The Owners

A brief history of Owners of Kells Bay Gardens

To an informed reader, the following list – Alexander, Vogel, McCowan, Preece, Blennerhassett families – the reverse chronological ownership of the estate at Kells Bay – encapsulates recent Irish history, and especially the history of the ‘big house’ in Ireland.

1837-1953
The Blennerhassetts

When Rowland purchased the land at Kells from the Marquis of Lansdowne and built the original hunting lodge, he was extending the boundaries of his family’s interest in Kerry. Based in Ballyseedy Castle, the family had owned land in Ireland since the late 16th century and had been largely responsible for the development of the town of Tralee.

1953-1973
The Preeces

In 1953 the Preeces, Roland and Nora, arrived at Kells in circumstances that are shrouded in mystery. They had been staying in Cork, with Lady Doneraile, for a number of months when it appears they were made aware of Kells, and subsequently took a lease on it.

1973-1979
Iain McCowan

Iain McCowan’s arrival belatedly brought the Swinging Sixties to this quiet corner of the Iveragh peninsula. He was young and rich and cut a dash in the Kerry society of the time. He was from a Scots Irish background, had a reputation as a bon-viveur and loved life.

1979-2006
The Vogels

When the estate came on the market in 1979 there was much local interest, however Ireland’s economic development was still such that it was highly unlikely to have been bought by any of the natives.

2006 - Present
Alexander

In 2006 Ireland was riding high on the breaking wave of an economic boom. As Billy Alexander settled into middle age, enjoying a moderately successful banking career, reflecting on his hockey and athletic achievements, while managing his modest portfolio of property, he was conscious of a growing itch.