Sale of the century at St. Peter’s College

August 2000

It was the sale of the century.

St. Peter’s College was invaded on Thursday afternoon by magpie-type collectors, hoping for a bargain, as the household contents of the seminary, priests house, and kitchens went up for auction.

It was a literally a case of selling off the silverware, as auctioneer Ray Corish put everything from antique spoons to gilt-edged dinner services under the gavel. There was even a picture of the Pope up for grabs.

Other items up for sale ranged from old school desks, to single beds from the dorms, saucepans and sieves from the refectory kitchens, Victorian chaise lounges, cast iron fireplaces, candlesticks, and even an antique Singer sewing machine.

There were teapots, crockery, a Victorian music cabinet, sherry glasses, billiard tables, and even an upright piano.

People travelled from far and wide for the event, with many of the cars parked outside carrying Dublin and British registrations.

There were many antique dealers present, driving up the bidding for much-desired silverware, and leaving the less attractive kitchenware items to be picked up for a couple of pounds by curious local bidders.

Fr Willie Howell buzzed around the auction, assisting Ray Corish, and showing off the goods in the manner of a hostess on a game show.

Among the items that attracted huge interest was a magnificent dinner service which earned £1,650 while a large dining table also fetched an impressive £1,600.

According to auctioneer Ray Corish, the day was ‘ hugely successful’, with both the vendors and buyers ending up happy.

‘ There were a few bargains to be had there, and that is the way auctions go. Everyone was very happy,’ he said.