Lakes and Rivers

R. Boyle, Boyle, Co. Roscommon

The river and the lakes around Boyle add enormously to the beauty of the town, and they were popular scenes for the photographer.

The Annals of Innisfallen note the emergence of Lough Key in 106 AD.

The drumlins and small hills that remained above the water formed eventually into the wooded islands, that are dotted all over the lake today.

Irish chieftains and the English landed gentry all knew the value of the enchanting Lough Key.

Gallery

McDermot's Castle, Lough Key, Boyle

Black and white photo postcard of Carrig Mac Diarmada, MacDermot's Rock, with improvements in the form of an early 19th century folly castle, made by Lord Viscount Lorton. This is situated on one of the islands in Lough Key. The Curlew mountains are to the left of the photo, and out of view to the right is Rockingham House. The location shows how impenetrable it was and therefore ideal for it's original use as a fortress. From earliest times revelry and partying are associated with this rock, and the King family carried on this tradition using the island for entertainment. The postcard was sent from Mainistir na Buaile in 1955, to the USA when it cost 6d to post. The sender describes Ireland 'as truly the land of a thousand welcomes'

McDermot's Castle, Lough Key, Boyle -

Lough Key, from Rock of Doon, Boyle

This sepia coloured photo postcard was sold at McDonagh's Boyle. It features Lough Key and it's many wooded islands from the Rock of Doon. This is a local traditional name, but there is no evidence that a fortress or rock ever existed at this point. It however gives the best view of the lake and it's tree covered islands. Note the ridges in the middle foreground.

Lough Key, from Rock of Doon, Boyle -

Previous - Churches and Convents