The Hell Fire Club
To the east of the castle stand the remains of the Hell fire Club. A red brick building built in 1740. It was a gentleman's club. As its name suggests it was no ordinary club. There were several such clubs in England but there were only two in Ireland. These were accredited to Colonel St. Leger. The one in Dublin is razed to the ground. The other here in Askeaton is nearly complete.
These clubs were notorious in nature because the 'gentlemen' members indulged in gambling and heavy drinking, womanising and even satanic activities. There was one woman member, a Celinda Blennerhasset. The most popular drink of the members was 'Scathleed' this was a mixture of Irish Whiskey and butter made of fresh cream. It was probably the forerunner of the famous Irish Cream that is so popular today.
Read more about this topic: Askeaton
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