The second volume in the Heritage Series-Monaghan’s Traditional Rural Houses is a celebration and a call to action. The vernacular heritage, or architecture of the people, crafted from local materials is testament to their hard work, ingenuity, and skill. This book is informed by a county-wide survey undertaken through the County Monaghan Heritage Office, which traces their evolution from simple byre-dwellings to long cottages or two[1]story farmhouses. Features that now seem quirky but once had functional uses like jamb walls and spy windows are explained, together with characteristic windows, doors and house layouts. Here too you will find inspiration for re-using these homes. The stories of successful restorations demonstrate that vacant traditional houses can once again be vibrant, comfortable homes. This publication was funded by the Heritage Council.