Full Description
As part of the controversial Earl Grey Scheme, this is the true story of the Kerry girls who were shipped to Australia from the four Kerry workhouses of Dingle, Kenmare, Killarney and Listowel in 1849 and 1850.
Leaving behind scenes of destitution and misery, the girls, some of whom spoke only Irish, set off to the other side of the world without any idea of what lay ahead. This book tells of their 'selection' and their transportation to New South Wales and Adelaide, their subsequent apprenticeship, and finally of their marriages and attempts to rebuild a life far from home.
Contents
Title
Copyright
Contents
Acknowledgements
Introduction
1 Background to the Famine in Kerry
2 Life in the Workhouse
3 Circumstances in Australia
4 Workhouse Decisions
5 Background to the Girls
6 Voyage and Arrival
7 Working Life and Marriage in Australia
8 Pawns in an Imperial Struggle?
Conclusion: An Opportunity or a Tragedy?
Appendix: Orphan Database
Notes
Bibliography
