The Wonderful Barn

Structure

History

• One theory is based on the custom in Georgian times of using doves as a delicacy when other game or animals were not in season, and suggest its use as a dovecote.
• The height of the structure would also lend itself to sport shooting, supporting another theory of its use as a shooting or gamekeepers tower.
• The tower is seen from the east windows of Castletown House, so it filled that vista, possibly as a folly.
• However, a central hole through each of the floors supports the generally accepted theory of its use as a granary. The barn was built in the years immediately following the famine of 1740-41, as there was a need for new grain stores in case of another famine. The Conollys owned Kilmacredock and rented it out, so the barn was also useful for their tenants.