Muff history group to host talk on the legacy of philanthropist John Gwyn
Gwyn, who was born in the 1750s in Drumskellan near Muff and made his fortune as a linen trader, had an institute for boys opened in Derry after his death
A discussion on how the legacy of philanthropist John Gwyn can impact on society today is taking place in his home village of Muff.
Gwyn was born in the 1750s in Drumskellan near Muff and made his fortune in Derry as a linen trader.
On his death in 1829, he bequeathed £40,000 for the establishment of a school for boys from the city’s poorest families which opened in 1832 as Gwyn's Charitable Institution.
In 1840 the school, then known as Gwyn's Institute, moved to a purpose-built building on a ten-acre site which later became Brooke Park.
Gwyn was buried in the graveyard of the Church of Ireland in Muff beside his parents. His tombstone states: “Ever kind and benevolent, the gifts of his charity were numerous, but dispensed without ostentation.”
Muff Village Magh District History Heritage Group is hosting a talk on how the legacy of John Gwyn can inspire solutions and inform efforts to address social inequalities today.
The group says the conversation is ideal for anyone interested in local history, social justice and educational equality.
The event, which is funded by Change Makers Donegal, is taking place on Wednesday, 13th March at Warren View Manor, Muff from 11.00am to 1.30pm. A light lunch is included. To book, pm the Muff Village District History and Heritage Facebook page.