Category Archives: Ireland

Bonfires and St John’s Eve

Posted on June 24, 2019 by sarthure

Yesterday, 23 June, was St John’s Eve, which was traditionally celebrated in Ireland with large bonfires across the countryside. Hence its other name, Bonfire Night. June in Ireland is the height of summer, and the long twilight would be a … Continue reading →

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We’re building a wall and adding a foundation deposit

Posted on October 14, 2018 by sarthure

So, we like gardening, although we’re often neglectful and the plants that thrive do so because they’re hardy.  This weekend’s project, in which I played a minor role, was to build a three-course curved wall around the fence that holds … Continue reading →

Posted in Excavation, Folk traditions, Foundation deposits, Ireland, Irishness, Material culture, South Australia | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on We’re building a wall and adding a foundation deposit

St Dymphna’s, Booborowie

Posted on April 10, 2018 by sarthure

At the weekend, it was my great privilege to drive to Booborowie for the decommissioning of St Dymphna’s Catholic Church. It’s not every day one gets to go to the deconsecration of a church, and in fact, this was my first. … Continue reading →

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How goes the shamrock in Ireland?

Posted on January 23, 2017 by sarthure

The shamrock. A familiar Irish symbol, featuring alongside the harp and round tower, thatched house and donkey on all sorts of material destined for the tourist market. Witness my new socks below. In primary school, we learned how St Patrick … Continue reading →

Posted in Around the world, Flora, Ireland, Material culture, Migration, Travelling | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

The view at Loughcrew

Posted on November 11, 2016 by sarthure

I went to Loughcrew a few days ago to see the passage tombs. It’s not too far from my home town of Trim. You can visit Loughcrew any time you like during daylight hours, walk around the outside of the cairns, … Continue reading →

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