the argory

The Argory was built between 1819 and 1824 by Walter McGeough, alias Mac Geogh.
Most of the original plans and accounts relating to the building were lost in 1898 when a fire broke out in the octagonal pavilion, but it is known that the house was originally designed as a single block with the north wing added later. The Argory has imposing ashlar faced elevations in a restrained classical style.
The staircase hall, or west hall, has been described as one of the most exciting interiors of its date in Ireland. The decorative scheme of the staircase hall with its marbled walls is continued upstairs in the organ gallery - a broad landing extending through the width of the house with tripartite 'Wyatt windows at each end.
On the other side of the staircase hall is the dining room. Much of its furniture was acquired from the Glasgow firm of cabinetmakers and upholsterers James Whyte and Son in 1827, notably the chairs around the long table - which is set with family china and silver for tea.
Across the central corridor from the dining-room lies the billiard room - a familiar feature of nineteenth century country houses, though it is rare to see one so well preserved as this.
The Argory and most of its contents were given to the National Trust by the late W.A.N. MacGeough Bond in April 1979. Two years later the house was opened to the public following a major restoration, which included work to the stable block, designed in 1820 and surmounted by a cupola with an eight-day striking clock and a handsome weather-vane. The 300 acre demesne park has many pleasant walks.

Located 4 miles from Moy on the Derrycaw Road. NGR: H 872580.