McShain and Bourn Vincent families remembered

A special event at Killarney House Courtyard, on Sunday, depicted the lives of the McShain and Bourn Vincent families who resided in Killarney in the 20th century.

Hosted by National Parks and Wildlife Service and Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, the event highlighted the beauty, natural and built resources the town has as a world class event location.

Killarney has been fortunate and very grateful for the philanthropic generosity of the McShain family of Killarney House and Gardens and Bourne Vincent family of Muckross House. Their generosity enabled Killarney and its hinterland to flourish as ‘one of the best playgrounds in the world’.

Killarney National Park is the bedrock on which tourism was founded, visited by millions when the McShain and Bourne Vincent families donated the lands to the state and people of Ireland.

The Killarney Advertiser has published many articles from

Killarney local historian Damien Switzer over the years, advocating for recognition of McShain's immeasurable contribution to Killarney. We now believe this idea has the backing of the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, Kerry County Council, local politicians, and NPWS. We will keep a keen eye on its progress and bring you regular updates.