COUNTY ROSCOMMON

Way out West

With the whole of its eastern boundary formed by the mighty river Shannon and much of the western boundary being the river Suck, you might expect this to be lowlands and bog. You would then be only partially coreect. Lush farmland and extensive lakes make up much of this county, another that tends to be ignored by the English. There's plenty to see and do as well. yesterday and today collide with great frequency in Roscommon. Museums remind us of past privations suffered by the Irish while the county town is modern in outlook and style. Do take some time to discover County Roscommon. you will find it a most rewarding experience.

Richard Castle(1690-1751) was one of Ireland's greatest architects. He was a Huguenot and worked in the Palladian style. Some of the country's greatest houses (including Strokestown's) are his work.

Lough Ree - through which the Shannon flows - is 16 miles long and up to seven miles across. Lady Betty, Ireland's last hangwoman, practised her gruesome trade at the gaol in Roscommon during the 18th century. She was actually condemned to death for murder, but spared after she volunteered to take on the job.

The composer Percy French (1854-1920) was born at Clooneyquin, A memorial stands in his memory. "Who He?" You say. Remember those Victorian 'fun' songs such as Abdulla Bulbul Ameer, There the Mountains of Mourne Run down to the Sea and Phil the Fluter's Ball? Yes, all his work.

Douglas Hyde, first President (1938-45) of the Irish Republic, was born in Frenchtown and is buried in the churchyard here.