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County Kildare

Townland

Barretstown

Baile Bhairéad

100

Census Records

22

Households

2

Census Years

1901 Census
People
82
Households
19
1911 Census
People
18 -78%
Households
3 -84.2%

About

Barretstown is a small townland located in County Kildare in the province of Leinster, in the east-central part of Ireland. The area sits within the broader landscape of the Kildare plains, characterized by gently rolling terrain typical of the Irish Midlands. The townland is situated in proximity to the River Liffey, one of Ireland's most significant waterways, which has historically influenced settlement patterns and land use throughout the region. The landscape around Barretstown reflects the predominantly agricultural character of County Kildare, with pastures and farmland forming the primary land use in the area.

The name Barretstown, like many Irish townland names, has historical roots that reflect patterns of settlement and land ownership. The "Barret" element likely derives from an Anglo-Norman family name, indicating medieval English influence in the area, a common feature across County Kildare following the Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century. Townlands such as Barretstown represent the historical subdivision of Irish land into small administrative and territorial units, a system that remains significant in Irish geography and local identity even today, despite their diminished official administrative function.

Barretstown's significance lies primarily in its role as part of the local community fabric of County Kildare. Like many rural townlands in Ireland, it serves as a point of geographic and cultural reference for residents of the surrounding area. The townland contributes to the broader heritage landscape of Kildare, which is known for its rich historical associations, including monastic sites, medieval structures, and connections to Irish literary and cultural traditions. The preservation of townland names and boundaries helps maintain continuity with Ireland's historical geography.

The broader area encompassing Barretstown remains predominantly rural and agricultural, reflecting the enduring character of much of County Kildare outside of major urban centers. The townland's continued existence in local usage and official records demonstrates the persistence of traditional Irish geographic and administrative divisions, which continue to hold cultural and practical significance for local communities despite modern administrative reorganization in Ireland.

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Parish

Tipperkevin

County

Kildare

Irish Name

Baile Bhairéad

Barony

Naas South

Valuation Office Records

From the National Archives of Ireland (c. 1830s–1850s)

6 records

6 occupiers recorded in the Valuation Office Books for this townland.

Source: Valuation Office Books, National Archives of Ireland. Public records.

Townland Location

OpenStreetMap

Details

English
Barretstown
Irish
Baile Bhairéad
Parish
Tipperkevin
Barony
Naas South
County
Kildare