THE opening chapter of the 19th century guide-book was quick to praise Southampton but then almost immediately there came a sting in the tail.

"The inhabitants of Southampton have ample cause to feel proud of their splendid town, and of the position it holds amongst English towns of the second rank," wrote the anonymous author back in 1896.

Although it might be considered in the "second rank", the guide-book went on to say: "One general idea of Southampton may be conveyed to the stranger by stating there is no town on the south-west coast which possess finer facilities for recreation and interesting enjoyment.

"Its manufactures are shipbuilding, brewing, iron-casting, sugar refining, coach-building and recently has added carpet making.

"Cleanliness and light are most desirable in any town, and these Southampton possesses in a large degree.

"Its tramways and omnibuses are numerous and ever ready to convey passengers to all parts of the borough and suburbs."

Southampton, An Historical Guide to the Places of Interest in the Town and Neighbourhood was printed by a company based in Queen's Terrace is full of fascinating information for the visitor of 120 years ago.

"At the latter end of the 16th century the River Itchen was frozen over, and people crossed the ice in great numbers," says the publication.

Daily Echo: An ornate advert for a local Southampton business, which was published in the Daily Echo around about the same time as the guide.

"The frost, which was a very severe one, lasted more than two months, and it is said the Southampton Water from Calshot Castle to Redbridge was also completely frozen over."

Under a section headed "Amusements" the book listed a total of three venues all in the area in and around Southampton's Above Bar.

"A great variety of concerts may be found at the noble hall of the Philharmonic Society, the Prince of Wales' Royal Theatre in Ogle Road, which is visited by the best touring companies, and most popular London successes in comedy, burlesque, and opera; and the York Variety Concert Hall, also in Above Bar, and now being rebuilt on a scale of considerable grandeur."

Besides visitor information the guide book also contained many adverts for local companies including Idris Royal Mineral Waters of Coleman Street whose products included ginger ale described as: "A remarkable, grateful aromatic beverage, particularly suitable for meals, improving the appetite and aiding the digestion."