New film tells story of the Shinrone gown’s recreation

The premiere of a new film telling the story of a remarkable journey to recreate a famous medieval gown is to be screened in Shinrone on Saturday.

‘Unstitching the Shinrone Gown’, a film by Offaly-based filmmaker Garret Daly of Mixed Bag Media, will be shown at 2pm in Cloughmoyle School House (R42 YN97).

The original Shinrone Gown, one of Ireland’s most significant surviving garments from the late medieval period, was discovered in 1843 in a bog outside the village and is now displayed at the National Museum of Ireland, where it is celebrated as an invaluable artifact of Irish heritage.

This stunning textile is thought to be over 400 years old, making it one of the oldest surviving garments in Ireland. Its survival is nothing short of extraordinary, as noted by Maeve Sikora, Keeper of Irish Antiquities at the National Museum, who is featured in the film: “Textiles from the late medieval period tend not to survive. We are very fortunate to have this gown on display.”

The story of the gown’s recreation began in 2024 when funding through Creative Ireland and the Heritage Office of Offaly County Council allowed the Shinrone Heritage Group to commission a faithful replica of the historic garment, crafted with the same care and attention to detail as the original. Artist Rosalind Fanning and tailor Bernie Stapleton were commissioned by Shinrone Heritage Group with the intricate challenge of recreating the gown, which was to become a centrepiece for the Shinrone School Museum.

Over the summer of 2024, Rosalind and Bernie worked tirelessly to bring the gown to life, navigating the challenges of using traditional methods and materials to mirror the original. Their journey, filled with frustrations and triumphs, is central to the film, which offers an intimate view of their creative process. The artists share their thoughts and recollections as they painstakingly replicate the garment’s rich textures, panels, and stitching.

What sets this project apart is the way it engaged the local community in the process. A series of workshops were held throughout the summer, facilitated by Rosalind, Bernie, and Mary Bulfin. These workshops offered hands-on opportunities for participants to learn about traditional textile techniques, such as carding wool, natural dye making, and cutting and stitching panels. Participants also explored the art of peg doll-making.

For those who took part, the experience was more than educational - it was a chance to connect with their heritage in a tangible and meaningful way. “It was incredible to see people of all ages coming together to learn these skills,” said Ger Murphy of Shinrone Heritage Group. “The workshops brought history to life in a way that resonated deeply with our community.”