Evolution of Criss-Cross Directories: From Bresser's Inception to Modern Industry-Specific Online Directories

Criss-cross directories, also known as reverse directories, have been indispensable tools in the United States for locating individuals and businesses based on addresses or telephone numbers. Unlike traditional directories organized alphabetically by name, criss-cross directories are arranged by street address or phone number, enabling users to identify occupants of a particular location or the owner of a specific phone number.

Origins of Criss-Cross Directories

The concept of organizing directory information by address dates back to at least the mid-19th century. During this period, city directories often included supplemental local information, such as details about local government, maps, guides to street-name changes and renumberings, lists of churches, clubs, and organizations, categorized lists of businesses, and "criss-cross directories" with residents listed by street name and house number.

Bresser's Pioneering Efforts in Detroit

In 1947, Walter and AnneBelle Bresser founded Bresser's Cross-Index Directory Company in Detroit, Michigan. Their innovative directories provided comprehensive listings of residents and businesses, organized by address and telephone number, serving as valuable resources for businesses, government agencies, and public libraries. Over time, Bresser's expanded its coverage beyond Detroit, producing directories for various cities and regions.

Transition to Digital and Industry-Specific Directories

With the advent of digital technology, many publishers of criss-cross directories transitioned from print to electronic formats. Bresser's adapted by offering digital databases and online services, providing users with up-to-date information and advanced search capabilities. This evolution led to the development of industry-specific online directories tailored to meet the unique needs of various sectors:

In Your Neighborhood

Designed for home improvement contractors, In Your Neighborhood allows businesses to develop a sales network in the neighborhoods where they work. By accessing detailed homeowner data, contractors can efficiently market their services to potential clients within specific areas.

Realty Resource

Developed specifically for real estate professionals, Realty Resource empowers agents to find buyers and sellers in their market area. The directory offers comprehensive information, enabling realtors to generate more listings, sell more properties, and enhance their earnings.

X-Dates

Tailored for insurance agents, X-Dates Online is a prospecting tool that helps identify homeowners in the market for vehicle and homeowner's insurance. By providing detailed homeowner data, agents can target prospects effectively, saving time and resources.

Contemporary Relevance

Today, while traditional print criss-cross directories are less common, their digital successors continue to serve as valuable resources for professionals and researchers. Libraries and historical societies often maintain archives of older directories, essential for genealogical research, urban studies, and understanding historical community compositions. Institutions like the Library of Congress and the New York Public Library house extensive collections of these directories, preserving them for future generations.

In summary, criss-cross directories have evolved from simple address listings to sophisticated digital databases, playing a crucial role in information organization and retrieval in the United States. Bresser's pioneering efforts in Detroit laid the foundation for modern industry-specific online directories, such as In Your Neighborhood, Realty Resource, and X-Dates, which continue to meet the specialized needs of various sectors.

For more information or to explore our directory products, please contact us or call (800) 995-0570.