Moycullen Census Figures 1841, 1851 and 1861

The census figures for the parish of Moycullen show a significant population decline between 1841 and 1851, reflecting the devastating impact of the Great Famine on the area. The total population fell from 8,261 in 1841 to 6,563 in 1851 and continued to decline to 6,153 by 1861, while the number of houses also dropped from 1,106 to 841 and then to 783.

Many townlands experienced dramatic losses—for example, Clydagh fell from 260 people in 1841 to just 43 in 1851, Coolagh from 120 to 39, and Knockshanbally from 127 to only 8—suggesting widespread mortality, eviction, and emigration during the famine years.

Although some places later showed slight recovery, the overall pattern indicates that the famine caused lasting demographic change and the abandonment or severe depopulation of several townlands within the parish.