The town of Graiguenamanagh is built on the Barrow and much of its old prosperity came from the use of the river for transporting goods. Working on the boats was a major employment outlet and there are a small number of original boatmen still living in the area. A member of the library, Edward Moran, who is also a local historian, has put his knowledge into a unique exhibition which is on display in the library at present. It consists of a large detailed model of Ballyellen Lock on the Barrow. The model is accompanied by old photographs of boats on the river and an essay on the history of boatmen in Graiguenamanagh in book format.
Model of Ballyellen Lock
On Friday 14th, Graiguenamanagh Historical Society unveiled an exhibition of artefacts which belonged to the Graiguenamanagh Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernia. Local historian John Joyce gave a talk on this exhibition. Of special interest are the ceremonial sashes, certificate of membership and the minute book which recorded the regular meetings held during that period. Over 200 names of members are also on display.
The Historical Society came into possession of these artefacts and regalia in recent times which brought back memories of a society long forgotten that existed in Graiguenamanagh during the early turbulent years of the last century. This exhibition is on permanent display in the library.
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