Maurice Craig (historian) facts for kids

Maurice James Waldron Craig (born October 25, 1919 – died May 11, 2011) was an important Irish writer and expert on buildings. He wrote many books about Ireland's old buildings and worked hard to protect them. He is known as an architectural historian, which means he studied the history of buildings and how they were designed.

About Maurice Craig

Maurice Craig was born in Belfast in 1919. He grew up in a well-off family. As he got older, he developed a strong respect for Irish culture.

His Education

Maurice went to several schools. He attended Castle Park School in Dalkey, Dublin, and then Shrewsbury School in England. Later, he studied at Magdalene College in Cambridge, England.

He then came back to Ireland. A famous poet named Patrick Kavanagh encouraged him. Maurice went on to earn a special degree called a doctorate from Trinity College Dublin. For his doctorate, he studied the writings of an English poet named Walter Savage Landor.

Working to Protect Buildings

In the 1940s, Maurice Craig became very active in Dublin. He worked to protect and save old buildings. This was a very important job.

From 1952, he worked in London. He was part of a group called the Inspectorate of Ancient Monuments. This group helps look after old historical sites. In 1970, he moved back to Dublin. He joined an organization called An Taisce. This group works to protect Ireland's natural and built heritage. He became their full-time executive secretary.

His Photography

Maurice Craig loved taking pictures of buildings. He took many, many photos. In 2001, he gave his huge collection of photographs to the Irish Architectural Archive. This is a special place that keeps records of Irish buildings. Some of his photos have also been published in books.

His Family Life

Maurice Craig had two children from his first marriage. Later in his life, he was married to actress and singer Agnes Bernelle. They lived together in Sandymount, Dublin, until she passed away in 1999.