Bill Power - Heritage Experts | Heritage in Schools

Bill Power

Subject(s):
History, Geography, Agricultural Science
Counties catered for:
Clare, Cork, Kerry, Kilkenny, Laois, Limerick, Offaly, Tipperary, Waterford
Classes catered for:
All year groups (post-primary)

Ireland was a country of poverty and great economic problems in the 19th century which sparked several rebellions, such as 1798, the Tithe Wars, the 1848 Rising, the Fenian Rising of 1867 and the War of Independence in 1919-21. But these events were coloured by the terrible poverty of the country, most obviously by the tragedy of the Great Famine.

This will be based on relevant local research to any given area - using newspapers as sources, oral histories, and telling the stories of those who died, and why they died. What was a Workhouse? Why did people emigrate? What about the families who were evicted? Use of folk memory - where to go locally for information and places relevant to the history of poverty and the Great Famine.

Why did they happen, who fought in them and why were they failures? I talk about the villains and the heroes, as well as (where possible) local events of relevance. This can be a talk focussed on one specific rebellion, such as 1867; or can be extended to include the War of Independence and Civil War. Where to go and who to speak to for further information.

This will look at the development of the co-operative movement and its impact on the shaping of rural Ireland from the 1890s to the 1950s. It's importance in creating employment, helping farmers to development of their own businesses and how this shaped the progression of agriculture. The evolution of young farmers’ clubs, community development groups, and the importance of creameries in rural areas. Where to go and who to speak to about information.

Additional Information

  • Post-Primary school visits
  • Provides practical/hands-on activities
  • Provides field trips

Contact Details

Mobile:
0878113611
Email:
billpowerireland@gmail.com