Here once stood the fortified house of Knockgraffon, built by John Godfrey, an English officer who received the land as payment for his services during the 1641 Rising. Just 50 metres away stands Knockgraffon tower house, creating what would have been an impressive defensive complex in the 17th century.

The house itself was an intriguing example of post-Cromwellian architecture in Ireland. Historical records from 1665 show Godfrey was taxed for five hearths at Knockgraffon, increasing to six the following year, suggesting a substantial dwelling. The Civil Survey of 1654-56 describes it as a ‘slate house’, whilst architectural historians have debated its exact configuration; some sources describe it as double-pile with high gables, whilst others, including sketches from 1840 by Du Noyer and descriptions by Waterman in 1961, suggest it was actually a simple oblong structure measuring approximately 18 metres by 6.4 metres. The building featured massive external chimney projections at both gable ends, with the northeast chimney being particularly notable for its shouldered design and single-light window above. One curious defensive feature was a rising gate mechanism within the outer door, a reminder of the uncertain times in which it was built.

Unfortunately, this remarkable building was demolished in 1973, with its stones finding new life in the foundations of the current house on the site and scattered across neighbouring fields. What remains is a story of colonial reward, defensive architecture, and the layers of history that accumulate and disappear across the Irish landscape. The site serves as a poignant reminder of how quickly centuries of history can vanish, leaving only archaeological notes and sketches to tell the tale of what once stood here.