Module Six: Introduction to Griffith's
Valuation
Introduction to Griffith's Valuation
In this module
you will learn about Griffith's Valuation land records,
and how they can be used as census substitutes.
"Each
blade of grass has its spot on earth whence it draws
its life, its strength, and so is man rooted to the
land from which he draws his faith together with his
life."
- Joseph Conrad
What is Griffith's Valuation?
Griffith's Valuation
is a census of land occupiers and owners (taken between
1848-1864), listing the area of land, and the tax assessed
to support the poor. In the absence of census records, it is
one of the most important genealogical records available. It
gives a picture of all Ireland just after the potato famine.
On FamilySearch,
Griffith's Valuation is described: "Between 1848 and 1864, a
valuation, called Griffith's Primary Valuation, was made of
taxable property in every parish in Ireland. The valuation
records list the name of the head of the household, the name
of the landowner (immediate lessor), the acreage of the
plot, the value of the property, and the amount of tax
assessed. The tax based on the property valuation was used
to support the poor."
This Griffith's
Valuation shows the lot number (be sure to record it), the
occupier of the land, their landlord,
a description of the land, house, and outbuildings, and
information about the size of the property.
How Do I Search Griffith's Valuation?
Fortunately, Griffith's Valuation is available online and can be searched for free. To search Griffith's Valuation, go to: http://www.askaboutireland.ie/griffith-valuation/index.xml.
Module Six Assignments
Assignment One: In our module on U.S. research, we found that Jeffrey Carey was born in Ballingarry, County Limerick. Use the Griffith's Valuation website to search for Jeffrey Carey in Ballingarry parish, Limerick, Ireland. Remember to search for Jeffrey, Jeffry, Geoffrey, and other variations. If you find Jeffrey, look to see who is found living on the same plot of land. Who are his neighbors? Does Richard Carey live nearby? Be sure and look at the scan of the original record.
Assignment Two: Search for your own ancestors in Griffith's Valuation.