Historic Lemanaghan Bog is runner-up at Heritage Awards

The Lemanaghan community in west Offaly is celebrating this week after they were selected as runners-up in the prestigious "Intangible Cultural Heritage" category at the National Heritage Week 2024 Awards.

Their event, “Lemanaghan Stories: Tales of Tradition, Routes, and Connections”, beautifully reflected the theme of this year's Heritage Awards by exploring the deep physical and cultural links that have shaped the local heritage of this historic corner of Offaly.

Lemanaghan, a living heritage story, is steeped in history. From its ancient monastic site to its pilgrimage routes and surrounding boglands, the parish holds vital physical connections to Ireland’s past. These pathways, both literal and cultural, have long linked the local community with a broader spiritual and historical network, crossing generations and regions.

'"Lemanaghan Stories: Tales of Tradition, Routes, and Connections” explored these rich connections from multiple perspectives. Historian James Scully emphasised the archaeological significance of Lemanaghan Bog, highlighting its role as both a natural resource and a route for local people and pilgrims. This bog has long served as a bridge to the past, connecting the local area to a broader cultural narrative.

The event also showcased Ireland's intangible cultural heritage, celebrating the traditional crafts, skills, and customs that have shaped the local identity. Through storytelling, expert discussions, and live performances, the Lemanaghan community brought the history and culture of Lemanaghan to life for all attendees.

A key moment was the recorded video conversation with renowned metal smith Kevin O'Dwyer and archaeologist Dr. Griffin Murray. Their discussion illuminated the craftsmanship behind St. Manchan’s Shrine, a 12th-century masterpiece of Irish metalwork, connecting the area with Ireland’s long-standing tradition of artisan skills and devotion.

In addition to celebrating historical craftsmanship, the event honored the tradition of storytelling, a key element of Ireland's cultural heritage. Through video interviews with local residents, the community preserved their personal stories and memories, ensuring this oral tradition remains central to the area. Local poetry, music, and song performances, such as those by KK Kenny, added another layer to this celebration, showcasing how storytelling through the arts is deeply woven into the local cultural fabric.

The event took place after the annual blessing of graves, further reinforcing the intergenerational bonds that are so integral to Lemanaghan community. It was a powerful reminder of how both physical and cultural routes continue to link local families with their shared past, creating a vibrant network of heritage.

Speaking on behalf of the Lemanaghan Bog Heritage & Conservation Group, Aoife Phelan said the recognition in the Heritage Awards "could not have been achieved without the help of our community, who always rally to support our heritage events." She added that "the strong connections" that the area has to its past "are essential to the story of Lemanaghan, and this award is a testament to the importance of preserving and celebrating those links."

The Lemanaghan Bog Heritage & Conservation Group is "truly honoured" to have achieved the runner-up award at this year's Heritage Awards and Aoife Phelan says they are looking forward to "continuing our work in safeguarding the rich traditions and history of Lemanaghan for future generations."