Milestones

"The tradition of Christian community and caring which in 1872 inspired our founder, Miss Frances (Fanny) Fitzgerald Gregg (daughter of the then Bishop of Cork, Bishop John Gregg), continues to shape the life and work of the home to this day."

Significant dates in a unique record of caring:

1872 - The first Home opened in Albert House, Victoria Road, Cork quickly became too small.

1879 - The Home on Military Hill was opened by Bishop Robert Gregg (brother of the founder Miss Frances Gregg and son of Bishop John Gregg).

1959 - St. Brendan's House was opened by Archbishop George Otto Simms and Bishop Gordon Perdue.

1962 - Twelve beds were added in an extension to the main building.

1979 – During the Presidency of Bishop Samuel Poyntz, St. Brendan's was modernised and a further twelve residents moved in.

1993 - Work began on the building of the present Home in Mahon. Bishop Robert Warke presided at the turning of the sod by Lord Mayor Cllr John Murray.

1994 – Residents and staff transferred from Military Hill to Mahon.

1995 - The Home was officially opened by President Mary Robinson.

1997 - 125th Anniversary Celebrations.

2000 - Day Care Centre was opened by President Mary McAleese, and blessed by Bishop Paul Colton.

2002 - The Conservatory, a Millennium project, was completed.

2003 - Michael Martin TD, Minister for Health & Children, turns the sod for the fourth unit, and officially opens the conservatory.

2004 - The fourth care unit becomes operational.

2005 - New entrance lobby, plus major refurbishment and upgrading on all three original care units completed.

2008 - Upgrading of main corridors, dining room, and kitchen extension completed.

2010 - Education Centre building project commences, together with a further extension to the secure Dementia care unit

For a detailed history see "Luke Here!" by Annie Stephens published to mark the 125th anniversary of the Home is on sale at reception - tel: 021-4359444.