Stories

(Written by Morgan Roughan) They used to say that Ireland was “The Land of Saints & Scholars”.  A boast that is accurate as our history in this field of spreading Christianity is unparalleled. We grew up listening to the exploits of St’s Patrick, Brendan the Navigator, Ciaran of Clonmacnoise, Colmcille who fought the Lough Ness…

Celtic literature is full of fascinating stories that offer a glimpse into the ancient beliefs and customs of the monks. One such story is entitled “The little boys who went to Heaven” and tells the story of the first dead who were buried on Scattery Island. The story is recorded in early Celtic literature, translated…

A well-known figure in Irish folklore, St. Senan is known for his miracles and acts of bravery. One of the most famous legends surrounding St. Senan, is his defeat of the Monster Cathaigh on Scattery Island. The story’s enduring appeal lies in its themes of good versus evil, courage in the face of danger, and…

And they would look out to sea and wait…… Wait for their men to come home from work, piloting ships along the dangerous waters of the Shannon then returning home to the island in their Currachs  (known as canoes ), or seafaring for months or years at a time with the Royal or Merchant Navy….

Storytelling is truly living history.  I love listening to my Dad tell me stories of his time on Scattery Island.  He brings it alive, the characters, the whipping wind across the waves and the image of sitting in front of a crackling fire. What stories would you tell about this time we are living in? …