AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
1.0
2006
INTRODUCTION
Kildare County Council in association with The Heritage Council has commissioned this Audit of
Museums and Public Collections in County Kildare to gain an overview of the sector in the
county. The Audit also aims to assess the extent of museum collections in the county and the
services offered by the participating organizations. An important aspect of the survey is the
analysis of the needs and aspirations of these organizations and to suggest ways in which the
Council can facilitate the development and progress of these important institutions.
Fifteen organizations have participated in this Audit of Museums and Heritage Venues which
range from small private collections on display to the public to larger collections which are of
national and international importance. Some organizations may not have strong heritage
collections but facilitate a living heritage as a venue for drama societies and local community
groups to come together. Others form local and regional interpretive centres displaying the history
and heritage of the county in graphic displays, supplemented by some important heritage objects.
The Audit has identified a great variety of collections with objects which are of local, regional,
national and in some instances international significance. Some collections themselves are of
international significance.
It is intended that the information gathered through this Audit will facilitate the development of
policies within Kildare County Council, and its Heritage Office, for the care and welfare of
important aspects of the county’s heritage.
It is also envisaged that this Audit will contribute to a fuller understanding of the diversity of the
county’s heritage objects on public display. It may encourage the development of a co-ordinated
approach to the support and training required by many of the organizations. helping them to work
co-operatively for the long-term benefit of the whole sector. Such a network would support and
complement the objectives of the Heritage Council’s Museum Standards Programme for Ireland.
This Audit was prepared between June and September 2006.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2.0
2006
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Fifteen out of sixteen museums identified by Kildare County Council have participated in the Audit
of Museums and Public Collections.
The geographical spread of museums is largely determined by access to primary routes or
national roads. Five museums are based in major urban centres while two are based in smaller
village settings. Five of the participating organizations are based in a rural setting and a further
two, while in a rural setting, are set within historic demesnes at the fringes of major urban centres.
Proximity of national roads does not suggest greater access provided to organizations. In many
cases the opening of national roads has been detrimental to visitor numbers.
Eight organizations are commercial Limited Companies governed by boards of directors or
committees. One forms part of Kildare County Council’s Library Service. One organization is a
non-governmental organization with charitable status. One organization is owned by the Church
of Ireland and governed by a vestry committee. Two organizations form part of state-bodies. One
organization is owned and governed by a college forming part of the National University of
Ireland.
Of the 13 historic properties and/or gardens open to the public in County Kildare under Section
482 of the Finances Consolidation Act, 1997, only Lodge Park Walled Garden and Steam
Museum forms part of this Audit. Other properties not availing of Section 482, but may be, in part,
open to the public, are not included in this Audit and have not been quantified. Section 482
properties are included in the appendices at the end of the
The Museums and Public Collections in County Kildare cover a wide variety of subject matter
which is broadly representative of the sector nationally. The objects within collections represent
the following subjects:
Applied Arts
Archaeology
Military
Scientific
Genealogy
Agriculture
Folk life
Fine Art
History
Archives
Library
Maritime
Natural history
Ecclesiology
Science
Intangible history
The activities, research and periodicals of the County Kildare Archaeological Society (CKAS)
should be acknowledged for the contribution the Society has made to primary research activity on
the history and archaeology of County Kildare. The Societies journal, The Journal of the County
Kildare Archaeological Society, first published in 1891 includes fifteen volumes. It is probably the
single most important collection of material relating to all aspects of County Kildare’s heritage and
which, to a greater extent, covers the main subjects of the previous paragraph. This volume
would enhance the collection of many of the organizations participating in this audit.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
2
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
3.
2006
KEY FINDINGS
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Fifteen museum organizations and public collections participated in this Audit, while fourteen
actually completed the questionnaire.
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One of the fifteen museums in County Kildare is not generally open to the public.
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The Audit has identified that funding is a universal issue affecting the participating
organizations, whether the organization be a small largely privately funded operation or
managed by a national or semi-state body.
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Among many of the smaller organizations there is an openness and flexibility to learn from
and co-operate with each other.
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A fuller understanding of the diversity of the county’s heritage objects on public display may
encourage the development of a Kildare Museums / Collections Network. Such a network
could provide support, training and advice for the county’s museums and heritage centres,
helping them to work co-operatively for the long-term benefit of the whole sector. Such a
network would support and complement the objectives of the Heritage Council’s Museum
Standards Programme for Ireland.
•
In the absence of a Regional County Museum there is no repository for the care and
presentation of individual artifacts and collections as they arise.
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There are a number of prevailing themes that emerge in many of the museum heritage
centres. These include the following themes:
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Revolutionary Nationalism (1798, 1916, etc.)
Early Christian History
Saint Brigid
The Boglands and Peat industry
Military History and the Curragh
Folk life
The Famine
Quaker Life
Equestrian history
Gordon Bennett
Ernest Shackleton
Sporting History and Influential Figures
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Aspects of regional history which are largely ignored are as follows:
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The Grand Canal and the industries it supported
Archaeological sites
Architectural Heritage
Historic Families and Genealogy
Industrial Heritage
Agricultural History
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Most organizations are reluctant to accept donations of objects of local or regional interest
owning to difficulties arising from limited storage space and curatorial experience in dealing
with such objects.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
•
Three (four when the Military Museum collection is included) are of International relevance.
Three are of National relevance. Thirteen of the museum collections can be said to be of
regional and local relevance.
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86.6% of museums were established after 1970. The intervening 36 years has seen the
establishment of a wide variety of organizations, each forging an individual mandate towards
the sharing of knowledge and artifacts of interest to the county and the country as a whole.
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One of the fifteen museums participating in this survey is a member of the Irish Museums
Association (IMA).
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Six museums or organizations organized events specifically to coincide with Heritage Week
2006.
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Five organizations have collections policy. It is not clear from the survey if the collections
policies are formally adopted in articles of association or management structures.
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Generally speaking, folk life and local history form the principal focus of museums and
heritage centres in County Kildare.
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The extent of documentation of collections is varied. Seven collections are not catalogued at
all. Four collections are completely catalogued, 35% of one collection is documented and
catalogued, and two museums have between 70% and 99% of the collections catalogued
and documented.
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Six museums are open Monday-to-Friday and also at weekends. Six museums are open
Monday-to-Friday only. Eight museums are open during normal business hours, i.e. from 910am and 4-5.30pm. One museum is open only during the morning only and one museum is
open in the afternoon only. One museum is not open to the public.
•
Eight museums are open all year though some have more limited opening hours during the
off-peak season. Five museums are closed during the off-season period.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
4
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
4.0
2006
METHODOLOGY
The Audit was divided into three phases. The first phase involved the development of a
questionnaire the purpose of which was to allow participating organizations audit their own
operations, providing an opportunity to self-evaluate the strengths and weaknesses. The
questionnaires were returned and subsequently audited. The results of this audit form the basis of
this report. The questionnaire was interrogative and aimed to look at each organization under the
following headings:
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Management and staffing structure:
Education and outreach facilities
Development
Public Relations
Opening hours
Visitor numbers
Services
Funding and grant aiding
Fundraising
The Collection, collection policy and documentation
Conservation
Storage facilities
Other facilities such as café/shop/toilets/reading room
Marketing and promotional strategy
Phase two of the survey involved site visits to participating organizations to view the collections
and venues at first hand, to gain from them a more complete understanding of the collections and
remit. It also provided an opportunity to see the collections in display and in storage. The site visit
also provided the opportunity to ask about the future training needs of the organizations.
The quantifying and collation of the questionnaire data forms the final part of this Audit report.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
5
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.0
2006
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
This chapter aims to provide a pen-picture of the focus of each museum organization in the
country. What emerges from the Audit is the range of organizations that exist, whose collective
aim is to promote and disseminate selected aspects of the heritage of the county through the
interpretation of historical data and local folklore.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
6
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.1
2006
ATHY HERITAGE CENTRE
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
Town Hall
Athy
Co. Kildare
Margaret Walsh
[email protected]
059-8633075
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
Athy Heritage Centre was established by local business people under the guidance of Mr. Frank
Taaffe and in association with the Athy Museum Society. The centre is located in the important
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early 18 century town hall in the centre of this historic charter town on Emily Square. The
heritage centre occupies the ground floor of the structure while the Local Authority Athy Library
occupies the first floor. The structure is in the ownership of the Local Authority.
The heritage centre exhibition has been designed as a self-guide exhibition. It includes a number
of objects on display which are outlined below. However the principal narrative of the exhibition
centre is a series of interpretive graphic displays covering the following subject matter:
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The early history of Athy and the Ford of
Ae.
The medieval Town
Military Outposts
Henry VIII and the Monasteries
The House of Kildare (the Fitzgeralds)
The Gordon Bennett Rally
The Civil development of Athy
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The Grand Canal
World War I
John Vincent Holland
1798 and the Confederate Wars
Famine in County Kildare
Ernest Shackleton
Religious Diversity in Athy
Objects on display comprise a wide variety of material of local, regional and national interest.
Many smaller items are in secure glass topped timber-framed display cabinets, while other
objects, such as carved stonework are simply mounted on plinths and not secured. Objects are
either displayed thematically, or are sporadically displayed with little articulation and reference to
the exhibition themes. For instance the Shackleton Room contains objects relating to the
Shackleton family and the expeditions of Ernest Shackleton. The religious room contains a
number of objects relating to Quaker history and Roman Catholic heritage. The World War room
and Gordon Bennett display also contain objects relating specifically to these subjects. However
throughout the exhibition there are a number of important objects such as carved stone, furniture,
and a donation of vintage bicycles which do not form an integral part of the exhibition narrative.
Objects on display include (inter alia) the following:
A model of Shackleton’s ship Endurance made by albatross Models, England, and an original
sledge used during one of Shackleton’s expeditions. Family effects of the Shackleton’s including
a Tabard cigarette box containing a biscuit from the 1914-1916 expedition. Fourteen Shackleton
family portrait photographs, framed and mounted are fixed to the wall.
The religious diversity room contains display cabinets, one containing silver items of religious
significance. A book owned and signed by Abraham Shackleton (who established the Quaker
School in Ballitore) with a date of 1761 entitled: The Works of the Long-Mournful and SorelyDistressed ISAAC PENNINGTON. A volume entitled the Leadbeater Papers, The Annals of
Ballitore, Letters from Edmund Burke, London, Bell and Daldy, 186 Fleet Street, published in
1862 in also included. Another book entitled: Tales for Cottagers, Accommodated to the Present
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
Condition of the Irish peasantry, by Mary Leadbeater [sic], and Elizabeth Shackleton and dated to
1814.
The Gordon Bennett Rally exhibit includes a control stop watch from the 1903 Cup Race and
event programmes.
The World War I room is centred around a Leinster Regiment Uniform dated to 1917.Elsewhere
in the room a display cabinet contains of “war art” forming intriguing objects made from
ammunition among other metal objects and forming generally religious artifacts or memorials to
lost soldiers.
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Miscellaneous objects include a number of finely carved early 17 century stone fragments,
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almost all from Kilkea Castle. 13 century carved stone grave slabs from Saint Michael’s
Cemetery. A memorial cross to John Fitzgerald dated to 1620 fragmented in three pieces is also
on display.
There is not a reserve collection and none of the three dimensional objects are in storage. Some
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early 20 century ordnance survey maps, stored in rolls are stored in the exhibition centre.
A conservator has assessed and variefied the suitability of the exhibition space for the Shackleton
with a recommendation that the sledge is displayed behind a glazed cabinet. Ultra Violet light
filters have been fitted in many of the windows.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.2
2006
BALLITORE LIBRARY AND QUAKER MUSEUM
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
Mary Leadbeater House,
Ballitore
Co. Kildare
Mary Malone
[email protected]
059-8623344
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION
The ground floor of the Mary Leadbeater House contains the Ballitore library, reading room, IT
room and a staff kitchen and bathroom facilities. The first floor contains three exhibition rooms,
two of which are interconnected. The rooms are thematic. The Mary Leadbeater Room, The Folk
Life Room, and The Quaker Costume Room. The exhibitions comprise graphic display panels
and objects on open display in each room.
The Mary Leadbeater Room
This room has graphic display panels comprising panels on the following subjects:
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William and Mary
1798
Quaker Village Life
Mary’s People
Ballitore Shackleton Family Tree
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Mary Shackleton, the Writer (Edmund
Burke and Maria Edgeworth)
Quaker Architecture
Objects within the Mary Leadbeater Room include a woven chair and writing bureau. A print copy
of a painting of Richard Shackleton. Two oil-on-canvas portraits of William and Anna Plewman. A
glass case contains two Peg dolls thought to be representative of Mary Shackleton’s blind aunt
Sally and her friend Fanny Lyons.
The Folk Life Room
“The many and varied items on display represent the lives of people both living in and around the
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village of Ballitore, from the 18 century to the mid 20 century.” The artifacts can be separated
into distinct categories:
• Domestic
• Agriculture
• Business and Trade
Objects include a famine stick chair, photographs, drawings, a butter churn, a typewriter and
objects of historic domestic interest. Painted dressers provide open displays for items of
ethnographic and folk life interest.
The Quaker Costume Room
This room, the window openings of which have drawn blinds, interconnects with the Folk Life
Room. The objects are stored in cabinets with a hygrothermograph monitoring humidity and
temperature levels in one cabinet.
The objects include:
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A parasol or sunshade, dated 1845-50
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A chemise dated from the 19 century
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
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2006
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An infant gown and bonnet of 19 century origins
A pelerine in poplin and silk dated to 1840-45
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A gents fedora or Quaker had of 19 century origins
A cottage bonnet of black satin from the 1840s
A cottage bonnet of grey silk
A pair of dark brown apron
A lappet fated to the 1840s
A Quaker lady’s brown apron
An afternoon cap
A wedding dress ensemble worn by Jane Marian Richardson of
A photograph of Charlotte Beale and her daughter Emma, from Cork.
There are two portraits of James White and his wife, Lydia, nee Shackleton.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
10
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.3
2006
IRISH PEWTER MILL
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
Moone
Co. Kildare
Sean Cleary
[email protected]
059-8624164
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
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The Irish Pewter Mill was established in 1973. It is located in an 18 century former corn mill
building, which was partly converted to house residential accommodation and a workshop with a
shop/museum of pewter to the front. The exhibition forms a narrative display on the development
and application of Pewter and its manufacturing processes, which is enlivened by a tour of the
objects with Mr. Scully, who explains the development of the pewter manufacturing from the
hand-made to the industrialized.
The items are on open display on wall mounted shelving.
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Many of the objects are of Dutch or English origins and range in date from the 17 to the 20
century. Most objects are moulds which are used to form the pewter objects. To the front of the
house there are some early examples of pewter jugs, candelabras and platters.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
11
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.4
2006
KILCULLEN TOWN HALL, THEATRE AND HERITAGE CENTRE
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
Lower Main Street
Kilcullen
Co. Kildare
Nessa Dunlea
[email protected]
045-481613
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
The Town Hall, Theatre and Heritage Centre of Kilcullen was established by Mr. Pat Dunlea in
2000. It is housed in a former cinema which was extended and converted to form the existing
structure. The Heritage Centre is governed by the Town Hall Committee which comprises local
people, and members of the various community groups who use the Centre.
The Centre comprises an open-plan multi-purpose space and the adjoining Theatre. The multipurpose space accommodates two display cabinets with objects relating to the heritage of
Kilcullen. The strength of this heritage centre is its broad community appeal as a meeting place
and theatre. The theatre and space are crucial to the funding of the Heritage Centre.
There are 56 historic photographs, 30 theatrical photographs (The Capers) and 45 objects in the
collection. All items on display are tagged with a sticker with the item number. These are then
entered into a hand-written catalogue. The Kilcullen Town Hall, Theatre and Heritage Centre
minutes.
The items on display include a reproduction of a portrait of John La Touche by Angelica
Kauffmann.
The collection is limited and varied and of local interest. The collection includes: a framed and
mounted etching of Kilcullen Church of Ireland Church; a panel forming a montage of historic
buildings in historic photographs; framed and mounted copies of Alex Taylor Maps of Co. Kildare;
visitor and servants bells from Castlemartin House; One display forms a memorial to local man
James Pender with personal effects such as mortuary cards, service medal and a forage cap.
Military history is represented by pike heads from 1798, a British Army lance head from 1865; a
Royal Irish Fusiliers Silver mounted swagger stick with owners initials “J.L.B” and hallmarked
London, 1908.
A panel displays documentary photographs of the excavation of Dún Ailinne archaeological site
under the supervision of archaeologist Professor Bernard Wales in 1974.
Other miscellaneous items include an example of an early telephone, and a Victorian Ordnance
Survey cartographers measuring chain.
A bellows by a local blacksmith along with an anvil and a cinema projector are located in the
entrance porch.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
12
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.5
2006
KILDARE HERITAGE CENTRE
ADDRESS:
Market House
Market Square
Kildare
Co. Kildare
Mary Stones
[email protected]
045-530672
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
Kildare Heritage Centre was established in $. It is located in the restored 18th century market
house. The Heritage Centre also functions as a representative of Fáilte Ireland and undertakes
tourist information and support services under this remit. The heritage centre display is housed on
the first floor in an open-plan single space. The display is not collection based, though some
items are on display. It is entirely interpretive and self-guiding.
It comprises two elements:
1.
2.
A multi-media display on the history of Kildare town.
A self-guide graphic display on the history of the town and region.
The multi media presentation is narrated by an actor representing a 7th century monk Cogitosus.
It begins with the establishment of the church by Saint Bridget whose legacy is explored in the
interpretive panels.
The display panels include the following subject areas, which are also covered by the multi-media
presentation:
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Saint Brigid
The Monastic City
The Round Tower
A Cathedral Town
Medieval Kildare
The Fitzgeralds of Kildare
The Abbeys of Kildare
War and Rebellion
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A Prosperous Town
The Gibbet Rath Massacre
A Garrison Town
The Curragh
Horse Racing and the Curragh
Horse Breading
The Irish National Stud
Japanese Gardens
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A number of important 17 century stone architectural fragments which were found in the building
during restoration work and believed to be from Kilkea Castle, Athy, are displayed in the
exhibition centre.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
13
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.6
2006
LULLYMORE HERITAGE AND DISCOVERY PARK
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
Lullymore
Rathangan
Co. Kildare
Sean Judge
[email protected]
045-870238
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park was established in 1993, as a private limited company
and the Park aims to interpret aspects of Ireland’s heritage and folklore and the bog landscape in
an interactive way. To this end a number of key features have been developed.
These features are as follows:
A recreation of four thatched houses each of which accommodates a specific historical theme,
which can be muddled at times. These are admirable, while not fully achieving verisimilitude. This
is most obvious when the items on display and the graphic displays are not complimentary. Three
thatched houses are clustered while one is located at a different part of the park. Regional and
Local history is interpreted on graphic display panels. The historical subject matter is limited to
pre-Christian history and folklore, early Christian history, nationalism, the Famine and folk life.
These aspects of the past are interpreted and supplemented by a number of historical objects or
objects which are recreations, some of which are relevant to the themes of the graphic displays.
The Park has additional facilities aimed at securing a steady repeat-visit market. The Funky
Jungle is an indoor adventure centre aimed at children. An outdoor adventure/play ground area
called Fionn McCumhaill’s Adventure Playground. A “fun train” brings visitors around the park.
Tea rooms are also available.
House 1:
This is a recreation of a two-roomed direct entry thatched house. A map of Kildare shows where
garrisons, battles, yeomanry houses and rebel occupations, were located. The map also plots the
regional flashpoints of the 1798 Rebellion in the country, including: Prosperous, Clane, Naas,
Athy, Gibbit Rath, Kildare, Monasterevin, Ovidstown, Timahoe Camp.
The house also focuses on the early Christian history of Lullymore. This section of the house
includes:
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Stained glass window
Bog oak model of the Lullymore
monastic settlement
Aerial photograph of the graveyard and
former monastic site
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Replica of the Book of Kells
Replica of an Ogham Stone
House 2:
This is a recreation of a three-roomed direct entry thatched house. The house has a dual theme
representing the rural way of life while also focusing on the historical background from a regional
perspective on the events surrounding the 1798 Rebellion. The Lullymore patriot John Doorley
forms another focal point. There are panels on the following historical topics:
John Doorley; Ireland in the 1790s; Penal Laws; Grattan’s Parliament; Government Repression;
and The United Irishmen, and the Battle of Rathangan.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
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One room of the cottage is dedicated to a restored mid-20 century Cart. It was built in 1957 by
Ned Cox when he was 15. Other artifacts relevant to the thatched house interior include: a
kitchen dresser, bureau and settlebed, a butter churn and wrought-iron hearth furniture.
House 3
This structure forms a forge. In its single room the centrally placed hearth forge is the focus of the
exhibition. It is not operational. Many forgers tools and forged implements form part of this
exhibition, including a timber and leather bellows, anvil, hammers and other tools.
House 4
A recreation of a three-roomed direct entry mud-walled thatched house, typical of many parts of
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Kildare until the 20 century. It is located adjacent to a remembrance garden, the concept of
which is to commemorate the Famine with 47 recumbent stone markers representing graves. The
house is probably the most successful aspect of the Park, recreating a mud-walled thatched
house, though the pitch of the roof structure is slightly off. This house is free of graphic display
panels, and the furniture, fittings and the spatial quality of the room are used to recreate the
atmosphere of a thatched house. Furniture includes two beds, a dresser, hearth with wrought and
cast-iron furniture flanked by snugs.
A large themed cultivated garden is based on many aspects of Irish history and mythology. The
various sections of this garden are:
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The Dolmen Garden
The Ogham Garden
The Bee Garden
The Bird Garden
The Medicine Garden
CHARLES DUGGAN
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The Monastic Garden
The Newgrange Garden
The Cranóg Garden
The 1916 Garden
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
15
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.7
2006
BOG OF ALLEN NATURE CENTRE
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
Irish Peatland Conservation Council (IPCC)
Bog of Allen Nature Centre
Lullymore
Rathangan
Co. Kildare
Nuala Madigan
[email protected]
045-860133
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
The Irish Peatland Conservation Council was established in 1982 as a charitable organization.
Originally Dublin based, the IPCC moved to Lullymore in 2004, acquiring a property from
Teagasc. The IPCC’s Bog of Allen Nature Centre is the public face of the organization, which has
a wide remit in the lobbying for and conservation of Ireland’s peatland heritage. The Centre is
both the headquarters of the organization and also operates a number of important services.
From the Centre the IPCC organizes and monitors a number of annual surveys including the Frog
Survey. The exhibition Centre has an entry fee.
The core body of the Nature Centre exhibition and its format was inherited when the property was
purchased from Teagasc. It forms part of a business development plan and requires updating. It
begins with the interior of a thatched house, with many items on display that were donated to
Teagasc over the years. When the IPCC took over the ownership and management of the
property many of those who donated objects on display began to remove the objects and the
ambiguity of ownership status emerged with serious problem arising from a total lack of
documentation on ownership and acquisition when the item was donated.
The next section of the exhibition comprises an audio-visual display showing “ Discovering the
Wild Boglands”. It is housed in a room which displays panels on the Irish Army Corp and
Lullymore Camp; Danes Road; the Monastic Settlement and the Murphy Family. Artifacts in this
room are positioned on the floor and include an early Christian stone cross and a corn grinding
stone from an early Christian settlement.
The principal exhibition room at ground floor level interprets the ecology, heritage and
archaeology of the bog. The exhibition explores bog cutting from the hand-cutting method to the
industrialization of this by An Bord Na Mona. Concurrent with the history of human interaction
with the bog is a series of displays on the ecology of boglands, its formation and flora and fauna.
A three-dimensional display represents the various components of a bog and its associated
wildlife. Along one side of the room there is a display entitled “Steps in Time Down Through the
Ages” which plots the development of the bog from the resent day to 3000 BC. A mural plots the
development while an open-display exhibit of tools and implements indicate the human activity
associated. These include: a sléan, a billy can, a turf barrow and a section of pine or deal bog
timber. The exhibition also includes sections on the following aspects of bog heritage:
•
•
•
•
•
A mural of the History of the Bog of Allen
Plants of the Boglands
Insects of Irish Peatlands
Objects inspired by Bogs and Fens
New and Ancient Treasures Recovered from Bogs and Fens
A pre-Christian bog oak timber canoe and the skull and antlers from a Great Irish Elk are the
most dramatic items on display in the exhibition. Smaller items housed in glass display cases
include a display of bog insects.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
16
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
A section of the exhibition is dedicated to the heritage of bog cutting in Ireland and Europe. It is
centred around a large model of a peat briquette processing plant. Graphic display panels show
the development of the industry in Ireland during the 1940s and 1950s. A display of briquette fuel
from other European countries is also on display.
The first floor of the exhibition is dedicated largely to the natural heritage of bogs. The displays
include naturalistic recreations of the following:
•
•
•
•
Fen Animals
Invertebrates
A Herborium
And a composite of exhibitions which have taken place that relates to the heritage of the bogs
An important part of the organization and the centre is the on-going development of an extensive
archive and library of material relating to the peatland heritage. The material is largely primary
documentation in the form of surveys, scientific studies, proceedings and papers. This archive is
accessible in a reading room by appointment. An on-line catalogue is being developed.
Computers and other study implements including microscopes for on-going studies and a
photocopying service.
A bog garden has recently been developed which has not yet been formally opened to the public.
Central to this is a green house accommodating a collection of carnivorous plants.
The IPCC provides an education service which is managed by the Environmental Education
Officer. It includes an extensive classroom programme, which is Junior Certificate curriculum
specific covering the following subjects:
Art, English, Gaeilge, History, Geography and Science.
Resource packs aimed at both primary and post-primary level and the modulated education
programme are available to be downloaded from the website.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
17
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.8
2006
NATIONAL SCIENCE MUSEUM, SAINT PATRICK’S COLLEGE
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
Saint Patrick’s College
National University of Ireland
Maynooth
Co. Kildare
Dr. Niall McKeith (curator)
[email protected]
01-7083780
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
Owned and managed by Saint Patrick’s College Maynooth, the ecclesiological collection of the
College was established as a museum in 1934 by the Trustees of the College and Dr. William
Moran, Professor of Dogmatic Theology was appointed its first curator. From the 1950s the
museum was developed to include the collection of scientific apparatus of Rev. Nicholas Callan
(1799-1864) and other instruments from the Physics Department of the college which are of
historic scientific interest. The instruments of Monsignor Gerald Molloy (1834-1906) also form part
of the collection.
The museum building comprises a free-standing single-storey single-roomed space, originally top
lit through a continuous ridge roof light, and in more recent times lit artificially with no natural light
entering the museum. All objects on display have been housed in purpose-designed secure
display cabinets which form part of a re-design of the museum in recent years.
Extensive published documentation exists on both aspects of the collection. Saint Patrick’s
College, Maynooth, Museum of Ecclesiology was published in 1995, forming a re-edited and
revised catalogue by Dr. McKeith, based on the earlier Tóstal Catalogue. The Scientific
Apparatus of Nicholas Callan and other Historic Instruments, is an illustrated catalogue by
Charles Mollan and John Upton, published 1994.
The Ecclesiological museum has been catalogued under 25 categories and includes objects from
th
the 15 century onwards. The collection covers the following categories:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Irish Illuminated Manuscripts
Altar Plate
Ecclesiastical Bells
Boxes for Altar Breads
Reliquaries
Monstrances
Pectoral crosses,
Representations of the Crucifixion
Penal Crosses
Rosaries
Oil Stocks
Croziers
Relics
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Statuary.
Vestments
Eastern Church and Foreign
Danial O’Connell
Letters and Documents
Maynooth College
Medals and Medallions
Mass Rocks
Altar Stones
Altar Bread Tongs
Miscellanea
Models
The highlights include The Marie Antoinette Vestments made by her Ladies-in-waiting and
presented by the Queen to Rev. Dr. Patrick O’Byrne, chaplain to the Duc a’Angouleme, and The
Maria Barbara of Braganze Vestements, which were presented to the Irish College in Salamanca.
Also in this collection is a section dedicated to Danial O’Connell, which includes a wax death
mask, religious books and correspondence owned by O’Connell.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
The Scientific Apparatus are arranged under the following categories, which then form
subcategories. The principal categories are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Chemistry and Analysis
Electricity and Magnetism
Heat
Hydrostatics
Light
Mechanics
•
•
•
•
•
Meterology
Pneumatics
Sound
Surveying and Navigation
Other Instruments
The highlights of this collection include instruments made or used by Callan including: electromagnetic coils, induction coils (which Callan invented) and the Wimshurst Electrostatic generator,
th
of lat 19 century origins. Many instruments made by the Dublin based firms of John Spencer &
Son, Samuel & Son, Yeates & Son add to the interest and relevance of many on display.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
19
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.9
2006
LODGE PARK WALLED GARDEN AND STEAM MUSEUM
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
Lodge Park
Straffan
Co. Kildare
Robert Guinness
[email protected]
01-6273155/6288412
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
In 1988 the nave and transepts of St. Jude’s church was dismantled by Robert Guinness and reerected on the grounds of Lodge Park to house the Steam Museum. The Spire of the church
remains in situ in Inchicore. The Steam Museum was formally opened by President Mary
Robinson in July 1992. It is housed in the grounds of Lodge Park, the restored walled garden of
which is also opened to the public. An extensive catalogue of the exhibition is available on line.
An access fee applied to the museum and gardens.
The Steam Museum:
The museum is divided into three distinct sections. The Power Hall focuses on stationary steam
engines in steam, that were made &/or worked in breweries, distilleries, factories and ships
throughout Ireland. The engines on exhibit are impressive in scale and form. Included in the
exhibition are the following: the Independent Six Pillar Beam Engine from the Murphy’s Distillery
th
in Cork, dates to the early 19 century; the exhibition also includes a Single Pillar Beam Engine
made for the Smithwicks Brewery in Kilkenny; a Triple Expansion Vertical Inverted Marine Engine
is also in the collection. Each engine is accompanied by an information panel which can be easily
read from the public walkway. Supplementary murals depicting the operation and function of
certain engines have been painted on the walls.
The Richard Guinness Hall displays a large collection of historic prototype model locomotive
th
engines from the early 19 century. These are housed separately in timber-framed glazed display
cases raised on four legs. A series of portraits of the inventor/engineers responsible for the
th
prototypes are displayed on the walls. These appear to be of 20 century origins and may form
copies of originals.
A final room which includes a large working model which is prompted to operate by infrared
sensors shows a cross section of a mine and the engine used to pump water out of the pit and
also to transport workings in and out. Also in this room is an exhibition of miscellanea relating to
aspects of steam power and industrial heritage. On display in this room include framed prints of
steam-powered ships, a framed photographic portrait of Captain Robert Halpin of Tinnakilly, Co.
Wicklow and objects such as a model of a steam-powered ship and the crest of the Great
Southern Railway. A large archive cabinet with documentation and maps is present in the
exhibition, but not opened for general public access.
Other services provided include the Steaming Kettle Teahouse. In the enclosed courtyard
between the museum and teahouse there is an out-door dining area and an original Showman’s
Living Wagon is on display.
The museum shop and an interactive playroom for children are both aimed at industrial heritage.
th
th
The walled gardens include a restoration of a 19 century glasshouse and a 17 century lead
cistern amongst the formally laid out flower beds, lawns and vegetable gardens.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
20
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
Maintenance and conservation works to the engines on display is carried out on site in a large
purpose-built structure which is not open to the public.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
21
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.10
2006
THE HORSE MUSEUM
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens
Tully
Co. Kildare
Freda O’Connell
[email protected]
045-521617
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
The Horse Museum is a recent development at the Irish National Stud. It is housed in a former
stable building, which has been adapted to form two open-plan interconnecting rooms which tell
the story of the horse racing industry in Ireland. The museum is really an interpretive centre as
the majority of the exhibition is illustrated by graphic display panels, and historic objects that
relate to this history are few. The Irish National Stud also provides an extensive gift shop and
restaurant as well as the important Japanese Gardens and Saint Fiachra’s Garden.
The most prized object in the exhibition is the skeleton of Arkle, which was donated to the Irish
th
National Stud by its former owner Anne, Duchess of Westminster. Other objects include a 19
century weigh chair, farrier implements and tools,
A two-sided glass display case houses miscellaneous objects some of which are not related to
the theme of the exhibition. These include:
•
•
•
•
•
The Racing Colours of Jockeys from three different races
A medal
A rolled up copy of the Irish Field periodical
A horoscope manuscript of Hall Walker, founder of the Irish National Stud
A whip
On the opposite side of the display case there is:
•
•
•
•
th
An 18 century Iron Rowel Spur ad Bridle bit
th
A 9 Century AD Yew Saddle Pommell
th
A late 13 Century jug spout from Wood Quay, Dublin
Breeding Records.
An Audio-visual display includes excerpts from the following races:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Dawn Run Winning the Gold Cup in 1986
Vintage Crop Winning the Melbourne Cup in 1993
Danoli Winning the Hennessy Gold Cup in 1997
Cardeas Winning the Trigo Stakes in 1994
Arkle Winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 1964
Nijinsky Winning the Epsom Derby in 1970
th
Graphic displays incorporate some artifacts such as a copy of the Aga Kahn trophy, a 17 and
th
18 century horse shoe, the hoof of Blanford, copies of the Field, a leather side saddle, horse
shoes worn by Nijinsky, Ridgewood and Royal Charger. There is also an interactive element to
the exhibition with “Did you know” facts dispersed throughout, an electronic weighing-in device
which records body weight, and a display which measures height in hands. A model of a horse
head allows the viewer to complete the fitting of a bridle with the aid of step-by-step instructions.
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ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
The themes of the graphic display panels are as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The origins of the horse
Early history
The horse in Ireland
Work and the horse
The origins of racing
The Steeplechase
How horseracing works
CHARLES DUGGAN
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Arkle
Irish racing before 1850
Irish racing 1850-1940
Irish racing since 1940
Equestrian sports
Breeding in Ireland
The Irish National Stud
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
23
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.11
2006
THE MILLITARY MUSEUM
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
College Pearse Barracks
Curragh Camp
The Curragh
Co. Kildare
Cdt. Ciara Ware
[email protected]
045-445195
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
The Military Museum is housed in a building which has two rooms both accessible only from
outside. One is a store for objects not on display the other is the museum room. The museum is
arranged with timber-framed glass wall cabinets which line all four sides. A number of larger
objects are on open display on the floor of the museum. Free-standing glass cabinets form
secondary displays.
There is an obvious problem with condensation and damp within the museum and mildew is
present on the walls. Electric storage heaters are fitted in the museum. On-going maintenance of
the roof and windows is required. The museum building is locked and alarmed when not
occupied.
It is generally not accessible to the public.
The collection can be divided into two distinct sections.
The first part forms an exhibition of the collection of artifacts of warfare donated to the Irish
Military by Sir Alfred Chester Beatty.
The second forms an exhibition of Irish Military history.
The objects on display are clearly tagged and catalogues are held by the Defense Forces.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
24
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.12
2006
MONDELLO PARK’S MUSEUM OF MOTOR SPORT
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
Mondello Park
Robertstown
Co. Kildare
Ian Beatty
[email protected]
054-860200
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
The Museum of Motor Sport is housed in a purpose-built museum building atmospheric
temperature and humidity controlled by two large de-humidifiers. A radio-linked security system
monitors access from ground level and potentially from the roof. CCTV monitors the museum
during the daytime.
It is opened for feature events at Mondello race course or by appointment. Entry is free when
opened by appointment. There is general interest in the museum by group tours, car clubs,
Gordon Bennett Tourists and the hospitality market.
The core collection is part of the private collection of Martin Birrane, who owns Mondello Park. He
purchased Mondello in 1985. The collection includes thirty-five cars, though generally five are out
of the country at any one time.
An education programme aimed at transition year students called “Steer Clear” is an initiative of
organization to raise awareness of motor safety. As part of this programme a tour is provided of
the exhibition which looks at the development of safety technology in the motor racing industry.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
25
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.13
2006
CATHEDRAL COLLECTION
ADDRESS:
Saint Brigid’s Cathedral Kildare and Round Tower
The Square
Kildare Town
Co. Kildare
Kenneth Dunne
[email protected]
045-521229
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
Saint Brigid’s Cathedral is located off the main market square of Kildare town. It houses a number
of objects specifically relating to the cathedral and grounds, where the round tower, Saint Brigid’s
kitchen (a burial tomb), and high cross are located. Objects on display are either of
archaeological or ecclesiastical importance. The objects on display are not organized or
interpreted systematically, and really, it is the cathedral itself, with its fine stained glass windows,
three-manual Conagher organ, baptismal font and sanctuary furniture which provide the main
interest in the cathedral. A number of important items, which are either in regular use during
services or which are too valuable to be displayed in the cathedral are stored in the vestry.
Donations are suggested in lieu of an entry fee. A fee applies to climb the round tower. Security is
an ongoing issue. A number of break-ins have resulted in the theft of important objects. More
recently a bible open on the altar lectern was stolen. There is an antiquated heating system in the
cathedral, which is due for renewal, and there is no means of regulating humidity within this large
space.
An informative illustrated guide to the cathedral, its grounds and history, is on sale within the
cathedral and produced in 1978-79 and up-dated in 2000. Another important publication is Saint
Brigid’s Cathedral Kildare, A History, edited by Raymond Gillespie, and published by the County
Kildare Archaeological Society in 2000-2001.
On entering the cathedral in the south transept there is an interpretive exhibition the subject of
which is the development of Christianity in the vicinity, including the following subjects:
•
•
•
•
•
The Celts – A long journey to Ireland
Blood thirsty but clever
Celtic pagans
Saint Brigid
Christianity
Objects on display in the Cathedral include:
•
•
•
•
A framed display of medieval floor tiles
O’Carolan’s Chair
th
th
A mid 16 century alter tomb effigy dedicated to Gerald Wellesley, 7 Duke of Wellington
A alter tomb from Great Cashel Priory
A display cabinet beside the timber screen closing off the vestry from the nave includes
miscellaneous objects found on the grounds of the cathedral. These are:
th
th
th
A 15 and 18 century wax seals; coinage; a 17 century leather bound Irish bible owned by
th
Thomas Cooke (dated to 1697 though now believed to be earlier); an original 19 century
photographic image of the cathedral prior to restoration; a “table of fees” for burials and
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ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
26
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
ceremonies performed for the public by John Brown, Parish Registrar; a Neolithic stone axe; a
petrified stags horn; a document dated 1672 recording the appointment of George Medlicott to
the Registry of the Dean and Chapter; a book of maps and descriptions of Ireland dated to 1674.
A display documenting the restoration of a stained glass window by the Abbey Stained Glass
Studio.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
27
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.14
2006
GOLF MUSEUM
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
Golfing Union of Ireland
National HQ
Carton Demesne
Co. Kildare
Kenneth Dunne
[email protected]
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
The Golf Museum was recently established by the Golfing Union of Ireland. The museum is
located with the new headquarters of the Union in Carton Demesne. It is housed in a restored
game-keepers house. The museum is managed by one member of staff of the Union and
governed by committee. The museum building comprises an entrance hall/stairhall and reception
space, a large exhibition space and two smaller exhibition rooms at ground floor level and two
rooms at first floor level. At ground floor level the two smaller exhibition spaces house graphic
displays on the history of golf as a sport with a focus on the Royal and Ancient in Edinburgh,
Scotland and the history of the Golfing Union of Ireland.
As such the museum does not yet have a collection. However the Union is open to donations and
is willing to accept items bequeathed by collectors. A problem facing the museum is the high cost
of golfing artifacts which are avidly collected by in Ireland and abroad. An acquisitions policy has
not yet been drafted by the museum.
The minutes of the Golfing Union, which are archived may be viewed as a basis of the collection.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
28
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
5.15
2006
CASTLETOWN HOUSE
ADDRESS:
CONTACT:
EMAIL:
Castletown Demesne
Celbridge
Co. Kildare
Joanna Cramsie, OPW
[email protected]
SUMMARY OF ORGANIZATION AND COLLECTION:
The responsibility for the care, conservation and management of Castletown House passed from
the Castletown Foundation to the Office of Public Works (OPW) in 1994. The Foundation still has
an advisory role in the management and conservation of Castletown. The contents are still the
property of the Castletown Foundation.
Access to the interior of Castletown is tightly controlled and is operated on the basis of guided
tours only. Thirteen rooms are designated for public access. At basement level there are offices,
restaurant and book shop, public toilets and the waiting area for tours to begin. Access is only
provided to rooms at ground and first floor level. The second floor level, most of the basement
level, the flanking wing pavilions and farm buildings are not accessible.
The principal rooms open for public viewing are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The Entrance and Stair Hall
The Dining Hall
The Butler’s Pantry
The Brown Study
The Red Drawing Room
The Green Drawing Room
The Print Room
•
•
•
•
•
•
The State Bedroom
The Healy Room
The Map Room
The Upper Corridors
The Pastel Room
The Long Gallery
Access in each room is controlled by rope barriers and the prescribed path is lined with carpeting
in order to protect the original floor covering. Some protective lining has been placed against
damask or silk wall hanging at sensitive areas close to the public pathway in each room. The
objects on display in Castletown are integral to the guided tour. Objects are presented as
furniture within the rooms which are presented sparsely furnished. Roller blinds are drawn at all
times.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
29
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
6.0
2006
GEOGRAPHICAL SPREAD OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS
The distribution of museums and public collections in County Kildare is spread relatively evenly
throughout the county with the result that the population of the county has easy access to a wide
range of cultural centres and collection based organizations. The accompanying distribution map
in table 1 shows clearly the spread of the 15 organizations relative to major urban centres and
major road networks.
The introduction of major routeways and the programme of by-passing major towns has had a
negative effect on many of the smaller organizations that rely primarily on the rambler tourist
market rather than a sustained indigenous market. Conversely, the improvement of the road
network has improved access to major visitor attractions which form part of organized coach-tour
groups.
There are two areas of the county which are notably lacking in a museum or publically accessible
collections. The areas are the northwest of the county around Monasterevin and Newbridge
(notwithstanding the valuable contribution of the Riverbank Arts Centre) and around Naas
(notwithstanding the contribution of the Moat Theatre), the Local Authority administrative centre of
the county where there appears to be a dirth of heritage facilities despite a rich cultural history in
each area.
The heritage of the Grand Canal and the history of the industries and trading it supported in the
county which runs east-west through the north of Kildare is also largely ignored by museums and
heritage centres.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
30
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
LEGEND
Principal routes (N7,
M7, N4, M4, N81)
Museum/Public
Collection
TABLE 1: DISTRIBUTION MAP OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS
IN COUNTY KILDARE
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
31
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
7.0
2006
SURVEY FINDINGS
The survey has been devised to identify the principal management structures of the museums
and specifically aiming the areas of collections and collections policy, day to day management,
staffing, links with other organizations, facilities offered to the public, funding and resourcing, and
future plans. The following analysis of the museums sector in County Kildare has been
extrapolated from data supplied during site visits to each museum and questionnaires completed
by the museum. Sixteen museum organizations were contacted as part of this survey. Of this
number fifteen organizations cooperated with the survey Audit. Fourteen of the fifteen
organizations completed the questionnaire.
The museums and public collections in County Kildare are varied in size and collection focus.
Five museums are operated by national State bodies or the local authority. Such bodies include
the Office of Public Works, Saint Patrick’s College (NUI, Maynooth), the Defense Forces, the
Church of Ireland and The National Stud. The remainder of the museum organizations form either
private profit-making “visitor attractions”, small single-focus private collections, or largely selffunding heritage centres, managed by committees of local business interests, which also operate
as tourist information services drawing tourists to the region, and hopefully into the heritage
centre exhibit. The Audit has identified a broad diversity of artifacts on public display which is
largely of regional or local interest, and in some cases national and international.
7.1
Establishment of Museum or Public Collection
86.6% of museums were established after 1970. The intervening 36 years has seen the
establishment of a wide variety of organizations, each forging an individual mandate towards the
sharing of knowledge and artifacts of interest to the county and the country as a whole.
-
Four museums and organizations were established after 2000.
-
Four museums and organizations were established after 1990.
-
Five museums and organizations were established after 1970.
-
Two organizations were established before 1970.
7.2
Museum Affiliations
Only one of the fifteen museums participating in this survey is a member of the Irish Museums
Association (IMA). Four museums in Kildare participated in the Irish Museums Survey of
Museums in Ireland, 2005.
7.3
Heritage Week
Eight museum organizations have not participated in Heritage Week in the past. Six museum
organizations have participated in Heritage Week. Only six museums or organizations partook in
Heritage Week 2006.
7.4
Collections policy
The majority of organizations do not have a collections policy. As many of these organizations
have limited collections relying principally on graphic display panels on local and county heritage
and history, this is understandable. However, the absence of a collections policy is still apparent
even in organizations with a small number of items on display where the objects do not appear to
relate to the graphic display of the museum and where supplementary information on the objects
is limited. The absence of a collections policy in some larger, more formalized organizations, is
less understandable. In two cases the absence of a collections policy has limited effect on the
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
32
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
coherence or management of the collection as plans to expand or reduce the collection, do not
exist. For instance, the Science and Ecclesiastical Museum or the Military Museum has a specific
focus, and therefore the collection is self-contained, rationalised, and coherent.
Six organizations have identified that a collections policy does not exist. One of the three
identified the intention to create one in the future. Four organizations did not answer this question
and it can be assumed that the organizations in question did not see the relevance of a
collections policy to the organization or that one did not exist.
Five organizations have collections policy. It is not clear from the survey if the collections policies
are formally adopted in articles of association or management structures. It is often difficult,
particularly with smaller organizations that are struggling to develop locally and regionally relevant
artifact collections to refuse artifacts voluntarily offered by members of the public. To refuse may
damage the good will and appreciation of the organization and to accept can often cause difficulty
for the organization to interpret and link the artifact to the existing collection on display, or to store
of the artifact, should its immediate relevance to the display collection not be apparent.
The following are examples of the collections policies:
“We aspire to collect items that reflect the past in our region, so that those who may follow us,
may benefit from this collection.”
Kilcullen Heritage Centre.
“To raise awareness about the collection and to add relevant items to enhance the collection and
to conserve the collection in its present stare. In addition we aim to use the collection in our
heritage and education programmes.”
Irish Peatlands Conservation Council
“To house a broad selection of racing cars from across the spectrum with varying history”
Mondello Park
“To preserve the chucks, moulds and masters used to make pewter table and houseware”
Timolin Pewter Mill
"To provide for the cultural, historical and information requirements of visitors to Athy and
residents with a high quality visitor attraction, tourist office and gift shop service."
Athy Heritage Centre
7.5
Subject Areas of Collections
On a collective basis, the museums and public collections in County Kildare cover a broad range
of subject areas which are representative of the social, political, technological and historical
development of the county. The subject areas are as follows:
%
Subject Area
%
Subject Area
%
Subject Area
6.25
25
12.5
25
Applied arts
Archaeology
Agriculture
Folk life
6.25
6.25
43.7
6.25
Geology
Genealogy
History
Library
6.25
12.5
18.75
Maritime
Military
Natural history
Science
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
12.5
Fine art
6.25
Archives
2006
12.5
12.5
Intangible history
Sport
While the Audit has been collated with accuracy when the information is presented in percentage
form, the reality can be slightly skewed. For instance, while science represents only 18.75% of
areas covered by museums, there is one collection (in percentage terms 6.25% of the total
number of museums in the county) devoted almost entirely to the subject and is therefore far
more comprehensively represented, than for instance history, which appears to be represented in
the collections of 43.7% of the organizations.
There is also a balance required when a quantitative assessment of a collection is concerned.
The size of a collection is only one aspect of the importance of a collection. Equally important is
qualitative analysis, and perhaps more important is how the collection, whatever its size, is
curated, interpreted and presented.
Military history is very strongly represented by the Military Museum managed by the Defence
Forces. The core collection donated by Sir Alfred Chester Beatty is of international importance.
Unfortunately a completed questionnaire was not forthcoming from the Defense Forces and so
limited information has been obtained.
Local history is strongly represented, largely interpreted through graphic displays. Archaeological
artifacts, mostly carved stonework appears to be late medieval, and forming either effigies or
architectural fragments.
As Kildare does not have a coastline the subject of Maritime heritage is one of the least
significance subject areas covered by museums in the county. However there are strong links to
maritime history with the explorations of Ernst Shackleton. The Athy Heritage Centre has
dedicated part of the centre to Shackleton, his explorations and family history. It should also be
noted that Kildare has a long history and association with in-land waterways. However, this
aspect of the industrial and economic history of the county is largely ignored.
7.6
Significance and Relevance of Collections
In the survey form the relevance of collections has been prescribed as being of International,
National, Regional and Local. These areas of relevance do not suggest levels of importance. The
challenge of identifying the relevance of a collection is important to an understanding of a
collection and how it should be presented to the public. Difficulties arise when collections are
interpreted in a subjective manner, without a clear understanding of the relevance of objects in
collections.
Eleven of the fifteen museums surveyed have stated that collections of international importance
are held by the museum. Six of the museums have identified collections of national relevance.
Only four have stated that the collection is of regional importance and only five have stated that
the collection is of local importance.
The reality is that three (four when the Military Museum collection is included) are actually of
International relevance. Three are of National relevance. Thirteen of the museum collections can
be said to be of regional and local relevance.
7.7
Size of Collections
The size of collections in museums and heritage centres varies greatly. As already stated, many
of the organizations participating in the survey hold small collections. Collections vary greatly in
size. The largest, the Irish Peatlands Conservation Council which holds approximately 10,000
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
34
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
items. The National Science Museum, Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth, holds a collection of
approximately 1000 artifacts. The smallest collection is that of Kildare Heritage Centre, which
holds 4 artifacts. It should be noted that the Golf Museum has yet to develop a collection. Most,
however, have collections comprising up to 100 artifacts.
As collections are modest in size most of the museums display all the artifacts within the
collection. Eight of the museums display 70% or more of the collection. In many cases the
museums have limited storage and therefore must display all the collection. This has additional
issues with regard to the expansion of the collection and the flexibility of the museum or
organization where temporary exhibitions are concerned.
Nine of the participating museums either do not, as policy, or cannot, due to space restrictions
and the inflexibility of the museum spaces, offer temporary exhibitions. Five of the museums
surveyed do offer temporary exhibitions.
7.8
Display of Collections
Six museums display artifacts contained with display cabinets. Some cabinets are designed
specifically for the collection in question, such as at the Military Museum, the costume room at the
Ballitore Quaker Museum, the Athy Heritage Centre and the National Science Museum at Saint
th
Patrick’s College, Maynooth. Castletown House displays artifacts in the style of an 18 century
country house, and the Racing Museum at Mondello Park displays thirty cars. In both cases the
objects are on open display, and access to and conservation of the objects is strictly monitored.
In some museums artifacts are displayed thematically to evoke an atmosphere, i.e. rural country
life, and as a result the objects are on open display, such as the folk kitchen at the Bog of Allen
Nature Centre, the recreations of the thatched house in Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park,
the Shaker-style kitchen dressers in the Ballitore Library and Quaker Museum, and Saint Brigid’s
Cathedral in Kildare town. In these organizations there is heightened risks to the security, stability
and conservation of the artifact.
Seven museums provide supplementary information panels directly related to the objects on
display. Three museums provide limited supplementary information on the display collection.
Three museums provide no supplementary information on artifacts on display. The format of
supplementary information panels ranges from small typed labels relating to individual objects or
a single label which includes information on a range of artifacts, usually in the same display case.
Where artifacts do not have supplementary information, such as at Castletown, guided tours
provide supplementary information on all aspects of the house and its contents.
7.9
Documentation and Cataloguing of Collections
There are a range of techniques for the documentation and cataloguing of collections available.
For smaller collections it may be more practical to operate hand-written catalogues or a simple
Microsoft Access database.
CATAOLUGE TYPE
Computerised
No.
2
Hand written
4
Card index
2
Un-catalogued
6
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ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
35
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
Six museums have labeled artifacts while a further six are not. The remainder did not answer the
question.
The extent of documentation of collections is varied. Seven collections are not catalogued at all.
Four collections are completely catalogued, 35% of one collection is documented and catalogued,
and two museums have between 70% and 99% of the collections catalogued and documented.
In County Kildare the extent of documentation of collections is limited. There are however
exemplars of cataloguing of collections which could be adopted by other less formulated
collections. These include:
7.9.1
The Military Museum:
The Chester Beatty collection of the Military Museum is precisely catalogued with each artifact
clearly displaying a tag with the catalogue number attached by fibre thread. Comprehensive
handwritten catalogues reference all the tagged artifacts.
7.9.2
The National Science Museum:
Both aspects of the museum, the scientific apparatus collection of Nicholas Callan and the
ecclesiastical collection are catalogued in handwritten catalogues. These catalogues have been
revised, updated and published.
Breen, P. J., Ed., St. Patrick’s College Maynooth Museum of Ecclesiology, a catalogue of
ecclesiastical Items Spanning two centuries of the College history, Saint Patrick’s College,
Maynooth, 1995
Mollan, Charles, Upton, John, The Scientific Apparatus of Nicholas Callan, and other Historic
Instruments, Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth, 1994.
7.10
7.10.1
Day-to-Day Management of the Museum
Opening Hours
Opening hours vary greatly and often depend on the nature of the organization. For instance
greater opening hours are provided by those who operate profit making companies such as
Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park, which rely on access charges to run the organization.
Six museums are open Monday-to-Friday and also at weekends. Six museums are open
Monday-to-Friday only. Eight museums are open during normal business hours, i.e. from 9-10am
and 4-5.30pm. One museum is open only during the morning only and one museum is open in
the afternoon only.
Eight museums are open all year though some have more limited opening hours during the offpeak season. Five museums are closed during the off-season period.
7.10.2
Staffing and Volunteers
The single greatest challenge of most museums surveyed is the provision of adequate numbers
of staff. Most museums, which do not form part of a much larger organization, are generally
serviced by one permanent or part-time staff member.
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ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
Seven museum organizations have only one full-time staff member. Six museum organizations
have more than two full-time staff members. Larger organizations where the museum forms only
part of a much larger organization, such as the Horse Museum at the Irish National Stud, or the
Bog of Allen Nature Centre, at the Irish Peatlands Conservation Council Headquarters in
Lullymore, have greater numbers of full-time staffing.
Six organizations do not operate a volunteer staffing support structure. Three organizations
engage only one volunteer. Other organizations have engaged between five and eight volunteers
each. One museum operates with only two volunteers and no full-time staff members.
The roles and duties of staff members in the museums organizations participating in this survey
are rarely exclusive to one professional role. In most cases, where there is only one full-time staff
member the duties generally span day-to-day management, marketing and development. In total
only four full-time staff members engaged in curatorial work within the museums, and none are
engaged exclusively as professional curators. There are no conservators engaged as full-time
staff members. However, it should be noted, that two organizations retain the services of a
conservator on a consultancy basis. Three full-time staff members are involved in the educational
services of the museum or organization.
7.11
Visitor Facilities Offered by Museums and Public Collections
The visitor facilities offered by museums and public collections range from basic services to
professional museum services.
7.11.1
Services
The most prevalent services offered by museums and organizations range from basic public
services such as toilets and disabled access to more educational services such as leaflets on
collections and guided tours. Three organizations have responded yes to the provision of Audiovisual guides. This appears to be a misunderstanding of the term as in reality these organizations
include a static audio-visual presentation as part of self-guided exhibitions. Courses, lectures and
family events are poorly served by museums and organizations.
SERVICE
Toilets
11
Café
5
Shop
8
Guided tours
12
Courses
1
Lectures
5
Family events
4
Leaflets on collection
CHARLES DUGGAN
No.
10
Reproductions
5
Published catalogues
5
Audio-visual guides
3
Disabled access
9
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
7.11.2
2006
Size of Museum Building
According to the survey findings five museum buildings are between 100 - 500 sq. meters in size.
Another five are between above 1000 sq. meters in size. Four organizations did not answer or
did not know the size of the building.
7.11.2
Visitor Attendance Records
Six museum organizations do not keep records of visitor attendance. Eight organizations do keep
some form of visitor records with varying degrees of accuracy. For instance, one organization
relies on a visitors book which is filled out on a voluntary basis. In all cases where details of visitor
attendance has been supplied for the Audit, records show that the numbers visiting museums in
Co. Kildare is rising year-on-year.
Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park has the greatest visitor attendance figures for the years
2000 to 2005 ranging from 18000 in 2000 to 35,000 in 2005, growing exponentially in the
intervening years. Castletown has a consistently healthy visitor attendance of between 10,500
and 11,500 visitors between the years 2003-2005 respectively.
Of the seven museum organizations that supplied percentage data on the breakdown of the
visitor profile (schools, tourists, families), the following information emerges:
-
23.1% of visitors are school groups
48.8% of visitors are tourists
30.8% of visitors are families
7.11.3
Funding and Resourcing
Capital funding support for the establishment and development of many on the museums or
organizations since the mid 1990s has been supplied by two key funding mechanisms in County
Kildare. These are KELT (Kildare European Leader Teoranta) who operate the Leader +
programme, which is due to expire at the end of this year. For day-to-day funding five museum
organizations rely almost entirely upon entrance ticket revenue and revenue generated through
facilities such as the café and shop to fund other aspects of the museum.
Funding Mechanism
No.
Public-financed funding
2
Fundraising activities
3
Access charges
9
Benefactor
1
Charitable status
2
Membership
4
Only two of the 15 participating organizations seek grant aid or annual contributions from public
bodies such as the Heritage Council, Arts Council, or Local Authority.
Imaginative on-going fund-raising activities are practices by only three museum organizations.
Fund-raising is a time consuming and demanding means of generating income. The Irish
Peatland Conservation Trust has created some very imaginative ways in which to generate
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ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
income. Such activities include the project-specific fundraising appeals during the Christmas
season, the “share certificates” scheme or “Stamp that Collection“, where voluntary donations of
stamps is encouraged. The stamps are recycled and sold, and the proceeds help cover the salary
of the education officer.
Eight museum organizations engage in some form of marketing and promotional strategies.
Examples of such activities include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Direct mail advertising
Adverts in local newspapers
Adverts on local radio stations
Kildare Faille website
Promotional leaflets at various outlets including other heritage/museum organizations
Assessment of official census records
The organizations own website
Tour company brochures
Magazine advertising
7.12
Care of Collections
This aspect of the Audit questionnaire addresses the storage and condition of artifacts. It should
be noted that only two museum organizations engage the services of consultant conservators.
Within the County the most rigorous conservation programme of conservation and house-keeping
is operated by Castletown House. A consultant conservator has undertaken a full condition
assessment of all artifacts on display and in storage, which is updated annually. Each artifact has
a record sheet on which the condition of the item is recorded and house-keeping instructions are
provided. An annual conservation programme targets different artifacts each year.
Generally speaking the approach to the care of artifacts can be described as basic housekeeping. The environmental conditions of museum rooms is only controlled and monitored by one
organization. One other organization operates a hydro-thermograph in one display cabinet.
Only three organizations have a designated storage space for the reserve collection. In each of
these three spaces, the environmental conditions are not adequately regulated. In one case, the
objects are very carefully stored in stacks and covered with dust sheets that are bound to prevent
sliding. It should be noted that most organizations do not require storage space as a reserve
collection does not exist. Conversely, the last of storage space will limit the expansion potential
for the collections of many of the museum organizations.
Seven organizations describe the condition of artifacts in their care as being either good or very
good, while only two organizations say reasonable or adequate. It is clear from the survey that
there is a general lack of awareness and knowledge of the requirements to stabilize the condition
of objects on display and in storage.
7.13
Significant Difficulties Encountered
The following difficulties have been identified by the participating organizations. It is noteworthy
that the issues affecting these organizations are experienced by all, despite the size and
prominence of the organization. The differences occur in the ability of the organization to respond
to and counteract the effects of the difficulties encountered.
•
Generating funding and resources for on-going management, staffing and development of
organizations.
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
•
Access to other collections to develop permanent exhibitions and temporary exhibitions.
•
Theft and vandalism has been experienced by some organizations and is one which a
potential threat to all participating organizations.
•
For organizations operating a voluntary donation rather than a mandatory entry fee the
experience is one of reluctance by visitors to offer a contribution.
•
Some organizations have acknowledged that good conservation practice poses a challenge
to the care of artifacts in collections.
•
Facilitating potential income generating supplementary and complementary events due to
lack of staff and management resources to coordinate such events.
•
The absence of a business/management plan and the lack of experience in developing such
plans, which is acknowledged to be of major importance for future development of an
organization, is a major issue for smaller organizations.
•
Poor or out-dated visitor facilities, the updating of which is prohibitively expensive.
•
On-going marketing, promotion and advertising of the organization and the collection, with
few suitable forums for such advertising available regionally or nationally. The larger
organizations overwhelm the identity of smaller organizations.
•
Strategies and modalities for the efficient management of small organizations and heritage
centres.
•
Developing a well-run and practical volunteer support system.
•
Development of a tourist trail which identifies all the heritage site, museums and visitor
attractions in the county.
•
Availability of experienced and professional staff and staff training.
•
Appropriate accurate and visible road signage to highlight the location of organizations.
•
Attracting sustained visitor numbers with the opening of major routeways and town bypasses.
•
To properly display and interpret artifacts, their history and function.
7.14
Training and Other Opportunities
Organizations were asked to prepare a wish-list of things they would like to see happen to
promote and develop their organization in the future. It has proved a meaningful process as it
allowed the organizations to focus on shortcomings and areas of difficulty they are experiencing.
The following list has been adapted from suggestions offered by organizations.
•
The development of documentation standards for artifact collections is required by most
organizations. Within the county there are excellent examples of documentation practices.
The experience of these museums can be shared with other organizations.
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ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
•
The care and management of collections has been identified as a critical aspect of improving
the museum sector in the county. The areas of conservation, storage, monitoring, displaying,
security and handling of artifacts
•
The provision of support in setting up a group network of museums and organizations to
share experiences and difficulties with a view to overcoming these difficulties and
establishing a co-operative approach to the promotion of all organizations.
•
Promotion of joint projects and initiatives that will fulfill the mission statement of organizations
and develop a greater public awareness.
•
A loans network to share a rotating collection of artifacts specific to County Kildare. This will
be of particular relevance to heritage centres with limited collections and limited ability to
manage and maintain permanent collections. Training in the development of this programme
can be facilitated, through an annual Kildare museums symposium that may allow for the
following:
-
Participating museums present papers on their origins and collections
Share innovative ideas on management and funding
Discussion on establishment of roving temporary exhibition (incl. content, exhibits, etc.)
Discussion on establishment of Co. Kildare Museums Website
Allow for development of on-going training and improvements
Call for donations of important artifacts of regional relevance
•
Solving financial difficulties is a universal problem for all organizations. Following an
optimistic period of expansion in the museum sector in the last 30 years many are now
experiencing difficulties in obtaining funding. Capital funding appears to be more readily
available than funding for day-to-day operational costs which puts many organizations under
severe pressure. There is great need for training in the methods of fundraising and financial
management.
•
Many organizations were established because of the enthusiasm of individuals or groups of
people, though perhaps without a clear idea of what the organization can offer the general
public. Consolidation and development of the remit and raison d’etre of organizations and
focusing their future direction is required.
•
Workshops in administrative skills including day-to-day management, communication, staff
and volunteer coordination should be considered.
•
The provision of less restrictive grant mechanisms has been expressed by one organization,
however this is not feasible. This does, however, suggest that many organizations are
overwhelmed by the variety of grant funding mechanisms available and the varied qualifying
criteria which can be confusing. There is scope within a training programme to developing
successful approaches to grant applications and the various grant funding that are on offer.
•
Development of a “museum trail” for County Kildare can be prepared through developing a
network of museums, perhaps a county committee on museums, with a view towards
developing a self-sustaining sector.
•
The provision of improved highly visible road signage to direct tourists to museums and
visitor attractions throughout the county.
•
The development of a County Kildare museums website that could be managed and
maintained by committee comprising participating museums may provide a dynamic
marketing and educational strategy for the sector in the county. The Northern Ireland
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
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AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
Museums Council (NIMC) website is an excellent example of such a website. Kildare County
Council may be in an opportunity to facilitate the development of such a website.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
42
AUDIT OF MUSEUMS AND PUBLIC COLLECTIONS IN COUNTY KILDARE
2006
APPENDIX
HISTORIC PROPERTIES OPENED TO THE PUBLIC UNDER:
In County Kildare there are 13 properties open to the public under Section 482 of the Taxes
Consolidation Act, 1997. Of these only one forms part of the Audit. The list of properties is as
follows:
Celbridge Lodge, Celbridge
Coolcarrigan House & Garden, Naas
Farmersvale House, Kill
Furness, Naas
The Glebe House, Kilcullen
Griesemount, Ballitore
Harristown House, Brannockstown
Kildrought House, Celbridge (Village)
Leixlip Castle, Leixlip, Co Kildare
Moone Abbey House & Tower, Moyglare Glebe
Lodge Park, Straffan, Co Kildare
Section 482 of the Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997.
Under this section of the Act qualifying properties must open to the public for buildings/gardens in
the State which, having received determinations from the
Commissioners of Public Works/Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the
Islands/Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government that they are
intrinsically of significant horticultural, scientific, historical, architectural or aesthetic
interest and which have also received determinations from the Revenue Commissioners that
either –
a) reasonable access to the building/garden is afforded to the public, or
b) in the case of certain buildings, that the building is in use as a tourist accommodation
facility for at least six months in any calendar year, including at least four months in the
period from the 1st May to 30th September.
On the issue of reasonable public access, the Revenue Commissioners must be
satisfied that the following minimum requirements are met:
• Access to the whole or substantial part of the building/garden must be available at the same
time
• Access is afforded for a period of at least 60 days in any one year including not less than 40
days during the period May 1- September 30 inclusive of which 10 days are either Saturdays
or Sundays
• The daily viewing times must be at least four hours
• The admission price, if any, must be reasonable so as not to preclude the public from seeking
access to the building/garden
• Opening times must be advertised in local or national papers, and
• A sign must be erected outside the building indicating opening times.
• With regard to opening times of buildings/gardens which received Revenue determinations
prior to 23 March 2000, the new requirements introduced by Section 49 of the Finance Act,
2000 (that the 40 day minimum access requirement during the period 1 May to 30 September
must now include 10 days which are either Saturdays or Sundays) only applies where
qualifying expenditure is incurred in chargeable periods beginning on or after 1 October 2000.
• Any request for a determination received after 23 March 2000 must comply with the new
requirements in full.
CHARLES DUGGAN
ARHITECTURAL HERITAGE ADVISOR
43