The study of local history is always very interesting and particularly so in Castleconnor parish as it is a rich source of all things historical: castles, forts, ancient churches and lisheens, to name a few.  The senior classes have learned about the legend of the Black Pig, the Mermaid Rocks, Rathmulcah Fort, Cill Ainle ancient Church and graveyard, Castleconnor Castle and Balliecottle Castle.

On Monday we undertook a local history tour to study all these monuments more closely. Naturally, a day away from the normal routine was very welcome for the pupils and spirits were high as we set off! We were extremely lucky that the sun shone as we made our way around the parish.

Our first stop was at the Black Pig sculpture in Muckduff and we then proceeded to visit the Mermaid Rocks in Scurmore where Thady Rua O’Dowda’s children were reputedly turned into rocks by their mermaid mother. Next came the highlight for many — the visit to Rathmulcah Fort and the souterrain underneath. Everyone was suitably equipped with head-lights for their trip underground and there were no complaints about mucky clothes when they emerged into daylight once more.

In Killanley Old Graveyard we examined the ancient church and found the grave of Thady Foody, Hedge-school master and the reputed grave of Fr Owen Cowley.

Castleconnor Castle was our next stop and we admired the castle built where once a Promontory fort stood, probably built during the Iron Age. Lunch consumed, it was time for a little fun rolling down the hill while trying not to disturb some bemused cattle and sheep a little distance away!

Our final stop was at Balliecottle Castle, a fortified house built in 1477, once occupied by the Williamite army and now in private ownership.

This local tour brought history to life as students imagined the parish long ago and the people who once lived and worked in the area.

Sincere thanks to all the landowners who allowed us to access their lands for this tour.