Do You Know the Names of the Places Around You?
Does your favourite fishing or swimming spot have a secret name passed down through generations? Is there a boreen near your house that’s named after your grandfather? Do you know the old names of the fields, hills, or streams around your home?
The place names of Waterford – from the well-known to the wonderfully obscure – are part of our living heritage. They tell the stories of the land and the people who’ve lived on it. And now, there’s a chance to share those stories, keep them alive, and add them to the growing map of local knowledge.
Join us for “Cad As Duit? Placenames of the Déise” – a special roadshow event hosted by Waterford City & County Council’s Placenames Committee – on Saturday, 7th June at the Copper Coast Visitor Centre, any time between 2pm and 4pm.
This free, bilingual event is a relaxed and friendly gathering for anyone with an interest in local heritage. Whether you come with a name, a story, a map, or just curiosity, you’ll be warmly welcomed.
What to Expect:
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Short talks and stories about the placenames of Waterford.
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A chance to explore maps and learn how to search online for placenames, old records, and archival materials.
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An open invitation to share your own knowledge — from townlands and boreens to hidden fields and favourite spots.
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Tea, coffee, and a real sense of community.
We’d love to gather as many names, memories, and tales as we can. So if you have a placename that lives in your family, your townland, or your heart – come along and help us add it to the bigger picture.
No booking is required, and all ages are welcome.
This event is organised by the Waterford Placenames Committee with support from Creative Ireland Waterford.
Contact:
Máire Seó Breathnach, Oifigeach Gaeilge – msbreathnach@waterfordcouncil.ie
Joanne Rothwell, Waterford City and County Archivist – archivist@waterfordcouncil.ie