New book on George Vaughan Esquire to launch in Lifford later this month

A FASCINATING new book called ‘The Life and Legacy of George Vaughan Esquire’ is to be launched this month in the Old Courthouse, Lifford, by the Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, the Right Rev Andrew Forster.

The book tells the truly remarkable story of the life of George Vaughan (1691-1763) who spent his life’s work helping farming families who depended on the land in County Donegal.

He pioneered and advanced the linen industry in Inishowen, ensuring that farmers could prosper in the difficult times of the 1700s.

George Vaughan’s family home was Buncrana Castle, and he also lived at Port Hall, Lifford.

His last will and testament ensured a substantial legacy to benefit his tenants in County Fermanagh, and which continues as the Vaughan Charity.

The association of Kesh, County Fermanagh, with the Vaughan family of County Donegal provides a unique heritage dating back several centuries.

The book has been written by Olwen Gormley, a past chair of the Vaughan Charity and is the result of many years of research.

The book is a high-quality production, in hardback A4, with six parts and illustrated with over 350 photographs.

The foreword has been written by the Most Rev Dr Michael Jackson, Archbishop of Dublin.

Olwen explained: “The first two parts cover the history of George Vaughan’s life in Buncrana and Lifford, and his family connections in the north-west of Ulster.

“His great uncle, Sir John Vaughan, was governor of Derry/Londonderry and as such oversaw the building of Derry City Walls and St Columb’s Cathedral.

“George Vaughan’s ancestry is comprehensively covered in the book.

“The book expands on George Vaughan’s vision, hard work and energy to make a difference for his own community, in what were very difficult and poor times in Irish history.

“The book provides a compelling insight into why this entitled landlord should go against the grain of the normal behaviour of his peers and make it his objective to improve the livelihoods of his tenants.

“It is an extremely interesting account of significant philanthropy, sense of fairness and religious tolerance.

“George Vaughan’s last will and testament stipulated that, after his death, one of the earliest charitable schools in Ireland was to be built on his Fermanagh estate.

“There is an interesting twist when his family contested the will, they were not happy that the bulk of his wealth was destined for farming families!

“Ultimately, the Vaughan Charitable Charter School was established, and operated from 1787 to 1934.

“The school provided free accommodation, food and education for children, from both Christian faiths, both boys and girls, offering them an opportunity for apprenticeships and employment.

“George Vaughan had left directions for a church to be built to serve as a school chapel.

“The book covers the creation of Drumkeeran Parish, the building of the parish church at Tubrid, Kesh, and its integral association with the Vaughan Charter School for 150 years.

“After the school’s closure, the Vaughan Agricultural Institute was developed on the same site.

“After the institute was closed, the school farm was sold, and Vaughan’s Charity (Vaughan Trust) was established in its present form.

“The charity supports farmers and students of agriculture in County Fermanagh, and many students from Counties Tyrone and Donegal have received funding from the Vaughan Trust while they were students at CAFRE, Enniskillen.

“This is a book which will enthral, educate and leave a sense of inspiration for all who read it - a book which you will not want to put down.

“It is a non-profit publication, costing 40 euros, and all proceeds are for the benefit of the Vaughan Charity.

“It will make for an ideal Christmas present.”

The launch takes place on Thursday, November 26 at 7.30pm

Light refreshments will be served, after a short talk on the book.