Donegal property formerly used by ‘The Screamers’ commune hits the market for €749,950

Led by English woman Jenny James, the group lived in the quiet village of Burtonport in northwest Donegal. According to a BBC article, they “believed in ‘primal scream therapy’ – yelling, shouting and shrieking to release deep-rooted fears buried from childhood. James wanted to establish a new family of people who were not related – her own tribe – and to live off the land.” 

There were 30 people living in the house at any given time and the group stayed there until the 1980s, when they relocated to the nearby island of Innisfree. After they left, the Rhennish Community or the Silver Sisterhood, moved into the property until the 90s. This group was based on a matriarchal society model and the women referred to themselves as ‘maids’. 

Now named ‘Foirnis’, it’s described as a “landmark Victorian property”. Set on approximately 1.4 acres of land, the property was originally built in 1895, however, it has undergone significant refurbishment in the years since. Fitted with all amenities necessary for modern life, the property still maintains many of the features one would associate with the Victorian era including large rectangular sash windows, a centrally located front door, high ceilings, an open fireplace and solid wooden flooring all of which have been lovingly maintained by the current owners.

Inside, there are numerous hallways with high ceilings as well as a variety of attractive stained glass panels. The ground floor accommodation comprises a living room with bay window and open fireplace, a beautiful sitting room with bay window and open fireplace, a fully fitted kitchen with built-in units and fitted appliances, a dining area with open fireplace and a spacious utility room with tiled flooring. A stable door in the kitchen leads to a sheltered side patio area.

Upstairs, the first floor is split into two parts with the main building accessed from the front hallway. There you’ll find four spacious double bedrooms, including the master suite which includes a sitting area to the front, and an office/studio overlooking the front garden area.

The other four bedrooms are accessed via a stairwell to the rear of the property along with a communal, fully-tiled bathroom.

Externally, a tarmac driveway with footpath surrounds the property while an iron wrought gate from the main road leads up to the front entrance steps. There is a large manicured garden to the front and rear of the property.

Conveniently located just a few minutes from Burtonport Harbour, the property is well-located close to numerous local amenities and beaches with the nearby towns and villages of Dungloe, Kincasslagh and Annagry all within a short drive from the property.

The building also boasts “secret” attic areas, has a large shed adjacent to the property which may lend itself to other uses and is also connected to the Burtonport Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Currently on the market at the guide price of €749,950, the property is on sale through Campbells Auctioneers. Viewing comes highly recommended and is strictly by appointment only. Take a tour of this historical Donegal home in our gallery below.