The museum provides the background to an event that not only shaped the country we have today, but also is why the Irish became such an important ethnic, political and business part of other countries.
But there's a lot more to see there too, and Strokestown is playing host to a number of features for the National Heritage Week that begins this coming weekend.
For those interested in photography why not take part in the ‘Early Photography at Strokestown Park House’ workshop which will run Saturday, 18th August and Thursday, 23rd August at 11am. This event will give photographic enthusiasts the opportunity to view the new glass plate’s exhibition as well as the opportunity to visit the recently restored 1890-era dark home with conservationist Katriona Byrne.
Sciences lovers will enjoy the 1930s Science Lab workshop which will take place on Monday, 20th August at 11am. Here attendees will have the chance to enter the recently renovated rooms with Professor James Hoban who will explain the laboratory and experiments done in the 1930’s where they attempted to find mineral wealth on the land in Strokestown Park.
Or take a 500m walk from the Sun to Neptune at the ‘Walk through the Solar System’ workshop on Saturday, 25th August at 11am. You will be amazed to discover interesting facts about thousands of newly discovered planets from a real astronomer!
Learn more about Irish history at the ‘Happy as a prince out here’ talk taking place on Thursday, 23rd August at 7.30pm. Visitors will hear a number of fascinating personal stories of emigration from Ciaran Reilly from NUI Maynooth who is examining the archives of historic Strokestown House.
Or why not join in the walk to a ring fort and 13th Century Church on Tuesday, 21st August at 11am – visit two fine examples of former life in Ireland at Urney Church and a superb ring fort. Local archaeologist Mike Croghan will introduce the sites in a special way bringing them to life for all in attendance.
Gardening fans will enjoy the guided tour of the Garden Allotments with Curator John O’Driscoll. Visitors will learn all about the history of Irish allotments and children will even get to harvest a few vegetables (weather permitting) and of course try a few veggie treats!
Certain events have maximum attendance limits so early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. For more information on Strokestown Park and the great range of activities for National Heritage Week log onto www.strokestownpark.ie, call 071 963 3013 or email heritageweekstrokestown@gmail.com.
