The members of the Society enjoyed a wonderful weekend of history for four days at the end of April in the welcoming town of New Ross, Co.Wexford.
The scene was set for us by historian Linda Doran who described the over-riding importance of William Marshall in the development of New Ross and the surrounding area after the Norman invasion. This was followed by a very informative walking tour of New Ross led by local guide, Myles Courtney.
Another local guide, Joe Moylan, showed us the attractive multi-period site of St. Mullins.
On the following day, we visited the massive ruins of Dunbrody Abbey, Baginbun Head (site of the Normans’ second landing), the dramatic Hook Lighthouse (the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the world) and ending with Tintern Abbey and the adjoining Colclough Gardens.
The final day was spent in Ferns enjoying the Medieval Ferns Experience and visiting the very impressive Ferns Castle. A presentation on the archaeology of Ferns and a guided tour of Ferns medieval sites wound up the trip. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to committee member and Shankill resident, Adrienne Hume, who organised the weekend for the Society.
The trip links up very neatly with this year’s Summer Lecture Series on the theme of Early Norman Ireland which will be held from 21st to 25th August.
Rathmichael members on the steps of St Mary’s church in New Ross with our guide Myles Courtney
