By Dan Walsh
The National 1798 Rebellion Centre at Enniscorthy has announced an exciting programme of events to mark the anniversary of the 1798 Rebellion and the Longest Day Weekend – Saturday and Sunday, June 20th and 21st.
Assembling historians, local experts and musicians the weekend programme offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stories, people and places that shaped one of the most significant periods in Irish history.
The commemorations begin on Saturday, June 20th, with the annual Summer School. Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy a series of talks examining key aspects of the Rebellion, including Wolfe Tone’s political journey, the role of women in 1798, and the revolutionary ideas that connected Ireland with wider international movements.
The Summer School programme includes presentations by Dr Howard Keeley, Jacqui Hynes and Mary Brickley, followed by a guided walking tour of Enniscorthy led by County Wexford Historian-in-Residence, Paul Byrne. The day concludes with an evening of music and poetry presented by Naill Wall, celebrating the enduring legacy of 1798 through song and verse.
On Sunday, June 21st. -the Longest Day – guide Fintan Kelly will lead an Interactive Historical Guided Walking Tour through Enniscorthy, offering the opportunity to experience the town’s rich revolutionary heritage through engaging storytelling and song.
The weekend concludes with the annual Longest Day Commemoration on Vinegar Hill, one of Ireland’s most iconic battle sites. The commemoration is open to the public and starts at 6pm and provides an opportunity for reflection and remembrance of the events of 1798.
This is held in conjunction with Enniscorthy Municipal District. Speaking about the programme, Manager of the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, Maura Bell said: “The anniversary of 1798 provides an important opportunity to reflect on the people and events that shaped our history. Through talks, tours, music and commemoration, we hope to engage visitors in exploring the legacy of 1798 and its continuing relevance today.”
Individual Summer School events are priced at €10 per person, with an all-day ticket available for €20.
The Interactive Historical Guided Walking Tour on Sunday is priced at €20 per person.
The National 1798 Rebellion Centre invites members of the public, history enthusiasts, families and visitors to join them on this special weekend of learning, remembrance and community.
For further information and booking details, visit http://www.1798centre.ie
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