When Frances Anne Arnold died in India in March 1858, the children were sent back to England in January 1859 by ship by their father.
During the two years of his service in this position, O'Brien spent most of her time in Dublin, whilst there she became part of numerous political and social circles.
[1] The journal covers all elements of her interests including the politics, family life, and society of Victorian Britain and Ireland.
[6][7] She moved to Ireland permanently after her marriage to Robert (Robin) Vere O'Brien on 10 July 1883 and lived at Newhall House and Estate.
Her husband, who was from Oldchurch, County Limerick, served as a clerk of the peace at Ennis Courthouse, and as an agent to the Inchiquin and de Vere estates.
[1] The couple had two daughters, Jane Elinor and Florence Margaret, and two sons, Aubrey William and Hugh Murrough.
O'Brien was a central figure in the foundation of the Private Committee for Promoting Irish Lace, with the support of Alan Cole of the Department of Science and Art, South Kensington and James Brenan RHA.
She was assisted in this endeavour by the O'Briens' children's nurse, a Scotswoman named Mina Keppie, which had the capacity to train up to 15 girls at a time.