The Barracks is situated near the river Boyle in the village of Cootehall. The Office Of Public Works owns the building. It has always been used as a Garda Station and as a dwelling house for the Garda and his family. Sergeant Mc Gahern and his family once occupied it. John Mc Gahern a famous author wrote a book entitled "The Barracks". This book is based on the life and times of his father Sergeant Mc Gahern and about the people of Cootehall.