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| KYLEMORE LAKE, CO. GALWAY. -"Kyle" is one of the Gaelic forms of wood, and in the same tongues "more" means great, so that the compound Kyle-more signifies Great-wood. The lake is situated in the county Galway, in the mountainous region contiguous to the Twelve Pins (Bens) of Connemara. It is a romantic sheet of water, "encompassed by the loftiest images of liberty on every side," as revealed in the giant forms of the mountains, around whose hoary summits the winds career with never ceasing vigor, while their granite bases are covered with a luxuriant growth of the grandest forest trees to be found in the ancient "Kingdom of Connaught." On the slopes of one of these great eminences, Mitchell Henry, an English gentleman who purchased the land more than a generation ago, has erected a palatial residence which is called Kylemore castle, and a handsome Episcopalian church which appears in the picture. Mr. Henry, at one time, took an active interest in Irish politics, but, being naturally conservative, could not keep in touch with the Parnell movement. Therefore, he lost his seat in the British House of Commons, and ever since, has shunned public life. But he is an excellent resident landlord, and his liberal improvements, at great financial outlay, have given much needed employment to the poor people of the district. |
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