Griffith’s Valuation and Beyond: Land Records in Irish Genealogy

Griffith’s Valuation is a vital resource for Irish genealogists, but effectively utilizing it requires a deeper understanding that extends beyond just the listed names. This session will explore the purpose of the Valuation: why it was created, what it intended to record, and how it fits into the broader system of taxation and landholding in 19th-century Ireland. We will walk through what was recorded, when, and how to interpret key details such as valuation amounts, lessors, and sequencing. We will also review the Valuation Office and the Cancellation Books. Along the way, we will consider the social and economic context these records reflect—what they can tell you about your ancestor’s status, neighbors, and even motivations for migration.