3 minute read
Radio Kerry To Feature Barna
The History of Barna Bog and Its Workers is the product of Storied Kerry Tureencahill. Storied Kerry encourages communities to research and record local stories and history in a way many of us have never even attempted.
The book and documentary were launched on Friday 14th June in Tureencahill where 180 people gathered for a great night of bog stories, music, and chat. To further explore Barna Bog and its impact on the surrounding communities Frank Lewis visited the site where he recorded a feature for the Saturday Supplement on Radio Kerry which includes interviews with locals that worked in or lived near the bog.
The history that has been captured is the kind only told fireside with a cup of tea.
The book captures the industry that grew up around Barna. The lives portrayed are ones of hard work, simple luxuries and a love for community. In one particular article, Jimmy O’Callaghan shares the experience of moving into a Bord na Móna modern home in the 50’s;
“Having a bath and constant hot water in 1951 was a luxury very few people had. We shared that with people around the area. Saturdays turned out to be a great social gathering in our house as local people arrived. My mother made sure everyone had tea and whatever was going to eat, and also mended a few pairs of socks if that was needed. My father often said “they were washed, fed, and shod” as the neighbours went home”.
Turf production in Barna began in 1950 after 8 years of preparation, including draining, road building, workshops, railway tracks, and the announcement of “The Kerry Machine” by Bord na Móna.
While it ceased operation in 1984, the book asks what possibilities could it hold for future generations. The future of Barna holds much promise, and it’s worth asking; how can we benefit from the next phase of Barna and its unique ecosystem?
Bogs hold life beyond what’s visible. Other bogs throughout the country have been transformed into nature walks and environmental preserves. What Barna could be is another avenue to keep this part of rural Ireland alive and a reminder of the importance of bogs to our environment.
Make sure and tune in on August 31st on Radio Kerry for what should be a fantastic show. Entertainment will feature from singers Timmy O’Connor and Laura Dunlea with music from Sean and Colm Fleming.
If you would like to purchase a book, please ring Tureencahill Community Centre 085-8771949 The documentary will available to download, keep an eye on our social media platforms – Instagram and Facebook – for further details.
Tune into Frank Lewis’s Saturday Supplement on Radio Kerry Saturday 31st August 9.00am until 11.00am.
