CTIAHS Upcoming Calendar of Events
(Events that are run by other Irish organizations may be found on our 'Bulletin Board'.)
Next Irish History Round Table Meeting - July 20
Construction techniques and materials have evolved over time, often to meet local environmental, fishing and economic requirements. The double gunwhale and the upturned or sheered bow are characteristic features of the currach design. Traditional boats were covered in cowhide and animal grease, simuilar to the larger currach sailed by Tim Severin in 1976-7, from Ireland to Newfoundland. In the west of Ireland currachs were used to transport people, household goods, sheep, etc. and were the dominant craft for fishing in local waters. They ride like ping pong balls on some of the most treacherous waters in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, riding atop the waves rather than cutting through them. Over time, cowhides gave way to canvas and then to fiberglass and today the dominant fishing boats in Ireland are much larger and constructed of wood and steel. However, currachs can still be found in areas along the west coast.
The talk will briefly describe the evolution of currach design and show examples of these variations along the west coast of Ireland. A DVD will demonstrate the building of a currach on the Aran Islands.One of the New London club's currachs will be on display at the Custom House on July 15.
. A racing currach, similar to those used by the New London Currach Club, are covered in canvas and coated with boiled tar for protection. These 25 foot, 4 man boats, of the County Kerry style, are also sleeker in design and more lightweight than the traditional work boats. Currach Regattas are still held in Dingle, County Kerry, Connemara in County Galway and in County Clare. A major currach Regatta is scheduled to be held on the Thames River in New London on September 18.
On July 22 internationally known Irish fiddle player Eileen Ivers, a founding member of Cherish the Ladies, will give a free concert at 8:00 PM on the New London Parade. A reception for Eileen and her band will be held at the Custom House from 6-7 PM. Admission to the reception is $25.
For Information contact: NLMaritimedirector@gmail.com or 447-2501.
A Special Concert on October 2, 2010
Ethnic Wedding Traditions - Aug 1 - Dec 30, 2010
The Vicksburg Monument Project
The following represents 8 years of outright dedication by those who were involved. To name a few, Bob Larkin, a Cheshire, Ct. resident, who thought that the Connecticut 9th Volunteer's Regiment, otherwise known as 'The Irish Regiment', should be recognized for their contribution on the battle front. So he started to make numerous calls to various sources for donations to fund the project not realizing that it would take upwards of $60,000 to complete. A massive undertaking but Bob was determined and did not give up. He contacted Stacy Mathieu of Southington, Ct. to display her etching expertise on the black granite slab which weighed over 5,000 pounds. Stacy's beautiful work was aided by Kerry Sheldon of Durham, Ct. who provided the composite design for the project. Last but not least, Jim Sheehan of Wallingford, Ct. made a carving of the finished monument to be used as a mockup during the fund-raising process. Bob wants to thank all those who contributed to this memorial and brought it to fruition. Please read on........
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