With the help of a skilled stonemason, we determined to save the stonework we could and stabilise what we couldn’t. Evidence of earlier concrete repairs and a full concrete gable end emerged from beneath the ivy and provides evidence that this cottage had been in trouble before. This too is a part of its story.

And ... what a great exhibition space it makes ... 

But, most importantly, we had learned that this cottage pre-dated the other buildings - used perhaps whilst the main house was being constructed, and thereafter as a labourer’s cottage.

Another part of the story weave … uncovered … and now, re-used ...

We are grateful to Wicklow Rural Partnership for the grant provided. It assisted us to have an idea, follow it through … and to add to an emerging tapestry that reveals a history of resourceful, committed and hardworking people - who made buildings, a working farm, a family and a life here - who pursued their dream to become ‘Friends’ and to form a strong community.