CLONLARA Development Group has issued an appeal for people in the Mid-West to search for old photographs, stories and press cuttings in connection with “Pattern Day” at St Senan’s Holy Well in Clonlara.
The group are in the process of compiling a display for National Heritage Week 2021 Exhibition, which runs from August 21 August to August 2nd.
It believes that the current lockdown to minimise the spread of Covid-19 provides the ideal opportunity for people to go through old albums and momentoes to help preserve these memories from days past.
The 2021 “Pattern Day” exhibition will follow the successful 2020 exhibition, a two-day event held at local Kiltenanlea Church.
For those who are not familiar with “Pattern Day”, the word pattern is derived from the Irish word patrun or English word patron. In olden days most Irish parishes would honour and celebrate their patron saint.
Only parishes with a holy well or shrine typically had a pattern day. Prayers were said whilst doing “the rounds” of a well or shrine. Often visitors drank or bathed at the well and when departing they left a token usually either a coin or hung up bits of old cloth.
“Pattern Day” at St Senan’s Holy Well, Clonlara took place on August 15th every year. The set number of prayers were said following certain circles or patterns at the Holy Well in Doonass.
In addition to religious acts such as singing and praying, there were sheaf throwing competitions, fancy dress parades, dog shows.
In fact, it was often a place where couples might have met their future spouses. People travelled from Limerick City, Castleconnell, Newport, Murroe and as far away as Ballinahinch.
Memorabilia from “Pattern Day” at St Senan’s Well will provide the theme for this year’s National Heritage Week Exhibition.
It is hoped it will capture the religious, social and fun experienced by previous generations. All original photographs, newspaper cuttings will be copied and the original will be returned. Collection can also be arranged.
Email clonlaradevelop@gmail.com or contact: Rosemary 061354930 Peggy 061354937 or Eileen Clancy, Truagh if you wish to be involved.
People can also reach Clonlara Development through its social media platforms; Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
Dan Danaher
East Clare correspondent, Dan Danaher is a journalism graduate of Rathmines and UL. He has won numerous awards for special investigations on health, justice, environment, and reports on news, agriculture, disability, mental health and community.