Purchase of Dr Alexander Irvine's Family Home
" THE CHIMNEY CORNER " Dr. Alexander Irvine's Cottage to be Preserved PURCHASED IN TRUST The cottage in Pogue's Entry, Antrim, the birthplace of Dr. Alexander Irvine, the author of the world-famed story of Irish life, " My Lady of the Chimney Corner, " was purchased last week in trust, and for all time it is likely to be visited by those who have admired the writings of one who has pictured Irish life in all its beauty and simplicity. As soon as the cottage has been restored to the state it was in when occupied by Dr. Irvine's father and mother, it will be open to the public. In it relics of Dr. Irvine and his parents will be collected for the inspection of visitors, and there will be a book in which those who admire the writings of the author of " My Lady of the Chimney Corner " may sign their names. Dr. Irvine has promised to give his valuable pictures and manuscripts to be placed in the cottage, which eventually, will take the form of a museum, and he has also signified his intention to write a booklet to be sold to visitors. The proceeds of the booklet will be used in the restoration of the cottage and its preservation in its original state. The title deeds of the cottage were signed last week, and all the money for the purchase has been subscribed. A further ÷150, however, is required for reconditioning, but it is felt that with such a following as Dr. Irvine has there will be little difficulty in raising the required amount. A tombstone on the grave of Dr. Irvine's mother, Anna Irvine, the " lady of the chimney corner, " was recently erected and dedicated in Antrim [Parish?] Church graveyard, and at the ceremony the chairman was Viscount Massereene. At the base of the stone is inscribed the closing words of Dr. Irvine's famous book, " Love is enough." The trustees are the Rev. Robert Craig, Ballymena; Rev. William Mitchell, Antrim; Mrs. S. E. Gilmour, and Messrs. J. L. Clarke, L. Jackson Holmes, and J. Herbert Ireland (Belfast).Close