About
Lisnaskea Historical Society is delighted to invite you to our next talk, taking place on Tuesday 24th March at 7.20pm in the Castle Park Centre, Lisnaskea.
This month's speaker, Fiona Crudden, will present "Townlands: Knowing Our Place", an engaging and informative talk exploring the fascinating history behind our local place-names and what they reveal about the landscape and communities that shaped them.
Townlands are one of the most distinctive features of the Irish landscape. Many of the names we use every day date back hundreds or even thousands of years and often describe the natural surroundings, land use, or notable features of the area. But how many of us actually know what these names mean?
During the talk, Fiona will explore the origins and meanings behind many local townland names. For example, what does Aghalurcher mean? The name comes from the Irish Achadh Luirchear, often interpreted as "the field of the rushes," reflecting the marshy ground that once characterised parts of the area. Or consider Cornashee, which likely derives from Corr na Sí, meaning "the hill or pointed place of the fairies," hinting at the folklore and landscape features that influenced how places were named.
You may also have noticed that many townlands share similar elements in their names. This is because they often describe common landscape features such as hills, fields, woods, or streams, using words from the Irish language that were widely used across the region. Our townland names are therefore a living record of the environment, language, and culture of those who first settled and farmed the land.
This talk will offer a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the hidden stories in the names that surround us every day and to gain a deeper appreciation of the local landscape and heritage.
Entry is £5, payable at the door, and refreshments will be served afterwards, giving everyone a chance to stay for a chat and continue the conversation.
All are very welcome, whether you have a long-standing interest in local history or are simply curious to learn more about the places we call home.
