francis ledwidge museum

2012 Events

In the Footsteps of Ledwidge Walk 2012

The venue for the 2012"In Footsteps of Ledwidge'"walk was St Mary's Church of Ireland, Kentstown and the beautiful Somerville House and Estate. It took place on Sunday 3rd June at 3pm. James McComiskey gave a talk on the history of the church and Somerville House and Estate. Bobby Forrest was there once again to recite some Francis Ledwidge poetry and gave a great rendition of 'June'(see video). Conor McGrath, owner of Somerville House, gave us a lovely tour of the house. To round off the evening we heard Conor and his son Ryan playing two classical pieces by Debussy and Chopin on their beautiful Broadwood baby grand piano. A most enjoyable day. 

In the Footsteps of Ledwidge Walk 2011

Big Success Despite the Rain

Despite the incessant rain our annual  "In the footsteps of Ledwidge" walk was a great success. Bobby Forrest recited the poem 'To One Who Comes Now and Then' (see video) and James McComiskey give  a talk on the historical backgrounds of all the large country houses and estates along the river upstream from Hayestown bridge as far as  Ardmulchan and Donaghmore.Even though it was a case of 'whatever skies above you smile or frown' we had a great day.

Ledwidge Day in Slane Castle 2011  

 The venue for Ledwidge Day was Sunday 31st July 2011 in Slane Castle on the banks of the River Boyne, home to the Conyngham family since 1701. The main event took place in the Gothic Revival Ballroom. The special guest was poet, Irish Times journalist and Aosdána member. The title of the talk was 'It must be lovely down in Wilkinstown'. Ledwidge poetry was read by Frances Mulley from Belfast and Bobbie Forrest from Limavaddy. From Drogheda, Michael Holohan, Composer and Aosdána member, together with Miriam St. Lawrence, mezzo-soprano, performed three of Michael's compositions of Ledwidge poetry set to music. Susan Connolly, also from Drogheda, read her own poem on Francis Ledwidge and a group of traditional Irish musicians from North County Dublin rounded off the evening. Among the guests was Joe Ledwidge, nephew of the poet, with his wife Phyllis.