"An Act to extend certain provisions of an Act entitled an Act to encourage the improvement of Barren and Waste Land and Bogs and Planting of Timber Trees and Orchards."
Scope and Contents
The collection consists of one pamphlet, three manuscript documents, and one letter which concern Grattan's attempts to reform the system of tithes in Ireland. The pamphlet, "Speech of the Right Honorable Henry Grattan, on the Subject of Tythe, in the House of Commons, on Thursday, February 14, 1788," and supporting documents were sent by an English clergyman in Ireland, Joseph Stopford, to the Earl of Courtown. In 1787, 1788, and 1789 Grattan introduced bills that would make tithing less of a hardship for the Irish. The tithes provided support for the English clergy only, and the system of collection was riddled with inefficiency and corruption. In 1788, Grattan's second attempt incurred the wrath of Reverand Stopford. The bill he presented provided that those who improved their bog land would not have to pay tithes on it for seven years. Stopford, along with other clergy, outlined nine objections to the bill, which the minister enclosed with his letter to the Earl. In the letter, he reiterates his arguments, and describes Grattan's ultimate defeat in Parliament. The collection provides a sharply focused look at a major issue in Anglo-Irish colonial relations. The pamphlet reproduces Grattan's speech on tithes before the Irish House of Commons. Stopford's handwritten copy of the bill and its amendments makes it easy to compare the clergys' criticisms with the text. And Stopford's letter presents a more emotional plea for English support in this matter.
Dates
- Creation: 1700s
Creator
- From the Collection: Grattan, Henry, 1746-1820 (Person)
Conditions Governing Access
This collection is housed off-site and requires 48-hours' notice for retrieval. Contact archives@lists.johnshopkins.edu for more information.
Collection is open for use.
Extent
From the Collection: 0.2 Cubic Feet (4 documents and 1 pamphlet)
Language of Materials
From the Collection: English
Repository Details
Part of the Special Collections Repository
The Sheridan Libraries
Special Collections
3400 N Charles St
Baltimore MD 21218 USA
specialcollections@lists.jhu.edu