Farmers in Co. Fermanagh to this day continue to benefit from the decision of an 18th century landowner to use his influence for the benefit of his tenants.
George Vaughan’s (1691-1763) last will and testament ensured a substantial legacy to benefit his tenants in Co. Fermanagh, which continues as the Vaughan Trust.
His story is now the subject of a new book, The Life and Legacy of George Vaughan, which was launched on Friday, May 29 in Tubrid Church Hall, Kesh by the Bishop of Clogher, Dr. Ian Ellis.
The association of Kesh and Tubrid Church with the Vaughan family of Co. Donegal provides a unique heritage dating back over 250 years.
The book is written by Olwen Gormley, a past chair of the Vaughan Trust and current Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs adviser on the board.
The foreword has been written by the Most Rev. Dr Michael Jackson, Archbishop of Dublin.
The first two parts cover the history of George Vaughan’s life and his family connections.
It expands on Vaughan’s vision, hard work and energy to make a difference for his own community, in what were very difficult and poor times in Irish history.
Vaughan’s last will and testament stipulated that after his death, one of the earliest charitable schools in Ireland was to be built on his Fermanagh estate.
The Vaughan Charitable Charter School was established and operated from 1787 to 1934.
The details the book provides on the farming tenants and townlands in the Kesh area should prove fascinating for local farmers.
Vaughan had also left directions for a church to be built to serve as a school chapel, now known as Tubrid Parish Church in the parish of Drumkeeran outside Kesh, on the road to Castlederg.
After the school’s closure, the Vaughan Agricultural Institute was developed on the same site.
After the institute was closed, the school farm was sold and Vaughan’s Charity (Vaughan Trust) was established in its present form.
The Vaughan Trust to this day provides funding for the development of agriculture in Co. Fermanagh, supporting farmers and students.