Moores of Moorehall remembered in 'magnificent' new book

THE tales, triumphs and tragedies of one of Mayo’s most famous and historic families has been recalled in a newly-launched book.

‘The Irish Merchant of Alicante’ by Kilkelly native Michael Gerard recalls the history of the Moores of Moorehall, who once a magnificent estate by the shores of Lough Carra.

As well as being one of the wealthiest families in Connacht, the Moores made an enormous contribution to Irish social, literary and political life over the course of 200 years.

The book derives its name from George Moore, a Catholic descendant of the landed English gentry who fled to Spain during the Penal Laws, where he made his fortune as a wine merchant. 

Moore built his renowned family home, Moorehall House, on Muckloon Hill by Lough Carra in 1795.

The house and surrounding land was later sold to Coillte and is now owned by Mayo County Council. 

Michael Gerard’s book recalls the family’s history from his extensive research into the family, as well using dialogue among real-life characters in the book.

These include John Moore, who fought the British alongside General Humbert before being proclaimed the first President of Connacht in 1798. 

His brother George Henry Moore provided desperately needed food for his starving tenants during The Great Famine, while George Augusts Moore distinguished himself as one of the greatest authors of his time.

Colonel Senator Maurice Moore was a former British solider who turned to the cause of Irish freedom after being 'disgusted' by the actions of his fellow soldiers during the Boer War. 

Also included are historical figures such as Katherine de Kilkelly and Louisa Browne, whose rivalry is a central focus in the book. 

'A national treasure'

MICHAEL Gerard, who has spent 38 years living in South Carolina, said he was inspired to write the book after a chance visit to Moorehall which 'struck a chord' with him.

"I was enchanted from the moment we went there. I thought this was very interesting," said Michael, who described Moorehall as 'a national treasure'.

"The Moore family deserve a huge amount of credit for all they've done for Ireland and all they've done for this are. My fervent hope for this book is it will inspire enough interest among the ordinary people and among the politicians and the powers-that-be that Moorehall will have more money spent on it, be upgraded and restored at least partially so it can be enjoyed more by the people, because it is a national treasure, not just a Mayo treasure."

_{Author Michael Gerard pictured speaking at the launch of his latest book 'The Irish Merchant of Alicante'}

Cllr Al McDonnell, Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District and a life-long resident of Moorehall, described the book as 'a most magnificent publication'.

Cllr McDonnell officially launched the book at a well-attended event at CJ’s Ranch in Claremorris on Thursday.

"This book encompasses all that's relevant about the Moores. It is the most comprehensive account of the Moore history and of Moorehall ever written," said Cllr McDonnell. 

"It is one of the best books I have read for a long, long time," the Fianna Fáil councillor added.