monument

Freestanding obelisk-type memorial monument, erected c. 1846, comprising two piece ashlar limestone monument, with incised lettering to recessed panels to lower section, set on stepped ashlar limestone plinth. Enclosed by rubble limestone boundary wall on circular plan. Mature trees to enclosure. Located to the southwest of Lanesborough, adjacent to the northeast shoreline of Lough Ree. To the northwest of Rathcline Castle (not in survey).

This impressive and well-crafted ashlar limestone obelisk-type monument is an interesting addition to the landscape to the southwest of Lanesborough. This elegant monument was erected by Colonel Henry White, in memory of his young son George (aged 14), who died tragically when a gun accidentally discharged while hunting duck on Lough Ree (in 1846). Henry White (1789 - 1873) was probably resident at nearby Rathcline House (13401704), to the southeast, at the time of the accident. Henry White, 1st Baron Annaly from 1863, was an important individual who served as M. P. for County Longford between 1837 and 1847 and from 1857 and 1863, and as Lord Lieutenant of County Longford from 1841 to 1873. George White is buried in the White family vault at Clonsilla, County Dublin - The White family also owned Luttrellstown Castle, near Clonsilla (County Dublin), which Luke White bought from the Luttrell family c. 1800. This poignant monument, beautifully-sited on the shores of Lough Ree, is a worthy addition to the built heritage of County Longford. The simple rubble stone boundary wall and the copse of mature trees (probably planted at the time the monument was erected) add considerably to the setting.