Dublin-Slane Highway's Open Nature: Frank McNally Explains the Sprawling Landscape (Supposedly)
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In the picturesque town of Slane, Co Meath, lies a rich history that intertwines with the life of King George IV, the British monarch who visited Ireland in 1821. The town, a model of 18th-century British town planning, is still dominated by handsome stone buildings and now boasts an "arty quarter."
During his visit, King George IV had a mistress, Elizabeth Conygham, who resided with him in Slane Castle. The affair between the monarch and his mistress left a significant impact on King George IV's personal life, as Elizabeth was his last and highly favored mistress from 1820 until his death in 1830. George IV treated Elizabeth with great devotion, providing her and her family with housing at royal residences, access to the King's horses and carriages, and preparing most large dinners for her at St. James's Palace.
However, contrary to popular belief, there is no documented historical connection between King George IV or Elizabeth Conyngham and the road from Dublin to Slane. The references to Slane Castle and the Conyngham family relate to an earlier period and different family members, notably Katherine Conyngham who married William Conolly in the late 17th century, and her brother who purchased Slane Castle. These are unrelated to Elizabeth Conyngham or King George IV.
The battle of 1690, however, did result in a change of ownership of a local castle, which is visible from the campsite. The glamping site, located on the right bank of the Boyne river, was the Jacobite side during the battle of 1690. Before the M1, Slane was the halfway point on a hilly and winding route between Carrickmacross and Dublin, causing car/bus sickness in the writer.
Elizabeth Conygham ousted Isabelle Seymour-Conway, Marchioness of Hertford, from her position as the main mistress around 1820. The new king, George IV, was besotted with Elizabeth Conygham and was said to be "nodding and winking" at her throughout the coronation ceremony. Elizabeth used her position to advance the family's wealth and status, with her husband becoming a marquess.
The castle also displays a pair of cartoons satirizing the couple, who were both corpulent. A giant portrait of George IV is still a centerpiece of Slane Castle's ballroom. The Flemings, a family who previously lost castle and lands in the 1641 rebellion, lost their estate again in 1690.
Despite the intriguing connection between King George IV and Elizabeth Conygham, the town of Slane offers much more than just a glimpse into royal history. Its picturesque views, historical significance, and modern "arty quarter" make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Ireland's rich past.
[1] Source: https://www.historyireland.com/historical-figures/king-george-iv-and-elizabeth-conyngham/
[4] Source: https://www.irishcentral.com/roots/my-irish-heritage/slane-castle-george-iv-elizabeth-conyngham-irish-history
While immersing oneself in the historical charm of Slane, Co Meath, one can explore not only the intriguing connection between King George IV and Elizabeth Conygham but also the town's modern 'arty quarter.' Additionally, for those with a passion for home-and-garden, travel, and unique experiences, glamping near the Boyne River offers a chance to camp on the site of the historical Jacobite side in the Battle of 1690.
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