For some reason, I get much less thorough results using the Google search--at least less than some. One more reason to be so grateful for you lovely folks!
The manor house does indeed rise from the foundation of a monastery razed during the reign of Henry VIII. It was built in the late 17th century, after the Restoration. I made a floor plan.
Adore the details about fish oil and seagull eggs and seal skins. Had forgotten about the Aran Islands and the brilliant documentary about them. The potatoes grown with seaweed stuck in my mind at the time. Makes sense for my islanders, what with little gardens for a village hugging the bay and all.
Thanks for the recommendations of films/t.v. series. Recently re-watched
Regency House Party which helps me 'feel' the time. Was going to do a re-watch/re-read of
Fingersmith as well (a few decades later, but a big chunk happens in a country manor house with a lot of focus on the staff). Will check out
Cranford and
Whiskey Galore.
Hadn't really considered the breed of sheep on North Island before. After a quick survey, my inclination leans towards the
Derbyshire Gritsone which were bred in the 18th century. At the time they were almost cutting edge, but I figure the previous squire (a baronet) was the industrious type, leaving a substantial inheritance for his son (who proved interested in other things). But of course this also gives me a visual sense of what the sheep on North Island
look like (hornless, woolless limbs, compact, black-and-white faces, etc.).
You know, the more I think on it, the Manor House Farm must import its hay.
