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Irish History & Family Archives

The Legacy of Hegarty’s Hotel, Letterkenny

In the heart of Letterkenny, where the bustling Market Centre Shopping Centre now stands, once stood Hegarty’s Hotel, a cornerstone of history and culture in County Donegal. This storied establishment, which witnessed the ebbs and flows of Irish history from the early 19th century until its demolition, remains a poignant symbol of the town’s rich past...

Rathmullan House: A Journey Through Time – From Georgian Origins to Modern Hospitality

Rathmullan House, nestled on the picturesque west coast of Lough Swilly in County Donegal, Ireland, is a testament to the rich tapestry of Irish history, architecture, and hospitality. Originating as a Georgian-style summer residence in the 1760s, it has evolved through centuries into a renowned boutique hotel, celebrated for its blend of historical charm and modern...

From Past to Present: The Evolution of Rockhill House, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

Nestled in the verdant landscape of County Donegal, Rockhill House and Estate stands as a testament to Ireland’s rich historical tapestry. This grand country house, with its roots stretching back to the 17th century, has witnessed the ebb and flow of Irish history, from the plantation era to modern times. Today, Rockhill House is celebrated not only for its...

Walshe: family name history

The Walshe surname, with its variants Walsh, Welsh, and occasionally Welshe, stands as one of Ireland’s most storied and numerous family names. Rooted deeply in the country’s Norman and Gaelic heritage, the name ‘Walshe’ encapsulates a complex history of migration, settlement, and cultural integration. This article explores the origins, spread, and...

Echoes of Rebellion and Resilience: The Saga of O’Doherty’s Keep in Buncrana

O’Doherty’s Keep: A Testament to History and Resilience The Norman Legacy and the O’Doherty Influence O’Doherty’s Keep, located on the picturesque banks of the River Crana near Lough Swilly in Buncrana, County Donegal, stands as a historical monument that traces its origins back to the 14th century. Initially constructed by the Normans...

Buncrana Castle: A Journey Through Time and Heritage

Buncrana Castle, an emblem of Irish heritage, stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity and historical depth of Ireland. Nestled on a peninsula off a peninsula, it offers a picturesque view across Lough Swilly towards the Atlantic Ocean. This castle, originally built in the early 18th century, not only captivates with its serene architecture but also...

The History of McGrath Castle: Clan McGrath’s Legacy

Nestled on the picturesque northwest shore of Lower Lough Erne, McGrath Castle stands as a monument to the storied past of the Clan McGrath. Situated within the modern boundaries of County Donegal and merely a mile from the village of Pettigo, this Ulster castle encapsulates the rich history and architectural evolution characteristic of the Elizabethan era in Ireland...

Northburgh Castle: A Chronicle of Power, Conflict, and Ruin in Medieval Ireland

Northburgh Castle, also known as Greencastle, is a historic ruin located in the village of Greencastle, County Donegal, Ireland. Positioned near the mouth of Lough Foyle on a rocky platform, this castle is approximately 25 miles north of Derry/Londonderry, on the northern tip of Ireland. Constructed in the early 14th century, it served as a strategic fortress to...