Lime kilns were once common features across Ireland between the eighteenth and twentieth centuries. Many lime kilns across the country have fallen into disrepair, have been destroyed or have sunken into the landscape. However, Tuamgraney is home to one of the finest examples of a lime kiln in Ireland.
The Tuamgraney lime kiln was built in 1913 to provide lime for the Raheen Estate and other local farmers. It remained in operation until the 1950s.
Lime played an important role in the agricultural industry as it was used to improve the quality of the land.
Features — what to expect
The structure is egg-shaped so that limestone could be heated to high temperatures. Temperatures would often exceed 840°C, and only then would lime be produced. This practice has been in use since the fifteenth century.
What is unique about lime kilns is that they had to be accessed from above. As such the majority of lime kilns were constructed on a rock so that this access could be provided for.
Over the past 18 months, the Tuamgreny Development Association have completed significant conservation work at the lime kiln here. Restoration includes repairing the walls, rebuilding the kiln pot, and installing a new mesh cover so that the lime pot can be viewed safely by visitors.
A new interpretive panel is set to be installed at the site, providing information on this magnificent site.
