Cromane School - A History

In 1826 there were six hedge schools listed in the Killorglin area, one of these being in Cromane. At this time the definition of "hedge school" was not strictly correct as many of them were built of stone or clay and mud or lime.

These particular schools were thatched and were fee-paying. Also in Killorglin Parish were three free-schools supported by Protestant missionary societies, one of these schools was located in Cromane. In correspondence to Daniel O'Connell, the parish priest Fr. Luony, referred to the absence of Catholics at these schools.

"About 60 children are educated in a charity school, and about 200 in private schools."

[From A Topographical Dictionary of Ireland by Samuel Lewis (1837)]

Reportedly the Cromane school, having shut down for a time, re-opened and struggled on for another few years before shutting down completely. Dates for these events are not accurately available.

In 1884 a new Parish Priest, Fr. Lawlor arrived and took over the management of three dilapidated primary schools. He set about the task of replacing them and in 1886 his dream became reality with the completion of Cromane National School, which was constructed in stone and mortar and built by local volunteers.

In the original design there were four classrooms and a gallery. There were no inside conveniences or running water.

Left: The dilapidated Master's House just before demolition in 2005

The Master's residence was adjacent to the school. Sadly, this historical building was completely demolished in June 2005. It was in private ownership and in a very bad state of repair.

Over the years there were a number of Headmasters and Headmistresses: Master Foley, Master Coffey, Master Mangan, Mrs. Sheehan, Mrs. Hurley, Mrs. Conway and Mrs. Eileen Hayes.

The school and the residence were very centrally located being about 60 metres from the Church on the Cromane to Dooks road.