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.
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.
STACGORY CHURCH RUINS