Here Lyeth: The 18th Century Headstones of Wicklow

From author Chris Corlett, published by the Heritage Office of Wicklow County Council explores the small number of stone cutters who were responsible for the majority of 18th century headstones that can be found throughout the graveyards of County Wicklow.

For most people these headstones are generally an important source of genealogical information. However, what is less well-known is just how important many of these headstones are from an art historical perspective. This book examines the evolution of headstones in the county during the 18th century and explores the religious carvings that developed during this period, as well as some of the social issues that they reflect.

This book is published by the Heritage Office of Wicklow County Council as an action of the County Wicklow Heritage Plan. As with other actions of the Plan this publication seeks to compile information and raise awareness of previously unrecorded aspects of Wicklow’s heritage. It follows on from many community graveyard projects supported by the Heritage Office in recent years and should be an excellent resource for anyone involved in such projects or for those with an interest in local history, stone-cutting or art. It is hoped that this book may foster a greater appreciation, and a more sensitive management of the historic headstones in the graveyards of County Wicklow.