Famine walls

Many of the walls served little practical purpose other than giving work to the poor and clearing the land of stones.^[6] The stones were collected from nearby fields and mountains.^[1] However, one particularly important use of the famine walls was to establish and divide the properties of farmers and locals.^[7]

The walls are generally around 8–10 feet high and 300 yards long.^[3] Along some of the walls are periodic holes built in to the structures, which records say were a way for two parties to stand on opposite sides of the wall and touch fingers through a hole, signifying making an agreement or contract.^[2][3]

Building these famine walls was incredibly demanding work. Due to the ongoing famine, some passed away while working.^[8]

Men and women alike were hired to build these structures, but were paid differently despite doing the same work.^[1] Additionally, young boys over the age of ten were hired.^[1] Men, who earned 10 pence, were paid more than women and children, who earned 4 pence, for 10 hours of work.^[1] Furthermore, each, regardless of age or gender, received one meal every 14 days for their work.^[1]