Book Description

The story begins in the mists of the seventeenth century with the establishment of a pre-reformation church on Drumgoon Hill, followed by the building of St. James, the first Church of Ireland place of worship in Cootehill, and later, its replacement by the present-day All Saints’ Church, on Market Street in 1819. The book helps to shine a light on cross-community relations during the nineteenth century, recalling the forgotten friendship of the Rev. Archibald Douglas and James Browne, the Roman Catholic Bishop of Kilmore, both of whom co-operated on important projects for the betterment of life for the locals. All Saints’ reveals more to the reader, about the life and labours of Bishop John Richard Darley, who established the Darley School, a man of charity who gave to all, regardless of creed. There are also many interesting tales, such as the draining of the lake at Killyrue, the rent reductions provided during An Gorta Mór, to Lady Wyndham’s humorous encounter with a donkey, and a rector’s bout as the chairman of Cootehill boxing club. This book will be a must for anyone with an interest in Ireland’s local, social and cross-community history.