The brand continues to combine a passion for Donegal with innovative Irish design. From its beginnings in Donegal tweed and tailoring Magee 1866 has evolved into an Irish lifestyle brand that honours its heritage yet offers something timeless and modern for the next generation.
Inspired by the landscapes and culture of weaving in Donegal, Magee 1866 has been integral to the story of Donegal tweed for over a century
How it all began
A MARKET FOR TWEED
1860s - 1900s
John Magee started his business by buying and selling hand-woven Donegal tweed, he travelled to markets around Donegal to buy and sell fabric from the weavers who worked seasonally on the sea, land and loom.
He established Magee of Donegal in 1881 in Donegal town. Later, his cousin Robert Temple took over the business in 1900 and in true entrepreneurial spirit enlisted weavers to weave solely for him and to work on his designs.
TIME FOR TAILORING
1930s - 1940s
In the 1930s Robert’s son Howard Temple joined the business and by the 1940s the Magee tweed business expanded to garment manufacturing and became known for creating classic and colourful menswear which stood out in this period of austerity. The Magee “Thornproof suit” for men became a popular piece in men’s wardrobes in the UK and Ireland and was widely known for its durability and quality.
A FASHION FOR FABRICS
1950 - 1960s
Ireland’s most celebrated fashion designers of the 20th century Irene Gilbert and Sybil Connolly put Donegal and Magee tweed on the map for the first time by including it in their collections - showcasing the colour and beauty of the fabric for a discerning customer.
FROM HAND-WEAVING TO POWER LOOMS
1970s - 2020s
In 1974 Howard’s son Lynn Temple joined the business and expanded into manufacturing both menswear tailoring and the production of quality Donegal tweed. In the 1990s womenswear was introduced by his daughter Charlotte Temple who joined in 2008.
Five Generations
Today, the Temple family continues to lead the business with Chairman Lynn Temple, his daughters CEO Rosy Temple, Creative Director, Charlotte Temple of Magee 1866 and Patrick Temple CEO of the Magee Weaving mill; all continue to foster a strong sense of community, driving excellence in design with a passion for Donegal tweeds designed and woven in County Donegal, Ireland.
A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
At Magee 1866 and Magee Weaving we are committed not only to developing timeless fabrics but to do so in the most sustainable and environmentally friendly way possible; focusing on our core values which have been part of the brand’s DNA since the very beginning; natural fibres, renewable resources and the people and community of Donegal.
