The History of Scar & Scar House in Wexford

Scar House, a traditional farmhouse constructed in the mid-1700s, stands as a testament to the rich agricultural and social history of County Wexford, Ireland. Nestled in the lush Irish countryside, this farmhouse likely witnessed the transformation of the landscape and society through centuries.

The mid-1700s were a time of significant change in Ireland, with the consolidation of farmland and the rise of a more structured agricultural economy. Farmhouses like Scar House would have been central to these developments.

The architecture of such farmhouses often reflects the practical needs of the time, with sturdy natural stone construction to withstand the Irish weather and spaces designed for both living and working. Scar House, with its enduring presence, offers a window into the past, inviting one to ponder the lives of those who walked its halls and worked its lands, contributing to the tapestry of Wexford's history.

Scar House was constructed when it was owned by the barony of Lord Bargy. Nestled in the southeast of Ireland, the barony of Bargy has seen the ebb and flow of human activity from the earliest settlers to the modern day. The area was part of the Kingdom of Uí Cheinnselaig before the Norman conquest, with its capital at Ferns, hinting at a regal past that predates the Norman influence. Following the Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century, Bargy, along with the surrounding areas, experienced extensive Anglo-Norman settlement, forever altering the cultural and physical landscape.

The unique language of Yola, a remnant of the old English spoken by the early settlers, was once heard across the baronies of Forth and Bargy. This language, which developed in isolation over centuries, became a distinct dialect that encapsulated the history and identity of its people. This dialect was a testament to the melting pot of cultures, including Norman, Flemish, and Irish, that coexisted harmoniously in Bargy for centuries. However, by the 19th century, Yola had died out, a victim to the sands of time and the ever-changing tides of linguistic fashion.

The lands of Bargy have been marked by many historical events, from the establishment of settlements and the construction of castles to the battles that shaped the nation's history. The landscape itself bears witness to these times, with ancient raths, portal tombs, and standing stones dotting the countryside, silent sentinels of a bygone era. These archaeological treasures offer a glimpse into the lives of our ancestors, their beliefs, and their customs.

Bargy Castle stands as a historical monument to the region's past rulers. From the 15th century, the Rossiter family held the castle until the tumultuous times of the Cromwellian conquests, when it was confiscated in 1667 because of the Rossiter's involvement in the defence of Wexford. Subsequently, the castle was granted to William Ivory, who later sold it to the Harvey family, marking a significant shift in the power dynamics within the barony.

Now you can come and discover an enchanting array of over 20 differently styled gardens. A private garden created by Nuala & Paul, is open to visitors June, July & August weekends Saturday - Sunday 11am - 4pm. Because of limited parking, tickets are necessary.

The gardens surrounding Scar House blend an eclectic style of landscaping, planting and art to create magical spaces that bend the rules of traditional beds and borders. Meandering paths allow you to bob between the various gardens, each of which was built with love and passion over the course of 25 years.

Looking forward to seeing you!