 1773. Created by the colorful Peter Williamson (1730–19 January 1799), who was known locally as “Indian Peter,” the listing was made up of the addresses of merchants, officials, lawyers, bankers, shops, taverns, and any other noteworthy person of business in the city. The publication sold for a shilling and was published at regular intervals until 1796. Today, Williamson’s efforts are a boon for historians and those charting genealogies. Keep in mind that Williamson’s directories do not include everyone that lived in Edinburgh during those years. Only those who had a certain social standing or businesses made the directory’s cut. Still Williamson's Edinburgh directories are an invaluable tool for examining certain aspects of Edinburgh life during the time of Deacon Brodie. This edition of Williamson's directory is for the period of May 1773 to May 1774. The National Library of Scotland has graciously digitized this volume of Williamson’s directory and released those texts under a Creative Commons 2.5 UK: Scotland license.