This historic, cultural, and civic celebration of Ireland’s history and heritage will be brought to life at a series of events across Wexford this summer
An exciting series of events including historic talks, guided walks, a battle reenactment at Enniscorthy Bridge and an immersive experience for visitors with a ‘Rebellion Day’ battle encampment is all on offer in Wexford this summer to mark the 225th anniversary of the 1798 Rebellion.
Rebellion 225 has been launched by Wexford County Council in tandem with the local community and is set to commemorate Ireland’s history and heritage of 1798 through a number of historic, cultural, and civic celebrations this May and June.
Commenting on the series of planned events Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr George Lawlor said “This summer marks the 225th anniversary of a pivotal period in Ireland and in particular Wexford’s history. This series of commemorations gives us time to reflect on that history through events that will share the story of the historic rebellion launched by the United Irishmen as they attempted to overthrow British Crown rule and establish the Irish Republic. Director of Services with Wexford County Council Liz Hore said “We will also look at the influences of the French Revolution and through a series of public talks, guided walks, and commemorations share Co. Wexford’s story of 1798.”
The significant commemorative dates are from the 26th of May to the 21st of June. During this crucial time in 1798, pivotal battles took place at Oulart Hill, the Three Rocks, Wexford, New Ross, Carrigbyrne, and Vinegar Hill in Wexford and some of these Battles will be commemorated at public events across the county this summer.
An inaugural 1798 Summer School is being organised by the team at the 1798 National Rebellion Centre, which will offer insights into the 1798 battles through historical guided walks, tours, and public talks at various venues in Enniscorthy from May 26th to May 28th. Dr Kevin Whelan will open the event and highlights include, a march to Boolavogue, music and song at the Fr Murphy Centre, a 1798 Walking Tour with Fintan Kelly, a guided tour of Vinegar Hill battlefield with Jacqui Hynes and Ronan O’Flaherty, and lecture on women and rebellion by Dr. Margaret Ward.
On June 9th Allabar Trio along with His Excellency Vincent Guerend, Professor Liam Chambers and Brian O’Clerigh will discuss ‘The Ideals of Revolution: Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité – how the French Revolution influenced the Irish Rebellion’ in Enniscorthy.’
Events will culminate with the Longest Day Commemoration on June 21st at 6 pm, with one of the most significant battles of 1798 being remembered at Enniscorthy Bridge. The battlefield will be filled with Pikemen and Redcoats who will commemorate the scenes of 225 years ago with a public audience.
On ‘REBELLION DAY’ on June 18th when an immersive experience will be on offer to visitors with a rebel camp showcase featuring, blacksmith demonstrations, cookery demonstrations, a battle preparation camp, and more will all be on offer for visitors to view and join in on, on the grounds of the 1798 National Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy, co. Wexford.
Events will culminate with ‘The Longest Day’ on June 21st with a public commemoration of the 1798 Battle of Vinegar Hill at 6 pm on the hill itself.
Rebellion 225 is being hosted by Wexford County Council working closely with the 1798 National Rebellion Centre and local communities across Wexford, with funding support from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.
To learn more visit the Wexford website.
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