The Clonmany Genealogy & Heritage Group is holding a special event exploring medicinal traditions and “old wives’ tales” next week.
The event, titled “Cures, Remedies and Old Wives Tales” takes place next Saturday and Sunday, the 24th and 25th of August at the Market House, Clonmany.
It’s a part of National Heritage Week 2024, and the group say the event will be “a celebration of the belief in the healing power of plants, and other ‘cures’, as well as shining a light on the important medical roles played by women in Irish rural society before access to modern medical practices became available.”
The project also looks at traditional cures mentioned in Irish folklore and in local legends, and examines why some individuals were believed to hold almost magical curative powers. Sometimes it is believed cures can be achieved by prayer, by undergoing a pilgrimage or by visiting a sacred place, such as a Holy Well.
The event will feature an exhibition displaying some of the plants and materials used to treat illness and other conditions in the past and local historian and folklorist, Dessie McCallion, will conduct a talk on the subject in the Market House at 4pm on Saturday 24th August, when local people will be invited to add their own knowledge of this fascinating subject. The exhibition will feature many photos, stories and posters relating to this hugely interesting subject.
A number of additional events are being planned for what should be a wonderful weekend.
Well known genealogist and family tree expert, Eva Doherty Gremmert, will deliver a talk on both days of the event also. The talks will take place on Saturday 24th August at 2:30pm and on Sunday 25th August, also at 2:30pm. Eva, who is a published author and noted public speaker, divides her time between her home in the US and Inishowen.
Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy another fabulous weekend of heritage, folklore and fun in the beautiful Clonmany scenery.
For further information please contact clonmanygenealogygroup@gmail.com.