Dangan Castle

Dangan Castle, County Meath
Photo © JP, 28 September 2008

DANGAN CASTLE

Between Trim and the pretty little town of Summerhill stand the ruins of DANGAN CASTLE, celebrated as being the birthplace of England's greatest general, ARTHUR DUKE OF WELLINGTON, who, on the 1st of May, 1769, came "into this breathing world," unheralded by any prodigy, undistinguished by any omen, which might foreshadow the high and glorious destiny which awaited him.

The remains of the ancient castle consist of the outer walls of the keep, to which a modern mansion, built in the Italian style, has been added by one of the modern possessors. The general effect of this once noble edifice must have been exceedingly beautiful when viewed in its perfect state, with its battlements and turrets emerging from the crowding woods. But unfortunately the demesne and castle passed from their original possessors into the hands of strangers: they were sold by the Marquis of Wellesley to Colonel Burrows, and by him let to Mr. O'Connor. While in the possession of the latter gentleman it was destroyed by fire, and all that now remains of this once stately pile is a naked and desolate shell.

THE SCENERY AND ANTIQUITIES OF IRELAND, 1841