The column in the weekly paper "Our Dogs," that was written by I.W. Everett of the Felixstowe Kennels, although there were occasionally other writers such as Mr. J. Nagle (Sulhamstead) and Capt. T.H. Hudson (Brabyns).
There are only a few available for some years, and none at all for others, but what is available does throw an interesting light on what was going on in the wolfhound world at the time. I have made some comments in a few cases, which are shown in italics to differentiate them from the original piece.
1911
Mrs. Schofield, of Timber Hill, Burnley, has joined the Wolfhound circle, and
at Burnley benched a very fine upstanding Irish Wolfhound in Silver Cloud, by
Silver King ex Fillongley Queen. Mrs. Schofield was at one time a Collie
exhibitor, then for a time Pomeranians took first place; now her interests will
be divided between Poms. and Wolfhounds.
Mr. Tom Stevens, of the Aylesbury Kennels, Liverpool, has disposed of his Irish
Wolfhound, Leitrim Boy, to Mr. Kilbride of Dublin. This dog, it will be
remembered, won second at the championship show at Dublin, and secured first at
Bray (Ireland) last year.
(Leitrim Boy was later donated to the Irish Guards as the Regiment's second Regimental Pet)
Mr. H. Pemberton, of Tamworth, has had the bad luck to lose the Irish Wolfhound, Cenwulph. He died last Saturday from acute gastritis. It is two years since he was first shown, and during that time he won nine firsts, two championships, many specials, the Type Cup (Crystal Palace, 1909), challenge cup for the best Wolfhound (dog), and the Graham Challenge Shield for best dog or bitch, at the last K.C. Show, Crystal Palace. He was, it is said, the only dog by Ch. Gareth that won a championship, so is a great loss to the fancy.
Irish Wolfhound fanciers will be sorry to hear of the death of Leinster.
Bred by Mr. Howard in Kildare, he was of an extraordinary litter of five. Two
were full champions, four were winners of championships, and all five were
first-prize winners. As a puppy he came into the possession of Mr. R.T. Martin
of Athlone, and in his hands his career was very brilliant, as he had the
distinction of beating the best dogs in England except the redoubtable Ch.
Cotswold. At the stud, with few opportunities, he sired Ch. Felixstowe
Gweebarra, Errigal, Silver King, Lindley Tyrant, Lindley Mike, Lindley Kilda,
Donnybrook, etc.
Mr. T.W. Corcoran (Clontarf) has suffered a big loss by the sudden death of his
well-known winning five-year-old Irish Wolfhound Con Boroihme, which he
purchased at three months old. He dropped dead without a struggle, apparently
from heart troubles, near his home, on returning from his customary evening
exercise. Con was bred by Mr. J.T. Dobbin (Dublin), an enthusiastic breeder of
Wolfhounds, and was by Boru ex that good winning typical bitch, Slainte. He was
a typical hound - one of the best in the Green Isle. Con was very much attached
to Mrs. Corcoran, who feels his loss keenly. Many good offers time after time
were refused for this typical hound. At seven months he won a second at Dublin;
the next year, at Dublin, winning two firsts, two specials and the Graham Cup.
At Kilkenny he bagged two firsts, first at Manchester, also scoring at
Birmingham, Bray, and two firsts at last year's Dublin Show. He sired a litter
of thirteen to Lord Gormanston's Sheelah. He also is the sire of Brian
Boroihme, winner of first and second at Dublin, first time shown, also a winner
at Manchester, Bray, etc. Mr. Corcoran has a young son of his that money would
not tempt him to part with.
We congratulate Mr. I.W. Everett upon his dog, Felixstowe Gweebarra, winning his third championship, and qualifying as a full-fledged champion. His two previous wins were at Dublin (judge Mr. Howard) and L.K.A. (judge Mr. Theo Marples). In addition to being a show dog of the first water, Gweebarra is also a good sire, Mr. Everett informing us that he has just shipped a brace of puppies to British Columbia, and two brace are going next week to Wyoming - all by the new champion.
Miss Stark, of Great Dane fame, has just joined Miss McCheane in breeding Irish Wolfhounds, which she intends keeping as well as Danes. At present both the ladies have a very fine litter of ten by Mr. Adamms' O'Neil ex Adel Colleen, a Ch. Gareth bitch. We wish Miss Stark and Miss McCheane every success in their undertaking.
1912
The news will be received with the greatest regret that Major P.G. Shewell, of
Cotswold, Cheltenham, has decided to disperse his magnificent collection of
Irish Wolfhounds. Ever since we can remember, Major Shewell's kennel of this
historic breed has been in the forefront, and we believe that his present
collection embraces every living champion of the breed, and a number of others
quite capable of following in the footsteps of the older animals. A list of the
dogs is published in our sale columns, and early application should be made by
those desirous of securing any of the dogs.
Mr. I. W. Everett, of Felixstowe, has sold the Irish Wolfhound, Ch. Felixstowe Gweebarra, to America, for what is probably a record price. He is to be used for breeding to raise hounds for hunting bear and other big game on a big game reservation in South Carolina. He left these shores some six weeks ago, but has left behind him some extraordinarily promising youngsters, both dogs and bitches, two of which - Felixstowe Kilrush and F. Kilkerran - now belong to Mr. Jas. McKelvie, of Edinburgh; and several others in the South of England. Ch. Felixstowe Gweebarra has won, with very few opportunities, eight championships under seven different judges, Irish Wolfhound Challenge Shield, and about forty other firsts and specials. He was acknowledged by Irish Wolfhound Club judges to be probably the soundest-limbed large dog known.
More about the sale of Gweebarra can be seen here
We learn that Mrs. Trethewy has purchased from Ireland a hound from which great things are expected. His blood is the best combination of size and quality, and as he is massive and very active he ought to be a boon to breeders. We await with interest his debut.
1913
It is with great regret we learn that Col. Ley, of Chertsey, died suddenly from
acute heart disease following on a heavy run with Beagles. He was a very ardent
admirer of the Irish wolfhound, and was growing an extraordinary good young dog
to come out at the coming summer shows. Just recently most encouraging news has
come from South America regarding the working of Irish Wolfhounds on wolves and
other game, in consequence of which inquiries are again coming respecting more
hounds for exportation to that part.
Manchester schedule is again before us, giving for Irish Wolfhounds seven
classes, two challenge certificates, and some specials. Belle Vue is an ideal
venue for a show, always giving large rings to move the dogs in. Don't forget,
entries close 22nd inst.
Miss Dobson of Patcham Place, Sussex, has bought the Irish Wolfhound, Adel
Maida, from Mr. Thompson of Cambridge. She is due to whelp to Miss Dobson's
Michael O'Brien.
Irish Wolfhound ranks are again weakened. This time at Winchester. Mrs.
Trethewy shipped last Friday to America Wykemark Chief and Wykemark Wonder, who
are being sent out for work.
At Manchester, the Irish Wolfhound, Felixstowe Kilrush, the property of Mr. J.
McKelvie of Edinburgh, completed her championship wins, thus now claiming her
full title. Dr. Fisher unfortunately entered his nice bitch, Lindley Lupin, in
Deerhound classes by mistake. It was annoying for him, as she would have been
well in the money had she competed. There are in the North, we hear, some good
Irish Wolfhound youngsters in pickle ready for the summer shows, unless in the
meantime they "go West".
1919
Our Irish wolfhound contributor is: Mr. I.W. Everett, Witnesham,
Ipswich.
In the rush of going to press, and owing to the chaos which reigned at the
L.K.A. show at Richmond, consequent upon the storm, full credit was not given
in our columns to the successes of the Rev. C.H. Hildebrand's bitch, Rachel.
Besides being 1st in Junior and winning the challenge certificate, she won 1st
Limit and 1st Open, five special prizes, and the Irish Wolfhound Club's
president's cup for the best dog or bitch, under 18 months old, at the show.
Honour to whom honour is due.
Mr. Gerrard will judge Irish Wolfhounds at Bath show, and not Dr. Fisher, as
announced.
The prophecy that Irish Wolfhounds are rapidly increasing in numbers, as
well as improving in quality, was clearly evidenced at Birmingham Show.
Although the numbers were not up to those at the K.C. show, the 54 entries made
a grand exhibition, with, I think, seven new faces, and all good ones. Amongst
these latter there will be, with time, a great alteration in positions of the
Birmingham awards, for many of these will be very different Hounds in a year,
as on the day they were suffering from want of age, and one promising youngster
from excessive ring shyness; but time will do much for them. A very pleasing
and popular win was Courage of Grevel, who as well as winning through his I.W.
classes and challenge certificate, won the Brewers' challenge cup for best in
Irish Wolfhounds, Deerhounds, Borzois, and Greyhounds. He is another of that
good litter, three of whom won challenge certificates. They were Ch.
Ballyshannon (now in America), Mauveen, and Courage. Their breeding was Ch.
Kilgerran ex Rev. Hildebrand's Sarah.
I.W.E.
I have received a very interesting letter from a French sportsman who is a
great hunter of wild boar, and who has a very great opinion of Irish wolfhounds
for this sport. In the letter announcing the death of Patrick, he says:-
"I had noticed for some time that the hound was becoming sad and losing
his appetite, and he looked neurasthenic. One day I took him with me to hunt
wild boar. He again became gay, ate well, and helped me to kill 15 wild boars:
he was the only hound with me. One evening I was coming back late from a hunt,
when I saw him prick up his ears before a big hole and rush into it; at the
same moment I heard the significant grumbling of the wild boar. I rushed up as
quickly as I could, and I saw Patrick who, contrary to his habit (he had never
before done it), was holding the boar by the left hind leg. I was unable to
shoot and the inevitable happened. The boar, seeing me approach, turned
suddenly and sent Patrick rolling. I was then able to shoot and kill him, then
I went over to Patrick; the poor dog was completely ripped up and there was
nothing more to do for him. The boar was a huge male weighing over 300 lbs. And
I have never seen one like him. I regret the loss of my poor dog very much
indeed, he was my faithful hunting companion, and thanks to him I was able to
kill a great number of boars. He died a noble death on the hunting field. To
hunt the wild boar I proceed in the following way: I put two ordinary dogs on a
fresh track, and followed them until they arrived at the place where the boar
was hiding. Most of the times the boar would not leave his place, then I let
Patrick loose, and by jumping on the boar he would force him out, and that
moment I would kill him. You see it is very simple, but I also want to tell you
that Patrick, all by himself, without a single other dog to accompany him,
hunted a deer for two hours. To me the Irish Wolfhound is a wonderful hunting
dog, and the only thing that one might reproach him with is that he is silent,
and one does not know where to find him while he is hunting. Next year I shall
try hunting with these hounds without the help of any other dogs."
A very welcome letter just to hand from Capt. Hudson, of Brabyns Kennels, who
writes: "The kennels are now out of quarantine," and that
Fionn-ma-Coull, and a fine young bitch by Ch. Ballyshannon, are rapidly getting
to their original form. All fanciers will receive this news, I am sure, with
delight, and trust that this good sportsman may never be called upon to go
through such an ordeal again.
1922
Mrs. Wild, through lack of suitable accommodation, has sold her Felixstowe
Alana to Mr. 'Muldooney' Fitzgerald, of Farnham. After doing so she felt the
loss so keenly that she set about buying Alana back, taking several months to
accomplish this, as Mr. and Mrs. Fitzgerald had also become attached to her,
but in the end gave in to Mrs. Wild's entreaties. Mr. and Mrs. W. now own an
ideal pair, in Tipperary and Alana, both for starting a kennel as well as
exhibition, at their new address, 29 Marlborough Road, Richmond, Surrey, where
we wish them the best of luck with their grand hobby.
Let us all try to make the forthcoming K.C. show a record for our breed, both
in numbers and quality too, and with this end in view be up and doing. In
placing our exhibits under such a judge as Mr. T. Hamilton Adams, who is a
racehorse and coursing sportsman, as well as an old Irish Wolfhound fancier, we
can have every confidence in his judgement, for who can have better credentials
for judging the breed than those above.
1924
Mr. J. Nyle of "Sulhamstead" prefix is all for the sound and
working sort of Irish Wolfhound, as well as a strong advocate of type. This
good sportsman is organising a coursing meeting of Irish Wolfhounds on
Salisbury Plain in December or January next, and has already received promises
of eight entries, and will be glad to hear from any owner who wishes to enter.
It is proposed to have a small sweepstake, which shall be divided into 50 per
cent for the winner, 30 per cent for the runner-up, and 10 per cent for each
dog beaten in the semi-final. Trophies will be purchased with the entries and
presented.
Another "best in show" was won by Mr. J.F. Bradbury's good hound,
David, at Handsworth open show, beating several full champions, under those two
astute judges, Messrs. J.J. Holgate and H.H. Wilson.
A little while since I was at Southampton, and had the pleasure of looking over
the Irish wolfhounds belonging to Mrs. Benyon, who brought them over last May
from South Africa. It will be remembered that two of these hounds were the
means of saving this lady's life on two occasions. The last time was last
Christmas morning, about 8 o'clock. Mrs. Benyon was out walking with her hounds
in the jungle, when very suddenly she came face to face with a lion, lioness,
and cubs. The hounds went for the lion, who bolted; the lioness seemed so
frightened that she stuck very closely to the cubs, and so gave Mrs. Benyon the
opportunity to retrace her steps. These hounds are in quarantine, and due out
at the end of October, when I learn they are to be benched as opportunity
occurs. Three of these hounds were born within thirty miles of the Equator, and
are sound, well-grown, and typical.
Note: It is actually Mrs. Beynon, not Benyon.
I have a very interesting piece of news to hand. Mr. J. Nagle, of Stonehenge
Pedigree Stock Farm, Amesbury, has very kindly offered a 10-gn. Silver cup to
the Irish Wolfhound Club for competition amongst its members to be presented to
the exhibitor who shall win most 1st prizes in breed and variety classes during
1925 at shows held under K.C. Rules. This cup is to be won outright, and
exhibitors will have to notify the Secretary of the Irish Wolfhound Club of
wins in variety classes. Any number of hounds may compete for any member. Of
course, it is understood that wins must be with Irish Wolfhounds. Another cup
of equal value has also been presented by the same good sportsman for
competition at the club show each year amongst the new members. Particulars of
this will be published later. I may add that these two cups will be hand-made
by an artist in silver who has exhibited at the Royal Academy, and it is really
unnecessary to add that they will be well worth winning.
May I appeal to club members for specials for Birmingham show? I expect there
will be 12 classes scheduled. The shield will be up for competition, and some
more specials are needed to complete a very attractive competition for the
breed at this popular show. Mr. A.E. Gerard is down to judge. Birmingham
schedules will be going to press very shortly, so shall be glad of promises by
August 15 if possible.
I.W.E.
We hear from the Ifold Kennels that the Irish Guards have recently acquired
that fine young hound, Cruachan of Ifold, as their regimental mascot. He was
recently exhibited at the L.K.A. show at Olympia. The Irish Wolfhound
Association have also been pleased to welcome the Irish Guards as members, and
hope they will allow them a glimpse of Cruachan on the bench again in the
future. In "Whines" last week Mr. J. Nagle, of the
"Sulhamstead" prefix, was erroneously referred to as Mr. J. Nyle.
I had the very great pleasure of meeting Mrs. Benyon (actually
Beynon) (late of Wootton-under-Edge, and just back from Kenya Colony) at
the LKA show. In the course of a very delightful chat on Irish Wolfhound
matters, I learned that some of the five hounds which accompanied this lady to
England were whelped within thirty miles of the Equator, and that they stand
the climate quite well. Amongst these five are hounds of great courage, and on
more than one occasion they were the means of saving Mrs. Benyon from being
attacked by lions, for just at the critical time the hounds came to her rescue
and drove off the "kings of the forest". These hounds are now in
quarantine in the South of England, and I hope, through Mrs. Benyon's
invitation, very shortly to see them. Unfortunately, since going into
quarantine one of them has died. This was one which Mrs. Benyon took out with
her when she went to Africa. When these hounds are released and fit again, Mrs.
Benyon intends taking up the breed with her early zest, and the Irish Wolfhound
Club is to be congratulated on having so keen a fancier of this grand hound
back amongst them, whose influence will assuredly be felt when the time comes.
I.W.E.
Irish Wolfhounds had a real "field day" at Birmingham Show. Mr.
Bradbury's David went right through, and finished by winning the Bowater
National challenge bowl for best of all breeds in show; also Graham I.W.
challenge shield - a truly great achievement. I am sure all Irish Wolfhound
fanciers wish to offer heartiest congratulations to Mr. Bradbury. Another
variety win with one of same breed was the writer's Felixstowe Kilbirnie,
which, in competing in a class of 50 exhibits, won reserve, which equals 2nd,
for best novice dog or bitch, all varieties. Mrs. Benyon brought out her
wonderful Hound, Bournstream Buller, which was only nine days out of
quarantine. This fine Hound, when in his "best suit", will hold his
own with many. Another young hound who should do well in the future is Miss
Drake's Conn Crejan. This young Hound had to leave the show on the second day,
having developed pneumonia, from which I trust he is recovering. Mr. Norton, of
Streetly, brought out a sound young hound and won with him first time out. The
Type cup for dogs was won by Capt. Hudson's King Shane of Brabyns, and that for
bitches by Mr. J. Nagle's Thelma of Sulhamstead (actually Sulhamstead
Thelma). There are other cup wins and specials to record, but I cannot lay
my hand on the list in time for mail.
I.W.E.
Congratulations to Mr. J.F. Bradbury for bringing the Irish Wolfhound on top at
Birmingham Show. We believe this is the first time the breed has achieved such
honours at the National show. David was not only best dog in the show, but won
the Brewers' cup.
There was a pleasant little meeting at Pippingford Park for members of the
Irish Wolfhound Association, thanks to the hospitality of Mrs. Hayley Morris.
The meeting was an even greater success than expected, being quite an informal
affair; trailing and coursing or speed trials was the programme. Mr. T.
Hamilton Adams was the judge - and right well he did his part. In the trailing
Mrs. Massey's Maureen of Ifold and Mrs. Wade's Kathleen na Houlhan put up the
best performance and stood out far ahead of the other competing Hounds. In the
coursing or speed trials Captain Hudson's Colleen of Brabyns and Blaithnaith of
Brabyns were the two outstanding fastest hounds.
The L.K.A. show provided a very interesting collection of Irish wolfhounds.
There is a remarkable improvement in feet, legs, and hindquarters, but there
still needs attention to heads, coats, eyes, and outline. We need to keep
before us most clearly the fact that every big-boned, straight-legged,
broken-coated large dog is not a typical Irish Wolfhound, and thus, when we are
"put down" in a class, feel disappointed because a dog perhaps not
quite so good in his limbs but 100 per cent more typical, is put over us. If a
dog is not built on lines suggestive of galloping and staying, together with
strength, then we are not working in the right direction. In looking over the
hounds at the L.K.A. show, I concluded that many would have been much improved
with less soft fat and more muscle. Stripped of their superfluous fat, they
would have looked infinitely better hounds.
I.W.E.
On page 1434 of this issue will be found a special report of the Irish
Wolfhounds at the Ladies' Kennel Association's Show, together with an
interesting dissertation on the breed from the pen of that great expert, Mr. J.
Nagle. (this can be read on this page on the
Sulhamstead Kennels.)
Irish Wolfhounds are coming into their own in Variety classes; especially
during the last twelve months. Quite recently another Wolfhound won 1st Any
Variety, members' class. The name of winner I have not by me at the moment.
Also Mr. and Mrs. Nagle's Sulhamstead Telma (actually Thelma) won 2nd
Any Variety Sporting Puppy at the Leicester Royal Show. Mrs. Massey, with Wolf
of Ifold, won Any Variety Sporting at Haslemere.
At the Royal Leicester Show Wolf of I. Won his second challenge certificate and
Maureen of I. her first. A very important win at the same show was Mr. and Mrs.
Nagle's S. Thelma under the three experts - Messrs. Holland Buckley, J.J.
Holgate, and C. Houlker. Thelma won 1st in Grand Challenge Maiden.
There is not much wonder at the rapidly increasing popularity of the Irish
Wolfhound as a perfect pal and guard, added to his wonderful sporting instinct
and gameness when entered to large game.
Mr. J. Nagle writes that he has some very interesting entries for the
coursing meeting, and that several very well-known winners on the bench are to
take part. Mrs. Southey is running Crewkerne Georgie (winner bitch challenge
certificate at L.K.A.) and another. Mrs. Beynon is running three or perhaps
four. This is an interesting entry, as all her hounds have hunted big game in
Kenya, and that good sportswoman is anxious to see how her hounds perform
against the English-bred hounds. Lady Watson will probably run her hound,
Sulhamstead Pedlar (the sire of Ch. F. Kilcullen). Pedlar is now in his sixth
year, but kills hares regularly and will make some of the younger hounds
gallop. The greatest support seems to come from the fair sex, and the entries
by men are, so far, Mr. Nagle's Sulhamstead Thelma and the writer's Ch.
Felixstowe Killcao. I know that Mr. Nagle has splendid and ample accommodation
for the hounds that will take part, and that the air at Stourbridge is indeed
very bracing, so that both owners and hounds should have an enjoyable outing.
There are no fences or ditches, so that risk of injury is reduced to a minimum.
I.W.E.
A beautiful cup has been offered to the Irish Wolfhound Association for
competition at Crufts show in 1925, for the best "clear" dog or bitch
exhibited. This cup is offered by Mr. H. Morris, who is known to be a fancier
of the "clear" Irish Wolfhound, and we believe he will have a few
fine specimens ready for the show bench in the near future. As there are not
very many of this particular colour about, members are asked to hold on to any
promising "clear" youngsters they have, so as to have a good number
to compete for this handsome trophy. It was not generally known that many Irish
bardic legends describe the Wolfhound as being a white hound with black points,
so according to these the "clear" dog is getting nearer to the
original than the brindle, which is the most general colour now seen in this
breed.
A great catastrophe to the breed has occurred through the death of Pedlar of
Sulhamstead, the property of Lady Watson of Sulhamstead, Berks. This wonderful
stud force accompanied his owner one afternoon, calling at Lady Watson's
friend's, where unfortunately an inmate of the kennels was down with distemper.
In due course Pedlar developed it too, and in spite of the very best attention
by experienced canine nurses he succumbed to this awful scourge. Unfortunately,
it was not diagnosed for two or three days after he went off his feed and so it
obtained a great hold before he was properly treated. It is a very great blow
to Lady Watson, as Pedlar was her real and constant bodyguard, and was always
with his owner when possible, both at Sulhamstead, and when out visiting.
Fortunately he left behind some good stock, and although not numerous yet
sufficient to carry on his line, a line of blood invaluable to the breed. This
will be in evidence in the near future even more than the recent past. It is a
great loss to the breed that he was not "discovered" in his earlier
days, and thus had more opportunity of a more numerous family of his strain.
Many of us know what it is to lose some canine friend, and especially an Irish
Wolfhound. We tender our sincere sympathy to Lady Watson.
I.W.E.
The winners of the various specials and trophies awarded at the recent
Kennel Club show were as follows: The Irish Guards Shield was won by Patrick of
Ifold, also the Type model. The cup presented by Mr. Hamilton Adams was won by
Mrs. Montague Scott's Morna of Brabyns, also that presented by Capt. Massy. The
Stud Dog cup presented by Mrs. Hall was won by Mr. Montague Scott's Eogan, and
the Brood Bitch cup was won by Capt. Hudson's Sheilah of Ifold. The Height cup
was won by Cruachan of Ifold, the property of the Irish Guards. Mr. Scott
secured the Team cup and specials for best dog and bitch with Patrick of Ifold
and Morna of Brabyns, the latter also winning the "best movement"
special presented by Miss D. Boughton. It may be of interest to note that there
are only two adult hounds in this country bred by Capt. Hudson from Sheilah of
Ifold, and it was on the strength of these two that Sheilah won her trophy. The
judge, Mr. N.A. Loraine, has written a very interesting report on Irish
Wolfhounds in the Kennel Gazette, plainly showing that when he is in the ring
any hound not sound on all-fours is best left at home.
The hon. secretary of the Irish Wolfhound Club, Mr. John F. Baily, wishes to
state that all mails for the Rathfarnham district were held up and stolen,
including Our Dogs, by armed men, and have not been recovered, on the
morning of October 31, and correspondents who have not received replies will
much oblige by communicating with him again. He also wishes to draw attention
to a very able and interesting article dealing with the dogs peculiar to
Ireland by that eminent scientist, Dr. Scharff, B.Sc.,Ph.d., late Curator of
the Museum, Kildare Street, Dublin, which appears in the Irish
Naturalist for September. Another article of interest to admirers of the
breed appears in the November issue, "Animals and Their
Ailments" (published by Baxter, Limited).
Note: A list of the archives of the Irish Naturalist is available online. The title of the article by Dr. R.F. Scharff mentioned was "On the breeds of dogs peculiar to Ireland and their origin" and the issue vol. 33, pp 77-95, which can be seen here. Dr. Scharff also wrote a couple of articles on the wolf in Ireland.
Mrs. H. Smith of Elmham, was again successful with her useful bitch,
Colleen, at Norwich show last week, winning first under Mr. Geo. Wallwork - and
that means under one of our cutest judges, as very little escapes his eye. Mr.
Southey entered three hounds also, but eventually held Georgie back to fulfil a
coursing engagement. One Hound, a new face, in Manan of Clonard, went 2nd to
Colleen, but his big win was to come. This matured in Any Variety Sporting
Puppy, where he won 1st, beating a Fox terrier bitch which had won through her
breed classes, open bitch included. Manan undoubtedly has a very promising
future. He was bred by Rev. Hildebrand, and is by Tulhamstead Pedlar (should be
Sulhamstead Pedlar) ex Sarah. Manan is undoubtedly the best dog in that litter,
from all accounts, and if he continues in the same way should make a remarkably
good hound.
I.W.E.
Crewkerne Georgie had a real field day at Ipswich show last week. She won 1st special limit and 1st open bitches, 1st sporting variety (beating well-known winning Retrievers and Spaniels), and 1st brace (beating Golden Retrievers, Alsatians, Airedales, Scotties, and Wire Fox-terriers), under no less a judge than Mr. Chris. Houlker - a real good win for the breed and one to be proud of. Our heartiest congratulations to Mr. Southey on the win and on the condition in which Georgie was shown. Mr. H. Smith, of Elmham, was showing Colleen, a real good bitch, but on the day was shown a bit on the rough side, probably between coats, and won 2nd special limit and 2nd open bitches.
1925
I have just heard from Mr. Berry, hon. secretary of Bath show, to be held
on May 21 (entries for which close on May 6), that provision will be made for
dogs if exhibitors wish to bring them direct to Bath from Ranelagh. This is a
distinct convenience for those who are showing at Ranelagh and going on to
Bath. In addition to the Irish Wolfhound specials contained in the Bath
schedule, Mrs. I.H. Barr is offering £5 for the most typical Irish
Wolfhound of either sex, and Mr. I.W. Everett two 10s. 6d. movement specials
(see Bath official announcement in this issue). Bath is easy to reach from the
London district (just under two hours from Paddington, non-stop train), and the
Bath executive cannot be surpassed for offering all assistance possible. The
accommodation is extra good. We have ten classes, two K.C. challenge
certificates, and a judge of very long experience in the breed, and one who has
bred some of our best champions - Mr. H. Pemberton. Bring all the Hounds
possible for this specialist to pass his opinion.
The Editor has been kind enough to give me permission to use the
"Whine" column for news of interest to Irish Wolfhound breeders and
members of the Irish Wolfhound Coursing Club. The applications for nominations
for the next coursing meeting, to be held in October, will close this week, and
I hope to be able to give some surprising figures next week. The Amesbury cup,
value 25 guineas, and given by the residents of Amesbury, will be for all ages.
The Stonehenge cup, also value 25 guineas, will be confined to puppies - that
is, dogs and bitches whelped on or after January 1, 1924. In addition to these
two stakes, a plate confined to the beaten dogs in the Amesbury cup first round
will be run for, and the value of the plate is 12 guineas. A similar piece of
plate has been presented by Mrs. Southey for the Druid plate, for the puppies
beaten in the first round of the Stonehenge cup. A third plate will be given
for the dogs that were beaten in the second round of both cups, so that all
dogs have a couple of chances of securing a piece of plate. The meeting will
commence on Wednesday, October 20, and will probably last three days. Let's
hope the weather will be kinder than it was for the January meeting.
I hear that Mrs. Van der Leeuw, of Holland, has something out of the ordinary
in a young dog, Caragh Chieftain, which at 9 ½ months stands 38 in. at the
shoulder! He must surely finish nearly 40 in., and that is "some
dog". His sister, I know, stood 33 ½ in. at the same age, and I
suppose Mr. Everett will let us have a look at her during the summer shows.
They were bred by Mr. and Mrs. J.H. Bruce Lockhart, Rugby, who, up to now, have
not exhibited, but I hope will put Caragh on view at the Club show.
The Coursing Club wants a few more members to make a hundred, and I shall be
grateful to any member that will send me name and address of anyone interested
in the sporting end of the breed.
J. Nagle
May 22, 1925 - The Irish Wolfhound Club is intending to include in
its 1926 Club Year Book, which it is hoped will be published early next year, a
stud registry of all Irish Wolfhounds for the preceding year, 1925. In order to
ensure as complete a registry as possible, the hon. secretary, Mr. K.P.
Strohmeyer, asks any member to collaborate with him by filling in forms which
can be obtained upon application. This should be supported by everyone who
breeds even one litter of Irish wolfhounds. It will thus give us reliable
information as to the progress or otherwise numerically, and it will also be
most convenient to those interested in the breed for reference. This register
will be, I think, filling a great want, not only in this breed, but with all
breeds if taken up by the various specialist clubs, for I know of no such
register at present being kept.
The Kennel Club show will be held at the Alexandra Palace on September 30 and
October 1, for which entries close on September 14. A fine classification of 12
classes provides for hounds at every stage of their winning career; there is a
long list of very valuable specials. Also a "brand-new" judge, Mr.
J.F. Bradbury, who, I believe, is to adjudicate on the breed for the first
time. Let us all help the judge by making a bumper entry.
I.W.E.
Just a reminder, although perhaps not necessary, as the Home Park, Windsor,
is sufficient to draw a good entry in itself. Still another very important
attraction is a £5 cash special, kindly offered by Mrs. A.P. Strohmenger,
for the best Irish Wolfhound in the show. All I.W. exhibitors can compete.
Entries close May 25. The writer will judge.
Another very nice outing for our Hounds is Haslemere on June 17, entries for
which close May 27. The splendid grounds of Red Court, Haslemere, Surrey, is
the venue, kindly offered by Miss Thynne, who is also the hon. secretary. There
are eight classes (sexes divided), and Mr. J. Nagle is, I believe, making his
debut as judge for this breed, although he has bred and shown them for some ten
or twelve years. He is also hon. secretary of the Irish Wolfhound Coursing
Club.
The Irish Wolfhound Club is to be congratulated upon Mr. J.V. Rank having
joined its numbers. This gentleman was of very great assistance to the Great
Dane fancy in importing so many good specimens, and at a time when this fresh
good blood was very sorely needed. He is now, however, turning his attention
actively to Irish Wolfhounds. It is over two years since I had my first
conversation with Mr. Rank on Irish Wolfhounds, resulting in a start being made
on what I consider the right lines - viz., beginning with bitches, and so
gradually, by breeding them rightly mated, build up a kennel on the right
foundations. The two "corner-stones" with which this gentleman has
commenced his structure are Mrs. A.B. Wild's Gypsalia, and the writer's Clodagh
Caragh, now Clodagh of Ouborough. Gypsalia was bred by Mr. and Mrs. Wild, by
Felixstowe Tipperary ex Ch. Felixstowe Alana, and a very good bitch she is.
Clodagh came from that wonderful brood bitch, Caragh, the property of Mrs.
Lockhart, of Rugby. Clodagh stands 34 in. at shoulder, and with all her great
size she is soundness and quality personified. I sincerely hope this good
sportsman will have the luck he deserves, and certainly he has begun well by
Clodagh winning at Olympia (L.K.A.) last week right through - five 1sts, three
cups, Cruft's special, bitch challenge certificate, and the Graham Irish
Wolfhound challenge shield for best Irish Wolfhound in show, at 12 months and
10 days old.
I.W.E.
We are in receipt of a circular letter from Major C.E.W. Beddoes, intimating
that an Irish Wolfhound Annual, printed on art paper, is about to be published
on behalf of the Irish Wolfhound Club*. This, on the top of a second club for
this ancient and historical breed, portends an accelerated interest in its
further advancement and general welfare, which the breed in every way merits.
Full particulars may be had from the Major at his address of
"Fairholme", Fairwarp, Uckfield, Sussex.
American inquiries are rather numerous at the moment and several deals are in
course of completion as a result. I understand a most promising three months'
dog is being shipped very shortly by Mr. J. Nagle, of "Sulhamstead"
prefix, to a client in Michigan, and a suitable mate to follow later on. The
actual price did not transpire, but it was very close indeed to three figures,
which is quite satisfactory. His breeding is very fine, being by Ch. Courage of
Grevel ex Sulhamstead Clara.
I.W.E.
*The Annual mentioned would have been that published by the Irish Wolfhound Association, not the Irish Wolfhound Club. The IWA was the "second club" mentioned by I.W. Everett, but it was later amalgamated with the IWC and the 1925 Annual was the only one published.
It is very welcome news to learn that Croydon Canine Society is holding a
show on September 16, and is putting on classes for our breed - Novice, Limit,
Open (sexes divided), also Brace and Team. Mr. W.E. Alcock is to judge and he
should draw a good entry.
I have just received a letter from our late hon. secretary, Mr. J.L. Baily of
Rathfarnham, Co. Dublin. He tells me that the bitch, his "bodyguard and
real pal", which recently died, aged 10 years, was Garryricken. It was
given to him by Mrs. Shewell, and was bred by the late Major P.G. Shewell, who
was most successful with the Cotswold wolfhounds, and was one of that wonderful
litter by Gilert ex Lupin*, which contained five right good hounds, and if all
had been benched would certainly have made a great name for their parents.
The National Dog Show, Birmingham, will very shortly be upon us, and this
exhibition for very many years has been well supported by our breed. With the
very large strides the Irish Wolfhound is making it is to be hoped that we
shall this year easily beat all previous records. To this end we need a good
list of special prizes. Would anyone wishing to help our breed in this way
write direct to our hon. secretary, Mr. R.P. Strohmenger. Mr. N.C. Loraine has
been invited to judge, and has accepted. Thus, with a good classification, long
list of specials, and the announcement as to judge, entries should make a
record for Birmingham.
*The litter mentioned was actually by Felixstowe Gelert ex Lindley Lupin.
India is again taking two promising young Irish Wolfhounds away from us for
wolf-hunting. This time it is Nessa of Brabyns, already quite well known on the
bench, and who distinguished herself at Richmond show by winning the beautiful
cup presented by Capt. Crosseley-Meats for the best mover. With her goes her
half-sister, Becuma of Brabyns, a very fast and beautifully shaped youngster of
11 months. The Indian enthusiast knows how to pick a hound built for sport, and
"Brer Wolf" will have to hustle if he gets these two behind him.
We have recently had a visit from Mrs. Glenn-Stewart, the present owner of Ch.
Ballyshannon, who is showing her interest in home-bred hounds by becoming a
member of the Irish Wolfhound Association. She has some beautiful hounds out at
her place in the States. We believe she has visited almost every kennel in
England, searching for a stud dog unrelated to her young stock, but she failed
to find anything to suit her. Where the pedigrees suited, the dogs did not.
Is it not rather a matter of regret that the typical dark brown eye of the
Irish Wolfhound, which gives them that very attractive and dignified
expression, is almost in the minority on the show bench? Why is the light eye
not more discouraged? In some hounds it is so light as to be almost feline.
With careful mating this could surely be bred out, which would be an advantage
to the breed, as the light eye spoils so many of our present-day almost perfect
hounds.
(Capt.) T.H. Hudson
At Richmond Show the challenge cup for best movement, presented by Captain
Crossley-Meates, was won this year by Miss Southey's Margot of Clonard, the
runner-up being Captain Hudson's Maga of Brabyns. The former holder, Nessa of
Brabyns, being now in India, was unable to compete for it. The Ifold cup for
the soundest hound was won by Captain Hudson's King Shane of Brabyns, so it
still remains in the family, the former winner being Fionn-ma-Coul of Brabyns.
These cups were restricted to members of the Association. King Shane, however,
won the same distinction at Tunbridge Wells against practically the same
hounds, when the special was open to all.
Many fanciers will regret to hear that Captain Hudson has lost the mother of
this famous young hound. Sheilah of Ifold, which recently lost a leg, died last
week. She held the Brood Bitch Cup for 1924 for both Club and Association, and
had she been able to be present at Olympia this year would most probably have
won that of 1925, her progeny being there, and there being no other bitch
against her. Sheilah is a loss to the breed as a brood bitch, and a tremendous
loss to her owners as a companion. She was the mother of Morna of Brabyns,
winner of the Type Cup of this year and a challenge certificate, also the
mother of King Shane of Brabyns, the only dog hound to win distinction in the
field and in the show ring, and of Maga of Brabyns, winner of the special for
the best puppy at Ranelagh. Sheilah's stock can be distinguished anywhere by
their wonderful legs and general soundness. In five years Sheilah whelped 37
pups.
A few typographical errors crept into "Wolfhound Whines" last week.
Nena Born should have read Nessa Boru; Mr. M.F. Moore lives at Mountrath, not
Marentrath; and Mrs. Corcoran's Con (not Conn) was registered as Cormac
Borohime. (actually Boroihme).
I have received a letter from Mrs. Beynon, of Washford, Somerset, containing
very shocking news. Two of her wonderful Irish Wolfhounds, Buller and Grim,
which on more than one occasion defended her against attacks by lions in Kenya,
have been poisoned. It is not yet definitely known by whom. A reward of
£50 is offered by Mr. Beynon for information leading to the conviction of
the perpetrator of this terrible action. It is, of course, an unusually severe
blow to Mrs. Beynon, for these hounds are much more to her than just ordinary
companions, for while in Africa they accompanied their mistress wherever she
went, far or near, night or day. Fortunately a brother of Buller is left, and
with this hound Mrs. Beynon pluckily intends starting again breeding
operations, so as to continue this wonderful strain of guards and companions.
All fellow fanciers, I am sure, will join with me in offering sincerest
sympathies in this almost irreparable loss.
I.W.E.
We have to acknowledge receipt of a copy of the new illustrated annual entitled
the "Irish Wolfhound", published at 2s 6d. by Major
C.E.W. Beddoes, hon. secretary of the Irish Wolfhound Association. This
beautifully got up publication contains much useful information as to the
historic character and description of the breed, review and registrations for
1924 and 1925, together with other interesting matter. Artistically embellished
with some excellent illustrations, this work should prove a welcome addition to
the Irish Wolfhound fancier's library.
I have a very bad piece of news to hand. Mr. J.V. Rank, of South Nutfield, Surrey, writes me that Ch. Clodagh of Ouborough has recently died of septic pneumonia, and after a few days illness Gypsalia died of the same illness. What a terrible blow to a fancier to lose his first two Hounds so soon after buying them! Clodagh was by Felixstowe Kilshane ex Caragh, and bred by Mrs. Bruce Lockhart of Rugby. Right up to the last she had a most brilliant show career, for at the time of her death she was only nineteenth months old and had won for Mr. Rank some eight or nine challenge certificates, besides a host of specials, including many cups and other trophies, the chief of which was the Graham Irish Wolfhound Challenge Shield for best dog or bitch at the L.K.A. Show this year. She was a 34 in. bitch of wonderful type, quality, and substance. Gypsalia was by Felixstowe Tipperary ex Ch. Felixstowe Alana, and bred by Mrs. Wild, of Patcham, and was a very sound beautiful bitch of lovely outline. She has had an uncheckered career during Mr. Rank's ownership. Fortunately she has left a very beautiful daughter behind her. I felt that these two bitches were capable of laying a foundation on which to rear as good a kennel of Irish Wolfhounds as it is possible to own. I am, I believe, voicing the feelings of the entire Irish Wolfhound fancy in offering to Mr. Rank our sincerest sympathies in the great loss he has sustained.
I have just heard from our hon. secretary, Mr. K.P. Strohmenger, that the
L.K.A. members' show (October 21; judge, Mrs. Hudson), Metropolitan and Essex
(November 4; judge, Mr. N.A. Loraine), Birmingham (December 8 and 9; Captain
Hudson), all of which have good classification, need specials very urgently.
Will donors wishing to help forward the interests of the breed take this
opportunity of doing so by sending promises to the hon. secretary, as time is
very short in which to get them scheduled. The special attractions in the above
three shows are: At the L.K.A. Mrs. Hudson is making her debut as judge; Mr.
Loraine knows them from A to Z, and misses no points, good or bad; and Captain
Hudson, I believe, is making his "first attempt", and should
therefore be sampled by all. There are challenge certificates offered at both
the Metropolitan and Essex and Birmingham.
Mr. George Murray passed away very suddenly from heart failure, in Richmond,
Virginia, U.S.A. on April 30, having just entered his fifty-ninth year. Mr.
Murray was well known to most Irish Wolfhound breeders both in America and
England, as for five or six years he had made an extensive study of this breed.
Being of Irish and Scotch descent, as a child he had listened to his Irish
grandmother extol this noble breed. Naturally fond of dogs, when because of
failing eyesight it became necessary for him to retire from a high executive
position in the business and financial world, he turned his wonderful driving
force and enthusiasm to the history of this most romantic of all breeds. He was
without doubt the best-informed person on the ancient history of the Wolfhound
that there has ever been, unearthing much information dating far earlier than
any of the present-day history that we have. Thoroughness was a mania with him.
When he dropped a piece of work it was finished. There was no clue that was not
followed to its source, no thread that was not unravelled. Added to this
unwillingness to be satisfied with anything short of perfection was a
remarkable memory, leisure, and independent means.
Thousands of dollars were spent in having photographs made of pages of rare old
books and ancient prints. He bought many rare collections of engravings which
happened to contain a representation of the Wolfhound of Ireland. Several of
these were given to the Natural History Museum of Cleveland, Ohio. He searched
the libraries and museums of the entire world, and would go to any expense and
endless trouble to verify some little point. Much of the work was detailed to
professional searchers of records. Mr. Murray never bred a single Irish
Wolfhound, although he owned several. The last year of his life was spent for
the most part at Rosegill Plantation, the home of Mr. and Mrs. Norwood Browning
Smith. Rosegill is one of the few old colonial homes remaining in America, and
one of the oldest. It was erected in 1639 by Col. Ralph Warmeley, of Hadfield,
Derbyshire, England. Rosegill is the present home of the Cragwood Irish
Wolfhounds, the dogs having been moved there from California about two years
ago. It is a pity that Mr. Murray did not put what he had gathered into book
form, as it would be of great interest to the growing Irish Wolfhound fancy.
Many suggested that he should do this, but he always replied that he did it
simply to satisfy himself. He had very many friends among English breeders, who
will miss his delightful and refreshing letters. And thus another is lost to us
whom we can ill afford to spare.
I.W.E.
I have heard with regret that Mrs. Glenn Stewart's Ch. Ballyshannon of
American* has died quite recently. It will be remembered that she took him out
to America from the Rev. C.H. Hildebrand's kennel some four years ago, along
with Maeve of Brabyns, which two hounds are the sire and dam of Fionn-ma-Coul.
Maeve, however, is still well and flourishing, but there is no fear of this
line dying out as Fionn has sired 163 puppies in the last 2 ½ years, and
his litter sister, Maia of Brabyns, has had 27 in the same space of time. I
believe that these are the only two of Ballyshannon's puppies now left in the
country, both being owned by Captain T.H. Hudson.
*(Note: I believe this is an error, as Ch. Ballyshannon was known simply by that name and not as "of" anything)
We are pleased to acknowledge receipt of a copy of the annual report of the Irish Wolfhound Club, which makes its appearance somewhat later in the year than usual, owing, as the hon. secretary points out, to the successful amalgamation of the Irish Wolfhound Club and Irish Wolfhound Association, which necessarily caused it to be held up for a time. The production before us is got up in most excellent style, and contains a list of members, judges, and club trophies, together with the club rules, standard of points, balance-sheet, and interesting and useful articles by various well-known Irish Wolfhound stalwarts. Embellished as it is with well-executed representatives of pillars of the breed with their pedigree attached, it will prove a welcome vade mecum for all lovers of this old and historical breed. Copies of this year book can be obtained from the hon. secretary, Mr. K.P. Strohmenger, at 15 Grosvenor Gardens, London S.W.1., at the price of 5s. each, or 5s 4d. post free.
It does not appear to be generally known that an important club amalgamation in Irish Wolfhounds took place last month, and will date as from January 1, 1926. We refer to the amalgamation, after extraordinary general meetings of the two clubs - the Irish Wolfhound Club and the Irish Wolfhound Association. This happy consummation was unanimously agreed to, and the name of the amalgamated clubs will be "The Irish Wolfhound Club (established 1885 with which is amalgamated the Irish Wolfhound Association)". The subscription is one guinea per annum, and Mr. R.P. Strohmenger is the hon. secretary-treasurer. One of the first fruits of the much-to-be-applauded amalgamation should be witnessed at the great revival at the L.K.A. show, which promises to be a red letter day for the breed.
December, 1925 - Mrs. Barr, of Grevel fame, now owns Ch. Felixstowe Kilshane, whelped April, 1922. I think the fancy in general is to be congratulated on the fact that Shane is not leaving this country. Although he has never lived away from his birthplace until now, it is good news to hear he has settled down most comfortably in his new home.
April 8, 1938 - On reflecting on our breed at Manchester Ch. Show on March 23 and 24 under the then existing conditions of dog-sickness and temporary ill-health of owners, I think the entries were quite good. Southern entries could have helped even if the dogs had not been present. There were several enquiries; five sales did take place and three others will undoubtedly mature. Competition as to numbers was not good, but there some distinctly good hounds, although unfortunately, on the day some were lacking a bit in condition. The typical frames were there to build on and this is much more satisfactory than endeavouring to cover up incorrect structure with excessive fat. In the novices of both sexes there were hounds that, given time to mature, will be amongst the good ones of to-day. To mention two: Knightellingtons Murtagh in dogs and Diana of Killola in bitches. If Diana had not been temporarily handicapped by a long car journey from Caenarvon on the morning of the show, she would quite possibly have been in a very different position in the prize list. I.W.E. (I.W. Everett)
………………
The W.E.L.K.S. will hold its very well-organised show at Cheltenham on May 4. Entries close April 13. That very popular and sporting and probably one of our youngest exhibitors, Miss C. Ansell, is to make her debut as judge and I am sure all exhibitors will welcome her with as many hounds as they can muter. This young lady has bred some very good hounds and has not always had the best of luck; but I have always seen her take her ups and downs with equanimity.
An exhibitor very kindly lent me the Manchester catalogue, and I have been able to work out the specials. Miss Watson won the cup for best of breed and also for best post graduate with Hough End Kylie, a daughter of her old and late favourite Felixstowe Graine. Lady Gardner won the cup for best novice.
I was sorry to hear Mrs. Alan Stoddart had lost her nine-year-old hound, Flachna of Brabyns, known to his many friends as Wolf. It was the possession of this hound as a small puppy that started her as a Wolfhound fancier, and she subsequently bought a younger sister of this hound with which she won the Type Cup, and also from whom she bred a Type Cup winner and the coursing star, Wood Smoke. Flachna was well known in the coursing field, and did quite a lot of winning at shows in the West, both in breed and variety classes. I saw him, only a few weeks ago, jumping five-barred gates with the greatest of ease. He died quite suddenly, as I am sure his owner would wish, but she misses the old fellow very much. P.E.A.H. (Phyllis Hudson)
………………
May I be allowed to correct a somewhat misleading remark in "Wolfhound Whines" last week regarding exhibits at the recent Manchester ch. show. As I have not a catalogue of Cruft's show this year I may be in error in stating that the only exhibit at the Manchester show which also appeared at Cruft's was Mrs. Cuttle's Hawthorn Ruskey. Regarding my own hounds, both Hough End Nanook and Kylie won 1sts in their classes on their last appearance in London — the former at Cruft's Jubilee show, 1936, and the latter at the Kennel Club show the same year.
Business, unfortunately, prevents me from showing very frequently, and my hounds are seldom seen at the Southern shows. It was pleasing to note at the Manchester show that most of the exhibits were not only Northern owned but also Northern bred. There were four absentees - Mrs. Nagle's Sulhamstead Fara, Miss Ansell's Tiphane of Pentavalon, Mrs. Cuttle's Ch. Faithful Grey, and my own veteran, Hough End Bryan, the latter being temporarily lame as the result of an accident. We hope to retain the challenge certificates this year, and trust that more Northerners will be able to support the show, and that some of our Southern exhibitors who sportingly intend to send the value of their entry fees direct to the Irish Wolfhound Club to reimburse them for loss of guarantee money may be induced to further the interests of the breed and widen the area of show activities by sending their entries to the Manchester Dog Show Society next year. I. WATSON
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Updated 10/20/2008