The transfer of the Seskinore estate into the McClintock family became publicly visible in 1845, when Samuel McClintock first visited the property following its descent from the Perry line.
His arrival was recorded in the Tyrone Constitution and provides a vivid contemporary account of the reception he received from the tenantry.
Extract from the Tyrone Constitution (18 April 1845)
“Samuel McClintock, Esq., to whom the Seskinore property (left him by his uncle, the late George Perry, Esq.) has devolved on the death of Mrs. Perry, visited Seskinore on Thursday week.
He was met a considerable way out of the town by a joyous and delighted tenantry, who took the horses from the carriage and drew it to the lodge amidst the most enthusiastic cheers.
Mr. McClintock spent some time at the house of his relative, Mr. Sinclair Perry, Esq., and returned the same evening, but not before ordering abundance of refreshments for the assembled crowd.
After nightfall, tar barrels were lit in all directions, and an amateur band entertained the people with the performance of several tunes.
Mr. McClintock was accompanied by his brother-in-law, Captain Blake Knox, and Counsellor Rutledge.
From all accounts, Mr. McClintock was held in the highest regard by all classes who had the pleasure of his acquaintance.”
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Context
This event followed the death of Mrs. Perry, widow of George Perry (d. 1824), who had held the estate for her lifetime under the terms of his will.
Upon her death, the estate passed to Samuel McClintock, in accordance with the succession arrangements established by George Perry.
Significance
This account is important for several reasons:
• It confirms the transfer of the estate from the Perry to the McClintock family
• It provides a rare description of tenant response to a new landlord
• It reflects the social structure and expectations of estate society in mid-nineteenth-century Tyrone
The event marks the effective beginning of McClintock residence and influence at Seskinore.
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