The story of the North National School begins with the 3rd Viscount and his marriage to Lady Emma Herbert, daughter o f the Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery. The de Vesci's were intent on the development of the new town of Abbeyleix, to the extent that the terms of marriage of the 3rd Viscount to Lady Emma included an agreement from her father to build a terrace of houses in the new town. Today, Pembroke Terrace remains one of the most striking pieces of architecture and represents a significant piece of the built heritage of Co.Laois