John Murphy (1925-2015) – Farmer & Gardener – Waterville, Co. Kerry

John Murphy (1925-2015) – Farmer & Gardener – Waterville, Co. Kerry

John has no interest in parliamentary affairs. “Feck politics, amen”, he suggests. His particular gripe is against the ‘rules and all kinds of feckology that came in when he and his wife tried to set up a small caravan park in the 1980s. One can see why he got on with...
Kilkea Castle – (2) De Ridelesford & the First Castle (1169-1304)

Kilkea Castle – (2) De Ridelesford & the First Castle (1169-1304)

Following the Cambro-Norman conquest of Leinster in the late 12th century, the lands around Kilkea and Castledermot in County Kildare were granted to Walter de Ridelesford, a man with strong links to the Knights Templar. The original stone castle – once among the most...
The Irish Dames of Ypres – Escape from the Western Front

The Irish Dames of Ypres – Escape from the Western Front

The dramatic story of the Irish Benedictine nuns of Ypres and their escape from Belgium and France at the height of World War One to Ireland where they went on to establish Kylemore Abbey. Complete access to all articles on this website for €12 / year...
Rise & Fall of the Knights Templar – The Irish Experience

Rise & Fall of the Knights Templar – The Irish Experience

The Knights Templar have captivated people’s imagination ever since the Order was founded in 1119. One of the most powerful forces in Europe for almost 200 years, their initial purpose was to protect pilgrims in the Holy Land. In Ireland, they had manors and banking...