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Elphin
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Elphin is a
small town in north County Roscommon. It is located between Boyle
and Roscommon Town and is just 14km south west of
Carrick-on-Shannon.
Just outside the town is the 18th Century Elphin Windmill,
built in 1720, and restored in 1996. The windmill is the oldest in
Ireland and is in full working condition. This windmill was
perfectly located to harness the winds sweeping over the plains of
Boyle. Unusual features are a thatched revolving roof and sails that
are turned into the wind using cartwheels on a circular track. Also
at the windmill site is the Mill Cottage.
The Mill Cottage
hosts an agricultural museum which covers the era before the
internal combustion engine and electricity transformed rural life.
On display are a range of farm tools and old machines.
Elphin has
historically been an important market town and the diocesan centre
for the Diocese of Elphin. St Patrick is believed to have
visited Elphin, consecrated its first church and ordained its first
bishop, Asicus (subsequently the patron saint of Elphin).
Percy French, the famous performer, poet, and water colour artist
was born at Cloonyquin, 4km outside Elphin. (Elphin is sometimes
spelt Elfin) |
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Elphin Holiday Homes - County Roscommon, Ireland