Opened in 2019 the Maria Edgeworth Centre is the culmination of the passions of local history enthusiasts. The Centre pays homage to the celebrated 18th century novelist Maria Edgeworth. Maria Edgeworth was considered a lioness by literary giants including, Wordsworth, Scott, Byron and Austen. The Centre is run on a ‘Not for Profit’ bases by local volunteers back up by trained guides. The Centre houses some rear and precious artefacts including an 18th century edition of their major work ‘Practical Education’ which was translated into a number of European languages. The Centre’s Portrait Gallery dates back to the first Edgeworth’s who arrived in the area in 1619.
The Centre is housed in what is believed to be the oldest existing school building in Ireland. The Edgeworth’s were pioneers in the field children’s literature and education, they played a major role in the establishment of the National School System enjoyed in Ireland today. The Centre expands on this part of Ireland’s History and many artefacts from the period are on display. For the enthusiast there is a wonderful collection of books dating to the 17th century.
Visitors can enhance their experience by taking the Edgeworthstown Historical walk which takes in two churches with magnificent Harry Clarke stained glass windows, the 18th century walled garden enjoyed by Maria Edgeworth, St John’s graveyard where Maria Edgeworth and Isola Wilde, sister to Oscar is interred. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of literary giants Goldsmith, Scott, Wordsworth and Wilde.
