Bawnboy Heritage |
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The publication of a book confers on a person, or an organisation, a form of immortality. The written word will live on, when the author, or contributors, are long gone. The crucial thing is that the information, photographs and documents gathered and published in a book, are there for all time.
Bawnboy Heritage is only six years in existence but, in that time, they have made their mark in terms of historical research. To produce a book like A Look Back in Time: Memories from Templeport and Beyond, after such a short period, is a great achievement and a tribute to a group of people with a passion for history, heritage and culture.
The period of the plantations and the Plantation of Ulster especially, had a seismic impact on the history of our country. It would be fair to say that the shape and structure of Ireland today, was determined in the early 1600s. Oliver Brady’s treatment of the period 1600 to 1700, and its impact on the history of Templeport Parish, is a brilliantly researched piece, written in layman’s language. The history and significance of small villages like Bawnboy and Ballymagovern would not be known to many people, even in those areas themselves.
The stories gathered from some of the older residents of the area are great examples of local lore and reminiscence and the involvement of transition year students from St Mogue’s College was a great idea. They will recall, with pride, their involvement in years to come.
A number of major developments in the 19th century impacted on the history and landscape of the parish. Bawnboy Workhouse gave this small village a status and significance usually associated with a bigger town. The stories of the Technical School and Church, which outlived the original function of the building, are well documented.
The Ballinamore and Ballyconnell Canal (now the Shannon - Erne Waterway) passed through the area, as did the Cavan and Leitrim Railway, both of them leaving their mark on the district.
There are fine articles dealing with the big houses such as Owendoon House, Ballyconnell House and Bawnboy House.
The social history of the 20th century is not forgotten either. It would be true to say that when Ben Barney McGovern built the Wonderland Ballroom in Bawnboy, it was as significant a development for the area as was the coming of the canal or the railway. For about thirty years, it was a mecca for dancing patrons and put Bawnboy on the map.
This work covers a broader area than just Templeport Parish. People from Swanlinbar, Corlough, Glangevlin and other areas will find much to interest them with photographs, poems and anecdotes aplenty.
Comhghairdeas do gach duine a bhí páirteach san obair iontach seo. Molaim an leabhar seo do dhuine ar bith gur spéis leo stair an cheantair agus tá súil agam go leanfaidh Bawnboy Heritage leis an dea-obair.
Translation: Congratulations to everyone involved in this wonderful work. I recommend this book for anyone interested in the history of the area and hope that Bawnboy Heritage will continue with the good work.