In December 1849 The Illustrated London News began a lengthy seven-part series on the operation of the new Poor Law, ‘Condition of Ireland: Illustrations of the New Poor-Law’, illustrated by a total of eighteen sketches. The series concentrated on the Poor Law Union of Kilrush, where the effects of the Famine were particularly harshly felt. The paper’s reporter and artist also travelled through west and north Clare, and on to Connemara and Clifden.

   Issue of December 15, 1849

   Issue of December 22, 1849

   Issue of December 29, 1849

   Issue of January 5, 1850

   Issue of January 19, 1850

   Issue of January 26, 1850

   Issue of February 9, 1850