The Final Draft > Famous Women Connected to Kilkenny
Famous Women Connected to Kilkenny
We all know it's the people that make a place what it is, which is why we’ve decided to take a look at some of the inspiring and fascinating stories of the women with a connection to Kilkenny. From witch accusations to tennis champions, read about some of the most interesting women to be associated with the marble city.
Alice Kyteler
Any trip to Kilkenny should involve a stop at Kyteler's Inn which was once owned by Alice Kyteler - Kilkenny’s alleged ‘witch’. 700 years on Alice is still casting spells in Kilkenny and it is coming up to Alice’s 700th year anniversary. Born and bred in Kilkenny during the 13th century, Alice is now remembered for being the first woman to be condemned for sorcery in Ireland. Already a wealthy woman before marriage, Alice married four times, every time to affluent men who went on to die premature deaths under unknown circumstances. After her fourth husband died and left her his wealth, suspicions including whispers of dealings with the devil began to flare up around Alice. Eventually charges were brought against her including denying Christ, ritual sacrifices of animals and carnal relations with a demon along with her servant Petronilla de Meath. While the latter was tortured into a confession and burnt at the stake, Alice managed to flee her cell with the help of friends in high places. Alice Kyteler’s story is a stark reminder of the superstitions in Medieval society along with the prejudices leveled against women.
Mabel Cahill
Mabel Cahill was a prolific woman from Kilkenny who made her name as a tennis champion during the late 19th century. Born into a family of fourteen children in Ballyragget, at the age of 26 Mabel moved to New York City and established herself as a tennis player to be reckoned with. For two consecutive years (in 1891 and 1892) she won the US open tennis championship, making history as the first non-American and only Irish person ever to win a US open title. Aside from a successful tennis career, Mabel also had creative outputs as a writer and an actor. She published a romantic novel entitled ‘Her Playthings, Men’ among other titles and wrote for magazines, in addition to performing on stages across London as an actress. Sadly, little is known about the final years of her life and she faded into relative obscurity after her sporting triumphs, passing away at a relatively young age. To this day, her story remains an intriguing and monumental chapter in Ireland’s sporting history.
Kathleen Marescaux
Known for her skilled depiction of botanical subjects and rural landscapes, 19th century artist Kathleen Marescaux was born in Kilkenny. The first public exhibition featuring her work took place at the Royal Hibernian Academy in 1893. Since then, her work has been showcased in national and international galleries including Towner Gallery in Eastbourne and in exhibitions with the Fine Art Society in London and the Ulster Academy of Arts. Kathleen’s legacy can still be felt in Kilkenny in Bonnettstown House and of course, in her works of art. In 2009 her work was featured in “Kilkenny: An Artists Celebration” to mark the 400th anniversary of Kilkenny as a city.
If you are interested in learning more about historical and inspirational people connected to Kilkenny learn more about the talented famous artists who made Kilkenny home.
What is Kilkenny Famous For?
As well as interesting women and artists, Kilkenny is famous for its medieval castle. The town has been referred to as the "Marble City" for centuries. People from Kilkenny are often referred to as 'Cats' which is interesting to note. Kilkenny was given the status of a city by Royal Charter in 1609 by King James I of England. As well as Kilkenny’s rich history of the arts and culture, Kilkenny is famous for The Smithwick’s Experience. The tour is approximately 1 hour. Visit the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny to learn more about the Smithwick’s family and the story of brewing history in Kilkenny.