I sat down the other day to chat to Anna King about an art installation that will soon become a part of the revision and re-visioning of the treasure trove that is The Plots.
Click on picture below to hear our chat.
The well at The Plots: a community legacy
Discover the rich history and local lore surrounding 'The Well at The Plots' in Ballaghaderreen. A cherished landmark, generously donated by the Dillon family, this well holds countless stories waiting to be shared. As new developments unfold and an exciting public art installation takes shape, we invite you to delve into its past and contribute to its future. Your memories and folklore are the heart of this project.
The well's origins: a gift from the dillon family
The Well at The Plots is a treasured part of Ballaghaderreen's heritage, a generous gift from the Dillon family to the townsfolk. This act of community spirit has ensured that the well remains a focal point, a place where generations have drawn water and perhaps, shared a moment of quiet reflection. We are keen to uncover more about this significant donation. Do you have any further information, stories, or perhaps even old photographs that shed light on the Dillon family's connection to the well?
Bridging past and future: the public art installation
Exciting developments are on the horizon for the area around The Well at The Plots. With new construction imminent, there's a unique opportunity to link this historic landmark with an upcoming Public Art Installation. This project aims to honour the well's legacy while bringing a fresh, contemporary artistic presence to the community. We envision this installation as a place for reflection, connection, and a celebration of Ballaghaderreen's past and future. We hope this initiative will inspire a deeper appreciation for our local history and spark new conversations among residents and visitors alike.
Your stories matter: preserving the well's legacy
From long-time Ballaghaderreen residents to newcomers, historians, folklore enthusiasts, and those simply curious about local heritage. We hope that listeners will feel a deep connection to their community, a sense of pride in its history, and perhaps even a touch of wonder inspired by the well's untold tales. We want them to learn about the people, the events, and the everyday life that have revolved around this special place for generations. Your stories are crucial in bringing this rich history to life.
Garden Quarter or Plots for the town
This expansive area was part of the Garden Quarters or the Plots for the town. The path (of which there are two other adjacent walkways) all lead to a circular meeting-point with a well. Mrs. Anne Deane (cousin of John Dillon) donated the well for the benefit of the townsfolk. There is a wildflower meadow behind the wall. This important habitat houses a diverse population of plants such as Horsetail, Yellow Flag Iris, Clover, Silverweed, Cow-parsley and Meadowsweet amongst others. The lands (north-east side of Market Square and south side of Pound Street) were divided up into triangles with pathways between, to allow each house to have its own plot linked by a precise radial pattern of footpaths which led to the circular well.
"Every drop from 'The Well at The Plots' tells a story, and each story enriches our community tapestry."
- Radio Ballagh Listener