Glenview Folk Museum

Located in a country setting, the Glenview Folk Museum offers a collection of over 6,000 antique, historical and novel items which were in common use from the early 1800s to the mid 1900s. What is truly remarkable is that these household and farm items were acquired by one family. It is a private collection, and it is obvious that a great deal of care and effort by Mr. Kennedy and his two sons went into making their acquisitions-made over many years-easily viewable. They built a large, well lit barnlike building to house their many items. In it they have created a street scene with a variety of shops which would likely be found in any small town or village early in the 20^th century. The visitor can stroll along storefronts and look in on a pub, a grocer, a chemist, a mercantile, all of which are well stocked with kegs, bottles, jars, tools, and household goods such as churns, lamps, and baby carriages. There is a separate niche for war memorabilia. Perhaps the Kennedys are proudest of their extensive array of farm equipment with numerous examples of horse drawn agricultural machinery, carts, wagons, and a still functioning thresher. What will be of particular interest to those of mechanical bent are several vintage tractors that the Kennedys have skilfully restored.

With advance notice, guided tours can be arranged. There's plenty of room for coach and car parking.

While Mr. Kennedy manages the museum, Mrs. Kennedy offers refreshment in her fine restaurant and bar, as well as overnight accommodation in her B&B. For those who no doubt will succumb to the appeal of good food in a peaceful setting, there are several nearby attractions that make Glenview a convenient place from which to enjoy fishing, horseback riding, trekking and leisurely country rambles.

How to get there:

From Dublin, take N3 to Cavan Town, then R199 to Jct. R198. Take 198 to Arvagh, then R203 and straight ahead to R204 to the sign 2km south of Ballinamore. Go left at sign. Glenview 500 m on right.

From Belfast, take N2 to Monaghan Town, then N54 to Cavan Town. From Cavan town, follow directions above.

Hours:

Open daily Easter to October. Monday thru Saturday 10:00 - 5:00. Sunday, 2:00 to 5. Special viewings by appt. Groups welcome. Wheelchair accessible.

Cost:

Adults, €5; children, €3

Address:

Glenview Folk Museum

Aghoo, Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim

T: 071 964 4157

www.glenview-house.com

Written by Joy Davis - Summer of Travel 2007