On Friday, August 23rd, the Galway Civic Trust / Dúchas na Gaillimhe celebrated its 30th anniversary with a day filled with engaging talks, captivating performances, and cultural showcases at the Mick Lally Theatre and the Hall of the Red Earl. The event was a true reflection of Galway’s rich heritage and the Civic Trust’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote this cultural wealth.
A Day of Insight and Exploration
The day began with Ian Brophy’s fascinating presentation on Lough Corrib and Its Environs, providing a deep dive into the geographical and historical significance of this iconic Irish lake. His talk, which spanned from the lake’s formation 14,000 years ago to its modern-day importance, set a reflective and informative tone for the day, reminding attendees of the deep-rooted connections between Galway’s natural environment and its cultural heritage.
Following this, Declan O’Shea’s presentation, Revitalizing Ireland’s Heritage, made a powerful case for the preservation of traditional Irish buildings, highlighting their untapped potential for community well-being and tourism. Declan’s insights, backed by his expertise in archaeology, underscored the importance of maintaining these historical structures for future generations.
The afternoon presentations were equally enriching, with Séagh Mac Siúrdáin offering a compelling Social History of the Seaweed Industry in the West of Ireland. This session not only shed light on a lesser-known aspect of Irish history but also emphasized the importance of sustainable practices in preserving Ireland’s natural resources.
Dominic Delaney’s talk on the Excavation of the Hall of the Red Earl was a major highlight, revealing the medieval past of Galway through the discoveries unearthed at the Hall of the Red Earl site. Attendees were transported back in time as Dominic detailed the hall’s significance as a tax office and courthouse during the 13th century.
Dave Swift’s Medieval Demonstrations: A Journey Through Time
One of the most memorable parts of the celebration was Dave Swift’s interpretive demonstrations in full medieval costume, hosted in the foyer of Galway Civic Trust. With an array of high-quality replica weapons, armour, and artefacts, Dave offered a visually striking and informative exploration of the material culture of Late Medieval Ireland. His three 30-minute talks, accompanied by tangible, lifelike reproductions, breathed life into Ireland’s medieval past, making history accessible and engaging for attendees of all ages.
Swift’s passion for Irish military history, paired with the authenticity of the artefacts on display, provided an immersive experience. His presentation allowed visitors to connect with history not just through storytelling but through tangible interaction with historical objects, adding an interactive and educational dimension to the event.
Cultural Performances: Music and Poetry That Touched the Soul
The evening was a celebration of Galway’s vibrant cultural scene, starting with Gerry Hanberry’s talk, On Raglan Road – Great Irish Love Songs and the Women Who Inspired Them. Hanberry’s deep knowledge and love for Irish music history brought to life the stories behind some of the most iconic Irish love songs, leaving the audience with a newfound appreciation for these timeless pieces.
The poetry recital by Skylight 47 followed, providing a serene and contemplative interlude. The poets, celebrating the natural beauty and mythology of the West of Ireland, captivated listeners with their evocative language and deep connection to place and tradition.
A Musical Finale to Remember
As the day transitioned into evening, the festivities culminated in a spectacular musical finale, with performances by Cór na dTreabh (Choir of the Tribes), Dúo Galeón, and Bernard Naughton. Video clips captured the atmosphere as Cór na dTreabh’s harmonies filled the theatre, delivering a stunning rendition of the newly composed Galway Shawl adaptation.
Dúo Galeón’s performance bridged the musical heritage of Galway and Galicia, transporting the audience through the troubadour traditions of Europe, while Bernard Naughton’s soulful melodies brought the evening to an emotionally resonant close.
Capturing the Moments
Throughout the event, the vibrant atmosphere was captured in photos and video clips, including musical highlights from Gerry Hanberry, the Choir of the Tribes, and Bernard Naughton. These visuals serve as lasting memories of a day filled with celebration, reflection, and cultural exchange.
Looking Ahead: Celebrating 30 Years of Heritage and Community
The 30th anniversary of the Galway Civic Trust / Dúchas na Gaillimhe was not only a celebration of past accomplishments but also a reminder of the vital role the organization plays in preserving Galway’s rich cultural and historical legacy. As we look forward to the next 30 years, this milestone event stands as a testament to the power of community, heritage, and shared history.
Thank you to all who joined us for this memorable celebration! We look forward to continuing our journey together in preserving and promoting Galway’s unique heritage.
To relive some of the special moments from the day, stay tuned for more photos and video highlights.
Supported by Galway City Council: Local Community Festival Grant 2024.
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