The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
First the grounds, now the interior
Killarney House opens to excited public
MINISTER of State for Tourism and Sport Brendan Griffin and Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Heather Humphreys led proceedings this week as Killarney House was opened to the public, in what is the latest development in a major €10 million project refurbishment programme for the House and its grounds and gardens.
The house’s three main rooms – the dining room, living room/library, and drawing room – were opened on Monday having been refurbished to their former glory, and speaking at the House – which is being developed to serve as the main visiting centre for the National Park – Pat Dawson, who will manage the upkeep of the facilities, said he was honoured to have been involved in the work leading up to this week’s opening.
“I have to acknowledge the trojan work of our team here at Killarney House and Gardens and Killarney National Park in preparing for this historic occasion,” he said.
“I am extremely proud of all the team. I know, however, that you will not mind if I mention one person in particular: Harry O’Donoghue.
“He is the third generation of his family to have worked at Killarney House; his knowledge of this house is a huge asset for all of us.”
Previously known as Kenmare House, it was the seat of the Kenmare family until 1956, and was subsequently acquired by Mr John McShain, an American of Irish descent. In 1998, upon Mr McShain’s wife’s death, the State took over the property, and over the years the House fell into disrepair and near-dereliction. The refurbishment project was announced in 2011 by Minister Jimmy Deenihan, and has been carried out alongside the Office of Public Works and Fáilte Ireland.
Monday’s ceremony featured a performance by harpist and soprano Marina Cassidy, and the reading of a message from Dylan McShain, great-grandnephew of John McShain.