Headfort Estate

Scope and Content

Six volumes of account books, 1734-95, relating to the running of the Headfort Estate, Co. Meath, Ireland. Also one volume of apprentice bindings in the town of Kells, Co. Meath under the terms of the Headfort family charity.

Administrative / Biographical History

The Headfort Estate was purchased by Thomas Taylour of Sussex in 1660. Taylor had assisted Sir William Petty in his 'Down Survey' - an attempt to produce a topographical map of Ireland, and it is likely Taylour was either awarded Headfort for his assistance or bought it with revenue gained from his part in the survey. Thomas Taylour's son, Thomas Taylour (1662-1736) was made an Irish Baronet and was MP for Kells. His son, also Sir Thomas Taylour (d 1757) was the 2nd Baronet and also MP for Kells. The volumes date primarily from the period of Thomas Taylour (1724-1795), Earl of Bective.

Access Information

Access to the items in the collection is unrestricted for the purpose of private study and personal research within the controlled environment and restrictions of the Library's Palaeography Room.

Other Finding Aids

Handlist available.

Archivist's Note

Separated Material

The National Library of Ireland, Dublin, holds family and estate papers, 1690-1893.

Conditions Governing Use

Copies may be made, subject to the condition of the original. Copying must be undertaken by the Palaeography Room staff, who will need a minimum of 24 hours to process requests.

Custodial History

Given to the Library by Angela Whitelegge, formerly a member of staff at the Library, 1994.

Geographical Names