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Pete

I'm just someone who enjoys knowing a little about my local area, and helping others to learn about theirs too.

If you'd like to contribute to this website, please get in touch.

Buncrana Castle: A Journey Through Time and Heritage

Introduction 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...

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...

Shadows Over Glenveagh: The Derryveagh Evictions and Their Legacy

Introduction The serene beauty of Donegal’s Glenveagh National Park, with its majestic Glenveagh Castle, belies a tumultuous past marked by suffering, displacement, and struggle. This article delves into the dark history of the Derryveagh evictions, an episode of profound injustice and cruelty that remains a poignant chapter in Ireland’s history. We explore the...

Glenveagh Castle: A Historical Treasure in County Donegal, Ireland

Glenveagh Castle, a striking castellated mansion nestled in the heart of Glenveagh National Park in County Donegal, Ireland, stands as a monument of architectural grandeur and historical significance. Constructed in the late 19th century, this majestic estate captures the essence of Scottish baronial architecture, set against the rugged and picturesque landscape of...

Exploring the History of Doe Castle, Co. Donegal, Ireland

Introduction to Doe Castle Doe Castle, situated on a small peninsula in Sheephaven Bay, County Donegal, Ireland, is a significant medieval fortress with a rich history. Known locally as Caisleán na dTuath, the castle’s strategic location, surrounded on three sides by water, played a pivotal role in its defense throughout the centuries. Built in the early 15th...

O’Connor: family name history

Origin of the Surname The surname O’Connor has its roots in Ireland, originating from the native Gaelic sept of Ó Conchobhair. The name belonged to distinct septs located in different parts of Ireland, including Connacht, Kerry, and Clare. Etymology and Meaning The O’Connor surname is derived from the Gaelic Ó Conchobhair, meaning “descendant of...