A Tour in Ireland. 1776-1779

Arthur Young sets out as a practical farmer and keen observer, journeying through Ireland between 1776 and 1779 to record the country’s land, people, and industry. Drawing on years of agricultural writing and personal experiment, he blends detailed farming notes with vivid descriptions of towns, markets, and everyday life. His narrative captures the texture of an island on the brink of change, offering a snapshot of rural customs, labor practices, and the social fabric that shaped daily existence.

The account is more than a travelogue; it is a systematic inquiry into how soil, climate, and local customs affect productivity and prosperity. Young’s clear, matter‑of‑fact style makes complex agricultural practices accessible, while his broader reflections reveal the economic hopes and challenges of the era. Listeners will hear a thoughtful, on‑the‑ground perspective that illuminates both the promise and the hardships of eighteenth‑century Ireland.