This article is from page 21 of the 2014-12-02 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 21 JPG
ONE OF Kilrush’s best-known establishments, Crotty’s, is now on the market.
Deciding to sell the iconic public house and hostelry after two decades of hard work and investment was not an easy one for owners Rebecca Brew and Kevin Clancy, but the couple believe now is the time to direct their attention elsewhere.
The couple are to retire from this business but still have a number of other interests in the town that will keep them busy and give them more time for family life.
“It is a thriving business,” Ms Brew told The Clare People , but it was a huge commitment for the husband and wife team and their young family.
Kevin would usually spend seven days a week in the business, with Rebecca also working there full time.
Ms Brew said she would love to see a young person or couple take on the business, as she believes that there is still room for further development.
“Maybe even some of the young people who are now in America or Australia would be interested, as sometimes the only way to secure employment in some areas is to in- vest in a business.”
That is exactly what Kevin and Rebecca did 20 years ago, and indeed what the f rst owner did 100 years ago. In 1914 it was Micko Crotty that returned to Kilrush from the United States and purchased this property looking on to the Market Square and across from the Town Hall.
Shortly afterwards the building traded as Crotty’s.
Famed as being the home of the legendary concertina player Mrs Elizabeth Crotty the interior still plays homage to her home today.
The original bar sits to the right as you enter the pub from the square, with its original pitch pine bar still in place. The kitchen Mrs Crotty and her family used, along with the store and taproom, are still there to be seen.
Crotty’s also holds on to its authentic past through the original snug where many a marriage was arranged, cattle sold and many a lady had a quiet drink out of the public eye.
In 2005 the bar was expanded again, when the owners purchased Mrs O’Dwyers stationary and sweet shop next door.
The old shop counter has been restored as the new bar, while jars of sweets and toy cars in situ behind the bar are a reminder of bygone days.
Today Crotty’s award winning bar serves drink and food all day, provide accommodation in seven ensuite rooms upstairs, and provides a helpful guide to tourists through its tourist information.
During Kevin and Rebecca’s two decades at the helm the business also won numerous awards including the prestigious Munster Black and White Pub of the Year, Tourism Bar of the Year and has been repeatedly recommended and approved by Georgina Campbell’s Guide.