Rosnashane House, Cappanrush, Ballyfin, Co. Laois for sale courtesy Savills Residential and Country Agency, June 2025.
R32 C9E4 4 beds3 baths191 m2
Former Rectory on about 7.6 acres A former Rectory, Rosnashane House (1906) is a striking Edwardian period residence of remarkable character and charm, sitting amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, and includes a traditional coach house, stables, and tennis court. Located just under100km from Dublin City, Rosnashane House is a rare gem nestled at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains on the eastern boundary of the renowned Ballyfin Demesne – an 18th-century country estate now home to a world-class 5-star hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant. This exceptional setting offers both seclusion and prestige, within comfortable reach of Dublin, Shannon, and Cork airports, offering convenient international connectivity. Positioned on a private site of 7.6 acres, the property is approached through elegant bell-mouthed brick entrance piers with cast iron gates. A sweeping gravelled avenue leads to a forecourt, complete with a classic turning circle, with comfortable parking for ten or more cars. Rosnashane House is constructed in Durrow brick, that speaks to the area’s rich architectural heritage. Brought to market for the first time in over 40 years, this exceptional family home represents a rare, once-in-a-generation opportunity to acquire a property of enduring character and charm. Main Residence The entrance hall of Rosnashane House exudes warmth and charm, setting the tone for the elegant interiors beyond. To the right, the drawing room enjoys dual-aspect views, with bay windows to the front, and anchored by a graceful period fireplace. The formal dining room, also with dual aspect
views, a bay window and period fireplace, easily seats ten or more guests, making it ideal for entertaining. To the rear of the house, the living room enjoys a fireplace and tranquil views of the landscaped rear garden, offering a perfect space for relaxed family living or a comfortable children’s playroom. The kitchen overlooks the front grounds and features bespoke cabinetry, integrated appliances, and three impressive sash windows that bathe the space in natural light. A separate hallway off the kitchen leads to a practical utility room, toilet, and pantry area. Four spacious bedrooms on the first floor each benefit from large sash windows that flood the rooms with natural light, as well as built-in wardrobes and period fireplaces. The first floor also includes a well-appointed bathroom and separate shower room. The house has been modernised over the years while thoughtfully preserving its period features, including the distinctive gables, cast-iron downpipes, and classic interior window shutters. Overall, the main house offers approximately 2,062 sq ft (191.6 sq m) of accommodation, with detailed floorplans available. Coach House and Courtyard A spacious private courtyard lies at the heart of the property. Vehicular access is afforded via large double gates at the front of the property, with direct entry points from both the main residence and the coach house, in addition to a separate gate leading into the rear garden. The courtyard comprises of a coach house, including two outbuildings on the ground floor, one open and one enclosed, capable of serving as secure garages. Situated to the left of the main residence, the coach house is ideally positioned to be integrated into the main house footprint. Constructed of classic Durrow red brick, the Coach House has its own separate entrance and offers a separate living space with fireplaces both upstairs and downstairs. Upstairs consists of two rooms, one of which is a large open area, offering ideal options for a spacious home office, a studio space, or other children or entertainment areas. The coach house holds vast potential for conversion and creative uses, subject to appropriate planning permissions. In all the Coach house accommodation extends to about 1,629 sq ft / 151.4 sq m, with a full layout shown on the adjoining floorplans. Gardens The gardens at Rosnashane are a true sanctuary. Lush, mature and thoughtfully curated, the grounds boast a rich variety of specimen trees, flowering shrubs, and sculpted hedging that offer both seasonal colour and exceptional privacy. To the rear of the house, a serene fish-pond adorned with water lilies creates a tranquil setting, ideal for al fresco summer dining or a quiet retreat. Expanses of manicured lawn stretch across the landscape, providing both visual harmony and ease of maintenance. The gardens are largely laid to lawn in a traditional style, allowing the historic character of the grounds to shine while remaining practical and straightforward to maintain. The generous outbuildings and a dedicated gardener’s WC complete the picture of a country home designed for both elegance and practicality. Stables Equestrian enthusiasts will appreciate the three loose boxes with an adjoining turnout area. The stables are accessed via a small gate that leads into three individual stables — two single boxes and one double also featuring a paddock ideal for grazing and exercise. The stables also present great potential for conversion and could be adapted for a variety of alternative uses, making them a significant asset to the property. Tennis Court The property features a professionally constructed, tarmac-surfaced tennis court, enclosed by durable, green weatherproof fencing for year-round use. Its positioning within the grounds offers both privacy and shelter, while the low-maintenance surface ensures ease of upkeep. Whether used for recreation or fitness, the court adds valuable functionality to the estate’s outdoor amenities. Land The land has frontage onto two roads and is accessed through either the main entrance or an agricultural access off the R423. The land is in excellent order, well drained with defined boundaries and suitable for a wide range of agricultural enterprises and amenity. Viewing Strictly by appointment with Savills Country Agency. Fixtures & Fittings Fixtures and fittings are excluded from the sale including garden statuary, light fittings, and other removable fittings, although some items may be available by separate negotiation. Services Septic tank, oil fired central heating, and mains water. Entry & Possession Entry is by agreement with vacant possession. Offers Offers may be submitted to the selling agents: Savills, 33 Molesworth Street, Dublin 2. Email address: country@savills.ie Financial Guarantee All offers (regardless of the country of residence of the offering party) must be accompanied by a guarantee or suitable form of reference from a bank, which gives the sellers satisfaction that the purchaser has access to the funds required to complete the purchase at the offered price. Wayleaves and Rights of Access The property will be sold with the benefit of all existing wayleave rights, including rights of access and rights of way, whether public or private. The purchaser will be held to have satisfied themselves as to the nature of all such rights and others. Generally Should there be any discrepancy between these particulars, the General Remarks and Information, Stipulations and the Contract of Sale, the latter shall prevail. Brochure prepared and photographs taken in May 2025.
Tintore House, Ballacolla, Abbeyleix, Laois for sale May 2025 courtesy CPBM Real Estate R32F9Y1 4 beds3 baths340 m2
€700,000
CBPM is proud to introduce this delightful 4 Bed / 3 Bath Georgian style home. Tintore House, located in Ballacolla, Co. Laois, is a magnificent, striking period property with a blend of history and modern comfort. As you step inside through large double doors you are greeted by an open entrance hall inviting you into this this substantial residence spanning 340.0 m² (3659.73 sq. ft) across two floors, offering ample space for living and entertaining. The heart of this home is undoubtedly the inviting living room, featuring a stone wall and an elegant chandelier casts a warm glow. Hardwood floors extend throughout, adding a touch of classic sophistication, while large windows flood the space with natural light, creating an atmosphere of openness and tranquility. One of the standout features of Tintore House is its multiple dining areas, with two distinct dining rooms available. This layout offers versatility for intimate family dinners to grand soirées. The spacious kitchen, seamlessly blending modern convenience with classic charm. Newly fitted wooden cabinets adding warmth. Ample counter space and state-of-the-art appliances make culinary adventures a joy, inspiring gourmet creations and memorable gatherings. A dedicated utility room with countertop space ensures practicality in daily living. As you move through the four welcoming hallways, you’ll appreciate the thoughtful layout that creates a sense of flow and spaciousness. The two staircases, an architectural focal point, connects the two floors with elegance and ease. The property boasts four bedrooms, a true sanctuary that promises restful nights and rejuvenating mornings, ensuring comfortable accommodations for family and guests. Each bedroom has a beautifully crafted fireplace, to keep the rooms warm and cozy on those cold nights. Two bathrooms serve the household, balancing convenience with the home’s historic character. With two bathrooms, the property ensures convenience for both family members and guests. Inside, the home showcases a blend of period features such as fireplaces, ornate chandeliers and modern amenities. The entrance hallway, adorned with patterned tile flooring, leads to various living spaces. High ceilings, ornate light fixtures, and hardwood floors add warmth and character contribute to the property’s historic charm. Throughout the home, large windows bathe the rooms in natural light, creating an airy ambiance and offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. the property’s location in Ballacolla provides a perfect balance of tranquillity and accessibility. Externally, Tintore House is set within expansive grounds, showcasing well-maintained lawns bordered by mature trees and hedgerows and an orchard. The property’s facade is partially covered in ivy, adding character to its stone construction. A notable feature is the remnant of a stone tower, hinting at the property’s historical significance. The surrounding landscape offers a serene rural setting with open fields and distant tree lines, providing a picturesque backdrop to this substantial family home. The property’s spacious grounds and tranquil location make it an ideal retreat for those seeking a blend of historic charm and modern comfort in the Irish countryside. The approach to the house features a gravel driveway bordered by manicured lawns and mature trees, and a stream, creating an inviting first impression Tintore House is not just a home; it’s a lifestyle choice. It’s where memories will be made, dreams will be nurtured, and life will be lived to its fullest. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful country retreat or a distinguished family home, this property offers the canvas upon which to paint your ideal life. Embrace the opportunity to make this exceptional property your own and step into the life you’ve always imagined. Your future begins here at Tintore House – where aspiration meets reality. A brief history of the house: It was built by the Fitzpatrick’s on what is believed to be 14 May 1635 as inscribed on a cut stone in the three-storey tower which unfortunately burnt down in 1958, losing the top storey. This home is only 10 minutes to the heritage town of Abbeyleix, 15 minutes to Rathdowney and Durrow. The commuter town of Portlaoise is 15 minutes, which includes the train station and major bus links and the M7 Motorway which also can be accessed from just outside Ballacolla that is only a 3-minute drive. A selection of primary and award-winning secondary schools is close by; to mention Heywood CS in Ballinakill and St Fergal College, Rathdowney and a selection of others can be found in Portlaoise Town. Accommodation Downstairs Entrance Hall – 4.59m x 2.08m – Tiled floor, light fittings, ceiling rose Dining / Sitting room – 4.58m x 5.15m – Carpet, ceiling rose, chandelier, curtain pole, fireplace, moulded coving Dining room – 6.06m x 5.23m – Carpet, ceiling rose, chandelier, curtain pole, fireplace, wall lights, moulded coving Hallway – 5.70m x 4.69m – Tiled floor, ceiling rose, light fitting, curtain pole, moulded coving Hallway – 4.99m x 1.26m – Tiled floor, light fitting, ceiling rose Hallway – 3.26m x 0.92m – Tiled floor, recessed light fitting Kitchen – 9.47m x 4.02m – Tiled floor, bespoke fitted cabinets with granite worktops, light fittings, fitted gas hob and electric oven, extractor, skylights, AGA cooker Bathroom – 2.51m x 3.84m – Fully tiled, recessed light, fitted mirror, w.c., w.h.b., fitted bath, Triton electric shower Guest toilet – 1.61m x 1.42m – Tiled floor, half wall tiles, light fitting, skylight, fitted mirror, w.c., w.h.b. Hallway / Back Entrance – 3.34m x 1.58m – Tiled floor Utility room – 5.37m x 2.72m – Tiled floor, bespoke fitted cabinets and worktops, light fitting, skylight Staircase 1 and landing – 1.98m x 3.83m – Bathroom – Tiled floor, half wall tiles, light fitting, w.c., w.h.b. Upstairs Staircase and Landing – 3.83m x 1.98m – Carpet, chandelier, curtain pole Bedroom 1 – 5.04m x 6.82m- Carpet, Chandelier, fireplace, curtain pole Bedroom 2 – 5.04m x 1.55m – Carpet, light fitting Hallway – 1.26m x 7.57m – Carpet, Chandelier, Wall light fitting Bedroom 3 – 5.80m x 5.09m – Carpet, Chandelier, fireplace, curtain pole Bedroom 4 – 6.05m x 5.01m – Carpet, Chandelier, fireplace, curtain pole Second Staircase and Landing – 4.17m x 3.17m – Carpet, chandelier, curtain pole
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Heywood House in County Laois burned in an accidental fire in 1950, but the demesne is maintained and open to the public. My father, who grew up in nearby Abbeyleix, was at a musical concert with his mother the night of the fire and saw the house burning! At the time, the house was owned by the Salesian order of priests.
The house was designed by its owner Michael Frederick Trench (1746-1836) in 1770s, with the help of his friend James Gandon who designed, among other buildings, Dublin Custom House. Trench was an amateur architect, and designed the parish church of Swords, as well as an addition to the Rotunda in Dublin. [1]
Michael Frederick Trench (1746-1836) by Hugh Douglas Hamilton, picture courtesy of National Gallery of Ireland, NGI.7773James Gandon (1743-1823), courtesy of National Gallery of Ireland.
Robert O’Byrne tells us in his blog The Irish Aesthete that: “In the early 18th century, a younger son William Trench settled in Laois and acquired land there which was initially developed by his heir, the Rev. Frederick. The English antiquary Owen Brereton wrote of the property in 1763, describing it as ‘a sweet Habitation’ with ’24 Acres Walld round 10 feet high. The ground naturally in fine Slopes and Rising, large trees properly disperst, a River of very clear Water running through it. Pouring Cascades, upon which I counted near 100 Couple of rabbits & 100 of Brace of Hares which are in this Grounds…very extensive Views.’ Both the habitation and the grounds were enlarged by the Rev. Trench’s son Michael Frederick Trench…” [2]
The house was named after Trench’s mother-in-law, Mary Heywood (daughter of a Drogheda merchant). Michael Frederick Trench married Anna Helena Stewart who was the only daughter of Patrick Stewart and Mary Heywood of Killymoon in Co. Tyrone.
Mark Bence-Jones describes the house in his Irish Country Houses (1988):
“A house consisting of three storey four bay late C18 centre, with mansard roofed Victorian wings of the same height but in a totally different style. The C18 centre built 1773 by M.F. Trench, who is said to have been the only man who ever called a house after his mother-in-law…The dining room was one of the most accomplished interiors of the Adam period in Ireland, with delicate plasterwork on the ceiling and in panels on the walls.“
Information board at Heywood, County Laois.Heywood, County Laois, photograph by A.E. Henson, from Country Life, volume XLV, 1919.The dining room at Heywood House,ceiling probably by Michael Stapleton, photograph by A.E. Henson, from Country Life, volume XLV, 1919.Heywood, County Laois, photograph by A.E. Henson, from Country Life, volume XLV, 1919.Heywood, County Laois, photograph by A.E. Henson, from Country Life, volume XLV, 1919.Heywood, County Laois, photograph by A.E. Henson, from Country Life, volume XLV, 1919.Heywood, County Laois, photograph by A.E. Henson, from Country Life, volume XLV, 1919.Heywood, County Laois, photograph by A.E. Henson, from Country Life, volume XLV, 1919.Heywood, County Laois, photograph by A.E. Henson, from Country Life, volume XLV, 1919.
After Michael Frederick Trench built the house, he landscaped the area between his house and the village of Ballinakill, apparently moving hills, digging lakes (he made three artificial lakes), planting trees and placing follies. He created a picturesque garden. The idea of the picturesque first emerges as an idea in late Renaissance in Italy where the term pittoresco began to be used in writing about art. It means that the subject, in this case, the landscape, is “like a traditional picture”. In Holland in the early 17th century a new genre of landscape painting was often referred to as “painter-like” (schilder-achtig). [3] At roughly the same time, French artists Claude Lorraine and Nicholas Poussin painted Arcadian landscapes with classical elements such as ruined temples and mythological figures. These paintings inspired William Kent (c. 1685 – 12 April 1748), an architect, landscape architect and painter. Kent began a style of “natural” gardening that revolutionised the laying out of gardens and estates.
There’s a seat in the gardens called “Claud’s Seat” that may be a tribute to Claude Lorraine.
The landscape gardens designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown (c. 1716-1783) and his followers were considered to be quintessentially picturesque.
“Capability” Launcelot Brown (1716-1783), Landscape gardener, painting by Nathaniel Dance (later Sir Nathaniel Holland, Bt), c. 1773, courtesy of National Portrait Gallery NPG 6049
The demesne includes parkland, woodland, a lake, some architectural features and a formal garden by Edwin Lutyens with a beautiful vista, which takes in seven counties!
The garden, set within a 250 acre demesne, is, Andrew Tierney claims, the best of its kind in Ireland: a blend of the Arcadian and the Picturesque, above which Edwin Lutyens later erected his walled terraces and enclosures. [4] One of the follies built by the Trenches may contain windows from nearby Aghaboe Abbey. My grandfather purchased property (house and farm) at Aghaboe but the family lost the property when the land was bought by compulsory purchase by the Land Commission in 1977, after my grandfather John Baggot died. I always thought we actually owned the Abbey but that may have been wishful thinking on my Dad’s part.
Michael Frederick’s daughter Helena married Compton Pocklington Domvile, 1st Baronet Domvile, of Templeogue and Santry, Dublin. They had several children, but the house was passed down via their daughter Mary Adelaide, who married Lt-Col William Hutcheson Poë (1848-1934) 1st Baronet.
A son of Michael Frederick Trench, this is Frederick Trench (1775-1859). Inscribed on a label on the back: General Sir Frederick Trench/late of Heywood/A prominent promoter of/The Thames Embankment/& other improvements in London. By Unknown artist circa 1827, courtesy National Portrait Gallery 5505. The panorama of the Thames Quay cascading from Trench’s desk appears to stop at St Paul’s and is therefore intended to represent his A Collection of Papers relating to the Thames Quay, with Hints for some further Improvements, illustrated with lithographs by C. M. Baynes and published in 1825, re-issued in 1827. This followed an unsuccessful Bill in Parliament introduced to obtain Treasury support for the project, but in spite of influential backing the plans were dropped and the Embankment was not begun until five years after Trench’s death, with his elegant colonnades omitted. The furnishing of his room includes on a bracket the marble bust by Matthew Wyatt (1826) of Trench’s patron, the Duchess of Rutland, now at Castle Howard. Manuscripts and a William Kent table point to his various antiquarian interests.
Heywood House was enlarged by Lt-Col William Hutchison-Poë in 1875. Around 1906, William Hutchison-Poë hired Edwin Lutyens to create a garden for Heywood.
Information board aboutHeywood, County Laois.
The website tell us that “The architect Sir Edwin Lutyens designed the formal gardens, which are the centrepiece of the property. It is likely that renowned designer Gertrude Jekyll landscaped them.
“The gardens are composed of elements linked by a terrace that originally ran along the front of the house. (Sadly, the house is no more.) One of the site’s most unusual features is a sunken garden containing an elongated pool, at whose centre stands a grand fountain.“
Heywood was bought by the Salesian Fathers in 1923, and it was during their time that the fire occurred. It was transferred to State ownership from the Salesian Fathers in November 1993 .
The OPW website tells us “The Heywood experience starts beside the Gate Lodge. Information panels and signage will guide you around the magical Lutyens gardens and the surrounding romantic landscape.“
Tierney describes the garden: “The gardens stretch from the principal gates for almost a kilometer and a half, incorporating a sequence of three adjoining lakes and a fourth, further east, and areas of rolling parkland skirted by woodlands. Trench named each part of his garden after Alpine scenery. Trench’s Gothic follies include the Abbeyleix gate, an arrangement of octagonal towers joined by a Tudor-arched gateway. The Trench coat of arms is visible to the right of the gateway arch. From this gate the winding drive opens to Trench’s valley. Nearby, marking a split in the road, is the Spire, a shaft raised in memory of Trench’s friend Andrew Caldwell. Further along is a sham castle. High up behind that is a bridge, and a ruin, on the other side, with the Aghaboe windows. Up the pathway is the Gothic Greenhouse, a brick construction with five lancets with hood mouldings. On the east side of the lake is a grotto or bath house. On the east side of the demesne is the Trench mausoleum.”. [see 4]
Heading toward the Lutyens sunken garden from the Orangerie displays the stunning view, over a lawn of perfect grass. Below the lawn, toward the river, is a trellised walkway, by Lutyens. The house was above. To the east of the house was an alley of “pleached” limes: pleaching means bending and weaving the branches of a row of trees to form a living wall.
Sean O’Reilly describes the Lutyens garden addition:
“Lutyens worked on the gardens from about 1906. He complemented the strong architectural framework with an informal planting style, following the same combination of structure and nature developed at Lambay and made popular with his associate – and Country Life author – Gertrude Jekyll. Laying out the garden in a series of terraces and stepped passageways exploding east and west from the falling southern terraces of the house itself, the architect shaped these spaces with a bewildering variety of retaining walls – vertical and battered, stepped and sheer – screen walls – straight and curved, large and dwarf – columns, steps and architectural artifacts.” [5]
The Tuatha website tells us that, sadly, in 1920, Poe’s car was set alight by Republicans when he was returning from a dinner party in Ballyroan. Poe left Heywood a month later, never to return. [6] Perhaps the website is incorrect and it was slightly later, which would make sense, as Poe served as a Senator in the Irish Free State from 1922 to 1925. Many senators had their houses burned by anti-Treaty forces, so burning his car may have occurred for that reason.
In 1941, the house and gardens at Heywood were broken up, and the Salesian Brothers purchased the property. The Salesians are a religious institute founded in the late-19th century by Italian priest, Saint Don Bosco, in order to help children suffering from poverty during the industrial revolution. The Salesians set up a novitiate at Heywood to a train aspirants to the priesthood. They utilised the glasshouses created by Poe to grow fruit and vegetables, with tomatoes, nectarines, peach trees and grape vines.
On the east side of the pond Luytens created a Pavilion with Portland stone dressings, terracotta tiled roof and saucer-domed interior, containing two Corinthian capitals rescued by Trench from the Parliament House in Dublin, which he was involved in remodelling. The north wall had busts of philosphers in oval niches, now replaced by urns.
Heywood, County Laois, photograph by A.E. Henson, from Country Life, volume XLV, 1919.
Behind and above the Sunken Garden are a series of “rooms” created by tall hedges and floral planting, stone structures and a suntrap of a seating area.
[1] p. 96. Sadleir, Thomas U. and Page L. Dickinson. Georgian Mansions in Ireland with some account of the evolution af Georgian Architecture and Decoration. Dublin University Press, 1915.
Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.
Clement Herron Real Estate is pleased to welcome this fantastic period property in excellent condition to the market. This fine property was built in c. 1713 and is set on c. 3 acres which can be accessed via 2 separate driveways. The property boasts original features such as timber sash windows with wooden shutters, high ceilings, fanlight & period fireplaces.
The property comprises of entrance hall, living room, formal dining room, study, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathroom, family room, kitchen & store rooms.
Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.
The five double bedrooms are distributed over the two upper floors. The master bedroom is particularly bright and spacious. Three of the bedrooms have original fireplaces.
The basement area comprises of large kitchen, dining, sitting room, utility space for laundry, fuel/ boiler housing and other storage.
The main garden affords full southerly aspect and is laid out in grass lawn with tarmac driveway and ample parking space. There is a fabulous collection of mature trees and shrubs with a boundary wall with creates a private and secure residence. To the left of the main residence is a disused stable block and former garage, which can be converted back to stables if required. Location: Woodbrook House is located on the outskirts of Mountrath town centre. Mountrath is a small town in Co. Laois, approx 15 minute drive to Portlaoise and approx 1 hour to Dublin. Local amenities include the historic Roundwood House with its wonderful cultural evenings, Ballyfin Demesne and numerous woodland walks. Primary schools and the well regarded Mountrath Community School are all within a few minutes walk. Also walking distance to shops, banks, pubs, restaurants, churches etc. This property represents an opportunity to acquire a distinctive period house on a terrific private site at a reasonable price.
Accommodation
Basement : Hall: 3.16m x 3.06m Porch: 1.61m x 2.20m Tiled floor, alarm.
Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.
Sitting Room: 5.40m x 4.21m Carpet, Fireplace, light fittings x 3, curtains, curtain rail, built in shelves. Storage: 4.76m x 3.25m Carpet. Garage: 4.34m x 4.25m Pumphouse: 0.96m x 0.92m Ground Floor : Entrance Hall: 4.29m x 4.27m Carpet, coving, light fitting, fan light. Office: 3.36m x 4.27m Carpet, fireplace, curtains, curtain poles, sash windows & shutters.
Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.
Living Room: 5.52m x 4.23m Carpets, red velvet curtains, with decorate valence, picture rail, coving, period fireplace, light fittings, sash windows with wooded shutters. Dining Room: 5.42m x 4.18m Carpets, Curtains with decorate valence, feature fireplace, coving, picture rail. Landing: 5.05m x 1.20m Carpet.
Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.
Kitchen: 2.17m x 2.01m Fitted kitchen, cooker, hob & oven, tiled splash area. Hotpress: 1.76m x 2.32m Landing: 1.97m x 5.41m Carpet.
Toilet: 1.00m x 1.58m W.C. Stairway to basement: 3.52m x 0.93m Carpet
Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.
First Floor : Landing: 1.92m x 4.57m Carpet, feature window. Bathroom: 2.14m x 3.06m Tiled walls & floor, w.c., w.h.b, electric shower, bath. Hall: 4.74m x 4.31m. Carpet
Bedroom 1: 3.47m x 4.28m Carpet, sash windows with wooden shutters, fireplace, coving. Bedroom 2: 5.55m x 4.21m Carpet, sash windows with wooden shutters, fireplace, coving. Bedroom 3: 4.18m x 5.38m Carpet & fireplace. Wardrobe: 0.47m x 0.83m Second Floor Bedroom 4: 4.35m x 3.51m Carpet. Bedroom 5: 4.38m x 3.14m Carpet. Water tank: 1.57m x 1.42m Shed Outdoors: 11.05m x 4.99m
Features
Period property on c. 3 acres. Timber sash windows.
The imminent publication of Regina Dunne’s Book on Lucy Franks and Helen Roe, “Opening A Window on the Past” prompted me to look at Woodbrook House, Mountrath, a house to which they were both connected.
Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate. from the sale details in 2019
I had always presumed it to be a pleasant but not madly interesting house, and guessed on stylistic grounds that it dated from the late 1830s.
I was wrong on all counts!
Architecturally it is not very exciting. A 3 storey over basement, 3 bay house, with a very unusual detail of the staircase leading off the hall to the left as you enter the house, crossing the front window, and a remarkable first floor with a double height landing and a tall arched window. At the back of the front hall a pair of mahoganized doors set in an elliptical arched opening with reeded pilasters lead into the north west facing drawing room and dining room. The front door looks like a Victorian replacement, perhaps when the plate glass windows were first inserted, though the tear drop fanlight is original. There is a gateway at the side of the house with a very fine doorcase. I wonder was that originally around the front door. The attic floor windows are sqeezed in beneath the fully hipped roof, with a central valley.
The Front Hall. Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.
The earliest reference that I found was in Volume 8 – Page 155 Irish Memorials Association · 1913. There is a monument in the C of I church in Mountrath “Sacred to the Memory of Thomas Dodd late of Woodbrook near Mountrath | who departed this life 18 of June | A.D. 1819 Aged 41 years | Here also lies the Body of | Robert only son of Thomas Dodd | Born 13th Sept 1815 died 30th April 1837.” Next door to it is the tomb of his parents, Mary and Robert Dodd (1744-1812). In 1810 Robert Dodd is listed as holding lands at Redcastle from the Cootes. The Dodds seem to have come from Moyanna at Stradbally. The indexes to Irish Wills has the wills of Stephen and William Dodd of Stradbally in 1739. In 1772 Michael Dodd, Stradbally, gent., is a witness to the will of Dudley Alexander Cosby, Lord Sydney.
In 1808 Thomas Dodd was the 1st Lieutenant of the Mountrath Yeomanry. There is a marriage settlement of Thomas Dodd and Harriet Hunt (b 11 Aug 1791) in 1814 – Thomas Dodd of Mountrath (1st part) James Short of Newtown and Joseph Calcutt of Coldblow (?) (2nd part), Harriet Hunt Spinster (3rd part), Vere Dawson Hunt of Cappagh and Revd Val Griffiths of Mountrath (4th part). Harriet was the eighth daughter of Vere Hunt and Elizabeth Davis and the sister of Elizabeth Shortt (nee Hunt) of Larch Hill. Their son Robert was born in 1815 and Elizabeth was born about 1816. So It might be assumed that Thomas Dodd built Woodbrook around 1814.
By 1829 it was to let on 7 acres and was rented by Rev Alexander Nixon, who went to Coolbanagher in 1837 from which he resigned in 1845.
Woodbrook on the 1840 OS Map
Alexander, from Fermanagh, had married Mary Kentinge in Dublin in March 1828. In 1832 he officiated at the marriage of George Nixon of Dunbar, Fermanagh to Anna Maria, daughter of Alexander Nixon Montgomery of Bessount Park, Monaghan. Mary died 1 Jan., 1857, and on 25 Feb., 1858 he married Anne Catherine, dau. of the Rev. Thomas Harpur, of New Park, Maryborough, whose son John married Nixon’s niece Ellen in July 1859.
On Thursday April 19 1829 the Duke and Duchess of Northumerland held a drawing room at Dublin Castle. The Rev. Nixon and his bride were there, she wearing a white tuille dress, richly trimmed with satin and flowers, over a white satin slip, a train of bird of paradise trimmed with blond, and a head dress of white feathers, blond lappets and diamonds.
Saturday 13 March 1830 Nixon was in Woodbrook and had engaged Messrs Semple of Marlborough St to enlarge the church.
On Jan 11 1833 Mrs Nixon had a daughter, Frances Maria, at Woodbrook. Frances married 1 July, 1869, Bernard George Shaw, D.I., R.I.C., only son of George Nathaniel Shaw, of Monkstown Castle, Cork, a junior branch of George Bernard Shaw’s family whose principal home was Bushy Park in Dublin.
From Coolbanagher Nixon moved to Gweedore where he proved to be an unpopular landlord and in October 1858, when returning from Sunday service with his wife and daughter at about 2 pm, half way between his house Heathfield, and the village of Falcarragh, a group of three apparently drunk women blocked the road. As the carriage drove up one seized the reins and stopped the horses, while another commenced singing, and the third began to leap and fling herself about. Alexander put his head out of the window to see what was going on and one of the men (for that is what they actually were) shot him in the mouth.
His unpopularity had been exacerbated by his evidence to a Parliamentary Committee, which was totally at variance with the appeal of the 10 local parish priests. Mr. Nixon claimed that his lands were let at low rents, and that his tenants were in more comfortable circumstances than they had been some years before, and that the money placed at the disposal of the Roman Catholic priests was disbursed in some cases among “the undeserving”. I am reminded of Alfred Dolittle in the other Bernard Shaw’s play, Pygmalion :-“ I ask you, what am I? I’m one of the undeserving poor: that’s what I am. Think of what that means to a man. It means that he’s up agin middle class morality all the time. … I don’t need less than a deserving man: I need more. I don’t eat less hearty than him; and I drink a lot more.”
Knockballymore, where Nixon died
Nixon’s critics noticed that in the 11 years that he had been in Donegal he had deprived his tenants of their mountain grazing in Gweedore and Cloughaneely, raised the rents enormously, made them pay duty days, poor rates, income tax, turf money, seaweed tax, and “other tributes scarcely credible”. A few days before the attack he informed his tenants that unless they consented to pay these charges in advance all the small holders would be ejected, and large 10 acre farms would be made of the small ones. He was not killed, but survived another 24 years, having moved to the safety of the Earl of Erne’s agent’s or dower house at Knockballymore, Newtownbutler. By the time of the OS 1890 survey Heathfileld was marked as “In Ruins” and now it a desert of Sitka Spruce. Sadly the country villa designed by Walter G Doolin for W Doherty in 1884 was never built.
Walter Doolin’s design for a newly built Heathfield for Mr W. Doherty 1884, The Irish Builder (from Archiseek)
When Nixon left Woodbrook in 1837 an even more colourful tenant arrived. William Hawkesworth (1792-1871) does not appear in the family tree of the Hawkesworths of Forest, agents to the Coote family. It really is not at all clear why he came to Mountrath and moved into a house less than 1 mile from Forest, the principal seat of the Hawkesworths.
Williams named his sons Frederick Amory (1841-1908) and William Connell. There was a distinguished late 18th Century Dublin barrister called Amory Hawkesworth, who is also missing from the Hawkesworth family tree, but perhaps an antecedent of William? According to the Kings Inn Admission Papers, Amory Hawkesworth was the 2nd son of Timothy Hawkesworth, of Ennis, Co. Clare, shopkeeper, decd., and Mary Amory; ed. T.C.D. I.T., April 1788, and was called to the bar in 1790. So William could well have been his son. Another son might be Amory Hawkesworth who was described as a plumber of Lisle Street, London in the Morning Chronicle – Saturday 02 June 1832 when he was an expert witness in a case of arson and murder of Miss Eliza Twamley by Jonathan Smithers in Oxford Street. By the 1850s he was living in Torquay where in 1853 he patented an improved design for lifeboats.
I had hoped that the William who emigrated to find a fortune in the 1850s, and returned to scandal was this William. But sadly no, as this William was in debtor’s jail whilst it was his more colourful son William Connell who was fighting for the Confederates.
Hawkesworth had left when the house was advertised to let in 1850. In Leinster Express Saturday, July 06, 1850 in a Landed Estates Court notice regarding the estate of Thomas Murray Prior it refers to a house in Rathdowney in the occupation or possession of William Hawkesworth and his wife Jane Prior – they were married in 1825 (Marriage License Bonds Indexes). Whether this is our William it is hard to say. He might also have been the William Hawkesworth,, esq, father of John Hawkesworth who married the splendidly named Goold Isabella Power (1817-1883), a widow of Ballygeehan, near Aghaboe, and daughter of Richard Moore on 10 Feb 1849. She died at 24 Sandycove Avenue West, nearly opposite Somerset, the home of William C Hawkesworth in 1878.
There was another William Hawkesworth (1791 -1871) at the time who was importuning Thomas Jefferson for a job on 6 January 1824. He writes:- I am a native of Dublin in Ireland, in which city I received my education, I have pursued my present occupation of teaching, ever since my residence in the U States, which commenced in, and has continued since, the year 1811, of this State I have been an Inhabitant, since the fall of 1815, I am a married man, 33 years of age, having made law part of my study both in Europe, and in this country, I obtained license to practise in Virga but, deeming the bar already preoccupied by members, and all the avenues to which are crowded, too precarious a mode of supporting a family, I determined to devote myself to a pursuit, the emoluments of which are more certain.
He was Professor of Latin and Greek at Charleston College, SC, 1838-1865 and claimed that he was a graduate of Trinity, though does not appear in the Alumni Dublinenses.. However his students found him excellent “In classic literature few men in our country have accumulated such stores and hold them so unobtrusively”.
William of Woodbrook had terrible financial problems, which resulted in at least two sojourns in debtors jail.
On 15 May 1863 in Queely v. Hawkesworth. Mr. Martin moved that the defendant be discharged from custody. It appeared that the defendant was proceeding from his residence at Sandford Villa, Ranelagh, to attend, pursuant to the advice of his attorney, a motion in the Court of Exchequer, in the cause of Samuel Moore v. Hawkesworth, in which he was defendant, and that he was arrested on his way and conveyed to prison. Mr. Sidney, Q.C., appeared at the other side, and said he could not resist the discharge of the defendant, as his attendance in court was bona fide declared to be necessary by his legal advisers. The Court ordered that William Hawkesworth be discharged accordingly.
On 19 September 1866 William Hawkesworth was an insolvent held in the Marshalsea Prison. Of the Marshalsea John Dillon wrote in 1898: In that gaol we had a nice suite of rooms, and we had balls there, and many a pleasant hour I have spent there, in the society of many of the most delightful men in Dublin, who were in the habit of spending some time at that resort. This was 25 years ago, and it was perfectly well recognised then that there was no kind of punishment in the debtors’ gaol. They were held there until they made an arrangement with their creditors, but they had everything that their means would allow them to have in prison.
The Debtor’s Jail, Dublin
Unless debtors’ friends paid rent for private cells, they were housed in the Pauper Building, six rooms, each to contain eight persons. They were fed 2 lbs of bread and 2 pints of milk a day. It was closed in 1874 and demolished in 1975.
In March 1868 The Irish Law Times and Solicitors’ Journal, reported Hawkesworth, William of Sandford Villa Ranelagh Co Dublin previously of Merrion Lodge Co Wexford formerly of Woodbrook Mountrath Queen’s County Esquire Bankruptcy Hearing on Wednesday April 22. William Spencer Hakesworth, widower, died at 15 Harrington Street aged 79 on 15th July 1871. His will was proved by William Connell Hawkesworth of Amory Lodge, Kingstown, and Frederick Amory Hawkesworth of 15 Harrington Street.
The tale of his wild son is as follows:-
On 28th September 1876 a petition for divorce on the grounds of adultery and for alimony was filed by Ellen Murphy, who stated that she was married on the 3rd December, 1856, to William C. Hawkesworth, in the residence of the pastor of the Roman Catholic Church of St. Peter, New York. Three children were born of the marriage, of whom two girls survive. In 1862 the respondent entered the United States army a volunteer, leaving the petitioner and her two children residing at Fifty-fourth-street, New York, and she had not since seen him. He continued to correspond with her until 1874, since when she had not received any communication from him. “The petitioner charged that the respondent at divers days between Ist January and Ist March, 1876, committed adultery with one Gertrude Victor, with whom he continues reside at Somerset House, Kingstown, County Dublin.”
The respondent, in his reply, denied the alleged marriage with the petitioner, and also denied the adultery. He stated that the 1st October, 1864, he was lawfully married to Gertrude Victor, at New Orleans by the Rev. Dr Guyon, and had issue four children of the marriage. He had no recollection of any such ceremony with the petitioner, but did remember that he cohabited about the time charged with some woman named Walsh or Murphy, whose Christian name was Ellen. He mentioned that the lady to whom for the past fourteen years he had been married was of the highest lineage, and was grandniece of Napoleon’s famous marshal, Victor
He had lived in New Jersey, being employed there on the coast survey, and had rooms in New York whenever went there.
Did you know anybody of the name of Holland in New York? — I knew Miss Holland. There was a party of that name connected with a murder.
Do you mean to say she was a murderess? — She was connected with the poisoning of somebody. Afterwards she kept a kind of improper house.
Did you send Ellen Hawkesworth money 1864? — I think I did send some woman money. I don’t know whether it was that woman.
Did you send money to the one who passed as Ellen Hawkesworth ?—(Alter some hesitation) —I did send her money.
Counsel handed in letter admitted to be in witness’s handwriting, in which in 1864 addressed petitioner as “Dearest Nelly,” and subscribed himself as “Your loving husband,” telling her he had sent her 100 dollars.
In another letter, dated 1862, when respondent was captain in the 88th Regiment, U.S.A., he said “Kiss Josey and baby for me.” Dr. Houston—Who was Josey ?—I suppose her child. Judge Warren—Whose child ?—Her child, I suppose. Dr. Houston—Whose else ? — Oh I suppose it was in reference to myself.
Who was Josephine ? Peraps some girl I knew. Were they your own children, sir ? — No, they were not my knowledge. Josephine was one that was said to be my child, but I don’t recollect. Yes, that must have been she.
Witness stated he had not got employment in this country but made $500 a month and sometimes $1,000 a month by his profession in the United States. He got £200 for his property in the Queen’s County from the Rev. Singleton Harper, since dead, for the benefit of his present wile, who had $1,000 a year when he married her.
Mr. Curtis said there were proceedings bankruptcy against the respondent for £200. He endeavoured to get employment as engineer under the Corporation but had failed.
After this William C disappears from the historical record and does not appear in street directories, newspapers or even in civil records.
To return to Woodbrook. On 28 January 1852 the Limerick Examiner reported the marriage of William Roe junior of Woodbrook, Mountrath, to Maria, only daughter the late Heyland Maybury, Esq., of Killarney at Churchtown. On Christmas Eve 1852 their first daughter, Jane Sharp Roe, was born, who sadly died in 1853.
William Roe (1809-1887) was the son of William senior (1777-1852) who moved to Mountrath around 1798 from Knockfin, near Rathdowney, which had been rented from the Jacob family. He bought the woollen factory and converted it into a flour mill. The claim that these Roes are descended from James Roe of Inchiquin’s Regiment is possible, but the claim is generally based on the confusion between Granstown Castle, Rathdowney, Laois and Grantstown Castle Kilfeacle co. Tipperary.
Mr. William Roe,” the baker,” of Mountrath, had not opportunity in of acquitting “the dearly beloved” White feet, which they would as willingly have done as they had in 1824 convicted the police. Dublin Evening Packet and Correspondent – Tuesday 12 June 1832
A meeting of the respectable inhabitants of Mountrath and its vicinity, held in the market house, it was unanimously resolved that a mutual fund society be established ; for which purpose was £1500 subscribed the spot—and William Roe, jun.. Esq., appointed treasurer, and Mr. James Delany, secretary. Dublin Monitor – Saturday 16 March 1839
William’s sister married the local doctor – Lewis, Esq., surgeon, youngest son of the late Richard Lewis, Esq. Cork, to Anne second daughter of William Roe. Esq.. of Mountrath, _ General Advertiser Saturday 27 May 1837. They later emigrated to Australia “PRESENTATION of ADDRESS and SERVICE of PLATE to DR. LEWIS, of Mountrath, on bis leaving Ireland for Australia. On Wednesday last deputation from the Parishioners of Mountrath, and the Subscribers to the Ballyfin Dispensary, waited on Dr. Lewis. They were received at the residence of William Roe, Esq., by Dr. Lewis and his family, surrounded a numerous circle of relatives and friends. The Very Rev William Roe, the Dean of Clonfert, one of the deputation, read the address.” Dublin Evening Mail – Monday 05 May 1851.
The Cootehill Mills, purchased some time ago by the Messrs. Roe, of Mountrath, were destroyed by fire on Wednesday night last. It is thought the fire originated from the friction of some part of the machinery in consequence of the person in charge having neglected to keep them properly oiled. The damage done is estimated at £2,000. The building, machinery and stock, we regret to say, were only insured for £1, 300 — Freemans Journal, Monday, January 19, 1852;
The Roes had 4 more children – George (who died when he was 1), Jessie, Rebecca and William Ernest. A growing family tempted them to lease New Park from Sir Charles Coote – he apparently rented it from 1858 and signed a lease in 1862.
Newpark was the residence of the Cootes Earl of Mountrath until 1802 when the title became extinct and his property was inherited by Orlando Bridgeman, Earl of Bradford. Lord Mountrath is never likely to have inhabited New Park. An eccentric aristocrat, he had a dread of smallpox and when travelling would avoid Inns. He solved this problem by building five houses between his estates in Weeling Hall in Norfolk (“in point of decoration…a gilded palace, the most superb in its interior that I have ever seen” – Hake 1810) and his seat at Strawberry Hill in Devon Ballyfin was not then part of the Coote estate, but was bought later from the Wellesley Pole Family and the present Ballyfin was built.
Around 1804 New Park was rebuilt. Tierney in “Buildings of Ireland” is unkind, describing it as ungainly, but suggests that it might have been designed by Thomas Cobden (who designed Braganza and Duckett’s Grove in Carlow and whose father was a builder who worked for John Nash). He notes “Segment headed double sash windows flanking a central nivhe. Hipped roof wit boldly bracketed eaves. To the righ a fan lit porch merging into a two storey bow on the side elevation.” For many years it was the home of James Smith (1780-Oct 1849), F. R. C. S. I.; J. P.; Surgeon to the Queen’s County Militia; who married, 1811, Maria, daughter of Joseph Pemberton, Lord Mayor of Dublin. He may have built the present house. His father, Henry Smith, was Comptroller of Customs for Sligo, Ireland, died at Dublin, prior to 1816; he married Jane, daughter of John Johnston of Friarstown Co Leitrim. They had 6 children at New Park..
New Park from the 1890 OS Map
1. Anna Maria, born 1816; married Rev, John Hancock Scott of Sierkyran. 2. Henry Joseph (1818-85), married, 1841, Maria Louisa, daughter of Captain Theodore Norton of Wainsford. 3. Charlotte Jane, born 1820. 4. Georgiana Hester, born 1822; married the Very Rev. Thomas Le Ban Kennedy of Kilmore Rectory in 1851. 5. Louisa Margaret, born 1823. 6. Frederick Augustus became a Clerk in Holy Orders and emigrated to Montreal.
Nixon’s critics noticed that in the 11 years that he had been in Donegal he had deprived his tenants of their mountain grazing in Gweedore and Cloughaneely, raised the rents enormously, made them pay duty days, poor rates, income tax, turf money, seaweed tax, and “other tributes scarcely credible”. A few days before the attack he informed his tenants that unless they consented to pay these charges in advance all the small holders would be ejected, and large 10 acre farms would be made of the small ones. He was not killed, but survived another 24 years, having moved to the safety of the Earl of Erne’s agent’s or dower house at Knockballymore, Newtownbutler. By the time of the OS 1890 survey Heathfileld was marked as “In Ruins” and now it a desert of Sitka Spruce. Sadly the country villa designed by Walter G Doolin for W Doherty in 1884 was never built.
The Rev. Thomas Le Ban Kennedy was the priest who buried Emily and Mary Wilde, Oscar’s illegitimate half sisters in 1871. A tragic story, the girls died of burns at a ball at Drummaconor House, Smithsbborough when their crinolines caught fire.
William Roe did not enjoy constant success and in Kilkenny Moderator on Wednesday 12 December 1883 there was an advertisement for the auction of pretty much everting he had.
The Roe’s sale at New Park
On 05 June 1894 William’s son William Ernest Roe (1856-1927) married Annie Lambert Shields, the daughter of Francis Henry Shields, proprietor of The King’s County Chronicle. Their daughter, Helen Maybury Roe was born ion 18 Dec 1895. I wonder who the H Roe was who was the witness at the marriage? And was she born in New Park? They seem to escaped the 1901 census, but by 1911 William, Annie and Helen were living in in an 8 roomed house Portlaoise, without even a live in maid! Times must have been hard.
By November 1858 Woodbrook was the home of Dean Kennedy. The Evening Press reported on “Unedifying Pewyism” –Mr. Senior, of Castletown, a village adjoining Mountrath, possessed a pew in the parish church of that town, which he occupied with his sister and her female attendant. The introduction of person of inferior caste into so prominent a position appears to have struck the Chief Moonshee, a high dignitary of the church, as a violation of the decencies of public worship, he required, therefore, that the young parvenue (she was a Protestant orphan, whom Miss Senior had received into her household) should be packed into a less conspicuous situation. What it was in the girl’s demeanour that particularly jarred against Dean Kennedy’s sense of Christian humility we are not informed; but he did not like her look in that front seat, and, after a good deal of fruitless negotiation by letter and word of mouth, the sexton was directed to settle the question by forcible ejectment. In the ensuing case, assault being clearly proved, and neither denied nor attempted to be palliated, the magistrates fined the sexton, James Garrett, ten shillings and costs, or in default of payment sentenced him to be imprisoned for one week. Dean Kennedy addressed a letter to Mr. Senior last Saturday, the spirit of Christian kindness, wherein, with an expression of sincere regard of long standing for himself and his sister, he advises them both to absent themselves from the church. Mr. Senior, however, did not quite understand that kind of pastoral invitation, but went to church Sunday usual, regardless of the interdict, and found his pew padlocked.
On Dec 15 1861 at Woodbrook Mountrath, the seat of the Dean of Clonfert, to the wife of Thomas Le Ban Kennedy Esq of a daughter, Catherine Mabella. Thomas had married on March 14th, 1861.
The Dean was Robert Mitchell Kennedy, whose wife was Anne Studdert, who came from Elm Hill, Rathkeale, a house whose sad, but not irreversible, fate is noted by Patrick Comerford http://www.patrickcomerford.com/2020_06_02_archive.html
Thomas was in the RIC and by the time their 2nd daughter, Harriet Elizabeth, was born he was a sub inspector in Kilrush. His wife was Catherine Mabella Staples, step granddaughter of William Connolly of Castletown, granddaughter of Lord Moleswoth, and youngest daughter of the Rev. John Molesworth Staples, Rector of Upper Moville, County Donegal. She died in 1870 at the age of 36. He then married Susan Mary Welsh the daughter of the Rev Robert Matthews and widow of Joseph Welsh, M.D., in Ennis in 1872, was transferred to Belmullet and had three more children – what else would you do in Belmullet!
His nephew was Revd Geoffrey Anketell Studdert Kennedy, MC (1883-1929), the Anglican priest poet who was known as ‘Woodbine Willie’ for giving cigarettes along with spiritual pastoral care to injured and dying soldiers in the trenches in World War I.
By Nov 1867 there was a new rector in residence at Woodbrook – William Smyth King, who had moved from Lorum, Co Carlow, where he had just built a new rectory. He was the eldest son of Hulton King, Commissioner of Customs. Hulton assumed the Smyth surname upon his marriage to Anne Sarah Talbot, co-heir of her grandfather William Smyth. The genealogies say “of Borris House in County Carlow” which is obviously incorrect. Nor was this a William Smythe of Westmeath, all of whom were well supplied with male heirs. The newspaper announcement in Dublin Evening Post – Saturday 06 February 1808 refers to her as Miss Talbot of Borris Castle. In May 1787 Frederick Thompson, of the Middle Temple married Miss Sally Smyth, of Borris in Ossory, and in Nov. 1789 Thomas Woods, of Birr, married Maria Smith, of Borris Castle, at Borris Ossory and from “The Baronetage and Knightage” By Joseph Foster we know that Anne Sarah Talbot was the only child of Anne, the eldest daughter of William Smyth of Borris Castle, and Thomas Talbot.
In 1841 he married Jane Elizabeth Ellington, eldest daughter of Rev. Henry Preston Ellington. They had four daughters. Isabella married John Finlay (27 June 1842 – 12 June 1921) who was Dean of Leighlin from 1895 until 1912. Finlay was educated at Trinity College, Dublin and ordained in 1867. He began his ecclesiastical career as a curate in Clonenagh. He was the incumbent at Lorum from 1873 to 1890 when he moved to Carlow. He was murdered at the age of 80 by the IRA on 12 June 1921 for objecting to his home in Cavan being burned.
Emily Louise Smyth-King married Charles Paulet Hamilton of Roundwood in 1878
Alice Matilda Smyth King married Henry Marsh of Springmount in 1879
On Duchas.ie is Maura Costigans story of Woodbrook House. “There was a Rape Oil Mill before Minister King came to live there. Rape was grown very extensively locally. It was used much as a vegetable by the people; to fatten sheep which were let in on it and it was let to seed which was sent to the above mill and made into rape oil. Remains of this mill covered with ivy, are still to be seen at the back of Kelly’s, where the mill-race enters the river.“
In 1881 it was the home of Rev J Whyte Fisher, the son of William Shute Fisher, a naval doctor.
In a sudden volte face it went from being a home to vicars to a Patrician Brothers Novitiate. The Novitiate was transferred to Tullow in the summer of 1894
Novitiate, Woodbrook House, Mountrath. Original photograph held by the Delany Archive
In 1895 it was bought by the newly married Henry Franks who was born on July 17th , 1871 at Westfield. His father Matthew Henry Franks was also a land agent, as well as owning Garrettstown near Kinsale and Dromrahane, Mallow and his sister Gertrude Maria Lucy Franks was one of the founders of the ICA and the subject of Regina Dunne’s book. The founder of the Franks family was a Cromwellian soldier and may have lived at Frankfort Castle, and Matthew’s ancestry is in “The Royal Lineage of Noble and Gentle Families”, vol. 3. P 476, tracing him as 20th in descent from Edward I.
In 1895 he married Sarah Gardner, (my wife’s great aunt) whose father Sir Robert Gardner was the founder of the accountants Craig Gardner (now part of Price Waterhouse). He was agent for several large farms, including the Pim Estate. By 1914 he was the chairman of The Surveyors Institution, secretary of the hunt, JP, High Sherriff of the county… a busy country gentleman. Though his elderly father’s house Westield, was burnt during the Civil War Herny Franks main loss was his motor car taken at Woodbrook by Irregular forces on 4 May 1922; (Post-Truce (Damage to Property (Compensation) Act 1923) compensation files).
From the Estate Agent’s avertisement. Woodbrook, Mountrath, County Laois courtesy Clement Herron Real Estate.
The most recent news about it is from the Independent “Woodbrook House, Mountrath, was sold in May 2020 for €260k through Clement Herron Real Estate”
And though this account may not appeal to those who dislike fish, especially red herrings, I find to my amazement that Woodbrook IS an interesting house!
Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 285. “(Wilmot-Chetwode/LGI1912) A two storey five bay late-Georgian house with a fanlighted doorway; extended at the back by a lower wing linking it to a three storey bow end block with a four story polytonal tower. Recently the house of Mr and Mrs Denis Quirke.”
Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy National Inventory.
Detached five-bay two-storey late-Georgian house, built c.1820, with two-storey lower returns to rear. Double-pitched and hipped slate roofs with nap rendered chimneystack and profiled cast-iron rainwater goods with lion mask motifs. Nap rendered walls with ruled and lined detail, limestone plinth and sill/stringcourse to first floor. Square-headed window openings, set into recessed arches to ground floor level, with limestone sills and three-over-six and six-over-six timber sash windows. Diastyle Doric portico to entrance with timber door and wrought-iron fanlight over. Timber panelled internal shutters to window openings; vaulted ceiling to porch with coffers having plaster centrepieces. House set back from road in own grounds; landscaped lawns to site; gravel drive and forecourt to approach; sandstone step to entrance. Group of detached rubble stone outbuildings to site. Detached gate lodge to site (12800404).
Detached gable-fronted gate lodge, built c.1880. Double-pitched slate roof with decorative red clay ridge tiles and limestone ashlar chimneystack on a hexagonal plan. Nap rendered rendered walls, painted, with limestone ashlar pediment to gable. Square-headed window openings with limestone sills and timber casement windows. Timber door. Interior not inspected. Gatelodge set back from road in grounds shared with main house at right angles to road; landscaped lawns surround lodge; gravel drive to front. Gateway to site comprising group of limestone ashlar piers with flanking walls having round-headed recessed niches and wrought iron gates and railings.
Woodbrook, County Laois courtesy National Inventory.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
I’VE said it before and I’ll say it again. Some homes are born great while still others have greatness thrust upon them. In the case of Woodbrook House in Portarlington, however, it happens to be both.
I mean, check out the history on this one for a start. The Woodbrook Estate came into being on the marriage of Knightly Chetwood (do you think he was bullied?) to Hester Brooking at St Michans Church in Dublin in 1698.
By 1713, Knightly, now doubtless Knightrider, befriended Jonathan Swift and a long friendship began. In fact, Swift travelled to Woodbrook frequently, and used it as his weekend retreat where the bulk of ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ was written in the library.
To think that Swift, like all men with ideas above their Luas station, spent many an hour musing on the little people in this very room. Sure don’t we all.
Not content with being born great, Woodbrook House then began to have greatness thrust upon it in the form of extensive and sympathetic restoration, most of which has occurred in the last three years.
This home is now back to its 18th century glory with a bang. In fact a wing from this century, complete with a four storey tower that was banjaxed in the 1970s (weren’t we all) has now been reinstated.
The restoration has been massive and systematic. All roofs have been replaced using 18th century slate where required, timber sash windows, rewiring, oil fired heating system, new plumbing and sewage system, broadband, alarms – you name it, it’s been done.
My favourite is the Canadian hot tub on the tower roof terrace – the perfect place from which to ponder awhile about those that have less.
With a reception hall, stair hall, six reception rooms, orangerie, a master bedroom suite with twelve further bedroom suites and a selection of offices and stores on offer, it is difficult to see who wouldn’t want to buy this home.
Whether thinking of a commercial or private use or both, quite frankly, Woodbrook House is simply the best. Carpe diem.
For further information contact Savills Hamilton Osborne King 01 663 4350 or visit www.savills.ie
Probably where Swift wrote part of Gulliver’s Travels
Woodbrook since the rebuilding by Ray Simmons. Image Courtesy ofJJ Dunne NBD PhotographyAs it was in 1980
In 1918 Walter Strickland wrote an article on Woodbrook in the Journal of the County Kildare Archaeological Society , Vol. IX., which is available as a download at the end of this article. As he had access to the Chetwood papers, his account is unlikely to be ever bettered. In summary Knightley Chetwood acquired the lands that had belonged to his wife’s family on his marriage to Hester Brooking in at St Michan’s Church in 1698 (something that he appears to have overlooked when they separated later in life). There was probably an existing building on the site as he was writing from Woodbrook in 1712. By 1715 he had engaged builders and was consulting his father-in-law’s friend Jonathan Swift about the gardens. He had the usual problems that anyone has when building a house, such as when the brick layer, John Mulloy, disappeared with the property of other tradesmen on the site. It is hard to make sense of the drawing reproduced in the Kildare Archaeological Society of the 18th century house. There is a very grand neo-classical doorway, perhaps taken from one of the seven architects’ designs (including one by James Gandon) that Valentine Knightley Chetwood commissioned pre 1771 that were not executed due to Valentine’s death that year – it has a slight resemblance to Gandon’s design for the entrance to the Rotunda. That door is said to be where the 5 storey tower is in the later building. In Colum O’Riordan’s House and Home, describing the Chetwood drawings at the Irish Architectural Archive, he describes the ground floor survey of 1770 as showing “a warren – a vaguely L shaped building with an indeterminate number of accretions around an older core”
A drawing of the pre 1815 house that was reproduced in the Kildare Arch. Journal in 1918
In the late 1790s or early 1800s part of Woodbrook was destroyed by fire. Jonathan Chetwood, working with the architect James Shiel, rebuilt it about 1816, building the present entrance and hall, the dining-room and drawing-room, and changed the entrance from its former position facing the lake. The library and range of rooms beyond, including the great kitchen, part of the old house, remained though portions of the upper part were afterwards altered by Edward Wilmot Chetwood and his successors, who also added the tower on the side facing the lake, near where the old entrance had been. Elizabeth Hester Chetwood, granddaughter of Crewe Chetwood, (a younger brother of Valentine Knightley Chetwood of Woodbrook), married Robert Rogers Wilmot and had a son Edward Wilmot who took the name Chetwood in 1839 when he inherited Woodbrook.
The old kitchen was a large room with an arched fire-place at one end, and at the opposite end a great dresser filling the whole wall. On the top of this dresser are painted these lines : BE CLEANLY. HAVE TASTE. HAVE PLENTY. NO WASTE.
The west wing kitchen at Castletown House, Kildare – the quote from Matthew is Conolly’s response to the servants’ imprecation on the opposite wall “Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread”The Galleried Kitchen at Strokestown House
The gallery which ran around the side was put up in 1858 by Lady Janet Wilmot Chetwood, in order, it is said, that she might be able to visit and superintend her kitchen without going down stairs and along the passage leading to it. In the 1940s the poet John Betjeman stayed often and fell in love with the house, and its galleried kitchen (from which the mistress could drop the menu of the day to the cook below).
Jane(tta) Erskine had married Edward Wilmot-Chetwode in 1830, the year after her father John Thomas Erskine, 25th/8th Earl of Mar had OD’ed on opium. The fifteen 1840 murals, which had been attributed to Edwin Hayes, were commissioned for her to remind her of Scotland. Hayes, now known as a great marine artist, was also a noted set painter and created highland castle murals. There are very similar murals by Hayes at Manor Kilbride in Wicklow (which was designed by Cobden for George Ogle Moore circa 1843). However the estate agents marketing the house in 2022, Conway Estates, state recent research proved them to be the work of Scottish artist David Ramsay Hay . It is one of 3 complete rooms of his work known to survive the others being 73 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2 and the staircase hall at Preston Hall in Scotland .
Murals by Hayes at Manor Kilbride, Wicklow
There was a vaulted room beneath the study, accessed through a trapdoor. This is where the historic correspondence with the Duke of Marlborough, the Duke of Chandos, Swift and others was stored in trunk. Fortunately the Swift letters had been transcribed in 1856 for Swift’s biography. The rest were destroyed by damp.
The Land Commission took over the 250 acre estate from the 100 year old Gladys Chetwood- Aiken in 1965 “The richly planted and picturesque lawns” described in Thomas Lacy’s 1863 “Sights of Our Fatherland” rapidly disappeared beneath the subsistence farming dictums and dictates of Oliver J and Dev. In 1969 Oliver J had the sale of 300 excellent ash beech and elm trees and 6 tons of cut beech at Woodbrook Demesne.
Denis Quirke, who had already devastated the demesne of Bert House with his notions of prairie stud farming, bought the house and 100 acres, and cleared even more of the tree and hedges, destroying the largest heronry in Ireland. The Quirkes sold in 1976, and Denis Quirke died soon afterwards.
The 1840 OS map vs an aerial view of 2000
In the 1970s the devastated demesne featured in an IGS exhibition in Portlaoise called “Open Your Eyes”. Few did. The new owners were an absolute disaster area, whose idea of restoration was to demolish pretty much everything apart from Shiel’s 1816 villa – the great kitchen and all the original 1700s building were turned into rubble. Such dumb dolts and blockheads should be confined to spaces where they can’t do too much damage. The truncated house was bought by Jim and Brenadette Robson who offered elegant country house accommodation to tourists, long before Ireland’s Ancient East was fashionable.
The emasculated building in the 1990sThe 1816 vaulted front hall with its inlaid floor, probably of oak, photographed in the 1990s
The historian and photographer Robert Vance viewed Woodbrook “Many moons ago” He writes “The OS showed woods and an ornamental lake within the acreage to be sold. On arrival I saw the woods were clear-cut and the roots had been used to fill in the lake. The parkland was now overgrown with rushes. The farmer pointed out the stump of a walnut tree he had cut. It had been planted by Jonathan Swift 250 years previously. The early buildings, servants’ wing and stables were left as a vast pile of brick, rubble and nettles behind the house.”
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The very shook remains struggled on and it was for sale again in 1990 for £200,000 and then again in 1998, for €550,000
The current owner, Ray Simmons, has rebuilt a replica of the demolished part of the house and planted trees.
An impressive and substantial late Georgian house comprising 2 and 3 storeys privately set within its own lands . Extensive any sympathic restoration over the last number of years included the rebuilding of a mid 18th century wing complete with 4 storey tower and undertook much of the structural repairs necessary but repairs in some parts of the residence are incomplete.
Woodbrook House represents an opportunity for a potential purchaser to complete and decorate the house to their liking and perhaps would consider a commercial use subject to the necessary planning consents . Approx. 39 ha / 98 acres with the laid out to pasture and tillage interspersed with maturing parkland trees.
About 1,398 square meters/ 15,078 square feet comprising in brief : reception hall, stair hall, 6 reception rooms, kitchen, Orangerie, Master Bedroom Suite, 12 further bedroom suites, a number of offices and stores. Gate Lodge ( 1 bedroom ), large selection of stone outbuildings and yards and two walled gardens. •
Portarlington 4km • Emo 7.5km • Portlaoise 16km • Kildare 14km • Dublin 80km • Dublin Airport 60-minute drive • The Heritage Killenard Hotel & Golf Club 5 minute drive • Ballyfin House 25 minute drive • The K- Club 50 minute drive • The Curragh Racecourse 25 minute drive • Punchestown Racecourse 45 minute drive (times approximate)
History The Woodbrook Estate came in to being on the marriage of Knightly Cherwood to Hester Brooking at St. Michael’s Church Dublin in 1698 . Hester brought 620 acres of land and Tinakill Castle with her as a dowry and in 1700 the couple set upon building a residence there . A letter dating as early as 1712 describes “the continued building works and improvements” to the property. In 1713 Cherwwod befriended Jonathan Swift when the latter returned to Ireland as Dean of St. Patrick’s. A long friendship and correspondence ensued . Swift travelled frequently to Woodbrook, using it has his weekend retreat , and it is here in the library he penned much of Gullivers Travels. Unfortunately, as with many of Swifts friendships, he and Cherwood had a falling out and spent their latter years not speaking to each other. On February 17th 1752 , Chetwood died in London.
His son Valentine, who in 1758 was High Sherrif of Co. Laois , succeeded him. He in turn passes away in 1771 and was succeeded by his son Jonathan . The family continued to reside on the estate until 1963 until the blood line ran out .
The original house was a modest 2 storey property comprising drawing room, ding room, library and 4 bedrooms, but like many Irish country houses embellished as family circumstances allowed.
Entrance Hall; with ornate domed ceiling. Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Entrance Hall; with ornate domed ceiling, Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
In 1750 a grander 3 storey wing was added incorporating a 4 storey tower.
A fire in 1790 saw the demise of the drawing room but cleared the way for the now existing Regency wing.
The drawing room houses a collection of wall paintings depicting scenes of Scottish Castles, created to remind the new Mrs. Cherwood, a daughter of the Earl of Mann and descendant of the Kings of Scotland, of her homeland. The paintings, executed in the style of Watteau, remain intact to day and have only recently been proved to be the work of Scottish artist David Ramsay Hay. It is one of 3 complete rooms of his work known to survive the others being 73 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2 and the staircase hall at Preston Hall in Scotland.
Drawing room: with original grey marble fireplace. Suite of oil paintings by David Ramsy Hay depicting scenes of Scotland . Wired for phone , smoke alarm and music.
Suite of oil paintings by David Ramsy Hay depicting scenes of Scotland, Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
Dining Room ; with original Kilkenny marble fireplace. Silver cupboard. Wired for phone. Smoke alarm, music and service bell to kitchen .
Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
Staircase Hall: with ornate ceiling and decorative arched window .
Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
Library: with original fitted bookcases including a “secret door “ and original Kilkenny marble fireplace. Wired for phone, smoke alarm. Music and tv Breakfast Room; with original Kilkenny marble fireplace. Wired for phone, smoke alarm and music.
Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King..Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
Kitchen: with full range of bespoke cupboards and granite counter tops . Full range of integrated appliances including two oven Aga, 4 electric ovens, twin microwaves, twin dishwashers, 5 ring gas hob, twin 6ft refrigerators. Trapdoor to vaulted 17th Century cellar . Wires for phone, smoke alarm and music. Galleried Hall: over lit by ornate dome. Grey a marble fireplace . Wired for phone, smoke alarm and music. Billiard Room : with fireplace . Wired for phone, smoke alarm and music. Study : Anteroom with fireplace leading to octagonal study . Wired for phone, smoke alarm and music. Orangerie : with double glazed pvc roof . 4 pairs of timber double doors with fanlights opening to south facing garden. Master suite with fireplace . Wired for phone, smoke alarm, tv and security lights on the grounds. Leading to dressing room and master bath plumbed for bath separate shower, wc, twin whb, twin heated towel rails. 12 further bedrooms all with bathrooms ensuite . Smoke alarm and phone. All ensuites plumbed for bath/shower, wc, whb and heated towel rail . A selection of offices and store rooms including strong room. Gardens and grounds At the entrance to the estate there is a Gate Lodge with a kitchen, living room, shower room and mezzanine bedroom . Extensive yards behind the house comprise a large range of stone outbuildings in varying repair, some benefit ting being re roofed in natural slate. Immediately beyond these yards lie 2 walled gardens. The lands are laid out to pasture and in crop and benefit from extensive tree planting (c 1,000) throughout the estate including a very impressive avenue of Lime trees and planting to reestablish the parkland lost in the 1970’s. Also filled in around this time was a large lake in the field off to the right of the avenue and north and east of the house which could possibly be reinstated . Fixtures & Fittings A full inventory is available on request and separate negotiation. Title Freehold Title Protected Status Woodbrook House is a listed protected structure .
Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
Synopsis of restoration work to date Extensive and sympathetic restoration has been undertaken in the last number of years to restore the property to its former 18th Century glory and reinstate the 18th Century wing complete with 4 storey tower that was lost in the 1970’s . Great effort has been taken when restoring , rebuilding or replacing to use materials sympathetic to the original craftmanship of the house . The schedule of works to date to the main house include ; restoration and replacement of all roofs using reclaimed 18th Century slate where required: replacement of all windows with traditional timber sash windows, reinstating the original hand spun 18th Century glass where possible and taking the opportunity to install a “Ventrolla” draught exclusion system to all windows .
Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
The current owner undertook much of the structural repairs necessary but repairs are incomplete; complete rewiring with 5 separate zones ; installation of new gas fired heating system with 5 separate zones; insulation of new plumbing with 2.5 bar pressure to power showers to all bedroom suites; installation of a new well with all bathing water passing through a water softener system; installation of a “Puraflow” sewage treatment system with superfluous capacity fro present accommodation, i.e. could potentially take accommodate extension/conversion of outbuildings subject to the necessary consents; new insulation and fireproofing throughout, wired for high specification integrated fire alarm system; wired for 3 phone lines wireless broadband, and Phonewatch, fittings throughout and the replacement of all gutters and down pipes .
Features
*An impressive and substantial Late Georgian House. *Approximately 39 Hectares (98 Acres) . *Vendor would consider splitting the Estate in two Lots . *Lot 1 – Woodbrook House, Gate Lodge on approx. 10 Acres . *Lot 2 -Approx. 89 Acres of Land .
BER Details
BER: Exempt
Woodbrook, Portarlington, County Laois courtesy Savills Hamilton Osborne King.
The name Woodbrook has been given to a number of houses in different parts of Ireland, and the natural assumption would be that it derives from the property having once had a brook in woodland. In the case of Woodbrook, County Laois, however, it combines the second syllable of original owner Knightley Chetwood’s surname along with the first syllable of that of his wife Hester Brooking: hence Woodbrook. An article written by Walter Strickland and published in the Journal of the Archaeological Society of the County of Kildare in 1918 provides a detailed account of the origins of the Chetwood family and their arrival in Ireland following the restoration of Charles II in 1660. There is some uncertainty as to how Knightly Chetwood, whose family had been impoverished English gentry, managed to acquire the lands in County Laois on which Woodbrook now stands: Strickland proposes that it may have come to him via his spouse, but without being able to say precisely how this should have been the case. In any case, some years after the couple’s marriage in August 1700, despite living contentedly in County Meath, he embarked on a project to build a residence on his midland’s property, albeit with some reluctance: at one stage he implored a friend to find him another house in Meath, since otherwise he would be condemned to ‘go and live in a bog in a far off country.’ Indeed, being as Strickland says ‘an uncompromising Tory,’ following the accession of George I in 1714, Chetwood found it best to live, if not in a bog then certainly in a far-off country, spending a number of years in mainland Europe before returning to Ireland around 1721 when he took an oath of allegiance to the Hanoverian monarch and abjured the Stuart pretender. It may have only been after this time that serious work commenced on the house at Woodbrook.
We know more about the early development of the Woodbrook estate than would usually be the case thanks to surviving correspondence between Knightley Chetwood and Dean Swift, who not only provided its proprietor with advice but visited the place on a number of occasions. There was likely some kind of residence already on the site, not least because Chetwood was able to write letters from there even before his new house had been built. Strickland cites a note from Swift to his host dated 6th November 1714 and composed when he had arrived at Woodbrook to find the Chetwoods away from home. The following month, after the dean’s departure, Chetwood informed him, ‘This place I hate since you left it.’ Swift is believed to have been responsible for planting a grove of beech trees close to the house, although these were cut down in 1917 for sale to the then-Government. The two men also make regular reference to an area of the estate called the ‘Dean’s field.’ Once Chetwood returned from his self-imposed exile and turned his attention to erecting a new house, Swift’s opinion was again sought, the dean recommending in June 1731, ‘I can only advise you to ask advice, to go on slowly and to have your house on paper before you put it into lime and stone.’ Unfortunately, it was around this time that the friendship of almost twenty years came to an end. Chetwood seems to have had a tricky, volatile character. He had already become estranged from his wife, husband and wife formally separating in 1725, and he was inclined to find himself embroiled in rows on a regular basis: that he and Swift should fall out accordingly seems to have been inevitable. Chetwood died in London in 1752 and Woodbrook then passed to his elder surviving son, Valentine but since he spent most of his life out of Ireland, it was the younger son Crewe Chetwood who stayed in Laois. The next generation, Jonathan Cope Chetwood, did live at Woodbrook from the time he inherited the property in 1771 until his own death in 1839. As he had no immediate heir, the estate went sideways passing to Edward Wilmost, a great-grandson of Crewe Chetwood, who duly took the additional surname of Chetwood. However, following the death during the Boer War of Edward Wilmot-Chetwood, Woodbrook passed to another branch of the family, being inherited by Major Harold Chetwood-Aiken; his widow lived there until 1965 when what remained of the estate was taken over by the Land Commission.
The evolution of the house now standing at Woodbrook is complex, even by Irish standards. The original building commissioned by Knightley Chetwood can be seen in a pencil drawing reproduced in Strickland’s 1918 article and shows the long east-facing entrance front, seemingly single-storey but with two-storeys visible to one side and dominated by a great doorcase beneath a steeply-pitched roof. A 1770 ground floor survey is described by Colum O’Riordan in House and Home as depicting ‘a vaguely L shaped building with an indeterminate number of accretions around an older core.’ Much of this structure appears to have been damaged or destroyed in a fire in the early 19th century, after which Jonathan Cope Chetwood undertook extensive alterations to the house, not least the addition of a new neo-classical entrance front facing south. Designed c.1815 by James Shiel, it included a spacious hall off which opened drawing and dining rooms. The older part of the building contained the library and staircase, and, beyond these, service quarters including a double-height kitchen one wall of which was filled with a great dresser and above which, according to Strickland, were painted the words ‘BE CLEANLY. HAVE TASTE. HAVE PLENTY. NO WASTE.’ Later in the 19th century, further changes took place, not least in the drawing room where the walls were covered with 15 murals representing scenes of the Scottish Highlands: still extant (although some are currently undergoing restoration), they were painted in 1840 by artist David Ramsay Hay, commissioned by Lady Jane Erskine, daughter of the 25th/8th Earl of Mar and wife of Edward Wilmot-Chetwood, as reminders of her native country. At some unknown date, a five-storey polygonal tower was added towards the rear of the house on the east side. Alas, the later decades of the last century were not kind to Woodbrook. All the ancient trees, not least those lining the avenue to the house, were all cut down in 1969. The lake to the immediate east, created by Jonathan Cole Chetwood, also suffered devastation causing the loss of what was said to have been the largest heronry in the country. Then, in the 1970s, the owners of the house demolished almost all of what had stood behind Shiel’s early 19th century extension, everything that had remained from the original building constructed by Knightley Chetwood, along with the great kitchen and the polygonal tower. This strangely truncated property somehow survived until the present century when another owner ambitiously reconstructed the sections that had been reduced to rubble just a few decades earlier. In consequence, at least on the exterior, Woodbrook looks much as it did when still occupied by the last members of the Chetwood family. Just under two years ago, the house and surrounding lands changed hands once more, and the current owners have embarked on an ambitious and admirable programme of restoration and restitution, with thousands of trees being planted, the lake being brought back to life and the surrounding lands improved. Similar considerate work is taking place inside the building so that in due course Woodbrook will once again take its place among County Laois’s finest country houses. It’s always thrilling to visit a property which is undergoing renewal, and the owners of Woodbrook deserve all the applause and support they can get.
After Monday’s post about the main house at Woodbrook, County Laois, here are the the south gate lodge and gate screen into the estate. The lodge itself is a curious structure which may, or may not, have been designed by James Shiel at the same time as he was coming up with proposals for the house. The facade is dominated by an substantial ashlar pediment with window beneath, the latter flanked by deep recesses, one of which has a door into the building. So generous are the recesses that the pediment has to be supported by a pair of slender iron columns. The gate screen itself, of limestone ashlar and wrought iron, is more standardised with its piers, quadrant walls and arched niches in the outer sections. Here also is an old milestone advising that Dublin lies 47 miles distant.
Millbank is a late 18th century Georgian Country House which has been tastefully restored and extended in recent times. It was originally part of the demesne of Sir Charles Henry Coote (1815-1895), whose personal residence in Ballyfin was just a short carriage ride away. From about 1840 to the 1970s, Millbank was home to a bustling flour mill and was one of the county’s largest producers of flour in the mid 19th century. Today, Millbank comprises the main house, with 5 large bedrooms (accommodation for a maximum of 13 people), reception rooms, library, swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Just 50 metres from the main house is the Miller’s Cottage with 3 cosy bedrooms overlooking a courtyard that once was noisy with the traffic of grain and flour traders.
Set in 6 acres of mature woodland, the gardens offer a poignant reminder of the history of the property and the people who lived and worked there. The lake and millrace that that powered the giant mill wheel more than 150 years ago provide a much more tranquil atmosphere these days.
The Millers Cottage is located about 50 metres from the main house. It offers 3 cosy bedrooms with accommodation for up to 7 people. Two of these bedrooms offer large double beds while the third, with its old world fireplace features a king side bed with room for an additional single bed on request. The Miller’s Cottage provides separate toilet and shower facilities which are shared by all of the guests to the Cottage.
With 6 acres of mature woodland surrounding the house, Millbank’s gardens are a delight for young and old alike. With more than 2 kilometers of walks through pine forest, along the adjoining White Horse river and around Millbank’s large pond, the gardens produce a serenity and other worldliness that is quite unique. You can feed Millbank’s pet geese or the wild ducks that visit the lake. You can watch the Herons swooping and circling the river ready to pounce on some poor unfortunate trout! If you’re lucky (and quiet!), you might bump into a red squirrel or a kingfisher or two!
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 283. (Franks/IFR) A Georgian house rebuilt after being burnt ca 1920, and given a decidedly “Twenties” flavour. Windows with small panes; prominent roof; small pediment on entrance front. Porch with two recessed Grecian Doric columns.”
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 273. “A three bay C18 house with a pedimented breakfront and a high roof.”
Tinnakill House is owned by Dermot Cantillon and Meta Osborne and managed by Ian Thompson.
We keep a resident band of 40+ broodmares and sell foals, yearlings and breeding stock at all the main Irish, UK and French sales.
The farm extends over 215 acres and is situated in a beautiful part of rural Co Laois. We look out on the Slieve Bloom mountains and yet are only 15 minutes from the M9 motorway, with ready access to all the major Irish stallion farms.
We have 53 boxes, (plus a 3-stall isolation unit) 14 all-weather paddocks, lunge ring, horse walker and extensive sheltered paddocks.
Detached three-bay two-storey Georgian house with dormer attic, built c.1770, with pedimented central breakfront and two-storey return to rear. Now in ruins. No roof, originally double-pitched and hipped, with nap rendered brick chimneystack and ashlar coping to pediment. Nap rendered rubble limestone walls with ashlar bands to eaves and to pediment; inscribed plaques/datestones, dated 1874 and 1987. Square-headed window openings with limestone sills, red brick dressings and remains of six-over-six timber sash windows. Round-headed window opening to first floor central breakfront and oculus to pediment. Round-headed door opening with limestone block-and-start doorcase and timber panelled door with fanlight. Interior retains timber panelled internal shutters to window openings; fireplace to first floor with cast-iron hood and stone mantle over. House set back from road in own grounds; semi-circular stone steps to entrance. Group of detached single- and two-storey rubble stone outbuildings to site.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
supplement
p. 304. “[Cassan/LGI1912] A three storey five bay gable-ended C18 house. Quoins rising through bottom storey only, ending at string-course; Gibbsian doorcase.”
Detached seven-bay two-storey coach house, built c.1860. Now in use as outbuilding. Detached two-storey outbuilding, now derelict. Remains of detached house to site, now in ruins. Walled garden to site, now derelict. Double-pitched slate roof with brick chimneystack, ashlar coping; timber laths and rafters. Coursed rubble limestone walls with projecting course to eaves. Elliptical-headed carriageway to ground floor with limestone ashlar voussoirs. Square-headed window openings to first floor with limestone sills and remains of timber windows. Timber floors to lofts in ruinous condition. Former coach house is set back from road in own grounds; landscaped grounds to site (now part-overgrown). Detached single-storey house, c.1950, on site of earlier ranges. Gateway comprising monolithic piers with wrought iron gate.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 256. “(Kemmis, sub Walsh-Kemmis) A house of late Georgian appearance, of two storeys over a basement. Entrance front with two three sided bows and pedimented one bay projection in centre; Grecian Ionic porch with acroteria. Castellated gateway at entrance to demesne. Now a home for the elderly.”
THE KEMMIS FAMILY WERE MAJOR LANDOWNERS IN QUEEN’S COUNTY, WITH 5,800 ACRES
Of the early period of the Kemeys family the accounts are somewhat confused, but it is generally agreed that their origin was Norman.
They rose to prominence at the period of the conquest of Gwent and Glamorgan.
The original form of the name is uncertain, though it is said to be Camois or Camys, identical with Camois in the Roll of Battle Abbey.
They were known as “Kemeys of Began” as early as the 13th century.
The Irish branch claims descent from the ancient family of Kemeys of Newport, Monmouthshire, which family bore as their arms vert on a chevron argent, three pheons sable.
THOMAS KEMMIS (1710-74), of Shaen Castle, Killeen, Straboe, Rossnaclough, and Clonin, Queen’s County, wedded Susan, daughter of John Long, of Derrynaseera, and had issue,
JOHN, of Shaen;
James, major-general;
THOMAS, of whom we treat;
Joshua;
William Edward;
Elizabeth.
The third son,
THOMAS KEMMIS JP (1753-1823), of Shaen Castle, crown and treasury solicitor for Ireland, patron of Rosenallis, married, in 1773, Anne, daughter of Henry White, of Dublin, and had issue,
THOMAS, his heir;
Henry;
William;
James;
Richard;
Anne; Mary; Elizabeth.
The eldest son,
THE REV THOMAS KEMMIS (1774-1827), of Shaen Castle, and Brockley Park, Queen’s County, Patron of Rosenallis, married Mary, daughter and heir of Arthur Riley, of Airfield, County Dublin, and had issue,
THOMAS, his heir;
Arthur;
Henry;
Mary.
The eldest son,
THOMAS KEMMIS JP, (1798-1844), of Shaen Castle and Straboe, Patron of Rosenallis, High Sheriff, 1832, married, in 1834, Mary Henrietta, eldest daughter of the Rev Robert Blackwood Jelly, of Portarlington, and had issue,
THOMAS, his heir;
Robert;
William;
Arthur;
Jane.
Mr Kemmis was succeeded by his eldest son,
THOMAS KEMMIS JP DL (1837-1906), of Shaen, High Sheriff, 1860, who married, in 1858, Victoria Alexandrina, eldest daughter of Hans H Hamilton QC, of 26 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin, and had issue,
THOMAS HENRY, his heir;
Augusta Mary; Helen.
His only son,
THOMAS HENRY KEMMIS JP DL, of Shaen, captain, Royal Fusiliers, born in 1860, wedded, in 1904, Mary Caroline, eldest daughter of Charles Stewart Trench, of Clay Hill, Virginia, USA, and had issue,
WILLIAM FREDERICK, b 1905;
Victoria Mary, b 1908;
Elizabeth Gertrude, b 1911.
SHAEN HOUSE, near Port Laoise, formerly Maryborough, County Laois, is a house of late Georgian appearance.
It comprises two storeys over a basement.
The entrance front has two three-sided bows; pedimented one-bay projection in the centre; Greek Ionic porch with acroterion.
There is a notable castellated gateway at the demesne’s main entrance.
Irish Historic Houses 