New Abbey talk for Heritage Week 2011
Heritage Week starts Saturday 20 August and runs through until Sunday 28 August.
There are many events taking place in the area celebrating Kildare's rich and varied heritage—the week is part of a Europe wide initiative aimed at fostering awareness of built, natural and cultural heritage, thereby encouraging conservation and preservation.
The Kilcullen contribution is a talk on 'New Abbey & its Ever Changing History' on Wednesday 24 August at 8pm in The Heritage Centre. History researcher Colette Jordan will give a presentation on the history of New Abbey House which dates back to the early 1500s, which will include some interesting newly discovered letters which throw some light on life in Kilcullen during the 1960s.
Bridget Loughlin, County Kildare Heritage Officer, points to events such as An Archaeology Tour of the Little Curragh, Family Fun Day at Maynooth Castle, Guided Tour of Kildrought House, The Church of the Oak Slideshow of photographs of Kildare Town, Bog of Allen Nature Centre Open Day and Straffan Butterfly Farm as just a taste of what's on offer.
A number of child friendly events are being held throughout the county including Children’s Art Workshops in Castletown House, Traditional Tales, Children’s Heritage Hunt, Sow and Grow.
Many local libraries will be hosting events such as Naas (Exhibition: Who do you think you are?) and Kildare (Shackleton Lecture).
Heritage sites within the county, such as the Athy and Kildare Heritage Centre, The National Stud and Maynooth Castle have free admission or special concessions during the week.
The Heritage Council is inviting participants to take place in two national events, National Heritage Week Photography Competition and National ‘Tell Tale’ storytelling Competition. Details of how to enter both competitions can be obtained from the Heritage Week website details below.
A listing of events happening around the County is on www.kildare.ie and in all local libraries.
