Bawn in Benduff

Rectangular tower (int. 6.8m E-W; int. 5m N-S) at W end rock ridge, in valley bottom to N of stream. Country house (Castle Salem) built against E side tower, house is L-shaped in plan with large square stacks on end gables; stack on N wall projects from wall at first floor level (in the fashion of 17th century houses like Reenadisert Court (CO105-020001-) rising to same height as other stacks; it would seem that this is the core of house built in latter part of 17th century by Morris family; interior modernised; also probably of this period terraced garden to SE of house. There is a quaker burial ground to E of house (CO134-037---). Surrounding farmbuildings of 19th century appearance; on outside of N wall of farmyard pair of kiln recesses (H 1.8m; Wth 2m); partially blocked; probably for lime burning. Modified as part of later house. Originally entered by doors in E wall at ground (now blocked) and 1st floor levels; latter door now gives access to landing of house. Mural passage in E wall with spiral stairs at SE corner; garderobe chamber at NE corner; and door through to main chamber to W. Similar arrangement at 2nd floor level with access from spiral stairs. Main chamber at 2nd floor level has fireplace in N wall. Window embrasures square-set with segmental vaulted heads; single ogee-headed lights in W wall at 1st and 2nd floor levels. Spiral stairs blocked before 3rd floor level. Tower now covered by gabled roof of slate added when upper storeys removed (Donovan 1979, 213). Castle of MacCarthy Riabhach which, according to Annals of Four Masters, was built by Catherine MacCarthy Riabhach (nee FitzGerald) who died in 1560 (O'Murchadha 1985, 54). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 1: West Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1992). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009