Something for everyone at Ardagh Heritage Centre
Ann Gerety Smyth discusses Ardagh's most popular spot
This closed in the late 90s. A restaurant opened in it for a couple of years but closed down.
Ann Gerety Smyth and Annette Corkery reopened the building as a Heritage and Creative Arts centre in 2011 because “it was a shame to see the building not being used”.
The Heritage Centre is used by lots of groups in the community such as the ICA, AGM groups and an AA group.
When asked about the groups in the community Ann said that the ICA is a great way for the women in the community to meet up, as most people in the community work outside the village and don’t get a chance to get together.
The Heritage Centre runs multiple events throughout the year, including the Fright Fest, the Viking event and a story telling event.
These events are really good fun and bring all the people in the community together.
From the years of running the Heritage Centre, Ann has learned how much the people in the community are willing to give to their local groups.
Ann said that nearly everyone in the community enjoys coming to at least one of the events or the craft fair that takes place every year and gives the people in the community a chance to showcase their talents in the crafts.
The Heritage Centre plays a vital role in the Ardagh community for all in the area, whether it be the women in the ICA or the teens joining in events such as Fright Fest, something for everyone takes place in the community.