The Malcomson Family

The Malcomson Family of Quakers came to Waterford from Scotland in the late 17th Century and by the end of the 18th century they were emerging as the new entrepreneurs and industrialists in Waterford. The Quakers consolidated their business and trade locally and nationally their trade became rich and diverse prospering as traders, merchants and ship owners.

The founder of the Malcomson business empire in Waterford was David Malcomson. The Malcomsons were master ship builders and also founded the cotton mills in Portlaw. In the 1850s and 1860s The Malcomsons were reputed to be the largest steam-owners in the world.

During the years 1860 and 1861 the Malcomson Brothers built many big houses in near Waterford; John commissioned 'Elva' at Ardkeen (later renamed Ardkeen House), Robert 'Minella' in Clonmel and David 'Villa Marina' at Dunmore East.  

Further Information

A Guide to Irish Country Houses Mark Bence-Jones

Shipbuilding in Waterford Bill Irish (2001)

The Malcomsons of Waterford and Portlaw P. Miller (Old Waterford Society Journal Vol:3 May 1972)

Ask About Ireland website Waterford's Shipyards 

Ardkeen House

Ardkeen History - Index