​Huge List of Events For Heritage Week in Ballinasloe - 12th to 20th August 2023

By Colm Croffy

Ballinasloe Canal Bridge

There is a huge upsurge of history and heritage locally and a variety of local groups have taken up the challenge to programme some activity for this year Heritage Council Heritage Week.
 
Beginning August 12th and concluding on the 20th – there are many events to chose from the town centre as far as Athleague if you have an interest in the Ui Maine Kelly – Kingdom of Lore.   Take a look at the calendar below!

The week’s activities concludes with a guided walk around the town,  taking in key water related landmarks in the area – in keeping with the National theme by the locality’s newest District Heritage Society.

Starting at the Suck on River Street, moving along to the Elizabethan Bridge, through the town and around by the old Canal Basin before finishing at the Marina, this guided tour will encompass all the key historical places and roles these landmarks played, and continue to play, in the story of Ballinasloe.

From the very forming of the settlement, through the medieval period and industry of the 18th and 19th centuries, water has played a central role in the development of the Ballinasloe.

This walking tour will visit these sites, as well as give context on their historical importance to the area and how they effected the lives of the townspeople who lived through these periods. The walk with input from local historians and archaeologists is a continuation of the new group’s work this year in renewing and expanding on the knowledge of the rich history and heritage. The Tour Route is just over 2KM in length No charge and all are welcome.
 
The monthly public meetings are proving to be very popular in providing a forum for local individuals and groups to give input on how the society can expand its work and commitment in this regard. The next meeting is on September 6th from 8 to 9pm in the Men's Shed (behind the Credit Union) and again is open to all!
 
The group is also very excited about plans being finalised for Culture Night, an insight into the towns outstanding examples of stained-glass windows. Keep an eye on the new Ballinasloe & District Heritage Society Facebook - page for further information in due course.

National Heritage Week - Ballinasloe 2023