6 HERITAGE UPDATE 7 Reg Conservation Grants Scheme Ashleigh Murray

Proposal for Bus Connects threatens fabric and character of Dublin’s historic streetscapes Donough Cahill

In its submission for the public The Architectural Heritage The Society also expressed consultation process for Bus Connects, Protection Guidelines for Planning considerable misgivings about the the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) Authorities identifies the importance impact of Bus Connects on trees in proposals to reconfigure Dublin’s bus to the character of historic buildings of gardens and lining the streets along its networks, the Irish Georgian Society boundary features such as railings and routes. Whilst the information brochures criticised apparent proposals to remove gates. It also cautions against moving indicated the number of trees to be original fabric from the historic built these noting that “it would not only retained, only a general indication is environment and remove street trees make them liable to damage… but may given to the number to be removed in architecturally sensitive areas. also adversely alter the relationship rather than to their location. On the The Society’s submission called between the structure and the features UCD to City Centre Location alone, for a comprehensive architectural, of its curtilage” (p. 194) approximately 160 trees are proposed for archaeological and cultural heritage The IGS also took issue with the removal which is of particular concern assessment and a further public methodology used in selecting preferred as this route runs along sensitive historic consultation process before a decision route options. Of concern was an streets. Loss of trees has the potential is reached on a Preferred Route Option. evident lack of field work undertaken in to result in significant adverse impacts Bus Connects was launched in 2017 assessing the historic built environment. on historic streets. by the NTA with the aim of improving It would appear that desktop The Irish Georgian Society called Dublin’s bus system and reducing resources were used in place of on-site for the NTA to fully assess the impact journey times by an ambitious 20-30 investigation and that this was limited to on Dublin’s heritage before reaching a minutes. The scheme proposes a series the National Inventory of Architectural decision on any Preferred Route Options St. Catherine's Church, Thomas Street, Dublin of dedicated corridors where buses Heritage, the Record of Monuments and that these findings are put out for would have priority and be developed and Places, and the Record of Protected further public consultation. In certain in tandem with cycle lanes. Structures. While undoubtedly valuable cases it has already amended its initial While recognising the potential in their own right, these resources do proposals which indicates a willingness positive gains to be achieved through not provide an exhaustive list of heritage to take on board observations received. The igs is delighted to announce been suggested that John responsible for the interiors of the enabling more sustainable forms of structures and sites, and so potentially It is hoped that this capacity for change that we have completed the sixth year Warneford Armstrong (1770—1858), Palace of Westminster - and his transport, the IGS has faulted the NTA exclude sites of importance. The absence will also apply to sensitive heritage of the Conservation Grants Scheme, who famously betrayed the Sheares partner the Irish architect George C. for not providing sufficient information of a field survey of prospective routes buildings and streetscapes. which has been funded by igs London brothers in 1798, erected the folly in Ashlin (1837-1921). The ceilings and to allow for an assessment of the possibly indicates why there has been since 2014. Although the original c. 1830; however, no documentary walls were originally decorated with impact of proposed new routes on the no assessment of historic fabric to be intention was to run the scheme for evidence survives and it may be a stencilled scheme by Ashlin but this historic built environment. Though the removed, the significance of that fabric, four years, its great importance is earlier. The folly is built on high was covered in the 20th century with NTA’s maps illustrate cases where the and whether it will be re-instated. very much recognised and London ground within a designed, naturalised non-breathable paint. Works have curtilage of protected structures and The city-wide scale of the project continues to strive to extend it, subject landscape. It is a curious structure already begun to restore this beautiful historic streetscapes are impinged upon, would indicate the need for the NTA to available funds. Up to €50,000 is since it is circular in plan with decorative feature and funding will there is no accompanying discussion to produce an Environmental Impact available each year and this year’s soaring buttress, which are perhaps aid the next phase of these works. or assessment of how this will affect Assessment as part of the planning funding was distributed among nine reminiscent of great cathedrals The London Young Irish Georgians boundary walls and railings, gardens, process. Such an exercise would successful projects, which ranged seen on distant shores. As the (yigs) also raised additional funds and historic street furniture and paving. normally require an exploration of from small landmark structures folly is deteriorating, it requires the for the building. In particular, the Society queried alternative options which in this case to country houses. consolidation of the wall heads and why the removal of original fabric should entail an assessment of different We are pleased to support a folly the crowns of the buttresses. from within the curtilage of protected routes to those that have been chosen. that forms part of the landscaped This year, a number of churches structures or the removal of existing However, the Society argued that a demesne of Ballycumber House, are being assisted. St. Kevin’s Church Baggot St Lower, Dublin street trees would even be countenanced desktop review of heritage designations Co. Offaly. The house was originally in Harrington Street, Dublin, was at locations where there is sufficient within the study area is not sufficient built as a in 1627 but was completed in 1872 to the designs of space to provide on-street car to inform a meaningful consideration subsequently remodelled in the Edward Welby Pugin (1834-1875) - parking bays. of alternative options. 18th and 19th centuries. It has son of the famous Augustus Pugin, 8 CONSERVATION GRANTS SCHEME IRISH GEORGIAN SOCIETY REVIEW 19 9

01 St Paul’s ‘French Church’, 01 02 03 Portarlington, Co. Laois 02 The restoration of St Paul’s windows 03 Ballyarthur, Co. Wicklow with recently restored side elevation, grant aided in 2018 by the Society 04 Ballycumber folly, Co. Offaly (image courtesy of Offaly Historical & Archaeological Society) 05 Jamesbrook Hall, Midleton, Co. Cork 06 Interior of Ballyarthur, Co. Wicklow, the restoration of which is being supported by the Society in 2019 07 Panel prior to restoration from Our Lady's Chapel at St. Kevin's Church, Harrington Street, Dublin 04

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St Paul’s ‘French Church’ in from water ingress which can The c. 1680 former hunting lodge of Portarlington, Co. Laois, was founded be detrimental to historic buildings. Ballyarthur, Ballanagh, Co. Wicklow, by French Huguenots in 1698. In the Jamesbrook Hall, Midleton, Co. Cork, required extensive repair works mid-19th century the original simple is a complex site as the main house to a gable wall, which have been hall was enlarged with a cruciform was built in c.1780 but it was attached successfully undertaken. However, plan and a tower; repair works are to an existing c.1675 house, while in the gable wall had experienced required to several associated cast-iron 1820-1830 a collection of cottages, extensive water ingress over the windows. St Catherine’s Church in a coach house and stables were years, which caused damage to Thomas Street, Dublin, was designed erected to the rear. Two bow windows interior decorative plasterwork. 06 07 in the 1760s by the Irish architect John serving the c.1780 house are being The next phase of works is the repair Smyth (d.1775). At the centre of this repaired. Temple House, Ballymote, and reinstatement, where required, granite building are four Doric columns Co. Sligo, is a mansion that was built of this important decorative feature. supporting a pediment, while a clock in c.1820 but it was substantially As demonstrated above, there decorates the adjacent bell tower. extended and embellished in c.1864. are a variety of issues that face The clock, which has not worked for The sash windows to the rear of owners of historic buildings, often many years, is being restored and we the house, overlooking the central resulting in financial pressures, are supporting the restoration of the courtyard, are in very poor condition and this important scheme helps clock face. and are in urgent need of repair. owners to fund essential works for At the Royal and Prior School in Following successful grant aiding the continued protection of these Raphoe, Co. Donegal, we are aiding the last year, we are pleased to provide historic assets. There is a range of production of a Conservation Report for additional support to two early structures that will benefit from our a vacant house that was built in c.1850. houses. Myrtle Grove, Youghal, support, including a folly, residential Undertaking initial investigations and Co. Cork, is a rare example of an buildings, and churches. We would assessments of historic buildings is unfortified 16th-century Irish house. therefore, like to thank all our vital before any works take place, and Last year involved the repair of an igs London members for making this report which will establish the oriel window that faces the medieval this year’s scheme possible and we significance of the building and inform St Mary’s Collegiate Church and is will aim to extend it beyond 2019, the conservation approach. where Sir Edmund Spenser is said to subject to available funding, We are supporting vital window have written The Faerie Queen. Works to continue this particularly repairs at two houses, thereby continue with the repair of the first- worthy cause. providing necessary protection floor windows of the main elevation. Lexlip Boathouse, Lexlip IRISH GEORGIAN SOCIETY REVIEW 18 11 Reg Demesne, Co. Kildare Conservation Grants Scheme (1874 photograph) Ashleigh Murray

The Irish Georgian Society (IGS) is delighted to announce that we have completed a fifth year of the Conservation Grants Scheme, which has been funded by the Irish Georgian Society London since 2014. Although last year was to be the final year of the scheme, its importance is very much recognised and London has, therefore, extended it by a further year, due to part funding received from our American Chapters. The €50,000 available funding this year was distributed among thirteen successful projects, which ranged from small landmark structures to large country houses. We are pleased to support the boathouse on the grounds of Castle, Co. Kildare, which belongs to the Hon Desmond and Penelope Guinness. Leixlip Castle was originally built in 1172 (rebuilt in 1837) by Adam de Hereford, a follower of Strongbow. The boathouse structure was erected in the late-18th century and represents the expansion of the estate as part of a gentleman’s residence. The domed boathouse roof with its striking brick chimney is a distinctive feature that was originally clad in copper. The works involve the revival of this important landmark structure with the reinstatement of a metal roof, in addition to other repair works. Assistance is also being provided to the repair of another landscape structure, the seven arched bridge in Co. Meath. This stone bridge is believed to have been erected in the late-17th century or early-18th century and likely functioned as a pack-horse bridge to allow the carriage of aggregate from Bearmount Quarry to Trim. Funds will support the restoration of the stone arches, which will be undertaken by Scurlogstown Olympiad, a community organisation. A number of other notable organisations also require assistance. The independent charitable organisation, Dublin Civic Trust is restoring two adjoining townhouses in Dublin city centre. In 2016, this scheme supported the reinstatement 12 13 01 02

of missing windows at 18 Upper Ormond Quay, while this year the Trust is restoring and part reinstating Mary Bryan: a Rococo cornice that originally served a double-height space in the adjacent 67 East Arran Street (c.1760- A Tribute 1770). This space, now subdivided, is believed to have been a retail floor, designed for the display of high-status 06 Dr. Edward goods. 03 Financial support is also being offered to Irish Landmark Trust, McParland a non-profit organisation that is currently converting the unoccupied gate lodges of Saunderscourt, Co. Wexford, to short term holiday use. The main house was erected in the late-17th century but abandoned in c. 1809 and demolished in the late-19th century. However, two late-18th- 05 04 century gate lodges connected by a triumphal arch survive, which fell into disrepair as early as c. 1809. Undertaking initial investigations Mary Bryan’s death on 26 October those in the rain of Kill O’ the Grange) the wilder currents of opinion that and assessments of historic buildings 2017 was a great loss to her family, will be remembered happily. washed around the Georgian board is vital before any works take place. friends and acquaintances across The mid-1990s brought her back room. She enjoyed the company of Two-staged funding is proposed many areas of life: sporting, to the academic life, with the award colourful people, whose help she 05 at the 18th-century , academic, architectural and of the degree of Master of Urban and sometimes effectively solicited for the Co. Cork (remodelled in the early- conservationist. Over a long life— Building Conservation from UCD Society. She was full of energy, and 19th century). The artificial-stone she was born in 1936—she was brave in 1995. As part of her degree she up to a year or two ago she organised capitals of the pilasters decorating (she fought and vanquished her first prepared an important dissertation the IGS Conservation Awards the building’s exterior are to be cancer in the 1990s), distinguished on Fitzwilliam Square. Scheme, enjoying to the full the fun inspected to support conservation 01 Entrance of Myrtle Grove, Youghal, Co. Cork (Image as a sportswoman (in both tennis and By this time she was already of travelling around the country to recommendations, followed by the courtesy of Bord Fáilte). 01 Lexlip Boathouse, during badminton), deeply committed as a involved with the Irish Georgian view all the short-listed submissions. appropriate restoration of these conservation works. 03 Bantry Hous, Co. Cork. 04 Abbey Leix conservationist (her work for the Irish Society, helping to organise a tour There was a directness about the important features. At the former Old Church, Co. Laois. 05 Saunderscourt Gate Lodges, Crossabeg, Georgian Society was invaluable), and of the Czech Republic with Jeremy way she conducted meetings, a Christ Church, Rathcormac, Co. Co. Wexford. 06 St Carthage’s Cathedral, Lismore, Co. Waterford. an hispanophile (she lived in Spain Williams, and sharing some of the straightforward integrity, that rose Cork, a Conservation Assessment and with her family from 1974 to 1981). administrative work of the Society above personalities and eased the Condition Report of this 1775 church And through all this, her family and Foundation with Jane Fenlon. conduct of business. with its 1828 vestry will be produced, came first. In 1995 she succeeded Jane and was She was much loved by an to establish the significance of the Born Mary O’Sullivan in Tralee, appointed as Executive Secretary unusually wide variety of friends. building and inform the conservation she was schooled by the Dominicans and Conservation Officer. And she was fun! We all remember, approach. in Sion Hill, after which she took a Ten years later she retired from and always will remember, her Several other church buildings degree in Architecture from UCD. the IGS upon her appointment as laughter. The bar in The Merrion Hotel require help this year. Abbey Leix While she was a keen tennis player— a member of An Bord Pleanála, on will forever be for me the rendezvous Old Church, Co. Laois, is a c.1750 unfortified 16th-century Irish house. Portlaw, Co. Waterford. This country she won the Junior Irish Open which she served until 2010. In that where Mary and I met every month church (later extended) on the site This window faces the medieval St house was continually developed Championship in 1954, and played year she joined the Committee of or two to discuss Georgian affairs in of a pre-Reformation church that is Mary’s Collegiate Church and is where since medieval times and comprises in singles and mixed doubles in Management of the Irish Georgian the company of the friend we called one of the few surviving indicators Sir Edmund Spenser is said to have a classical c.1755 house incorporating Wimbledon—she was reckoned to Foundation, acting as its chairwoman ‘Padre Pinot Grigio’. And whatever of the relocation of the town further written the ‘Faerie Queen’. Works earlier fabric. be among the top five badminton until 2013. Following the usual confidences were shared on those northeast by the first Viscount de will also take place at another early As demonstrated above, this players in the world: she was the first rules of rotation and retirement of merry occasions, no malicious or Vesci (1735-1804). A limcrete floor building, the c. 1680 former hunting important scheme helps owners of lady captain of badminton in , directors, she left the board in 2016. gossipy word ever passed her lips. is proposed to address damp issues lodge of Ballyarthur, Ballanagh, Co. historic structures to fund essential and had many international caps. It was in Irish Georgian circles, and The Georgians and Mary Bryan’s affecting the effigy tomb of Emma, Wicklow, where it is necessary to works, which can often incur After graduating, she worked as as a personal friend, that I knew Mary friends owe her a great debt for Viscountess de Vesci (d. 1884). Other extensively repair a gable wall. financial pressures. Therefore, we an architect for Guinness in both and came to value her remarkable having enriched their lives. The Simon churches are undertaking window Furthermore, we are also pleased would like to thank all our London London and Dublin. On marrying qualities. She was a great friend of Community and Dogs for the Blind repairs, including the 1809 Ardrahan to support the c.1750 Bridge House, members and our friends in America Eddie Bryan, she devoted herself to the Knight, and he relied heavily on have lost a generous supporter. All Church, Co. Galway and St Carthage's Westport, Co. Mayo. Previously we for making this year’s scheme home and family. The move to Spain her judgement. She was level-headed we can do is to hope that her family Cathedral, Lismore, Co. Waterford, a helped with roof repairs, while this possible. It is very much hoped that, in 1974 stimulated new commitments: during contentious discussions, and will somehow manage to find some major religious site dating from the year works include the repair of subject to available funding, we can the children were sent to Spanish, not decisive—if discreet—in her opinions. consolation in their loss. early Christian era. ceilings and floors. Ceiling repairs extend the scheme beyond 2018 to international, schools, and her three She was wise in foreseeing and The repair of an oriel window is are also required in the impressive continue this particularly worthy surviving children have all settled avoiding unnecessary problems. She required at Myrtle Grove, Youghal, entrance hall of , cause. in Spain. Mary’s paella parties (even was patient with, if not approving of, Co. Cork, a rare example of an Reg Conservation Grants Scheme Ashleigh Murray

The Irish Georgian Society is pleased to announce the fourth successful year of the Conservation Grants Scheme, which helps owners of historic structures to fund necessary works.

The London Chapter has made this assisted, the next phase is to ensure was erected in c. 1858 by public scheme possible through funds raised that all roofs are watertight. subscription in memory of Cornelius from its activities and members’ Water ingress and the onset of damp O’Brien, a local MP and improving generous bequests. Although this can have a disastrous impact on landlord. O’Brien was also responsible should be the final year of the historic buildings. This is understood for opening up the Cliffs of Moher to scheme, its importance is very much at Hall, Co. Laois, a late- tourists by creating paved walks and recognised and we hope therefore 18th-century country house that was erecting the c. 1835 O’Brien Tower. to extend the scheme beyond 2017, substantially renovated in c. 1868 The c. 80ft fluted Doric column is an subject to available funding. in the Italianate style by the English important landmark feature, situated This year the €50,000 available was architect Charles Lanyon (1813-1889). on an impressive site overlooking spread between nine successful Last year we assisted with the repair Liscannor Bay and O’Brien’s former applications, whose projects it was of striking decorative chimneystacks. home. The Follies Trust and the considered would really benefit The works this year involve the Friends of the O’Brien Column will from the Society’s help. This year’s continuation of their roof repair carry out careful conservation of the projects are a particularly interesting programme with the repair of the lead structure, including stabilising its group, including the conservation valley gutters on the roof and portico, crowning decorative urn, which is in of a memorial column, the renewal which are currently allowing water danger of collapse. of unusual decorative Cloisonné to penetrate the structure, damaging A number of churches require wall panels, and the restoration of a internal decorative plasterwork. assistance this year due to a range handsome Georgian doorcase. We are also supporting external of issues. St. Michael & All Angels, We are delighted to provide additional repairs at the Old Parochial House in Sallins, Co. Kildare, is a late-19th- funding to a local community group, Monkstown, Co. Cork. This building century church by the architect The Tea Lane Graveyard Committee. was designed by Edward Welby James Franklin Fuller (1835-1924). This group cares for Tea Lane Pugin (1834-1875), eldest son of the An unfortunate fire in 1947 destroyed cemetery, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, illustrious English architect Augustus internal timber features and also which centres on the c.1820 Maunsell Pugin (1812-1852), with the aid of caused smoke damage. The works Chapel, built on the footprint of a Irish architect George Coppinger involve the removal of smoke 6th-century church. Other structures Ashlin (1837-1921). Moisture has staining to the decorative Cloisonné on this site include the 19th-century always been an issue due to the (enamelled copper) wall panels by Grattan mausoleum and also the location of this red-brick building by Clement John Heaton (1861-1940), Conolly mausoleum, built in memory the sea. The owners have previously to reveal their beautiful colours of William ‘Speaker’ Conolly (1662- hosted a Brickwork Conservation and detailing. 1729) by his wife Katherine; she was and Repair CPD course and have External repair works are required also responsible for the erection of undertaken low-level repointing of at St. John’s Church, Ballycastle, Co. the Conolly folly, the well-known the brickwork. Grant aid is sought Mayo. This c. 1810-1820 church was symbol of the IGS, on the grounds to complete the repointing works built under the Board of First Fruits of their estate at . to protect the building from further and is attributed to the Irish architect A Conservation Management Plan water ingress. John Bowden (d. 1822). The recent for the cemetery is being admirably The O’Brien column in Liscannor, Co. discovery of ‘mud mortar’, forming implemented. Following necessary Clare, also suffers from water issues. part of the original construction of repairs last year, which with we Designed by J Petty Esq, the column the church’s tower, has added a level urgency to the works. IRISH GEORGIAN SOCIETY REVIEW 17 11

The Church of Saint John the 01 03 Evangelist, Monasterevin, Co Kildare, was built in c. 1815 with a plan possibly inspired by the Board of First Fruits churches. Its fine iron entrance gate is thought to have been relocated from the Moore Abbey Demense by the Marquess of Drogheda. Aid is sought for the restoration of this ornate entrance; not only will this improve the appearance of the building, it will also enhance the streetscape due to the church’s 02 prominent location on the town’s main street. Townscape improvements are also proposed in Mountmellick, Co. Laois, where extensive repair works are proposed to the street-facing elevation of the Town Hall. This gable-fronted building was designed in 1863 by the architect William Caldbeck (1824-1872) and is located in the town centre. Our funding also supports the 04 restoration of the original entrance door of Ballinrobe House, Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo. Originally built for Captain Courtney Kenny (1702-1779), this c. 1740 seven-bay house retains plasterwork reported to be by the famous Lafranchini brothers. The house has remained derelict for some years and there is evidence of fire. The current owners are now working through a careful programme of repair to restore this beautiful residential building. As demonstrated above, owners of historic structures face a variety of issues, which can naturally lead to financial pressures. We are, therefore, pleased that for the last four years this scheme has helped to fund essential works for the continued protection of 01 & 02 Ballinrobe House, Co Mayo these historic assets. It is very much showing frontage without its windows 05 hoped that we can extend the scheme and the entrance hall damaged by fire beyond 2017, subject to available 03 , Co Laois 04 Tea Lane Graveyard, Celbridge, Co. Kildare 05 funding, to enable us to continue this O’Brien’s Column, Liscannor, Co Clare particularly worthy cause. showing the damage caused to the surmounting urn Ashleigh Murray is Chair of IGS London and a member of the Conservation Grants Committee. Reg Conservation Grants Scheme Ashleigh Murray

The Irish Georgian Society is delighted to announce the third successful year of the Conservation Grants Scheme, which helps owners of historic structures to fund necessary works.

The London Chapter has made this of historic fabric through water ingress scheme possible through funds raised and the onset of damp, both of which from its activities and members’ can be disastrous in old buildings. Two generous bequests. Operating over a Georgian houses face this problem: the four-year period, annual funding will late-Georgian Ballynager House in Co. be available until 2017. Galway, designed by Richard Morrison Along with provision of several small (1767-1849); and Ledwithstown House, grants, a larger core grant can be offered Co. Longford, a mid-18th-century each year to an individual project. The house attributed to the architect Richard distribution of the limited funding was Castle (1690-1751). At Ledwithstown a very challenging this year as it was clear condition report is required to help guide that numerous projects would really the owners with necessary roof repairs benefit from the Society’s help. The to prevent further water penetration. London Chapter has, therefore, decided Other structures, ranging from castles this year to spread the funding more to small chapels, can also be affected equally between fourteen successful by water-ingress problems and applicants and to also go beyond the necessary roof repairs are required for normal limit of €50,000 by generously the following projects. is a offering €57,500. large c. 1170 castle in Co. Offaly that is For a variety of reasons, assistance is the home of the seventh Earl of Rosse, required at a number of Georgian houses. while Scots Church, Co. Carlow, was At Kildrought House, Co. Kildare, designed in 1818 by Thomas Alfred the original carriage entrance to this Cobden (1794-1842). Boyle Courthouse, early-18th-century house is subject to Co. Roscommon, was constructed in c. subsidence and necessary underpinning 1830 and the proposed new use for this and restoration is required. The striking civic building is an exhibition hall for decorative chimneystacks of Stradbally model railways. The Maunsell Chapel, Hall, Co. Laois, are in need of repair and Kildare, is a c. 1820 chapel that includes reinstatement. This late-18th-century medieval fabric from the previous house was substantially renovated monastery on the site. The chapel is in c.1868 in the Italianate style by the in association with a historic graveyard English architect, Charles Lanyon and a local community group, The Tea (1813-1889). Lane Graveyard Committee, cares for The maintenance and repair of historic the whole site. Side view of Ledwithstown buildings is vital to prevent the decay House, County Longford IRISH GEORGIAN SOCIETY REVIEW 16 7 8 CONSERVATION GRANTS 01 Maunsell Chapel, Tea Lane Graveyard, Celbridge, County Kildare 02 Exterior of Albert’s House, Dungarvan, County Waterford 03 Dublin Civic Trust’s new offices at 18 Ormond Quay, Dublin 2

An organisation we are pleased to support is The Royal Society 01 02 of Antiquaries Ireland. In their headquarters at 63 Merrion Square, Dublin, cracks to the chimneybreast have appeared in the front room of the principal floor in this late-18th-century terraced house. We are also delighted to support the independent charitable organisation, the Dublin Civic Trust, which works to recognise and protect Dublin’s architectural heritage. They have recently purchased two adjoining townhouses in the city centre and the works involve the reinstatement of 03 the currently blocked and missing sash windows to the rear of the mid-19th- century house, 18 Upper Ormond Quay. We are also supporting window- repair works in two other buildings: the late-Georgian Ross House, Co. Clare, which retains original sash windows and also the 1821 St Michael’s Church, Castlepollard, Co. Westmeath, built by the Pollard family who founded the original settlement, where original Gothic-style windows remain. Last year, Collon Parish Church, Co. Louth, received a core grant for a detailed inspection of the roof space above the striking, fan-vaulted ceiling. This year, we are helping with the reinstatement of the original pierced- stone parapet to the south gable of this c. 1815 building. Our funding also supports the restoration of a historic shopfront connected with Albert’s House, Waterford. This c. 1825 building functioned as bakery for nearly 120 years until it was tragically damaged by fire. As you can see, the wide range of buildings benefitting from this year’s grants scheme includes castles, residential buildings, civic structures and churches. There are a variety of issues that face owners of historic buildings, often resulting in financial pressures, and this scheme helps to fund essential works for the continued protection of these historic assets. We are very much looking forward to receiving applications in 2017 for the final year of the current scheme. Conservation Grant Scheme Ashleigh Murray

The Irish Georgian Society is delighted to announce the second successful year of the Conservation Grants Scheme. The London Chapter has made this scheme possible through funds raised from their activities and members’ generous bequests. The scheme helps owners of historic Irish structures to fund necessary works which may not otherwise be possible without the support of the IGS. IRISHTHE GEORGIAN REVIEWSOCIETY 15 REVIEW 15 7

This year we received over seventy The Lion’s Gate, attributed to James applications from across the country, Gandon (1743–1823), is a 1787 gateway a higher number than last year, thus in the Mote Park Estate. The last house highlighting the great need for this on the estate was demolished in 1963, type of funding. The Society valued all leaving behind several important but applicants but, ultimately, it was in vulnerable landscape structures. This a better position to help with certain arched gateway, flanked by walls and projects. It was very challenging to gate lodges, is surmounted by a Coade determine how this year’s limited stone lion, a rare feature to Ireland. budget should be spent as it was clear Coade stone is an artificial stone that that several projects would really benefit was perfected by Eleanor Coade (1733– from the Society’s help. The London 1821) in London during the late-18th Chapter have, therefore, gone beyond century. We are working closely with the normal agreed limit of €50,000 and the Roscommon Heritage Group who are have generously offered €57,000. taking on the challenge of conserving Furthermore, each year a core this important but dilapidated landscape grant is offered for one larger project, feature. The first priority is to undertake considered to be of particular importance a specialist site inspection of the and which would especially benefit lion in order to devise a considered from the support of the IGS. This conservation methodology. year, as several applications were Undertaking a careful inspection before particularly worthy of this support, a engaging in repair and conservation core grant of €10,000 has been offered works is the very sensible approach to three structures: the Lion’s Gate, Co. also being adopted at Collon Parish. The Roscommon; Collon Parish Church, Co. 1811–1815 chu­rch was designed by Rev. Louth; and Donnybrook House, Cork. Daniel Augustus Beaufort (1739–1821),

Main Image Donnybrook House, Cork. a c.1750 country house showing later additions 8 CONSERVATION GRANTS SCHEME

01 Collon Parish Church, Co. Louth. The 1811-1815 chu­rch was designed by Rev. 02 Daniel Augustus Beaufort 02 Ashleigh Murray, London chapter, Michael McMahon, Collon church restoration group and Primrose Wilson, chair conservation grants committee 03 The Lion’s Gate, Co. Roscommon. A c.1787 gateway in the Mote Park Estate

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an amateur architect and rector. The roof Cottage (c.1780-1800), Co. Donegal, is in poor condition and water leakage has belonged to the same family since is beginning to impact on the striking its construction. Now left empty, a internal fan-vaulted ceiling). A detailed condition report is required to help guide study of the roof space above the plaster the next generation with the necessary ceiling is required to guide the necessary works. The Mall, Co. Cork, is an early- repair and stabilisation works. 19th-century dwelling belonging to the Water ingress can have a detrimental Irish Landmark Trust. This charity saves effect on historic fabric and Donnybrook small historic buildings by converting House is a c.1750 country house that them into self-catering holiday homes. also faces this challenge. This single- We are pleased to help this charity with storey house, with its unusual flanking the re-thatching of this important two-storey end towers, has been in the vernacular house. Crichton family for three generations. An Taisce, who work to preserve Essential roof repairs are required to and protect Ireland’s natural and built protect this important structure. heritage, is another charity we are Two other structures also face water proud to support. Their headquarters ingress problems. Coolattin House, are located in Tailors’ Hall (1706), the Co. Wicklow, a large c.1800 country oldest surviving guildhall in Dublin. The residence, now a golf club, was originally southern wall has to be pinned back to designed by John Carr of York (1723– prevent collapse and the cracked granite 1807). Golf clubs are, unfortunately, still door surround and pediment require struggling to recover from the economic restoration. downturn. Necessary repairs to the roof There is a wide variety of historic are required to protect the stairwell’s structures that require maintenance decorative plasterwork, already damaged and conservation which puts a from water penetration. Similarly, roof financial burden on owners. The IGS’s repairs are required to the portico and Conservation Grants Scheme, therefore, the lantern rooflights at St. Paul’s Church helps to fund essential works for the (c.1837), Dublin, designed by Patrick continued protection of these historic Byrne (1783–1864). assets. The Presbyterian Church Dún There is a wide variety of historic Laoghaire (c.1861), Co. Dublin, contains structures that require maintenance a beautiful stained-glass rose window and conservation which puts a that is in danger of collapse. The stone financial burden on owners. The IGS’s mullions’ iron pins are rusting and Conservation Grants Scheme helps to expanding, causing pieces of stone to fund essential works for the continued crack and break away. The works include protection of these historic assets. replacing the stone mullions with new Portland stone, introducing steel pins and re-leading the glass. We were delighted to receive applications for two thatched cottages as these structures are becoming increasingly rare in Ireland. The Thatched 8 THE NEW CONSERVATION GRANTS SCHEME

The New Conservation Grants Scheme

Ashleigh Murray IRISHTHE GEORGIAN REVIEWSOCIETY 14 REVIEW 14 9 9

The Irish Georgian Society is delighted to announce the successful completion of the first year of its new Conservation Grants Scheme. This scheme has been made possible with the support of the London Chapter, through their activities and members’ generous bequests. The €50,000 available through this scheme helps owners to fund essential works which may not otherwise be possible without the support of the IGS. 10 THE NEW CONSERVATION GRANTS SCHEME

We were overwhelmed by the level of Two other churches being supported mansion, a smaller regional house, or interest in the scheme: we received 68 contain fascinating historic features. a church, the diversity of successful applications from across the country, Agher Church, Co. Meath, is a 1901 applicants highlights the wide range from a wide range of building types and church that incorporates a remarkable of issues that face owners today. ages. It was particularly challenging 18th-century stained-glass window Historic buildings require maintenance to determine how the limited budget which is in need of conservation. The and conservation which can put should be spent, due to the high calibre window originally came from the financial burdens on owners. The IGS’s of applications. The Society valued private chapel of the nearby Dangan Conservation Grants Scheme, therefore, all applicants but, ultimately, it was Castle, ancestral home of the Duke of helps to fund essential works for the in a better position to help with Wellington. Designed by Thomas Jervais continued protection of these certain works. (d. 1799), the famous 18th-century glass historic assets. Enormous costs are involved with painter, it depicts Paul preaching to the care of large country houses. the Athenians. Utilities alone are a huge expense The 1816 Hollymount Church, Co. before maintenance and conservation Mayo, was closed in 1959 and de-roofed can even be considered. We are, in 1962. Although the church lies therefore, pleased to be able to grant derelict, it contains a significant cast aid two of Ireland’s most important iron spire that is in need of stabilising country houses: and and repair works. Although not a Curraghmore House. Protected Structure, it demonstrates Masking an earlier 1696 structure, considerable architectural and historical Strokestown Park, Co. Roscommon, interest as it is the earliest of only three was modified c.1740 to form a Palladian known cast iron spires in the world. house with flanking pavilions, possibly Water ingress can have a to the designs of Richard Castle, one detrimental effect on historic fabric of Ireland’s most celebrated architects and is usually the first problem that 01 (overleaf). The Library wing has major has to be acted upon. Beaulieu House, problems with dry rot, an issue which Co. Louth, a c.1715 mansion with can affect many building types. Several Dutch-style dormers, has remained decorative items have been affected, in the Tichbourne family since its including historic wallpaper (supported construction. Works are required to the on timber battens), and extensive repair eaves and rainwater downpipes as water works are required. is causing damage to its striking Curraghmore House, Co. Waterford, façades (fig 02). is a c.1755 large classical house which Two detached regional houses also contains an outstanding decorative face similar problems. Milford House, plasterwork ceiling in the Billiard Room Co. Galway, is a c.1667 house that has attributed to the Lafranchini brothers. also been in the same family since its One of the finest 18th-century ceilings construction. Its three-sided front in Ireland, the works involve the repair porch, which is integral to the internal of this ceiling as the cornice in the design of the hallway, is in need of re- south-east corner has moved away slating and new rainwater goods (fig. from the wall. 3). Bridge House, Co. Mayo, constructed Issues with decorative plasterwork c.1785, faces problems with its roof and can also occur in other building types, the grant goes towards the third phase such as St Columba’s Church, Co. of roof works. Dublin. This c.1815 Gothic style church In contrast, 9/9A Aungier Street is an was designed by Francis Johnston important Dublin City terraced house. (1760/61–1829), the most important This c.1664 house may be the oldest and architect of his time. In 2013, a section most intact domestic structure in Dublin of ceiling collapsed which resulted in and is one of the first buildings in the the closure of the church. Churches Aungier Estate, Dublin’s first planned generally have limited funds and development. The timber staircase is the Previous Page so repair works can be particularly most outstanding, visual centrepiece Strokestown Park House, financially challenging. Consequently, of the house but major repair works are Co. Roscommon 01 this building has been offered our core required, including the careful repair St Columba’s Church, grant (for one larger project) as it was and reinstatement of the 17th-century Swords, Co. Dublin 02 felt it would especially benefit from the newel posts (fig. 4). Beaulieu House, Drogheda, support of the IGS. Whether caring for a large country Co. Louth 03 Milford House, Co. Galway 04 9/9a Aungier Street, Dublin IRISH GEORGIAN SOCIETY REVIEW 14 11

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