Celebrating
Inishowen’s Natural Heritage
11.08.25
CLONMANY Genealogy &
Heritage Group are hosting a two-day event in the Market
House, Clonmany on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th August
2025. The event, part of Heritage Week 2025, celebrates
the Natural Heritage of Inishowen.
‘Celebrating Inishowen’s Natural Heritage’ will be a
unique and engaging event that shines a light on the
deep-rooted connection between the people of Inishowen
and the natural world around them.
The event features a fascinating exhibition of local
photographs, historical artefacts and natural items.
This special occasion tells the story of how local
communities have always depended on the rich flora and
fauna of the peninsula for survival, pleasure and peace
of mind. It will run from 12 noon to 4pm on Saturday
23rd August and from 1pm to 4:30pm on Sunday 24th
August. |
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Turf cutting near Clonmany |
The exhibition explores
traditional practices such as farming, fishing, turf
cutting, thatching, and the gathering of medicinal
plants. Visitors will learn how local people used the
land and sea not just for food and shelter, but also for
trade, warmth, and healing.
The event also highlights the important role of animals
and plants in Inishowen folklore, which helped shape our
cultural identity. For example, many people believed the
appearance of a robin soon after a bereavement was a
sign that the departed person had come to give
reassurance that he or she was at peace and happy. The
appearance of another animal, however, was taken as a
warning sign. Many fishermen would not go to sea if they
encountered a fox on the road to the pier.
Interestingly, the fishermen were equally worried if
they met a red-haired woman on the road! |
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Heron at Inch Wildfowl
Reserve |
A Walk & Talk in Straid
will include a visit to the Old Church. Topics for the
talk will include the history of Straid and the Old
Church, local ‘Big Houses’, Glenfield Army Camp, the
nearby Souterrain, Straid’s connections to the British
Royal Family, local wildlife folklore and much more.
An added attraction will be another Walk and Talk in
Clonmany Village, provided by Clonmany Walking Tours.
Please contact 083 3875724 for further details.
Clonmany Genealogy & Heritage Group PRO, Hugh Farren, is
encouraging people to come along to the Market House and
enjoy the event. He said, “The exhibition will include
scenic and wildlife photographs of the local area and
from across Inishowen. Visitors will also see a
collection of old objects and tools and learn about how
they were used in everyday life. This is an opportunity
to be reminded how important nature and natural
resources were in the past, and how vital it is to
protect them for future generations”.
He went on to remind us that few things are more
conducive to good mental health and physical well being
than simply taking a walk in the local beautiful
countryside, looking at the breathtaking scenery and
taking in the clean air. |
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Hunting for lunch in a
local river |
‘Celebrating Inishowen’s
Natural Heritage’ will raise awareness of the importance
of protecting and sustaining our beautiful local
environment into the future and will deepen your
appreciation of the natural treasures that continue to
sustain the area today.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or
simply curious about local traditions, the event
promises to be an inspiring and educational experience
for all ages, and an opportunity to sample the
breathtaking and therapeutic scenery and wildlife of
Inishowen.
Entry is free. For further information please email
clonmanygenealogygroup@gmail.com or call 087
0000938. |
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