In 1869 The Annual Valuation Revision Book for 1864-1873 (PRONI Ref: Val12B/10/4A_M_00082) records William Bright as the occupier who leased the property from Denis Burke. The property was described as, ‘house, offices, yard and garden’ and had a total ratable annual valuation of £53.

The Belfast and Province of Ulster Directories of 1866 and 1877 records William Bright a confectioner on Upper English Street. The Belfast and Province of Ulster Directory 1877 also records a W. Bright at the Armagh County Club at English Street, which adjoins No.31 to the north west (No.33). There was no change in the Annual Valuation Revision Books for 1873-1882 and 1883-1893.

The Annual Valuation Revision Book for 1893-1899 (PRONI Ref: Val12B/10/4G_M_00120) notes that the immediate lessor had changed to Charles Bell.

The Belfast and Province of Ulster Directory 1899 records William Bright as a caterer on English Street.

The Annual Valuation Revision Book for 1899-1910 (PRONI Ref: Val12B/10/5A_M_009) notes that in 1902 the occupier changed to William Maxwell and the description of the property changed to ‘house, shop, offices and yard’. The total rateable annual valuation increased to £63. However, the occupier changed to James Maxwell the same year who appealed the valuation which was subsequently reduced on £58.

The 1907 Belfast / Ulster Street Directory and the 1912 Belfast Street Directory Record James Maxwell at 31 English Street running a business called The City Room Paper Warehouse, Painter, Decorator and Paperhanger.

The Annual Valuation Revision Book for 1911-1920 (PRONI Ref: Val12B/10/5B_M_008) notes that in 1919 Annie Maxwell became the occupier of the building.

The 1924 and 1943 Belfast Street Directories record a Miss Maxwell, Miss a decorator on English Street.