Heritage seminar to shine a spotlight on Westmeath’s past

Westmeath’s rich and varied heritage will take centre stage in Mullingar on Saturday 29 November, when the Annebrook Hotel hosts a full-day seminar celebrating local history, conservation, and community-led heritage work.

“This seminar is a chance for anyone with an interest in heritage to discover the fascinating projects happening across the county,” says Heritage Officer Melanie McQuade, “We’re excited to showcase the dedication and expertise of so many individuals and groups.”

The morning programme features an engaging line-up of expert talks. Conservation specialists will present updates on restoration works at the medieval churches of Templecross in Tristernagh and Castlelost near Rochfortbridge.

Áine Doyle and Deirdre McDermott will share insights from their recent survey of traditional farm buildings throughout Westmeath.

Oral Historian Adrian Roche will delve into ‘The Voices of Resettlement’, capturing stories from families who moved from Mayo to Westmeath through the 1950s land commission resettlements, as well as his research on the Argentine Emigration Oral History Project. Former Strokestown House archivist Martin Fagan will guide attendees through the newly digitised late 18th and early 19th century estate maps of Thomas Nugent of Donore.

The afternoon session shifts the spotlight to community groups, with short talks showcasing local heritage initiatives. Eugene Dunbar of ETHOS (Everything Tyrrellspass Has On Show) will discuss the creation of the Tyrrellspass Heritage Trail, while Mary Fallon of the Rahinane Trail Blazers will present on this year’s Mary Molesworth Festival in Rochfortbridge.

Carmel Lynam of the Castletown Geoghegan Development Association will outline their exploration of the Warrior’s Grave.

Runners-up in this year’s National Heritage Week Awards—Connaught Street Traders and Environs, and the Tubberclaire Local Action Group—will also share how they delivered their successful Heritage Week programmes, including commemorations of the 200th anniversary of the Low Road in Glasson.

“We have a fantastic line-up of speakers from across the county,” Melanie adds. “With time set aside for questions, discussion, and networking, we hope this becomes an annual event that rotates to different venues and grows year by year.”

The seminar runs from 10am to 3pm. Tea, coffee, and lunch are included. Admission is free, but places are limited and must be booked in advance.

The full programme is available on Eventbrite or by contacting the Westmeath Heritage Office.

The Westmeath Heritage Seminar is an action of the Westmeath Heritage Plan and is supported by The Heritage Council and Westmeath County Council on Saturday, November 29 at the Annebrook Hotel.