Storm Éowyn, which swept across Ireland with winds exceeding 90 mph, has left a trail of destruction in its wake, impacting homes and businesses alike. One such casualty is the thatched cottage featured in Robert ballagh’s iconic portrait of Doctor Noël Browne.
Cormac O’Scanaill, Doctor Browne’s grandson, shared the devastating news, revealing that the roof of the cherished cottage, a place his grandfather “adored”, had been severely damaged. “The top portion of the roof, basically, it’s all gone,” he described, adding that the thatch had “fully disappeared.”
The National Gallery’s description of Ballagh’s portrait, which captures doctor Browne on a Conamara beach, highlights the meaning of the fictional setting. “The cruciform format of the portrait is appropriate to both the sitter’s battle with the Catholic church and to the professional sacrifice it entailed. Ballagh creates a trompe l’oeil effect by placing real pebbles at the base of the painting as if they have spilled out of the picture.”
O’Scanaill described the harrowing experience of the storm, recalling, “I could hear the house shaking and creaking, something that we weren’t used to.” Speaking to RTÉ, he explained, “A lot of the thatch that was there on the top part of the roof has all been blown away. Leaving the wooden boards or the structure underneath the roof exposed.”
The extensive damage has rendered the cottage uninhabitable. “There’s no way to heat the place, the thatch is almost covering the chimney, so I couldn’t even light a fire,” O’Scanaill lamented.
he is currently staying with friends in Bray, stating, “There’s not much point in going back down” as the house lacks power.
What measures are being taken to assist those whose homes and livelihoods have been impacted by Storm Éowyn?
Table of Contents
- 1. What measures are being taken to assist those whose homes and livelihoods have been impacted by Storm Éowyn?
- 2. Storm Damage: A Family Heirloom Lost to Éowyn
- 3. Cormac, what was your experience like during the storm?
- 4. How extensive was the damage to the cottage?
- 5. The cottage featured in Robert Ballagh’s portrait of your grandfather holds significant past and sentimental value. How are you processing this loss?
- 6. How is the wider community responding to the damage caused by Storm Éowyn?
- 7. Looking ahead,what are your plans for the future of the cottage?
- 8. What message would you like to share with those affected by Storm Éowyn?
Storm Damage: A Family Heirloom Lost to Éowyn
Storm Éowyn, a recent weather event to hit Ireland, has caused widespread damage, affecting homes and businesses throughout the country.Among those most affected is Cormac O’Scanaill, grandson of the renowned Doctor Noël Browne, whose iconic thatched-roof cottage, prominently featured in a portrait by renowned artist Robert Ballagh, has suffered severe damage.
We spoke with O’Scanaill about the experience of witnessing such a powerful storm up close and the impact it has had on this cherished family legacy.
Cormac, what was your experience like during the storm?
It was terrifying. We could hear the house shaking and creaking, which I wasn’t used to. The wind noise was deafening, and I was very worried about the roof and the old structure of the cottage.
How extensive was the damage to the cottage?
It’s heartbreaking, really. the top portion of the roof is completely gone—the thatch has fully disappeared. The wooden boards beneath have been exposed, and it’s no longer safe or inhabitable. The structure underneath is water-damaged and the chimney is blocked.
The cottage featured in Robert Ballagh’s portrait of your grandfather holds significant past and sentimental value. How are you processing this loss?
It’s incredibly poignant.My grandfather adored that cottage. It was somewhere he felt deeply connected to the landscape and his roots. It was a sanctuary for him. Now, it’s just a shell of its former self.
How is the wider community responding to the damage caused by Storm Éowyn?
There’s a tremendous sense of empathy and support. Many people who have lost homes and property are sharing their stories, and people are rallying to offer practical help.
Looking ahead,what are your plans for the future of the cottage?
It’s too early to say for sure. We’ll need to assess the damage thoroughly and consult with experts to determine the feasibility of restoring it. but preserving the memory of my grandfather and the legacy of that cottage is incredibly vital to me.
Stay strong.This has been a deeply tough time for many, but remember that you are not alone. Support each other, and lean on your community for strength. We will rebuild together.
This storm has tragically impacted so many lives and stories.What about you? How has Storm Éowyn affected your experiences or community?
