Derrynane House National Historic Park
Irish political leader and Parliament member Daniel O’Connell (1775–1847) became known as “the Great Liberator” for his successful campaign to repeal the laws that barred Catholics from holding office. He became particularly famous in his lifetime for his so-called “monster meetings,” vast public rallies held across the country (one, on the Hill of Tara, was reckoned to have been attended by nearly a million supporters). His house at Caherdaniel contains a museum devoted to his life, featuring various artifacts and items from his personal archives. Not everything will be of interest to those who aren’t already familiar with his story, but a few pieces—such as the gilded carriage from which he triumphantly greeted crowds after a brief spell as a political prisoner—are definitely worth seeing. Take time to wander the vast, scenic grounds.
Irish political leader and Parliament member Daniel O’Connell (1775–1847) became known as “the Great Liberator” for his successful campaign to repeal the laws that barred Catholics from holding office. He became particularly famous in his lifetime for his so-called “monster meetings,” vast public rallies held across the country (one, on the Hill of Tara, was reckoned to have been attended by nearly a million supporters). His house at Caherdaniel contains a museum devoted to his life, featuring various artifacts and items from his personal archives. Not everything will be of interest to those who aren’t already familiar with his story, but a few pieces—such as the gilded carriage from which he triumphantly greeted crowds after a brief spell as a political prisoner—are definitely worth seeing. Take time to wander the vast, scenic grounds.
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