Irish Parliament Act (1791)

Pictured here is the Irish Parliament Act (1791) which established the Armagh Observatory 'for ever'. However, later legislation enacted under the Union Parliament, specifically the Church Act (1869) and the Land Act (1881), would significantly effect the Observatory's fortunes.

Visit to The Robinson Library

Having visited The Robinson Library, I've managed to find some additional secondary sources, including The Catalogue of Stars compiled by the Observatory's third Director T. R. Robinson (no relation of Archbishop Robinson!). Unfortunately, however, I was informed that the Observatory's founder requested that all his private papers and correspondence be destroyed upon his death; although I'm hopeful of locating some primary sources on either the first or third Director during my visit to the Observatory.



Also pictured below are the three surviving Meridian Markers, used to align the original telescopes. The single, Southern Marker, can be found in a field just outside the Palace Demense, whilst the Northern arched structure and obelisk are located off the Loughgall Road at Tullyards.

Continued research and visits

I plan to visit the Robinson Library in Armagh City in the hope of finding some primary sources on the founder of the Observatory, Archbishop Richard Robinson, whose bust is pictured below. I have also been in touch with Armagh Observatory and booked an appointment for a tour of the building, during which I hope to have the opportunity to speak with the current Director.

First Stage of Research

I have made some preliminary inquiries into the Armagh Observatory, focusing my initial research to the Irish Studies and Local History Library in Armagh City. I have located a  variety of sources, including books and journals. I have also completed a Synopsis on the Research Project.