A Celebration of John Roberts

The Waterford classical legacy of architect John Roberts, presented the Cork Chapter members and friends with an excellent motive to reserve Sunday 17th June for a day out together. The day, by any standards, was truly a memorable one for many reasons, not least of which was the fact that the day was one of the rare sunny days this summmer. The carefully chosen programme was unique in that we were afforded the opportunity to explore and embrace several types of architectural gems designed by the same archiect, with one exception. These masterpieces comprised of Curraghmore House, Portlaw, The Bishop’s Palace and The Church of Ireland Cathedral, Waterford City, together with the exception of the Church of Ireland, Clonegam Church.

Being a Sunday, it seemed fitting that we should start with a visit to Clonegam Church, perched on a hill, within the Curraghmore Estate of the Marquess of Waterford in Portlaw. While the Church of Ireland Clonegam church was not designed by Roberts, it is also a fine Georgian structure built in 1741 for Sir Marcus Beresford Earl of Tyrone and Countess Catherine de la Poer who had united the Beresford and de la Poer families with their marriage.

The group was captivated by the range of funerary monuments and deeply moved by the delicate white marble statue of a lady with her infant, created by Boehm in 1873, immortilising the memory of Lady Florence Grosvenor who died with her baby. The stillness of remembered dead was only briefly broken as our group forced themselves to leave the past and proceed with the present by moving outdoors to cast an eye over the magnificent Curraghmore House as it lay in the valley beneath, beckoning us in the morning sunlight.

Curraghmore House looked truly monumental as we approached its vast and splendid courtyard. We were awestruck by the combination of architectural features from several periods that lay before us, starting with its 1167 origin. Lord Waterford’s house guide Basil, warmly welcomed our group and he proved to be a knowledgeable, enthusiastic and patient guide. We learned that while this ancient structure was modernised by John Roberts of Waterford City in the eighteenth century, James Wyatt created a series of neo-classical decorated rooms that delighted our sensibilities.

More splendours awaited us outdoors, as we viewed the Victorian refacing to the front of the building and enjoyed the formal parterre and tiered lawns as we walked towards the renowned Shell House created by Catherine Countess of Tyrone in 1754. As we crowded into the dimly lit shell house, John van Nost’s statue of the Countess lit up the space with its pure beauty.

Later in the afternoon in Waterford city, and fortified after a delicious lunch, the group was led through the fine Georgian interior of The Bishop’s Palace designed by Roberts in 1746. We were captivated by beautifully proportioned rooms that were full of exquisite silver, fine portraits and the splendour of Waterford Crystal chandeliers, all set off by the exemplary restoration of the building by Waterford City Council.

Cheek-by-jowl to the Bishop’s Palace was the third Roberts designed building on our programme, the Church of Ireland Christ Church Cathedral, 1774. Members were stunned by the exterior elegance of its wonderful tower and classical proportions. Inside, we were enthralled by its fine Georgian interior that included glittering chandeliers, magnificent stained glass windows, restrained wooden pews, but especially by its newly Kenneth Jones restored organ. Members gathered spellbound as we were treated to a special performance by Eric Sweeney, the cathedral’s musical director. Our applause registered our appreciation as we realised that John Roberts cathedral is not only a place of worship but a place of art and culture also.

As our group ventured out onto the street once more in the late afternoon sunshine, we were still taking in the exterior splendour of the cluster of Roberts buildings that gives the City of Waterford its integrity.  Our special thanks to all our hosts and to Kevin Hurley and Catherine FitzMaurice for conceiving and planning an outstanding and integrated programme.

North Cork Visit May 2012

It was a gloriously sunny day for the IGS Cork Chapter outing to North Cork on Saturday, 26th May, 2012.  The original programme for the day had to be changed, but the slightly revised scheme was a great success.

The first venue was Kilbrack House, near Doneraile, where the large group received a warm welcome (and delicious home-made apple juice) from the owners Dr. Miles Frankel and Emer Ransden.  The attractive house was built in 1775 and has had relatively few changes of ownership in its lifetime.  The family house is full of character and members admired the main rooms and unusual staircase.  It was wonderful to wander around the adjoining impressive farmyard and gardens and, in fact, the serene atmosphere and beautiful weather made it tempting to linger long at Kilbrack ... but lunch beckoned so members reluctantly took their leave.

The next stop was the Nano Nagle Centre at Ballygriffin, the spiritual home of the Presentation Sisters on the site of Nano Nagle's house.  Only the coach house remains and it has been adapted into an exhibition centre and location for retreats, conferences and sustainable living activities.  The weekly Saturday Market was finishing up as the group arrived, allowing for some purchases to be made!  Then, following a light lunch, members were brought on a guided tour of the organic gardens and renewable energy facility.

Burton Park, near Churchtown, was the next destination.  Generous hospitality was shown to the IGS members by owner Rosemary Ryan-Purcell and her family.  The group was divided in two; one half touring the house while the other enjoyed tea on the sunlit lawn, before swapping around.  The house was originally built in the 1660s, burnt in 1690 and subsequently rebuilt in stages.  It was constructed by the Percevals, Earls of Egmont and has been home to the Purcell family for generations.  Members admired the impressive interior, including the recently restored ceiling in the drawing room and the well preserved private chapel at the side of the house

The final destination was Marybrook House, near Kanturk, where Chris and Karen Southgate and their family gave a warm welcome to the group.  Chris spoke about the fascinating history of this interesting house, created over the centuries and incorporating a tower house dating to about 1550.  As a conservation engineer, he was well placed to restore the house, unveiling the layers of history as the work proceeded.  It was fascinating to view the huge fireplace and bread oven which were rediscovered when tons of debris from later alterations were removed.  The house is one room deep and light flooded into the rooms which were full of history, while acting as comfortable and attractive family rooms.  Delicious refreshments were provided to the members at the end of the visit and marked the conclusion of a most successful outing to North Cork.

Thanks to all those who hosted the group on the day and special thansk to Catherine FitzMaurice and Arthur Montgomery for organising the programme.

A Visit to Carrigaline and Environs

Some hidden jems within the environs of Carrigaline attracted an impressively large gathering at our second outing of the year. Members came together at Kilmoney Abbey, Carrigaline on a wettish Sunday on the 22nd April. But the rain did nothing to dampen our spirits as we were warmly welcomed by Flor and Michelle Riordan to their beautiful mid-eighteenth century home. Helped by their children, our hosts plied us with beverages and delicious home-made treats served around the blazing hearths of the delightfully appointed dining and drawing rooms. Comfortably refreshed, Flor outlined how his family first acquired the house in 1927 and how his grandfather and father, being more interested in the estate than the house, went on to lavish care on the surrounding farmland. Time passed, by 1997, Flor and Michelle had become the owners of the house and estate. But it was the severe Christmas storm of 1997 that forced our hosts to make decisions about the future of their home as its entire roof succumbed to the force of the storm and was blown down.

Members listened awestruck with admiration as Flor went on to describe the challenge and extent of the work that was needed to restore the roof, plaster work, the venetian window, the exterior and other fine details of the house. We were full of appreciation as our host brought us on a tour of the house to witness the outstanding quality of the finished refurbishment.

Stage two of our itinerary was only a short drive away to the newly restored and extended Knocknamanagh Old School. Built as a school at the end of the reign of William IV, the group were delighted to hear from committtee member, Eileen McGough that the building, thanks to the Herculean efforts of the local community, continues to be used for educational purposes today. Now ready for sustinance, the group were welcomed by Edward Corrigan, committee member, to his tranquil family home, Knocknamanagh House. There, members and friends were graciously entertained to a sumptious sit-down Sunday lunch with the Corrigans in fine surroundings.

Although reluctant to leave the Corrigans, the group then made their way back towards Carrigaline and to the fourth gem of the day, Mount Rivers, the mid 18th century ancestral home to six generations of the Roberts family. Lesley Roberts, raconteur, bibliophile and “inveterate and insatiable collector” held a spellbound audience as he traced the history of his home and family with wit and zeal. Captivated, the group enjoyed being guided round the house to view many thousands of historic objects of interest. Amongst the fascinating items, was some Carrigaline Pottery from the company that had been founded by Lesley’s grandfather in 1928.

Refreshments, courtesy of the committee, completed a fascinating trip to the environs of Carrigaline. Our hearfelt thanks to all our hosts and a special word of appreciation to Dr. Alicia St. Leger who planned and organised the day.

A Visit to Fota House and Desmesne

Historic Fota House and demesne was the setting for the opening of the Cork Chapter’s 2012 programme of events on Sunday 25th March. A lively group assembled among the scagliola columns in Fota’s magnificent classical hall before settling down to a leisurely lunch in the sun-filled airy long gallery café.

After lunch, Fota’s drawing room, lit by its elegant regency windows, made the perfect setting for author and lecturer Dr. Éibhear Walshe’s presentation Burning Down the House, Bowen, Keane and the Big House Novel. A provocative title indeed, given the location and content of this entertaining and informative afternoon lecture.

Positing the “Big House” as a person, Walshe discussed its fate from the differing perspectives of novelists Elizabeth Bowen and Molly Keane. Walshe, elaborating, suggested that Bowen conceived the “ Big House” historically, as an unloved creature, living as it did in the hostile world of the troubled decades of early 20th century Ireland when so many houses were lost to us. This loss, he referred to as “the death of the Big House.” The irony that we were in a position to appreciate such a topic was not lost by the thoughtful audience.  One could almost register the sense of relief experienced by our group, conscious that Fota was indeed lucky to have weathered that particular historical period relatively unscathed. It had been cared for by its owners, the Smith Barry family until 1975. Today, it is in the care of the Irish Heritage Trust and has a positive on-going story to tell us.

After this lively and compelling lecture, the group, enticed by early spring sunshine and led by our guide Geraldine O’Riordan, made their way through the gardens to arrive at the focus of the final part of the day’s programme – the series of early Edwardian glass houses that formed an important part of the “Big House” horticultural operation. After years of neglect and the ravages of Irish weather, the glass houses and adjacent bothy snugly contained within a walled space, are a stunning example of authentic and sensitive refurbishment. The group were impressed by the outstanding quality of workmanship undertaken by specialists Cornerstone Construction under the steady eye of the Irish Heritage Trust. The visit to the glass houses rounded off a perfect afternoon.

Our thanks to the Irish Heritage Trust and volunteer staff in welcoming us to Fota. And a special appreciation is conveyed to Geraldine O’Riordan who organised the event and to all those who contributed to making the occasion such an auspicous start to our 2012 programme. 

A visit to Innishannon in September 2011

Innishannon village is on the busy road between Cork and west Cork and many motorists aim to travel through the main street as quickly as possible. But look again! The village has some wonderful buildings and a fascinating history. This was explored by members of the Cork Chapter who gathered at old St Mary's Church on the morning of Saturday, 17th September, 2011.

The old church is surrounded by an ancient graveyyard and is located near the River Bandon. The church tower partially collapsed some years ago and a local group, The Friends of Innishannon, are actively promoting its restoration. Unfortunately, the church and graveyard are not accessible to the public, but can be viewed from outside the gates. Information about the church (in use until the 1850s), the graveyard and the general area was provided by Dr. Alicia St. Leger, Gavin Falk and Alice Taylor.

The group then made the short walk up hill to St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church which was built between 1810 and 1829 at a cost of stg 1,500. A spire was brought from St. Luke's Church in Cork and added to St. Mary's in 1875-1876. The church was restored in 2002. As well as being an attractive building, it also houses a gem: a wonderful old estate map of Innishannon. The story of this map was brought to life by the renowned author Alice Taylor, whose enthusiasm for the village was evident in her talk to the group.

The third church of the morning was Christ Church (Church of Ireland), located prominently on the main street. Built between 1854 and 1856, it was designed by Joseph Welland and replaced the earlier church near the river. Christ Church contains some notable features, including a stained glass window by Alfred Ernest Child of An Tur Gloine. Members of the group were treated to refreshments before examining the many fine features of the building.

Following a delicious lunch at the Poacher's Inn in nearby Bandon, the group reconvened at Cork Castle. This house stands in a prominent position overlooking Innishannon and has recently been meticulously restored by Richard Good-Stephenson. The house was destroyed by fire in 1921 and for years was in a ruinous condition. Richard Good-Stephenson, whose family have always owned the house, kindly led the group on a tour of the property. He has combined careful research into the history of Cor Castle with Superb craftsmanship, to create a most attractive family home. The gardens above the house have also been restored and provide a magnificient view over Innishannon.

Thanks to all of those who hosted the group at Innishannon, providing a very warm welcome and excellent hospitality

A visit to Innishannon in September 2011

Innishannon village is on the busy road between Cork and west Cork and many motorists aim to travel through the main street as quickly as possible. But look again! The village has some wonderful buildings and a fascinating history. This was explored by members of the Cork Chapter who gathered at old St Mary's Church on the morning of Saturday, 17th September, 2011.

The old church is surrounded by an ancient graveyyard and is located near the River Bandon. The church tower partially collapsed some years ago and a local group, The Friends of Innishannon, are actively promoting its restoration. Unfortunately, the church and graveyard are not accessible to the public, but can be viewed from outside the gates. Information about the church (in use until the 1850s), the graveyard and the general area was provided by Dr. Alicia St. Leger, Gavin Falk and Alice Taylor.

The group then made the short walk up hill to St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church which was built between 1810 and 1829 at a cost of stg 1,500. A spire was brought from St. Luke's Church in Cork and added to St. Mary's in 1875-1876. The church was restored in 2002. As well as being an attractive building, it also houses a gem: a wonderful old estate map of Innishannon. The story of this map was brought to life by the renowned author Alice Taylor, whose enthusiasm for the village was evident in her talk to the group.

The third church of the morning was Christ Church (Church of Ireland), located prominently on the main street. Built between 1854 and 1856, it was designed by Joseph Welland and replaced the earlier church near the river. Christ Church contains some notable features, including a stained glass window by Alfred Ernest Child of An Tur Gloine. Members of the group were treated to refreshments before examining the many fine features of the building.

Following a delicious lunch at the Poacher's Inn in nearby Bandon, the group reconvened at Cork Castle. This house stands in a prominent position overlooking Innishannon and has recently been meticulously restored by Richard Good-Stephenson. The house was destroyed by fire in 1921 and for years was in a ruinous condition. Richard Good-Stephenson, whose family have always owned the house, kindly led the group on a tour of the property. He has combined careful research into the history of Cor Castle with Superb craftsmanship, to create a most attractive family home. The gardens above the house have also been restored and provide a magnificient view over Innishannon.

Thanks to all of those who hosted the group at Innishannon, providing a very warm welcome and excellent hospitality

A visit to MacCurtain Street - October 2011

The MacCurtain Street area of Cork City was the focus for the October 2011 visit of the Cork Chapter. The morning event on Saturday, 22nd October began at Trinity Presbyterian Church where the Minister, the Rev. John Faris, kindly welcomed the group. He provided a most interesting talk on the history of the building which was celebrating its 150th anniversary. The Gothic-revival church was designed by Colin Tarring and is on a prominent site on the northern slopes of the city. Interesting features include stained glass and a 1904 pipe organ, the latter undergoing repair on the day of the visit. Following some refreshments, the group walked the short distance to the next venue.

St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church on the Lower Glanmire Road was designed by George Richard Pain in 1832 and completed in 1836. It was further altered by Sir John Benson in 1873 and Gelrge Ashlin in 1894. Members of the Cork Chapter were warmly welcomed by Canon Leader who not only spoke about the history of the church, but also showed us some interesting items, including a beautiful chalice. As members of the group looked around the building, they were treated to a short recital on the recently renovated organ.

The group then moved to the nearyby Everyman Palace Theatre on MacCurtain Street for the next part of the morning's activities. While there is an ornate canopy outside the theatre, the rest of the facade is relatively plain. However, what wonderful history is to be found inside! Led by guides Eimear O'Herlihy and Naomi Daly, the group was treated to a 'Behind-the-Scenes' tour. The building began life as an ordinary house built about 1840 but was converted to Dan Lowery's 'Palace of Varieties' in 1897, designed by R.H. Brunton.; It was used as a cinema between 1930 and 1988, re-opening as a theatre in 1990. As well as admiring the wonderful ornate proscenium arch boxes and decorative plasterwork in the main auditorium, members of the group were led through corridors and up and down stairs to see some of the non-public areas. This included seeing part of the original 19th century box office and old entrance. Our guides entertained and informed the group throughout.

After a busy morning, the Cork Chapter members had only to cross the road to Isaac's Restaurant for a hard-earned and relaxing lunch. Thanks to all those who helped to organise the event and to our welcoming hosts throughout the morning.

A visit to The Masonic Hall and Triskel Christ Church in November 2011

The Masonic Hall & Triskel Christ Church - November 2011

The final event for the Cork Chapter in 2011 was held on Saturday, 19th November and proved to be a great success.

The day began with members assembling in the Masonic Hall on Tuckey Street in Cork city. There Dr. David Butler welcomed everybody and led the group on a fascinating and very informative tour of the building. The structure dates to about 1770 and was known as the 'New Assembly Rooms' and later as 'The King's Theatre'. Originally there were three shops at ground level. The first Lodge of Ireland purchased the premises in 1844 and there have been various alterations to the building over the years. In september 1970 a major fire at the adjacent Jennings furniture store threatened the Masonic Hall and caused considerable damage to teh top floor. In recent years the property has been upgraded and renovated. Dr. Butler explained the fascinating and complex history of the building and of Freemasonry. Amongst the most interesting artefacts are some of the furnishings from the old St. Fin Barre's Cathedral.

Having taken leave of the Masonic Hall, it was only a short stroll around the corner to Christ Church on South Main Street. This important building dates to the 18th century and is on the site of earlier churches, being located within the original medieval walls of the City. Cork Chapter member, Pat Houlihan, provided a most interesting and entertaining talk on the history of the church. Originally designed in the 1720s by John Colstsman, it was substantially altered by George Richard Pain in the 1820s. Being built on marshy ground le its original tower to 'lean' to such an extent that it was taken down! Pat Houlihan pointed out the many remarkable features of the building, including the interesting coat of arms on the balcony. The church was in use until 1978 and then housed the Cork Archives for many years. It has recently been completely renovated and sympathetically adapted for use as a venue for concerts, film and other public events, under the auspices of the Triskel Arts Centre.

The adjacent Arts Centre and restaurant has been linked directly to Christ Church and the group finished the morning visit by having lunch (with an early Christmas theme) there. Grateful thanks are due to our informative guides, Dr. David Butler and Mr. Pat Houlihan, for kindly speaking to the group. Thanks also to the organisers of the event.