Large crowds gathered in the beautiful gardens of Derryglad last week for a special heritage day.
There was some lovely outside lots on display, including vintage model maker Tommie Canny from Athlone, grinding of corn with quern stones by Peter Doyle from Clonard, vintage shepherds staff maker Dan Moran, and a display of very rare carpenter tools by Benny Cusack.
Added to this were the more than 6,000 items on history, heritage, and folk culture on display in the museum. Councillor Paddy Kilduff of Roscommon was on hand to get things off to an early start and to unveil the newest item on display, an 1875 boneshaker bicycle complete with wooden wheels. Kevin Cunniffe was on site providing music, song, dance, and storytelling.
There was also a display of Ford vintage cars by Councillor Tony Ward, Mark Ward, and Dermot Kelly. Also in attendance was Roscommon heritage officer Nollaig McKeown Feeney. There was great interest in a display of hay rope making by Thomas Cunningham from Mountbellew who passed on the skill to the young children who were there.
The day ended with a presentation of more than €600 to Pat Daly, chairman of Kiltoom-Cam social need group. A great day was had by all who attended.
