BARY, Valerie. Historical Genealogical Architectural notes of some Houses of Kerry

With line drawings by Stephanie Walsh and a foreword by Prof. Maurice R. O'Connell. 99 Clare: Ballinakella Press, 1994. pp. 247, 10, 20. Folio. Fine in dust-jacket. Very scarce.

Valerie Bary’s Historical Genealogical Architectural Notes of Some Houses of Kerry is a cornerstone work for anyone interested in Irish family history, architectural heritage, and the landed estates of County Kerry. This meticulously researched volume provides rich, detailed insights into the families who resided in some of Kerry’s most historic houses, many of which no longer exist. The book stands out for its rare combination of genealogical lineage, historical context, and architectural description.

Bary’s work is particularly valuable for researchers and collectors seeking information that may not be readily available in public archives. She often drew from private papers, estate records, and oral traditions, making the content both unique and difficult to replicate. The book covers over a hundred houses, outlining the genealogy of families such as the Blennerhassetts, Crosbies, and O’Connells, as well as the architectural evolution of their residences.

Published in a limited print run, Some Houses of Kerry is now a sought-after title among antiquarian book collectors and historians alike. It provides a window into the cultural and social fabric of 18th- and 19th-century Kerry. At De Búrca Rare Books, this title holds particular significance due to its rarity, regional focus, and enduring relevance for Irish historical scholarship and genealogical research.

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