Old Map of County Kilkenny by Samuel Lewis, 1844: Thomastown, Callan, Castlecomer, Graiguenamanagh, Jerpoint Abbey

This old map of County Kilkenny, Ireland, created by Samuel Lewis in 1844, offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical landscape of the region. With its intricate details and exquisite craftsmanship, this map is a true collector's item for history enthusiasts and map aficionados alike.

Featuring the main towns, cities, and other interesting features of County Kilkenny, this map showcases the rich heritage and notable landmarks of the area. It is important to note that while some modern cities may not be depicted on this map, others may appear under earlier names, adding an intriguing layer of historical context.

Notable settlements and colonies founded before 1840 within the historical boundaries of County Kilkenny are as follows:

• Kilkenny (c. 6th century): The county's largest city, renowned for its medieval architecture and historic landmarks such as Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice's Cathedral.
• Thomastown (1200): Home to the impressive ruins of Jerpoint Abbey, founded in the 12th century, and the scenic Mount Juliet Estate.
• Callan (1207): An ancient town with a rich ecclesiastical history, boasting notable structures like the Augustinian Priory and Callan Workhouse Union.
• Castlecomer (17th century): Known for its coal mining heritage and the picturesque Castlecomer Discovery Park, offering outdoor activities and nature trails.
• Graiguenamanagh (13th century): A charming town situated on the banks of the River Barrow, featuring Duiske Abbey, one of Ireland's largest Cistercian monasteries.

The remaining settlements, ordered by modern-day population size, include:

• Bennettsbridge (1200): Famous for its historic bridge spanning the River Nore and its association with the renowned sculptor Eamonn O'Doherty.
• Freshford (1200): A village with a rich medieval history, including the ruins of a 13th-century castle and a Norman motte.
• Piltown (1200): Home to Grennan Castle and the annual Piltown Show, an agricultural event dating back to the 19th century.
• Mooncoin (17th century): Known for its connection to the Irish Rebellion of 1798 and its association with the Irish poet Thomas Power.
• Inistioge (1200): A picturesque village renowned for its stunning gardens, Woodstock House, and the iconic Inistioge Bridge.

The following settlements, among others, also contribute to the historical tapestry of County Kilkenny:

• Johnstown (1200): Birthplace of the famous Irish nationalist leader Charles Stewart Parnell.
• Goresbridge (1200): Host of the Goresbridge Horse Sales, a renowned equestrian event attracting buyers and sellers from around the world.
• Tullaroan (1200): Birthplace of the celebrated Irish hurler and nationalist, Nicholas "Nicky" Brennan.
• Glenmore (1200): Located near the scenic Woodstock Gardens, known for its connection to the Irish War of Independence.
• Ballyhale (1200): A village with a strong hurling tradition, producing numerous All-Ireland champions.

County Kilkenny is also blessed with natural wonders and tourist attractions, including the River Nore, the River Barrow, the Nore Valley, and the scenic Woodstock Gardens. These captivating landscapes provide visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in County Kilkenny's breathtaking beauty.

Notable historical events in County Kilkenny between 1800 and 1850 include the rise of the Catholic Emancipation movement, the Great Famine (1845-1852), and the impact of the Industrial Revolution on the region's economy and society.

Owning this old map of County Kilkenny by Samuel Lewis from 1844 allows you to explore the historical foundations of the area, appreciate its remarkable landmarks, and gain a deeper understanding of the region's rich heritage.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at all sizes: 12x16in (30.5x41cm), 16x20in (40.5x51cm), 18x24in (45.5x61cm), 24x30in (61x76cm), 32x40in (81.5x102cm) and 40x50in (102x127cm), but it looks even better when printed large.

I can create beautiful, large prints of this map up to 50in (127cm). Please get in touch if you're looking for larger, customised or different framing options.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40.5x51cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my main collection of UK and Ireland maps.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.