Tarbert, small seaport town, Kilnaughtin par., N. co. Kerry, on the estuary of river Shannon, 10 miles NE. of Listowel, 12 SW. of Foynes, and 35 SW. of Limerick, pop. 712; P.O., T.O., 1 Bank. Opposite the town is Tarbert Island (63 ac.), which has a safe and commodious harbour. The steamer which sails regularly between Kilrush and Limerick calls here. On the island are a tower and battery, and a lighthouse 54 ft. high, with fixed light (Tarbert) 58 ft. above high water and seen 13 miles. Tarbert House, seat, is adjacent.

(John Bartholomew, Gazetteer of the British Isles (1887))