The Balrothery Poor Law Union from its establishment in 1839 until 1851 is examined in this book. This union served most of north Co. Dublin which in the 1830s was a rural, agricultural area with almost no industry. The main source of employment was as agricultural labourers of whom there was an over-supply due to the continuing growth in population and the transition among the large farmers from tillage to grazing. The Poor Enquiry established in 1833 carried out an in-depth examination of the area and found there much distress. Its findings are narrated. The establishment of the union, the building of the workhouse and life in the workhouse are described. The Famine years are dealt with in detail. The efforts of the guardians and landlords to cope with the crisis and the effects of the Famine years on the area are also examined.