Reflections on Elizabeth Bowen (1899-1973)

Reflections on Elizabeth Bowen (1899-1973)

The author of ten novels and over 100 short stories, Elizabeth Bowen was one of the most remarkable writers of her generation. She was also my grandmother's first cousin and, arguably, best friend. I once found her CBE in my sock drawer and my mother inherited her...
Desmond Leslie (1921-2001) – An Irish Gentleman

Desmond Leslie (1921-2001) – An Irish Gentleman

The man who punched Bernard Levin live on TV, in front of 11 million viewers, was also a brilliant Spitfire pilot during the Second World War. As well as his first marriage to the stage actress Agnes Bernelle, Desmond Leslie made his mark as a scriptwriter, music...
Samuel Clayton: Forger, Freemason, Freeman

Samuel Clayton: Forger, Freemason, Freeman

The story of the convicted master forger from Dublin who founded Freemasonry in Australia and produced Australia's first bank notes. Complete access to all articles on this website for €12 / year...
The Incredible Mr Kavanagh

The Incredible Mr Kavanagh

The story of a remarkable Irishman, born without arms or legs, who became an explorer and member of parliament, as well as a huntsman, sailor, photographer and father of seven.  Complete access to all articles on this website for €12 / year...

Peg Plunkett (Mrs. Leeson) (C. 1740-1797)

PEG PLUNKETT (MRS. LEESON) (C. 1740-1797) VICE-QUEEN OF GEORGIAN DUBLIN Christmas 1794 was a distinctly uncomfortable time for a large number of the well-to-do men who frequented Georgian Dublin. The word was out that Mrs. Leeson, long regarded as the city’s foremost...