Historical background

The two Nasool cottages in Doongelah, Co. Sligo, were erected circa 1750 and existed within a farmyard. In 1969 they were purchased in a derelict state by John Jobson who restored the first cottage to a healthy state and added a northwest extension complete with a nineteenth century Gothic style window. The cottage was then used as an artist’s studio. The second cottage was in poor shape and was re-built in its original style, not only to remain in keeping with its intended rural form but also to keep open the farm’s “cloghan” area between the two cottages. The cottage was thatched in the traditional manner and was overseen by the local thatcher, Tommy MacDermot. This cottage has since been used as a work/study space for theatre and music groups. Both structures are rare reminders of the lost farm culture in the Connaught region. In 2001 the owners of Nasool cottages applied to the Irish Georgian Society for funding to defray the cost of repairs. The thatch of both cottages had begun to decay in patches and was being overtaken by organic growth. The Society awarded IRP ₤2,500 to fund repairs to both cottages.

Brief description of project

The repairs to Cottage #1 included raising the central section of the roof, replacing the flashings around a hazardous chimney and north barge, and patching of damaged thatch. Repairs to Cottage #2 involved completely re-thatching the roof and renewing the valleys. 

The Irish Georgian Society is committed to supporting the conservation of vernacular architecture and with the Society’s help the Nasool cottages have now been secured for the education and enjoyment of present and future visitors.

Architectural description

The first cottage consists of a single-storey dwelling with three bays. A single-storey extension was attached on the north elevation in 1969, converting the single cottage into a U-shape. The thatched roof is pitched and surmounts painted smooth-rendered walls. The timber casements and square-headed window openings are also fine examples of Irish vernacular architecture.

The second cottage is similar in shape and design, though having large arched doorways with full-length, tripartite window panes and a pyke-shaped roof.