Irish Origins & the Name “Clonmel”

Nestled above the Lynn River in Norfolk County, Clonmel Castle stands as one of Southern Ontario’s most remarkable heritage estates. Its story is one of Irish lineage, Canadian settlement, architectural ambition, and enduring community spirit.

The name "Clonmel" is drawn from the Irish Cluain Meala, meaning “Honey Meadow,” a reference to the fertile lands of County Tipperary in Ireland. This name carries deep ancestral significance, tracing back to the Dick family of Clonmel, notable landowners and merchants whose legacy included Quintin Dick (d.1768) of Castle Blake, Clonmel.

The Dick family’s influence extended into banking, trade, and parliamentary life, with connections to the early foundations of the Bank of Ireland. Through marriage, the Dick lineage continued through the Barrett family, whose descendants would later carry this history across the Atlantic to Canada.

From Ireland to Canada - An Unexpected Inheritance

In 1830, Quintin Barrett emigrated from Ireland to Sorel, Quebec, bringing with him both family legacy and entrepreneurial spirit. The Barrett family eventually settled in Ontario, where successive generations became deeply rooted in Norfolk County.

Among them was Dr. William Henry “Harry” Barrett, a veterinarian, farmer, and community-minded leader whose vision would give rise to Clonmel Castle as we know it today.

In 1926, while farming on Prospect Street in Port Dover, the Barrett family encountered a newspaper notice reading: “Unclaimed Estates — Barrett.”

What followed was extraordinary. Harry Barrett inherited a significant Irish estate valued at over $2 million, including fine paintings, iron-bound chests, and a priceless library of rare books—many of which are now preserved within the Royal Ontario Museum.

Rather than pursue personal extravagance, Harry chose to reinvest his fortune locally, creating a home that would also serve as a place of gathering, celebration, and employment.

The Birth of Clonmel Castle

In 1929, Harry Barrett purchased a 40-acre site on Prospect Hill for $12,000. An existing residence on the property (known as the Guy House) was carefully relocated to a neighboring farm, where it still stands today. Construction of the new residence—Clonmel Castle—was awarded to C.C. Stewart, with work commencing in 1930.

Harry deliberately chose the name “Clonmel”, feeling that “Castle Blake” sounded too ostentatious. The resulting estate was grand yet welcoming—refined without pretension.

A Castle for the Community

Harry Barrett was widely known for his generosity and humility. He consistently supported local businesses, trades, and artisans, particularly during the difficult years of the Great Depression.

In 1930, the Barrett family hosted a legendary Open House Barn Dance, inviting the entire town. An estimated 1,400 guests attended, dancing to live fiddle music across multiple floors of the Castle. Original signatures of builders and attendees from that evening are still preserved at Clonmel today.

Architectural Significance

Clonmel Castle was constructed using the innovative NATCO (National Fireproofing Company) system, making it exceptionally resistant to fire, sound, and weather—an advanced achievement for its time.

Architecturally, the Castle is a rare and harmonious blend of:

American Colonial Revival
Georgian
Victorian
Tudor
Edwardian
Neo-Gothic styles

The solid stone exterior, steep hipped roof, large chimneys, and symmetrical window placement echo the great Loyalist homes of early Ontario, while handcrafted wooden medallions and architectural detailing add warmth and distinction.

A defining feature of the estate is its hand-crafted stone wall, built using stone from the Hagersville quarry, stacked horizontally with the top row set upright—a striking and enduring boundary that remains today.

Interior Grandeur

Upon entering Clonmel Castle, guests are welcomed by a grand central hall, featuring a real gold chandelier, decorative cornices, and a keystone archway. Throughout the home, doorways are framed with ornate entablatures and classical detailing.

Highlights include:

The Casablanca Music Room, with grand pianos and a marble fireplace blending Art Deco, Victorian, and Georgian influences
A gracious central staircase with finely worked balusters
A walnut-paneled Dining Room with built-in china cabinets and pilasters
A purpose-built Library, originally designed to house over 1,000 books, centered around a marble-hearth fireplace
The former Billiards Room, now known as the Vault Room, with richly paneled walls and fireplace
The original Vault, once used to protect family silver and artwork, now reimagined as a private bedroom

Upper Floors & Modern Living

The third floor houses seven original bedrooms and four bathrooms, now thoughtfully converted into elegant suites with private ensuites, spa-style bathrooms, and modern climate control—while preserving historic character.

The fourth floor, once the Ballroom, features beautiful hardwood floors and has been transformed into private living quarters, including bedrooms, a spa bathroom, kitchen, living room, and generous storage.

Today, Clonmel Castle stands as both a living home and a lovingly restored heritage estate—ready to welcome guests for intimate private events and overnight stays.

Family Reunions
Anniversaries & Birthdays
Elopements & Micro-Weddings
Vow Renewals
Private Celebrations with Accommodations

To inquire or book, contact
Lynneee, Chatelaine of Clonmel Castle
📞 416-768-1902

Files coming soon.

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