Dysert O’Dea Archeology Centre
The building that houses this centre is actually a medieval tower house, built circa 1480 by Diarmud O’Dea. There are informational maps available at the centre for those who wish to walk and cycle through the area, which features a well-marked trail that winds its way through approximately 25 field monuments on the surrounding property.
The historic trail includes:
The 8th century monastic site founded by St. Tola, along with a church from the late medieval period complete with interesting period carvings of human masks and geometric motifs.
A High Cross from the 12th century, ringless in design, a characteristic particular of the High Crosses that stand in County Clare. This cross was refurbished in 1683 by a member of the O’Dea family, according to an inscription that appears on the surface.
Also along the trail are two stone forts, a 14th century battlefield, castle ruins, and a fulacht fiadh, or ancient cooking site.
The O’Dea family holds the distinction of being one of the first families in Europe to begin using a surname. High King Brian Boru instituted the practice as a matter of law early in the 11th century. The O’Dea family was also a part of the Dalcassian tribe, led by Brian Boru’s father.
The O’Deas were major landowners in this part of County Clare until the Flight of the Wild Geese in 1691. At that point, the lands were confiscated and turned over to the Synge family.
In 1823, a descendant, Edward Synge, was in control of the lands and led a long crusade against Catholicism. He acted in opposition to the parish priest at Corofin, and even built a school where much of the curriculum focused on religious doctrine. In 1826, the school was burned to the ground, and until 1831, Edward Synge lived his everyday life under the protection of police guard. Several attempts were made on his life, including a shooting incident during which his driver was killed. Synge escaped with his life, which he attributed to the fact that he always kept a Bible in his pocket. Apparently, the Bible deflected the bullet aimed at him and saved his life.
Edward Synge’s son, also named Edward, eventually inherited the O’Dea properties, and refurbished the chapel and other buildings. He is buried in the churchyard at Dysert O’Dea.
Famous members of the O’Dea clan include Patrick O’Dea, who died in military service during the War of Independence in 1922. He was 19 years old and a member of the West Clare Active Service Unit of the Republican Army. Generations of the O’Dea family were known for participation in the fight for Irish independence – from the Viking wars in 943 through the War of Independence in 1922.
John B. O’Day of Wisconsin purchased Dysert O’Dea Castle in 1968 and renovated the archeologically important sites, where investigations for further finds continue.