Old Faithlegg Church

by | Jul 24, 2014 | Built Heritage, Waterford History

With the coming of the Normans to Ireland  a man named Aylward was granted the lands of Faithlegg in 1177 and this led to the establishment of a parish.  At the heart of this parish system was an early church close by to which was a Motte and Baily castle.  This would...

The Battle of the Boyne-Waterford harbour role

by | Jul 11, 2014 | Waterford History

As a child growing up in a small southern Irish village, I have to say the 12th July “celebrations” in the North of Ireland seemed a long way away and very confusing.  12th July marked the defeat of England’s James II by his Dutch son in law William...

The construction of the Barrow Bridge

by | Jul 4, 2014 | Built Heritage

Anyone growing up in Cheekpoint, or anyone that visits can’t but be impressed with the Barrow Railway Viaduct.  Stretching from Co Kilkenny to Co Wexford across the Rivers Barrow and Nore (which join above New Ross) it’s 2131Feet in length and up to the...

The Faithlegg Ice House

by | Jun 27, 2014 | Built Heritage

I’m not sure how many know of the Faithlegg Ice House.  Like Limekilns, the purpose of them appear to have been forgotten.  As a teen I remember walking in what we called locally the Oak Wood (although at the time all that remained were stumps...

“Taking the boat”

by | Jun 20, 2014 | Emigration, Fishing Heritage, Folklore

I’ve spoken before about my maternal grandmothers feelings about emigration which put simply was a matter of great pain and loss.  Last week got me to thinking about it more, as I met with cousin Ed and his family at a gathering in Crooke.  Ed had travelled from...