The project is in it's early stage and preparing a substantial applications to a variety of funders to look at documenting, archiving, preserving and
above all 'celebrating' the lives of Irish Diaspora and their
descendants in the Rossendale Valley. We are aware there has been a lot of
work carried out on the Valley's connection with Michael Davitt, but
this project is about celebrating everyday people and everyday life,
that was somehow a little bit out of the ordinary because you were part
of an Irish family in Rossendale, East Lancashire.
So, as they say, "If You're
Irish Come into The Parlour" ...and even if you are not, all welcome. At
this stage we are looking for stories, anecdotes, myths, legends...
images, sound recordings etc., that you would like to share about The
Irish in Rossendale. No matter how small or insignificant they may seem,
once they are all brought together they will have a significant impact
and assist in supporting our funding applications.
As mentioned in some conversation with people
already, there is a particularly strong connection between East County
Mayo, Ireland and East Lancs. We've just had a very encouraging
conversation with the Arts Office of Mayo County Council and we are
looking at ways of collaborating.
...and why should I being doing this you are probably asking?
Well, I was born in Stacksteads, my grandad was from east Mayo and my
grandma was from Donegal. My grandad, Jim Moran was well known to many
people in Stacksteads and was probably a regular feature in the Farholme
Tavern with his best friends Mick Grogan and Dom Moran. I grew up feeling Irish
because of my family life and probably because most of my classmates at
St. Josephs had Irish surnames too. Yet nowadays, the Irish culture in
the area doesn't seem as prevalent as it once was and sadly year on year
the only evidence of it seems to be only found in Stacksteads'
cemetery.
If you have any stories you wish to share or any
further question please email us here and keep
your eye on the blog.
Best regards
James
