Kenmare

Kenmare, Ireland, is a haven of tranquility, gourmet food, superb accommodation, and breathtaking scenery in one of the most natural, unspoiled environments in Europe. Cradled in the heart of Kenmare Bay, the picturesque town of Kenmare is the perfect location from which to discover the south-west of Ireland, linking the internationally famous Ring of Kerry with the rugged Ring of Beara. The Irish name of the town, Neidin, means little nest. Founded in 1670, though many generations have passed since then, the unique charm and inherent beauty of the town remain unchanged. The Tourist Board, Bórd Fáilte, officially recognized the historical, cultural, and environmental significance of Kenmare by bestowing upon it the title of Kerry’s first Heritage Town. Petty moved to Oxford in 1648 to study medicine, becoming an M.D. and a fellow of Brasenose. He was appointed Professor of Anatomy and Vice-Principal of Brasenose in 1651. He also became a professor of music at Gresham College, London. Dr. Petty came to Ireland in 1652 as a physician-general with the Cromwellian forces. He surveyed and laid down the measurements of the confiscated and fortified lands of Ireland, the first of its kind, which was to become known as the “Down Survey”. Petty also worked on an atlas of Ireland, the Hibernial Dilineatio, published in 1685. In 1657, he received, as a reward for his services, 3500 acres in Kenmare and Tuosist. A further 2000 were followed by a quick purchase of lands allotted to various Cromwellian soldiers. Just before the "restoration,” Dr. Petty returned to London, where he became friendly with Samuel Pepys and renewed acquaintance with scientists of the day. Despite his strong “Cromwellian” connections, he succeeded after the restoration in finding favor with Charles II, who was interested in scientific matters, resulting in his being knighted in 1661 and also making him a grant of the entire parishes of Kenmare, Tuosist, and Bonane. Sir William became a founder member of the Royal Society in 1662, inventing a double-bottomed ship the same year.