Historic Houses of Ireland Autumn School Set for October

Historic Houses of Ireland have an exciting Autumn ahead with the announcement of their two-day Autumn school on 21 and 22 October at Lisnavagh House in Co. Carlow. The school, which is open to members and non-members, will explore the living legacy of Ireland’s historic houses with speakers to be revealed in the coming weeks.

Three New Board Members Historic Houses of Ireland

Three members have also recently joined HHI’s Board – (photo above left to right) Alex, The Marquess Conyngham, from Slane Castle in Co. Meath, Aoife Keogh from Whitestown House in Dublin and Orla McCabe from Raford House in Co. Galway, who takes over as Treasurer of the organisation.

The Marquess of Conyngham’s background in the renewable energy sector has led to an ecologically driven approach to farming and forestry at Slane, which remains one of Ireland’s truly remarkable historic houses. Aoife Keogh is a lecturer in the School of Education at the National College of Art and Design, but regularly hosts intimate dining events at her family’s stunning home, Whitestown, on the outskirts of Dublin, which was designed and built in 1840 by architect Sandham Symes. Orla McCabe acquired the 18th-century Raford House in Co. Galway in 2005 and welcomed visitors to tour her home this summer as part of Heritage Week. Her impressive financial background in investment banking and corporate finance makes her another welcome addition to the board.

Historic Houses of Ireland works diligently to raise awareness about the cultural significance of Ireland’s privately owned heritage houses. The organisation focuses on sharing knowledge and experience between members on caring for these historically important buildings, and it also acts as a lobbying group to ensure their continued protection. Justin Green of Ballyvolane House and Chairman of Historic Houses of Ireland, has said that they are delighted that these three new high-profile members have decided to join the board and volunteer their time and energy to the organisation ‘We look forward to benefiting from their perspectives and input into our future.’

Historic Houses of Ireland Annual Survey

As part of their ongoing commitment to helping Ireland’s built heritage survive and thrive – Historic Houses has just launched their annual survey to gather information from as many custodians of historic buildings in Ireland as they can, and are welcoming input from both members and non-members. To participate, click here.