KILDARE: Clongorey Evictions to feature in National Heritage Week events

Photo: Martin Connelly

A unique event is planned by Clongorey and District Community Association as part of Heritage week. Walk the Storey of Clongorey Evictions on Saturday, August 19. 

The curated historical walk will commence from Barretstown Cemetery with small groups, from 2pm at ten minute intervals making their way up the Bawn Lane, through the heart of Clongorey, into the Bog onto The Community Centre. 

The families of 1880’s Clongorey, Barrettstown, Tankardsgarden and Blacktrench were ‘tenants at will’ living a precarious existence. The land they lived on, was owned by The Penthony O'Kelly Family Trust . Weather events in 1886-87 created unprecedented hardship for the tenant families, at a time when the Landlord family were also under pressure living beyond their means. 

Tension and agitation came to a head between 1888 - 1892 with what became known as ‘The Clongorey Evictions.’ These were at the epi-centre of the land war of the era, the result of which was a pivotal change in the way people owned land in Ireland. 

The story has been meticulously researched by local historian Mary Ryan whose published work is the source of the story which will be presented by a local group of volunteers.

[Also the Committee wish to acknowledge original research by Paul Cooke and Karen Heavey.] Entertainment, Hospitality and mini bus back to Car Park will be provided. Tickets and booking times available on www.eventbrite.ie (search for Clongorey).

Please note any and all profits from this event will be passed to The Dining Room our Charity of Choice.