Published: Wednesday, 22nd July, 2009 12:00pm

An 'eclectic' collection is for auction in Bailieborough

An auction of an eclectic collection of over 300 lots takes place in the auction rooms of Peter Murtagh in Bailieborough this Saturday, July 25, starting at 12 noon. These items are from the estate of the late Packie Joe McBreen - formerly of Church House, Knockbride, County Cavan - and other accounts including a local retired publican.

The late Packie Joe was "a classic hoarder", according to Mr. Murtagh, who believes his collection of rare editions of the tri-weekly newspaper, The Hibernian Telegraph Morning Star will be particularly sought-after.

"It took a lot of man-hours to distil the items into order," said Mr. Murtagh.

"There is certainly a lot to catch the eye, from old national school desks to altar rails, from old kitchen items to long vanished farm tools, and a tome of the Hibernian Telegraph Morning Star dating from February 24, 1797, with editions 619 to 801 inclusive as well as a maze of other paraphernalia."

The retired publican yields a fine collection of pub mirrors, enamel advertising and pub bric-a-brac. One large mirror advertising Corbertt's Whiskey has the unique inscription Lam Dearg Eirinn (The Red Hand of Ireland).

There is a complete catalogue on the auctioneer's website, www.petermurtagh.ie, and there will be viewings this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am-7pm each day, with the auction taking place on the Saturday.

For further information, contact Peter Murtagh Auctioneer, Main Street, Bailieborough at 042-9665355 or email peter@petermurtagh.ie