Naming the harbour

Waterford harbour, hasn’t always be known as such. Historically there have been several names, some of them very colourful and descriptive. Of course many others must be lost to us in the pre-history of the nation. Patrick Power in his History of Waterford, City...

Echoes of medieval fishing in Waterford harbour

As a child growing up in Cheekpoint, there were a number of curious features off the main quay known as Eel boxes.  The Eels which were fished from the village were placed into the boxes to be kept alive, and when the buyers came the eels were removed, weighed...
The Woodstown “Scotch” fishing weir

The Woodstown “Scotch” fishing weir

In the early decades of the 19th century, traditional fishing methods were turned on its head with the introduction of the Scotch Weir to Ireland.  The origins are confirmed by the name, and the method of fishing is typified by what remains of the Woodstown weir near...

Imagine arts festival walk 2016 – A big River

As part of this years Imagine Arts Festival, Deena and I were asked to lead a walk in our local community on a theme reflecting our heritage and arts.  To do this we thought about the many songs, stories, poetry and prose that surround our area and reflect our rich...