Elections before the secret ballot: the Bristol Poll Book of 1852

Bristol's last Poll Book was published in 1852. Poll Books include the personal details of voters such as their names, profession and address. Furthermore, these Poll Books can be valuable pieces of historical evidence. Stevens’ article offers a critical study of the 1852 Bristol Poll Book, shedding light on the voting intentions and political views of different parishes, classes, families and professions.

Extract from the Diary of Sarah Champion Fox / Introduction to the Diary of Sarah Champion Fox

This is an extract from the diaries of Bristol Quaker Sarah Champion Fox published by the Bristol Record Society edited by Madge Dresser. Dresser provides an analysis of the extract. It provides context from the life Sarah Champion Fox, and discusses her role in the history of women. In addition, she also gives an insight into the mindset of Bristol's female icons, placing her in an important period of the city's history.