Dripsey Woollen Mills

Large mill complex on N bank of Dripsey River. Shown on 1842 OS 6-inch map as small rectangular carding mill (long axis N-S) with rectangular structure to NE; mill race shown as approaching from NW and running into N wall of mill. Rectangular structure (long axis NE-SW) to NE is a 3-bay, 2-storey gable-ended residence. Carding mill is 2-storey with attic covered by half-hipped roof. Extended to W by double-gable-ended stone-built structure with brick detail, extending further to N than carding mill; probably addition referred to by Bielenberg (1991, 38) as built around 1883, when power provided by turbines and steam engine. O'Shaughnessy family purchased mills in 1903, overhauling machinery and installing newest Dobcross looms (ibid.). According to recent owner, turbine in pit within N end of mill replaced in 1950s by a Gilbert and Gilkes turbine installed in new wheel-pit on W side (this turbine still in situ). Adjacent to turbine are two National Gas and Diesel engines which powered generator, and line shaft with belts and pulleys. Electrified in 1950s. Twentieth century expansion included boiler house to E of carding mill with brick chimney at N end. At peak of production 44 looms were in use (O'Mahony 1982). Closed in 1988; part of complex subsequently demolished. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 3: Mid Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009