| Msgr. Patrick S. Brennan |
|
Bunratty Castle (or "tower house") was built in 1460 by the powerful O'Brien family. In the 1950's, the castle was restored to its 16th century "splendor." The great room was beautiful, but winter in the castle must have been a challenge. On the grounds of Bunratty is also a Folk Park, recreating a 19th century Irish village. The Park had examples of thatched cottages that no doubt resembled the Brennan homestead in Mayo. Life was certainly simple, but probably not so different from the pioneers who first settled Oregon.