Westcourt, Callan - Birthplace of Edmund Rice
The thatched house in which Edmund was born on 1st June 1762 is almost 250 years old. The old farmyard is gone but the homestead is still there and visitors are welcome to come and view it. Young Edmund grew up on a large farm. As it was also very good land, his parents were quite wealthy.
The four small bedrooms, sitting-room and kitchen are fitted out with period furniture which is very similar to the way it looked in Edmund’s time. Pictured below is the bedroom where Edmund was born.
The six-roomed house consists of a kitchen, parlour and four bedrooms. Of particular interest is the bedroom of Edmund.
On entering the house, visitors can step back in time and see what an Irish country house was like at that time. Our photographs depict some of the items.
The kitchen and sitting-room areas especially are packed with various items which were common in the country houses at the time.
The well in front of the house provided the family with spring water. The well is still there today.
Today a beautiful Rice Memorial Chapel stands in the grounds beside the Rice Homestead. It was opened in 1969.
Rice Memorial Chapel
Visitors are welcome
Visitors are welcome to come and see what a family home was like over 200 years ago. The house and the grounds are open throughout the year.
Guided tours are available.
Large groups should contact the Curator, Br Michael Keane, in advance.
Telephone: 056-772 5141 or 056-772 5993