The school in Vicarstown may have been closed by the Department of Education in 1969 – but it still remains a central part of the local community more than half a century later.
Since 1974 a committee has been overseeing the building which serves as a base for many local groups, clubs and organisations.
The building, which is a unique architectural structure, has special heritage status and in recent months has undergone a significant conservation project.
Supervised by conservation architect Richard McLoughlin and carried out by Calx Restoration from Thurles, the cementitious dashing was removed and the original lime render finish was restored.
On top of that the red brickwork and limestone sills and plinths were all cleaned while they also renewed the pointing.
The project was supported by Heritage Officer Laois County Council. Further restoration works are planned for 2024.
Indeed it’s a building with a rich history, the school and teacher’s residence built by Lady Pauline Grattan-Bellew in 1868.
Inscription on the wall plaque states that the school is “for the education of the children of the tenants of her estate”. The architect at the time was Charles Geoghanne.
Though it served as a school for almost 100 years, due to declining numbers, it was closed in the 1960s.
In 1974 a committee was formed to renovate the building, sink a well, install toilets and a kitchen, replace worn floors and secure the building.
The committee received loyal support from the local organizations – Annanough GAA, Vicarstown ICA, Youth Club and Canal Development Association.
And many years later it still gets plenty of use.
Long may that continue.
