By Dan Walsh
Sunday is Rebellion Day, an afternoon of reflection on the history and heritage of Enniscorthy with Ireland’s only European officially preserved battlefield site at renowned Vinegar Hill, one of Ireland’s most recognised landmarks overlooking the River Slaney and recreated at the modern National 1798 Rebellion Centre.
Sunday’s Rebellion Day highlights will take place on Sunday, June 23rd from 12 noon to 4.30pm on the grounds of the National 1798 Rebellion Centre. Manager Mico Hassett told WexfordLocal.com; “This family orientated day recognises the efforts of the local community in the fight for Irish independence over many centuries and in particular, in June of 1798.”
Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society organiser, Ray Murphy, said; “Re-enactors will pay homage to our past heroes and participate in commemorations and re-enactments throughout the year. The Enniscorthy Re-enactors Society will set up camp in the gardens of the National 1798 Rebellion Centre. Watch out – there may even be a few shots fired!”
Re-enactors will answer questions about the battles and weapons of 1798 throughout the day. Learn about the hand-crated weapons that were so important in 1798 with Gorey blacksmith, Finín Liam Christie, demonstrating the work that goes into making a forged iron pike.
The Wild Turkeys and other musicians will bring the Fringe Fleadh to Enniscorthy, providing live trad sessions throughout the afternoon. Bring the whole family and make a day of exploring the food and craft stalls, too. Café 98 will be open for brunch and reservations are recommended.
The Centre will be open for tours from 12-4.15pm, so if you haven’t been in to see the exhibition or it has been a while, come inside and take in a bit of interactive history. The new Café 98 will be open for brunch, coffee, tea, cold drinks, and sweet treats, too. Public toilet facilities are available to all. On Sunday, the carpark at St. Mary’s CBS will be open for free parking during Rebellion Day.
Deputy Manager Eve Furlong commented; “The Rebellion Day event is a free, family day out and for those wanting to see the 1798 exhibition, a general admission tour ticket will be reduced to €5 per adult (€4 student/seniors) or only €10 for up to a family of five, a super value, for the weekend.”
Keep an eye on WexfordLocal.com for up-to-date information and news on weekend events.
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