The Lansdowne Estate in Kerry Under the Agency of William Steuart Trench, 1849-72. Dublin: Geography Publications, 2001. First Edition. Pp lxxvi, 760. A fine copy in pictorial dust jacket.

Profusely illustrated. Inscribed by the author on the title page.

A meticulously researched and highly regarded work in the field of Irish agrarian and estate history. The book provides an in-depth case study of one of Ireland’s most significant landed estates during a transformative period, focusing on William Steuart Trench (1808–1872); a ruthless and efficient land agent for the Lansdowne Estate (owned by the Marquess of Lansdowne) in Kerry.

Trench was infamous for his aggressive management, including mass evictions during the Great Famine and its aftermath, as well as his efforts to “improve” the estate through clearance and consolidation of tenant holdings.

Lyne critically assesses Trench’s methods, balancing his reputation as a harsh enforcer of landlordism with his role in modernising agriculture.