Was it a rectory a school or a hotel? That’s the intriguing story of Glebe. Glebe in Dublin boasts a rich and multifaceted history. It wasn’t always the quiet townland it is today.
Originally Glebe was known as St Columb’s. Built in 1828 it served as the rectory for St Columba’s Church of Ireland in Churchill. The first Rector only stayed for three years. The Reverend Henry Maturin took over in 1831. He became nationally known for his role in a significant event. John George Adair the owner of the Glenveagh Estate accused his tenants of stealing sheep. Adair even claimed they threatened his life. He wanted to evict them. Maturin and Father Kerr the Catholic priest tried to intervene. They wrote to Adair begging him to show mercy. Their plea was ignored. In 1861 244 people from 46 families were evicted. The Dublin Protestant press criticized Maturin for his ecumenical actions.
After Maturin’s death in 1880 Glebe became too expensive for the Church. It was leased to tenants then eventually sold. After renovations it reopened in 1898 as St Columb’s Hotel. People came for the fishing and shooting. The hotel operated until 1950 when its owner Mrs Kitty Johnstone passed away. Her daughter ran it until Derek Hill acquired it.
Derek Hill a renowned artist bought Glebe in 1953. He transformed it back into a home. His brother an interior designer helped with renovations. They added heating and electricity. The stable block became a studio and guest accommodation. Hill also created a woodland garden. Hill’s love of landscapes and portraits is well-known. His paintings of Tory Island inspired a new generation of artists. The Tory Island School now has international acclaim.
In 1981 Hill donated Glebe its contents and gardens to the nation. His studio and guesthouse were turned into the Glebe Gallery. It showcases items from his collection and hosts traveling exhibitions. The house and gardens are displayed informally as if Hill still lived there. In recognition of his contributions to Irish art Hill received an honorary doctorate from Trinity College Dublin. He was also made an honorary citizen of Ireland. He died in 2000. So next time you see Glebe remember its fascinating past.