Kildare RTA: An Historical Trip through the Ages ! by Stephanie Bergin
An enthusiastic group assembled at Ballycane Church in Naas on a bright September morning on Thursday 5th September, looking forward to a journey through history as the first destination was the renowned ecclesiastical settlement Clonmacnoise founded in 548 by St Ciarán.
The bus meandered its way through Kildare, Laois, Offaly and it finally reached Athlone in Westmeath where we traded one mode of transport for another.
We went aboard a boat resembling the Viking longboat, but on this occasion this craft was on course for Clonmacnoise with a friendly crew as opposed to the former, marauding visitors in the guise of the Norsemen. Viking Mike, our trusty captain, welcomed us all on board and related a very informative summary of the geographical and historical points of information as we cruised down the Shannon river. There was plenty of chat and banter as we enjoyed some refreshments The boat trip was made all the more enjoyable as we digested the picturesque scenery dotted with livestock grazing in the fields and the swans swimming gracefully a distance from the boat.
The monastic settlement of Clonmacnoise soon came into view and we disembarked and walked to the interpretative centre which was very impressive and whetted our appetite to attend the guided tour. Anthony Ryan , a local tour guide with the OPW ( Office of Public Works) presented a very informative tour outlining some interesting facts about this monastic heritage site. The cathedral was of particular interest with its intricate carvings on the doorway and adorned with three statues of Saints Dominic, Patrick and Francis. The round tower , a fine example of a round tower or free standing belfry so typical of Irish church sites, was built by Turlough O’ Connor in 1124 was another focus of attention. The Cross of the Scriptures , one of Ireland’s finest surviving high crosses was also on display, and was the source of discussion amongst the group.
Having enjoyed ambling around the site and visiting the interpretive centre which was very informative, the group travelled to Shannonbridge to enjoy a delicious lunch and refreshments in JJ Killeens Bar and Restaurant. A warm welcome, superb culinary delights and an old world charm were the hallmarks of this restaurant and highly recommended by all the group.
After a tasty lunch complemented by lots of discussion and ‘craic , we travelled to our final destination of the day, Birr Castle Demesne. Our historic timeline had transported us through to Norman times as the original castle had been built in 1170.
The castle on the site now has been the home of the Parson Family ( Earls of Rosse) since1650, hence the former name for Birr being Parsonstown. We were invited to watch a very interesting information video in the reception area of the Historic Science Centre, which gave us an overall view of this famous heritage site.
There were eight galleries of extensive exhibitions, showcasing inventions and achievements of the Parsons family in the area of astronomy , photography and engineering. Members of the family certainly lived and studied according to the family motto
‘Deus et Patria ad Astra’ `(For God and Country to the Stars) which is proudly displayed on the Oxmantown Gate, designed by the 3rd Countess of Rosse.
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The giant telescope known as ‘ Leviathan ‘was the creation of the 3rd Earl of Rosse in 1845 and it remained the largest in the world for seventy years. He was a great pioneer in the realm of astronomy as he used this telescope to discover the Whirlpool Nebulae, which was the first revelation of other galaxies. Birr Castle Demesne was a hive of learning and discovery .
As well as a centre of scientific discovery, the demesne also boasts beautifully designed gardens. ‘The Giants Grove’ features large redwoods while the ‘Pinetum ‘ houses a fine collection of conifers , started by the 5th Earl, including the Wollemi Pine, one of the world’s oldest and rarest tree species. The castle peered out from behind the magnificent garden terraces with many varieties of herbaceous plants while the suspension bridge, the oldest wrought iron suspension bridge in Ireland built in 1820, beckoned us to take a walk into the woodlands.
The Spring Wildflower Meadow and The Carroll Oak are meadows which have not been ploughed since 1620 at least. It is a haven for wildflowers, bees and wildlife as the grass is allowed to grow long in spring each year. The Carroll Oak was planted by the O’ Carroll Family over 500 years ago. It was a very pleasant stroll as we feasted our eyes on the colourful array of flowers and plants.in this natural wonderland created with focus on the preservation and conservation of our natural environment throughout the centuries. Science and nature have worked hand in hand in Birr Castle Demesne throughout the ages.
A wonderful day was had by all as we explored these two interesting heritage sites and the group returned to Naas, more informed and appreciative of our historical and natural treasures which are in abundance in Ireland. Míle Buíochas to one of the members of Kildare RTA, Ann Enwright who had organised and co-ordinated the trip; a fine choice of historical sites of interest and most importantly the choice of restaurant where we all enjoyed a delicious lunch.
Great company, banter and ‘Craic’ all combined to make this trip a very enjoyable occasion! We all look forward to the next outing !