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In 1913, the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) purchased the 16th century-built Rathfarnham Castle from a Dublin building company, Bailey and Gibson. Initially, the plan was for a noviciate for Jesuit novices and in time, for working men’s retreats to be established at the Castle. However, by September 1913, this had changed to a house of studies for those Jesuits attending university. This decision was made following the change of regulations to the National University requiring students to attend lectures whereas previously they could be prepared for examinations elsewhere. The Jesuit Juniors as they were known would live at the Castle and cycle to lectures at University College Dublin, then located at Earlsfort Terrace in the centre of Dublin.

The papers of Rathfarnham Castle concern: the management of Rathfarnham Castle (1911-1995); the Jesuit community (1913-1985); the history of Rathfarnham Castle (1912-1994); the farm (1917-1920); the seismograph (1918-1954) and retreats (1922-1995). Material is in the form of letters, plans, maps and photographs.

A file relating to the road widening scheme at Rathfarnham and work carried out by Dublin Corporation on part of the boundary wall of Rathfarnham Castle and the subsequent problems that arose due to the Corporation's failure to complete the work. Includes a letter from Tom Bacon, Solicitor (acting on behalf of the Jesuit Fathers), 9 Clare Street, Dublin to Fr McDonald SJ Remarks 'This matter has taken a new and interesting turn... Mr Beausang (Dublin Corporation).. .explained his predicament. Apparently in his final anxiety to get the work through he agreed our terms without obtaining any additional estimates as to the cost... Mr Beausang states that there is a deficiency of at least £7,000...There is no fund out of which this deficiency can be met...Mr Beausang's first suggestion was that the Jesuit Fathers would make a grant to the corporation of half the increased cost namely £3,500. When he was told that this was out of the question it was then suggested that you might disclaim the acquisition money £2,000.' (11 October 1956, 3pp).