Leitrim Basket Project launch takes place on November 13-14

The Leitrim Basket Project aims to celebrate basket-making traditions in Leitrim and is being officially launched on November 13-14. 

This project explores the historical context, techniques, materials, and the enduring cultural significance of basketmaking in the 1900s with particular emphasis on the daily use of willow baskets for teeming (draining the water off) boiled potatoes through Co. Leitrim.

Leitrim Basket Project focuses on the traditional 'teeming' basket from Leitrim, two of which are held at the National Museum of Ireland.

The project features the short film Teeming the Potatoes' where the Curator for the National Museum of Country Life, Rosa Meehan, tells the story of the origins of the baskets and their history of use in Leitrim. 

Leitrim basket maker Helena Golden told the Leitrim Observer that the short film "aims to create a visually stunning video, accompanied by poignant voiceovers from members of the older generation". 

"These voices carry with them not just the memories of the potato basket's utilitarian role in daily life in Leitrim but also the rich tapestry of older Irish dialects, including phrases like "bucky briar."

"We seek to encapsulate the essence of a bygone era, preserving these living memories for future generations", Helena said. 

In 'Teeming the Potatoes', Helena shows how to harvest material and make the traditional baskets step by step. 

As part of the Leitrim Basket Project, the basket maker has been collecting local knowledge of making and using these baskets in Leitrim, as she aims to share the story she has gathered. 

Helena creates traditional hand-woven baskets and unique home-ware items using sustainably grown willow. 

Her love for the traditional craft of willow weaving was born in Leitrim, close to Carrick on Shannon, along the banks of the Shannon Blueway and within a short drive of Ireland's Hidden Heartlands and the Wild Atlantic Way.  

She delivers basket-making workshops throughout the country but is very proud to host her full-day Basket Making Workshops in her home county of Leitrim. 

Leitrim Basket Project aims to talk to those who have first-hand experiences of using the 'teeming basket' in Leitrim, as their narratives have provided insights into the historical context, cultural significance, and overall value of the project. 

The Leitrim Basket Project – Teeming the Potatoes Report by Helena Golden presents these memories and information, along with the historical context for the basket, its significance and the materials, techniques and instructions for making the basket.

The report is available at https://www.leitrimcoco.ie/eng/community-culture/heritage/cultural-heritage/leitrim-basket-project/. 

The launching event is on November 13 at Bee Park Community Centre at 11am in Manorhamilton and on November 14 at Mohill Library from 7pm. 

The free event promises an enchanting journey of its creation through a captivating video of heartwarming tales from those who cherish its legacy while enjoying tea, treats and plenty of chat.