Manx National Heritage has begun major conservation work at Harry Kelly’s Cottage in Cregneash.
The historic building is now fully scaffolded as preparations get under way for a complete re‑thatching of the roof.
Specialist craftsmen have started stripping back the existing thatch to assess the condition of the structure beneath.
Cottage Conservation
The team is addressing issues uncovered during the inspection, including removing unstable layers of old lime‑wash and repairing cracks in the masonry using traditional lime mortar.
Work is also under way to make the chimney stacks weatherproof and ensure proper ventilation before they are re‑whitewashed.
The cottage, a registered ancient monument, was gifted to the Manx Museum by Harry Kelly’s family in 1938 and became the foundation of the Cregneash Folk Village. It remains an important symbol of Manx language and rural heritage.
Historic photographs have helped guide the project, revealing changes made in the 1950s to the slate flashings around the chimney stacks.
Reflecting Tradition
These will now be reset to reflect traditional methods and prevent excessive thatch build‑up. Removal of the straw thatch has also exposed the original turf under‑thatch, or scraa, and the clay‑and‑lime sealing used along the wall heads.
Andy Johnson, Inspector of Ancient Monuments, said the team is committed to preserving as much historic fabric as possible while ensuring the building’s long‑term stability. Additional repairs to roof timbers are planned as the project progresses.
Manx National Heritage says the work will safeguard one of Cregneash’s most significant buildings, ensuring it continues to tell the story of Manx culture for generations to come.
