Survey Data
Reg No
30343020
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Architectural, Social
Original Use
Prison/jail
In Use As
Community centre
Date
1845 - 1850
Coordinates
185387, 204693
Date Recorded
09/09/2009
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
Detached four-bay, two-storey former bridewell, built c.1847, with lean-to extension to front, south, having corrugated-iron roof. Pitched slate roof with cut limestone chimneystacks and eaves course. Rendered walls. Square-headed openings with raised tooled limestone surrounds and sills, and cast-iron fixed paned windows. Situated to rear of court house.
Appraisal
The bridewell adjoining Portumna Courthouse was used for short term imprisonment of offenders. The requirement for security is reflected in the small cast-iron windows. It forms part of a notable group with the adjoining court house. Its conversion to a community hall means it continues to play a social role in the town of Portumna.