STACGORY CHURCH RUINS
My first attempts to access this old church and graveyard in 2023 and early 2024 were thwarted by metal fencing blocking the entrance. Although some photographers had managed to capture and publish images online, I was eager to explore the site myself. Finally, during a recent visit, I found the fence had been pushed aside, allowing access.
The current structure, built circa 1670, is not the original church on this site. Historical records suggest an earlier church, possibly dating back to the 11th or 12th century, once stood here. While the Board of Works cleaned the churchyard and building in 1978, the site has unfortunately fallen into a state of neglect once again. This overgrowth made it difficult to read many of the memorials, but I was surprised to find that the majority of legible headstones were much more recent than I anticipated. The most recent I could decipher was for James Hall, who died in March 1936. The oldest legible stones dated back to 1811 and 1801, which is relatively recent in the context of Irish history. This may challenge the claim that the graveyard was active only until the mid-1700s, as the gravestones I photographed were much more recent.
Despite the overgrown conditions, the ruins of Stacgory Church evoke a sense of history. The remaining stone walls hint at the generations of worship that once took place within them. The graveyard, although more modern than expected, still provides a peaceful space for reflection. The weathered headstones, with their diverse styles and inscriptions, offer a glimpse into the past, even if they don't transport us back through centuries as some sources suggest.
A Note on Photography:
Photographers drawn to historical and atmospheric settings will find Stacgory of interest. However, be prepared for challenges! During my visit, my adapted Sigma 24-105mm F4 lens refused to focus, possibly due to an issue with my Sony A7RIV body. I plan to bring a more suitable lens on my next visit.
Location and Access:
Stacgory is located off Mill Lane in Redcowfarm, Palmerstown, and is accessible on foot.
Directions:
Take the N4 exit for Palmerstown.
At the first set of traffic lights, turn left into the village.
At the T-junction in the village, turn right.
Turn left onto Mill Lane.
Park at the sharp right-hand bend at the top of this road; you'll see the fence to your left.
Important Note:
Although the fence was pushed aside during my visit, a sign warning against trespassing remains. The site is owned by a developer, and while it appears somewhat neglected, it's important to be aware of this and proceed with caution.
Recent Information:
Unfortunately, finding detailed and up-to-date information on Stacgory Church proved challenging. It seems to be a site that has slipped through the cracks, with limited online resources. Hopefully my personal observations and photographs provide valuable documentation of its current state.
BALNAGOWAN HOUSE
Balnagowan House: A Modernist Gem in Decay
The recent fire at The Haven, which tragically destroyed outbuildings on the grounds of Balnagowan House, has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the future of this architectural gem. Located off Mobhi Road in Glasnevin, Balnagowan House stands as a testament to Ireland's early embrace of Modernist architecture.
Wendon House, later renamed Balnagowan, was a marvel of modern luxury hidden behind an unassuming exterior. While the street presence was understated, the interior was a testament to cutting-edge design and comfort.
Architect Harold Greenwood, under the direction of developer George Linzell, incorporated features that were ahead of their time:
Modern Conveniences: Central heating, concealed lighting, and an internal telephone system for seamless communication with staff.
Luxurious Amenities: Bedrooms with private hand basins and built-in wardrobes, two bathrooms, and a serving hatch between the kitchen and dining room with electric hotplates to keep food warm.
State-of-the-art Appliances: A laundry room equipped with a washing machine, connected to the upper floors by a laundry chute.
Modernist Design Elements: Oak panelling and chrome light-switches added a touch of sleek sophistication.
Linzell, who built speculative houses in Dublin, leveraged his own residence as a showpiece of modern luxury living, attracting discerning buyers. Later occupants further enhanced the property with additions like a tennis court, swimming pool, greenhouses, and outbuildings, while strategically planted trees provided privacy from the neighbouring Bons Secours Hospital.
The house changed hands several times over the years, with notable residents including publican John Doyle, who renamed it Balnagowan, and the Quinns, the last family to reside there. Before its current vacancy, it served as the headquarters for the Central Fisheries Board.
The recent fire at The Haven, which tragically destroyed outbuildings on the grounds of Balnagowan House, has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the future of this architectural gem. Located off Mobhi Road in Glasnevin, Balnagowan House stands as a testament to Ireland's early embrace of Modernist architecture.
Wendon House, later renamed Balnagowan, was a marvel of modern luxury hidden behind an unassuming exterior. While the street presence was understated, the interior was a testament to cutting-edge design and comfort.
Architect Harold Greenwood, under the direction of developer George Linzell, incorporated features that were ahead of their time:
Modern Conveniences: Central heating, concealed lighting, and an internal telephone system for seamless communication with staff.
Luxurious Amenities: Bedrooms with private hand basins and built-in wardrobes, two bathrooms, and a serving hatch between the kitchen and dining room with electric hotplates to keep food warm.
State-of-the-art Appliances: A laundry room equipped with a washing machine, connected to the upper floors by a laundry chute.
Modernist Design Elements: Oak panelling and chrome light-switches added a touch of sleek sophistication.
Linzell, who built speculative houses in Dublin, leveraged his own residence as a showpiece of modern luxury living, attracting discerning buyers. Later occupants further enhanced the property with additions like a tennis court, swimming pool, greenhouses, and outbuildings, while strategically planted trees provided privacy from the neighbouring Bons Secours Hospital.
The house changed hands several times over the years, with notable residents including publican John Doyle, who renamed it Balnagowan, and the Quinns, the last family to reside there. Before its current vacancy, it served as the headquarters for the Central Fisheries Board.
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