St. Kieran's Community Centre, Labasheeda, Co. Clare, Ireland, V15 CF85
Registered Charity Number 20207039
History of the Building
The building now known as St. Kieran's Community Centre has lived many lives since 1837. Standing on the banks of the Shannon estuary, this church was built in the cruciform design – a cross-shaped layout that had been a defining feature of Christian architecture since the Romanesque and Gothic periods. This form, symbolising the crucifixion, organised worship space around the central altar whilst accommodating congregants in the transepts.
The Church Years (1837-1960s)
For over a century, the cruciform church stood as a cornerstone of local life. Generations were baptised, married, and mourned within these walls. The building witnessed famine, emigration, independence, and all the changes that shaped Labasheeda Hall. By the 1960s, the building had fallen into disrepair. The community built a new, smaller church across the road, and the old church was left empty.
An Unexpected Chapter (1970s)
The 1970s brought an unlikely new purpose. Labasheeda Hall was converted into a factory producing board games.
Eventually, this venture ended, and once again the building stood silent.
Rebirth Through Community Spirit (1980s)
The turning point came in the mid-1980s when Shannon Development returned the property to the community. The building needed extensive work. What happened next is the heart of this story. Local volunteers answered the call. Floors were laid by hand. Heating systems were installed. Every task was accomplished through community effort. People gave their time, skills, and energy because they believed this building could serve the area once more. In 1988, the doors opened again as St. Kieran's Community Centre.
The Community Centre Today (1988-Present)
For over three decades, St. Kieran’s Community Centre has been the only community building serving this part of West Clare. It has hosted Christmas party for community residents, step dancing festivals, flower arranging classes, and countless family celebrations. With the development of the long aisle, the layout now allows two different activities to run simultaneously. The recent Town and Village Renewal funding enabled restoration of the original wooden church windows. The new section showcases these windows alongside exposed wooden trusses that add character and recall the building's heritage. A bar has been added for functions, and modern heating ensures comfort whilst retaining historic charm. Each improvement honours Labasheeda Hall's past whilst meeting modern community needs.
Some Interesting Dates:
John Keane and family, Killofin gave the site for the church.
Chalice presented, the gift of Thomas and Mrs. McGrath of Mountshannon.
First bell, a gift from Charles Keane of Killofin House. A very handsome set of stations - a gift from James O’Donoghue, Ballina House.
Wainscot, gallery, wooden floors, decorative tiles and decorative ceiling all added to church by contractor, Ronan of Kilrush. A quantity of seats were purchased in Waterford and arrived at Labasheeda pier under the supervision of Micko Hanrahan and the Davis family.
November, the church bell fell to the ground – it was subsequently re-connected by Jimmy O’Halloran
A beautiful marble altar was
added to St. Kieran’s. It was
manufactured by Messrs. Early of Dublin and was a princely gift of a devout
churchman, Patrick Hallinan, Mountshannon.
Improvements to interior of sacristy – Wainscot, presses and new floor. Contractor James O’Dea, Kildysart.
December 3rd, Trees planted in church
grounds
Alterations to entrance,
gates replaced, church plastered and dashed.
Rafter replaced in church roof – skilfully done by Michael McMahon.
Sacristy re-roofed by James McMahon
Looking Forward
St. Kieran's Community Centre stands as proof of what involved and committed community residents can achieve together. From its foundation in 1837 to its rebirth in 1988 and ongoing restoration today, Labasheeda Hall's story has always been about community.
The work isn't finished. Historic buildings require constant care. But with continued community support, St. Kieran's will serve Labasheeda and the surrounding areas for many generations to come, just as it has for nearly two centuries.