Glendowen Heritage is proud to announce a captivating event that will celebrate Inishowen’s rich cultural legacy, serving as one of the highlights of this year’s Heritage Week celebrations.
Titled ‘From Field to Finished Article – The Story of Inishowen Crafts and Home Industries’, this extraordinary occasion promises to commemorate and share the cherished traditions of Inishowen’s past in an immersive and engaging manner.
Clonmany will be transformed into a vibrant hub of activity on Saturday from 11:30am. The event will commence with a showcase of traditional crafting practices, offering attendees the unique opportunity to witness skilled artisans in action and to take part.
The craftspeople, carrying the torch of age-old techniques passed down through generations, will demonstrate the intricate skills that have defined Inishowen’s cultural heritage. Master Weaver, John Henna (main pic), will be in attendance to showcase the original old loom in the Weaver’s Shed.
Local musicians, deeply rooted in the region’s musical heritage, will grace the event with soul-stirring tunes played on traditional instruments. The audience will be encouraged to tap their feet, clap their hands, and engage themselves in the lively and energetic atmosphere. Special guests, Joe and Mary McGuigan will be there to demonstrate local traditional step dancing.
Glendowen Heritage will curate interactive workshops and insightful discussions, providing participants with a unique opportunity to delve into their own ancestry, explore the historical significance of Inishowen, and share their cherished family stories.
In a space of connection, learning, and community building, attendees will come together to celebrate their shared heritage. With topics such as the building of the local thatched cottage and how to trace your ancestors’ home or farm from the late 1700s right up to the present day, it promises to be a memorable experience.
Jennifer McLaughlin-Doherty and Ann McGonigle, the driving forces behind Glendowen Heritage, said: “Our aim is to foster a sense of pride and appreciation for our local heritage, and to provide a platform for our community to come together and celebrate the richness of Inishowen’s cultural legacy.
“It is especially exciting to be part of such a growing network of heritage groups in Inishowen and we encourage people to visit as many of these groups’ events during Heritage Week as possible.”
Jennifer McLaughlin-Doherty, a distinguished professional genealogist, historian, author, and founder member of Clonmany Genealogy, has been a driving force behind various Heritage Week events for over fifteen years.
Jennifer recently welcomed two hundred attendees to the O’Dochartaigh Clann Reunion from all corners of the world as the new Clann Events co-ordinator. She also ran a tour in conjunction with the Reunion, with her guests spending eight nights in Inishowen and then travelling down the Wild Atlantic Way with the final two nights in Dublin.
This Heritage Week event is not to be missed and promises to be a memorable experience for all.
Join Glendowen Heritage in honouring the richness and diversity of Inishowen’s heritage during this special Heritage Week event. For more information and event details, please visit: https://www.heritageweek.ie/event-listings/glendowen-heritage-day
