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THE O'ROURKE HOUSE

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A WELL MAINTAINED HOUSE WITH AN HISTORY

O'Rourke house, located at 18-19 Green Street in Kilkenny, is a historical building with a unique blend of agricultural and urban associations. Built around 1875, it incorporates the fabric of an earlier 19th-century inn. The house served as a self-sufficient farmhouse until the mid-20th century, selling produce on-site, a rare feature in an urban setting.

The house's proximity to the River Nore, while contributing to its scenic location, also exposed it to the risk of flooding. The river has a history of flooding, with notable events in 1763 and 1947. While there is no specific documentation of earlier flood damage to the house, the 1947 "Great Flood" significantly impacted the area, with water levels so high in Green Street that one family had to be rescued through their roof. Given the O'Rourke house's location, it's highly likely that this was the O'Rourke family.

Despite these challenges, the O'Rourke house has been well-maintained and retains most of its historical fabric, both interior and exterior. Its finely-detailed, symmetrical shopfront is a testament to high-quality craftsmanship and enhances the street's visual appeal.

While floods have posed a threat throughout its history, the O'Rourke house remains a significant landmark in Kilkenny, showcasing a unique blend of architectural styles and historical uses. Its resilience in the face of natural disasters underscores its importance as a cultural heritage site.