The Dairyman, a Vanished 18th and 19th century Occupation, now may make a type of comeback with the ending of Milk Quotas, 1741 reference on Kenmare Estate, Dairy Agreement 1897.

There are references from the early 18th century to Dairymen. This was where a family rented a herd of cows from either a Landlord or a large tenant. The ‘rent’ would usually be high but a good dairyman with his family could make good money. The agreement below sets out the terms which were probably standard for a sizeable letting, done in an attorney’s office. The coming of the Land Acts in the early 20th century effectively finished this line of work.

The ending of milk quotas is again opening up new forms of farm organisation.

The O’Sullivan (Ceohanach/Johnny Owens) family for example originated in the Cousane/Kealkil area and over a number of generations were variously in Molivard, Derrysullivan, Dromreagh, Mulloch (now Jimmy Swantons), Rushkeeninaska (late Jim Dukelows), Friendly Cove (McSweeneys). A sample agreement is set out below. There was enough of a profit for a substantial dowry to be paid for one of the daughter in the late 1890s.

 

Possibly related:

 

From the Carrigboy School records from 1866 the following names appear, Donovan in Crottees 1878, Wards Dromreagh 1886, Goggins in Glenlough 1903, Barrys in Rusheeninaska 1908. The Church of Ireland Chambers family were also active in the period in both the Durrus and Mizen areas..

Kenmare Estate 1740s:

 

1897 Dairy Agreement Philips to Sullivan Rusheeninaska, Durrus.
Dairy Agreement for Rusheeeninaska, Durrus, Phillips:Sullivan 18th January 1897.