The first Glasgow directory was published in 1783 by John Tait. This image is taken from a facsimile reprint published in 1871 by Robert Forrester.
Stage coaches, also referred to as "diligences" or "flies", set out from Glasgow for various destinations in Scotland. Not being allowed (in theory) to carry mail, they should be distinguished from mail coaches. Shops, inns and other business premises chosen as departure points for a stage coach would find it brought extra custom.
Journeys across roads which were little more than tracks were uncomfortable and expensive, as is shown by the fares to Edinburgh. The Greenock Fly took five hours to travel from Glasgow to Greenock, while the Dumbarton coach made its passage in about four hours.
Reference: Mitchell Library, GC 914.14351
Reproduced with the permission of Glasgow City Council, Libraries Information and Learning
Keywords:
diligences, directory, family history, flies, genealogy, John Tait's Directories, mail coaches, stage coaches
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