LEINSTER LEADER OF MAY 1977 REPORTS ON THE 1ST HORSE MUSEUM IN WORLD

 

 

The museum was the first of its kind in the world and it was particularly appropriate that it should be located in the National Stud which had achieved fame throughout the world said the Taoiseach, Mr. Liam Cosgrave, officially opening the new Horse Museum at the National Stud, Tully, Kildare, on Monday.

Thanking the many generous benefactors who had given a variety of mementos to the Museum, Mr. Cosgrave paid particular tribute to the Duchess of Westminster and congratulated all concerned, particularly the Directors of the Stud and the Manager, Mr. Michael Osborne, and paid special tribute to Curator Miss Mary McGrath who had contributed so much to the establishment of the Museum.

Mr Michael Curran, Chairman, National Stud, welcoming the Taoiseach and guests, said the occasion was unique and on behalf of the Directors he would like to express appreciation of the support given to the Stud by the Oireachtas in the past five years during which the grant had been increased from £2 million to £5 million. There were at present nine stallions at the Stud and they were fully booked, reflecting the great confidence breeders had in the Stud; the Directors were     examining the possibility of standing National Stud stallions elsewhere throughout the country.

In a tribute to Miss Mary McGrath, the Chairman said she had done a marvellous job in just twelve months and they of the Stud and the people of the nation as a whole owed her their best thanks. Mr. Curran also paid tribute to the builder, Mr. John Heffernan, Architect, Mr. Frank Harte, and Manager, Mr. Michael Osborne.