The Clonmany Geneaology and Heritage Group is to hold a special event later this month celebrating the connection between the people of Inishowen (Ireland) and the natural world around them.
Celebrating Inishowen’s Natual Heritage will feature a fascinating exhibition of local photographs, historical artefacts and natural items that will tell the story of how local communities in the area have always depended on the rich flora and fauna of the region for survival, pleasure and peace of mind.
The exhibition will be held from midday until 4pm on Saturday the 23rd of August, and from 1pm to 4:30pm on Sunday the 24th of August – and entry is free.
It will also explore traditional practices such as farming, fishing, turf cutting, thatching, and the gathering of medicinal plants. Visitors will also learn how local people used the land and sea not just for food and shelter, but also for trade, warmth, and healing.
One of the most crucial parts of folklore in Inishowen that will be explored is the role of animals and plants.
According to the Clonmany Geneaology and Heritage Group, one such important story is the role of the robin.
“Many people believed the appearance of a robin soon after a bereavement was a sign that the departed person had come to give reassurance that he or she was at peace and happy. The appearance of another animal, however, was taken as a warning sign. Many fishermen would not go to sea if they encountered a fox on the road to the pier. Interestingly, the fishermen were equally worried if they met a red-haired woman on the road!”
The event includes a Walk & Talk in Straid at 12.00 noon, meeting at the Urris GAA car park at 11.45 am, and will include a visit to the Old Church. Topics for the talk will include the history of Straid and the Old Church, local ‘Big Houses’, Glenfield Army Camp, the nearby Souterrain, Straid’s connections to the British Royal Family, local wildlife folklore, and much more.
An added attraction will be another Walk and Talk in Clonmany Village, taking place immediately afterwards, provided by Clonmany Walking Tours (€7).
Anyone interested in that walk and talk can contact (083) 3875724 for further details.
Clonmany Genealogy & Heritage Group PRO, Hugh Farren, is encouraging people to come along to the Market House and enjoy the event.
“The exhibition will include scenic and wildlife photographs of the local area and from across Inishowen,” he said.
“Visitors will also see a collection of old objects and tools and learn about how they were used in everyday life. This is an opportunity to be reminded how important nature and natural resources were in the past, and how vital it is to protect them for future generations.”
For further information please contact:
Email: clonmanygenealogygroup@gmail.com.
Phone: (087) 0000938