Memory Meitheals: Capturing Leitrim’s heritage through shared stories

People from various areas of South Leitrim recently came together to converse with traditional singer and researcher Fionnuala Maxwell and share their collective memories and knowledge of the history, culture and lore of their respective areas to create Leitrim Heritage’s new series of podcasts – The “Memory Meitheals” series.

The term “meitheal” is an ancient Irish concept of family and neighbours coming together to assist with bigger tasks, such as threshing, harvesting and even house-building. 

The concept was not alien to any of the participants in this series – they grew up with this way of life, and all were quick to conclude that although times were harder in their youth, there was a simplicity to life and certain values that existed then have sadly been lost, much to the detriment of rural Leitrim.

The series features several compelling contributors, including Bridie McIntyre, Evie McNabola, and Patricia O'Reilly, who fondly recall the aran knitting co-op set up by Patricia's mother, Rose Hartigan, in Kilnagross in the 1960s. 

This allowed busy local women to earn some extra “pin money” during challenging times as they juggled childcare, household duties, and farm work.

In Esker, Dromod, the Reynolds family - George, his sons Seoirse and Shane - provide a lively, insightful look at local history, guiding listeners through the area with their vivid collective memories. 

From tales of travelling picture shows and Lord Leitrim's escapades to stories of footballing legends and ghostly encounters, their "meitheal" approach paints a captivating picture of the past.

Restoration of historic Leitrim station moves forward with approved extension plans

Permission has been granted for an accessible toilet extension at the Old Station House in Mohill, which is currently being refurbished by Mohill Town Team.

The added bonus of a verse of a song from Shane’s daughter, Sadhbh, adds a personal touch to the family affair.

Well-known Mohill couple Michael and Madge Casey hold legendary status for their longstanding involvement in various local activities over the years, from horse shows to fire services to the Mohill Agricultural Show. 

Michael's wealth of knowledge effortlessly transports listeners back to the 1930s, while he and his great friend and neighbour, Jim Rogers, share their unique perspectives on fairs, football, now-vanished establishments, dancehalls, and more.

In a further episode, we hear from four esteemed residents of the charming village of Drumsna and its surroundings. 

Colleen Guckian, Fr. Francis Garvey, Noel Duignan, and Ella Gannon provide a detailed, multifaceted look at life in and around the village from the 1950s to today – from tales of céilí-ing to confessions of arson, you are sure to be entertained.

Each episode in this "Memory Meitheals" series, which is supported by Leitrim County Council and the Heritage Council Ireland and produced by Fionnuala Maxwell offers a rich tapestry of local history and heritage, and will be available for listeners to enjoy here starting with episode one on Sunday, March 30.

READ MORE: 'Mammies tell me their kids love it' - Unique tradition of Boxty and its Leitrim roots