British Online Archives

This collection contains bills of entry derived from official sources, namely the reports and manifests of ships that docked in the port of Liverpool between 1861 and 1870. These bills are divided into two categories. The first contains details of imports and the second records exports. This collection provides an overview of the emergence of Liverpool as a prominent maritime centre. It also provides an insight into shifting patterns of global trade during the 19^th century.

Note: (1) This collection is accompanied by an online guide originally written for the microfilm edition by Professor Kenneth Morgan; (2) Collectively drawn from the Liverpool Record Office and Liverpool Maritime Museum, these Bills of Entry are complete for the period 1820-1900 with the exception of the years 1821-24, 1833, 1836 and 1838-40, where gaps exist.

The material contained in this edition constitutes an essential source for the study of Liverpool's shipping and trade over a long stretch of time. The Bills of Entry list details of ships, cargoes and merchants involved in voyages

Kenneth Morgan, Brunel University

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Insights

Liverpool was one of the largest ports in the United Kingdom during the 19th century. The extent of this trade can be seen in the quantities of goods recorded at this port.

Comparing the source countries and the volumes of cargoes reveals trends in shipping. Different countries' produce would be in demand at different times over the years.

Between 1861 and 1870 Britain fought Bhutan as well as the Ashanti for the 2nd time. The main impact of these land-based wars would have been upon which imports and exports were passing through Liverpool.