This project, which is led by local community volunteers focuses on the life of Bishop Dr Patrick Donnelly of Dromore, the “Bard of Armagh”. The scheme will centre on the Bard’s home, a uniquely important 18th century dwelling house in Lislea. It plans to explore the potential to bring the house back to its former glory. This important jewel in the heritage of the Ring of Gullion AONB deserves to be recognised.
The building has sadly fallen into a severe state of neglect. This project will facilitate discussion and planning with the house’s owners on how best to move forward. Ultimately the house and its rich and intriguing local and ecclesiastical history will be shared with a wide audience at home and abroad. It is hoped that this project will bring Bishop Donnelly’s story back to life.
The family who own the house and the Bard of Armagh Homestead Committee share a desire to protect this unique dwelling and carry the story of this world-renowned character to future generations. The Bard of Armagh’s history is one of a man who had a profound impact on his own parish and also throughout Ireland during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. It is a tale that deserves widespread recognition.
