Blennerhassett Monument, County Kerry

What is recorded here

The Blennerhassett Monument in Castleconway calls the person Townsend tried to rescue a ‘fellow creature’. Only an officer’s memorial could leave you admiring the man’s courage while quietly wondering whether the other party was a bishop or a Labrador.

Freestanding limestone ashlar memorial, built c. 1870, comprising obelisk on a limestone plinth over stepped sandstone base with cut-stone plaques. Inscribed to north west "In memory of Townsend Blennerhassett late Captain Kerry Militia drowned in Castlemaine Bay 20th June 1867 when gallantly attempting to save the life of a fellow creature". Inscribed to south west "Erected by his brother officers of the Kerry militia in testimony of the affectionate esteem in which he was held by them and to perpetuate the recollection of the heroic action by which he lost his life".

From the Buildings of Ireland (National Inventory of Architectural Heritage) record 21400704

This does not grant access. Most recorded buildings are privately owned; view them only from public ground unless the owner allows entry.