Dawson Monument

Cut and carved limestone monument, erected c.1810, in form of Doric column on high plinth topped with funerary urn. Carved urn with lions' heads, set on abacus, in turn set on round-plan Doric column with stepped base and plinth, diminishing platform of three steps to base. Dawson family shield with laurel leaves to plinth. Situated on side of road just outside walls of Dawson Grove demesne, but formerly within the demesne. Inscribed plaque to one face.

Erected by supporters of Richard Dawson MP following his death at the age of 44 in 1807, this is a notable feature in the landscape near Cootehill and has been recently restored. Attributed to the English architect James Wyatt, it uses classical motifs to commemorate Dawson, all skilfully designed and executed. Its great height would have dominated the surrounding area, although the increase in forestry has impeded some views. Nonetheless, its position on the roadside makes it a dominant landmark, a physical reminder of the Dawson family of the Dartrey estate. The form of a funerary urn on a Doric-style column is similar to the later O'Brien monument in County Clare.