Stepping back in time for National Heritage Week

To coincide with National Heritage Week, the society put together a range of events to showcase the wonderful heritage right on our doorstep. On Saturday, August 15, the Black Mills Session commenced the programme of events with a tribute evening dedicated to the late, great Anthony Bourke. A conversation with Anthony during National Heritage Week in 2022 was instrumental in inspiring what has since evolved into the fourth annual series of the Black Mills Sessions. It was therefore both fitting and deeply meaningful that his memory was honoured at the very place where it all began.

Caoimhe Flannery (MC) was delighted to welcome Valerie and Erin Bourke, along with friends and supporters, to join father and son Dinny and David Quirke for a very special evening combining music, friendship and remembrance. David treated the audience to a selection of his own songs and joined Dinny for a number of lively and poignant performances, creating a wonderful evening filled with music and memories. In keeping with Anthony’s generous spirit, all proceeds from the evening were donated to Roscrea hospice. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the event and helped make it such a lovely evening.

Stapleton’s Bakery

Monday, August 17, brought us to Stapleton’s Bakery, where members of the public were warmly welcomed by Joe Stapleton, a fourth-generation baker, for a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour of this much-loved family business. The visit began at the site of the original bakery on Limerick Street, where Joe shared the story of the bakery’s beginnings in Roscrea in the 1970s, and its origins in Borrisoleigh in 1920. Founded by Joe and Mary Stapleton, the bakery has remained committed to quality-first baking, using the finest ingredients and traditional methods to produce its much-loved range of breads and baked goods.

Participants then took a short stroll to the current premises in Parkmore, where, once suited and booted, they were welcomed by Marta, the bakery’s General Manager. Marta gave an engaging tour of the production process, offering a fascinating insight into the work behind the scenes and the high standards that have been maintained by the Stapleton family for over a century. It was a thoroughly enjoyable and informative day, celebrating both a thriving local business and the enduring heritage of one of Roscrea’s treasured family enterprises.

Rambling House

Tuesday, August 18, brought us to the Courthouse for our annual Rambling House. The night was filled with laughter, stories, songs and rhymes, bringing together young and old from near and far. Since the Society’s inaugural Rambling House during National Heritage Week in 2016, the event has gone from strength to strength, celebrating the very best of Irish cultural heritage. Long before radios or televisions, people gathered in homes to share news, reminisce, sing songs and tell stories, no literacy required, just a good ear and a love of tradition. There was no invitation needed and no one was turned away; simply a warm and welcoming space where everyone could come together and enjoy a magical night of Ireland’s living heritage. The Society would like to extend a huge thank you to Michael McEvoy and Pascal Ryan for stepping into the role of Fear an Tí on the night, and to everyone who came along to play music, share stories, sing songs and help make the evening such a success. Finally, a special thank you to Anne, Mary and Margo for the use of the venue and for all their help throughout the evening.

Dancing at the Crossroads

On Sunday, August 23, Knock village was buzzing with activity for the annual Dancing at the Crossroads, a fantastic day of music, dancing, craic and community spirit. The society has proudly sponsored this event since its inaugural year in 2019, and it continues to be a brilliant way to bring Heritage Week to a close. What a day it was! The crowds were phenomenal, the craic was savage, the atmosphere was electric, and with 10 hours of music, the crossroads were packed and the dance floor was full from start to finish. It was some spectacle and a testament to the incredible community spirit in Knock. Everyone played their part in making a great event even better.

Sheaf throwing

The annual John Russell Sheaf Throwing Competition brought great excitement again this year, attracting competitors from near and far all hoping to claim the coveted John Russell Perpetual Cup. The winners were as follows: Under 14 – first place: Amy Colclough (25 feet); second: Cormac Carey; third: Jack Delaney.

Ladies – first place: Rebecca Casey (26 feet); second: Caitlin Russell; third place: Amy Colclough.

Men’s Novice – first place: Declan Behan (38 feet); second: Pat Hennessey; third: Adrian Delaney.

Men’s Senior – first place: Michael O’Brien (48 feet); second: Sean Casey; third: Diarmuid Casey.