Workhouse

The National Monuments Service's description

Indicated on 1842 OS 6-inch map as Union Work House; approached by avenue from Douglas Rd to N; now part of St. Finbarr's Hospital complex. Two-storey wardens house (long axis E-W) on N side; entrance front (N) of 3 bays flanked by 1-bay, 2-storey gabled wings projecting to front and rear. Central 3 bays infilled with 3 bay elliptical-headed arcading flush with front elevation of wings. Central elliptical headed door; stone stairs oneither side up to 1st floor doors. Central gabled projection to rear. Ashlar limestone construction. No longer in use. Numerous modern additions to rear.
Large central accommodation block (long axis E-W) stood to S, 16-bay,3-storey structure with gabled attic windows; 3-storey double-gable-ended terminals built at right angles to main block making H-plan. Demolished 1986. Two-storey infirmary range (long axis E-W) to S, built of random rubble limestone with brick details; additions to W; projections to S. One-storey projection to N is N-S range connecting central accommodation block to infirmary, gable attic windows and two square lantern lights along ridge; now functions as R.C. chape. On either side of N end are 1-storey stone built additions. Remains of high (c. 5m) enclosing stone wall survive to E, S and W. Hospital enlarged over time with numerous buildings and many 19th century stone buildings of note.

The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.

Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009