Romance of Kylemore

The Tuam Herald, Sept. 21, 1918

Introduction

One of the most interesting auctions ever held in Ireland will take place from Monday to Friday next in Kylemore Castle, Co. Galway, built and furnished by the late Mr. Mitchell—Henry, the cotton king, sixty—one years ago at a cost of £853,000.

In the beautiful surroundings of the magnificent palace, within sight of the Castle turrets, in a mausoleum, were the remains of the late Mrs. Mitchell—Henry found a temporary resting place until they were transferred to the vaults of the church subsequently built in the grounds at a cost of $75,000. The last days of Mitchell—Henry's residence at Kylemore were gloomed by a terrible tragedy. Whilst his daughter was driving to Tullycross, she was thrown over a bridge at a sharp turn in the road, and killed. Having lost his great wealth and become a bankrupt, Mr. Mitchell—Henry died in London a few years ago.

Sacrificed for £60,000

About fifteen years ago, the Castle and demesne passed to the Duke of Manchester for something over £60,000. This was looked upon as a sacrifice, having regard to the splendid water—power available (there is a 420 feet fall), and to the fact that the Castle is electrically lighted, and fitted with every modern convenience.

When the Duke with his wife (formerly Miss Zimmerman, daughter of the late American millionaire), came to reside at Kylemore, she revolutionized the furniture scheme. Every one of the 76 rooms was carefully attended to and the colour scheme most favored was white. This with the splendid lighting of the castle, gave the rooms a brilliant effect.

Scope of the Sale

The Duke's estate having gone into bankruptcy,Messrs Joyce, Mackie and Co. the well known auctioneers, of Galway and Dublin, by instruction of Mr. E. J. Fawke and Mr. F. S. Salmon (the latter being one of the Duke's trustees) are offering for sale all the furniture, books, oil paintings, bronzes, indoor and outdoor effects and live—stock. The seventy—page catalogue, which can be purchased for 21, affords the fullest information. The pictures include some splendid canvasses by Leley, and amongst the library collections are some beautiful inscrolled, ancient Irish parchments, rescued from the monasteries.