The main entrance to Killinardrish, County Cork. In 1837 Samuel Lewis’ Topographical Dictionary of Ireland describes the house as being ‘an elegant Italian lodge, lately built by R. J. O’Donoghue, Esq.’ While still in the hands of Mr O’Donoghue’s children, late 19th and early 20th century photographs show the entrance without its present limestone pedimented and pillastered frame which clearly dates from the 1700s. It must therefore have been added after the death of the last member of the O’Donoghue family in January 1934, but when and by whom? The house was subsequently occupied for a period by one of the Ryes whose own home just a few miles away, Ryecourt, was burnt out in 1921 like so many others in this part of the country. Might the door surround have been salvaged from 18th century Ryecourt and installed at Killinardrish? Any assistance with solving this puzzle would be much appreciated.
I dont know anything about it, but it’s very impressive.
Thank you, yes it is rather impressive and very smart, but one longs to know from whence it came…
Love your photograph and caption! Sorry I can’t help you with any further information on the door surround of Killinardrish House. Not far from Killinardrish is Aghinagh House the former home of the war hero Sir Adrian Carton de Wirat VC he is buried in nearby Caum Churchyard. Maybe you would do an article on Aghinagh House.
Keep up the excellent work
Ger Mc Carthy
Thank you for your kind comment. I don’t, as yet, know Aghinagh House (and don’t see it in my copy of Bence-Jones) but shall see what I can discover so that on my next visit to that part of Co Cork I can try to visit…
Local folklore has the door surround coming from Nettleville House which was destroyed by fire in late ’30’s. Nettleville Demesne is located just East of Killinardrish House estate. Can’t attest to the accuracy of the information.
Thank you for this: I know the present owners of Killinardrish and they have never proposed this doorcase came from nearby Nettleville. Which, of course, is not to suggest it didn’t…