Launch of 'Carlow Folk Tales’

Launch of 'Carlow Folk Tales

Carlow County Library

25th April 2014

Collection of unique traditional tales from across County Carlow

County Carlow Library Service is delighted to host the launch of a new and exciting publication 'Carlow Folk Tales' in Shaw Room of Carlow County Library on Friday, 25th April at 3pm. This unique selection of traditional tales from across the county, collected and retold by local storytellers, father and daughter team, Jack Sheehan and Aideen McBride of Bagenalstown, celebrates County Carlow, home of Dinn Righ, the seat of the ancient kings of Leinster, is steeped in history, myth and legend.

Jack Sheehan and Aideen McBride, authors of 'Carlow Folk Tales'

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Their latest work, 'Carlow Folk Tales’ takes you on a tour across the county and introduces you to such memorable and historic Carlow characters such as Peter Nail, the ‘Weight Thrower from Ratheaden’; Beauchamp Bagenal, the ‘handsomest man in Ireland’; and St Finnian, the ‘Teacher of the Saints’. You will discover how Barrow River got its name, who threw the standing stone of Gallan, the dangers of digging for gold in the ‘raths’ and how Teresa Malone became the Heroine of Kilcumney in one of the last battles of the 1798 Rebellion. And on the way you will encounter fairies, witches and giants – as well as bouncing puddings and giant potatoes.

Jack and Aideen will be hosting a FREE storytelling session for families in Carlow Library at 2pm on April 25^th, where everyone is invited to come in and hear the some of the wonderful tales and legends from their book. “We are so excited to come and share our collection with the families of Carlow", said Aideen. “We guarantee something for all ages" she adds, “and are looking forward to hearing some new tales on the day”.

Following the storytelling, the official launch will be performed by Mr. Pat O Neill, President of Carlow Historical and Archaeological Society at 3pm.

Josephine Coyne, County Librarian adds “Carlow Library Service are delighted to be involved in the launch of such a unique and local collection. The event, which is part of the Carlow Féile na Casca programme, celebrates not only local talent but also the rich and varied heritage of storytelling that exists in Carlow Town and County.”