Donagh Oratory: Site of former courthouse and parochial hall

I happened to be passing through Emyvale, County Monaghan, on Monday on William Carleton summer school business when I was introduced to the Minister of State for the Office of Public Works and Public Service Reform, Brian Hayes TD. Accompanied by Fine Gael TD Heather Humphreys, he was carrying out a number of engagements in the constituency. He was shown around the village by a group that has erected stone plaques marking the history of five buildings.

Presentation made to Brian Hayes TD Photo: © Michael Fisher

One of the plaques is at a former orange hall LOL 581 at Bog Lane. The Minister was told it is hoped that this building at the top of the village close to the duck farm will eventually be transformed into a heritage centre. Other plaques mark the site of the old Market House, the former RIC/Garda Barracks, the former Courthouse and Parochial Hall (now the Oratory), and the former Village Inn and Courthouse.

Minister of State, Brian Hayes TD

In a separate initiative some time ago, an original name stone has been placed beside the entrance to the Leisure Centre and incorporated into a flower bed. It was the sign for a primitive Wesleyan Methodist Preaching House and Mission School (1836) that stood on the site. Emyvale Leisure Centre is the venue for a reading of William Carleton’s story, ‘Fair of Emyvale’, on Sunday 4th August at 7pm. Please note that this time is subject to change. The short story has been adapted by Liam Foley from Clogher and will be performed by the Carleton Players, who will be joined by local actor Pat Deery in the role of narrator. Admission FREE.

Name stone outside Leisure Centre