Young historians and researchers from Kilkenny’s primary and secondary schools have been invited to showcase the buildings, ruins and places that have shaped their community.
The ‘Fadó Fadó Sparking Memories’ competition provides students from across the county with an opportunity to learn more about the history of their locality as well as other parts of Ireland or places or buildings abroad that students have a personal connection to.
Students will have a chance to rigorously research their topic of choice ahead of the closing date in mid-March of next year.
A collaboration involving the Kilkenny Archaeological Society, Kilkenny County Council Library Service, and Rothe House Trust, the competition is inviting pupils and students across County Kilkenny – from Fourth Class through to Sixth Year – to tell afresh some lesser known stories behind the places – both near and far – that have shaped who they are.
Pupils in Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Class are asked to choose a building, structure, or ruin in their locality, ranging from a family home, church, or school to a castle, mill, bridge, or even a ruin known only from an old photograph, and to investigate what their selection may reveal about those who built it, lived or worked in it, and the changes it has undergone over the generations.
At secondary level, students from First Year through to Sixth Year are invited to take part with Junior Cycle CBA projects and Leaving Certificate RSRs are also welcome.
Entrants at both levels are being encouraged to visit or contact their local library, museum, or archive as part of their research with staff at the Local Studies Department and across the county’s library branches are available to help. Class visits can be arranged by contacting [email protected]
Alicia Dunphy works in the Local Studies Department of Kilkenny’s County Library Service – and she spoke to KCLR News about this year’s expanded competition.
You can find out more about ‘Fadó Fadó’ here: Fado, Fadó Competition 2027 – Press Release – Kilkenny Library
