'We have an incredible history in Longford': Harp Media's two-part documentaries

Robert Higgins and Patrick “Paddy” McGivney are two Granard names that are going to continue to grow in success. Their original film (“Lakelands”) was recently screened on RTÉ, and they have won many accolades. While the two co-founders of the award-winning Harp Media are immensely proud of their Longford roots.

Their efforts to highlight and preserve the county’s importance through time, whether it be through filming locations or context of their work, are what make Harp Media a benefit to Longford's preservation and achievements.

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The two personable creators were setting up in the backroom of Valentine’s, Longford town, on December 10 before the screening premieres of Clonfin and The Man Who Was Empire took place.

They had a projector and a screen ready for an event supported by Longford’s Night-Time Economy efforts. The projects were funded by the Decade of Centenaries programme.

Then, as the time neared to 8pm, they approached those who wished to see the two-part documentaries. They greeted them, spoke to them, guided them; made every effort to host those who wanted to appreciate their work.

“We have an incredible history in Longford,” introduced Paddy before the screening of Clonfin. ‘It should be known and celebrated. Everyone carries that candle in their own small way. A massive thanks to Eddie Valentine. He’s been a great supporter of the work. Thank you all for coming.”

Clonfin had all the hallmarks of a strong documentary: aerial (drone) footage and B-roll. They had a mix of archival footage from the actual events, to recreations of the battle by local actors who had been part of this project. These actors were credited alongside where they came from in Longford, showing the wide interest that this documentary stirred.

The documentary covered the 1921 ‘Clonfin’ ambush about the North Longford Flying Column. It had an online release back in October, 2022, involving experts from various institutions such as Professor Marie Coleman of Queen’s University Belfast, an expert on County Longford in the revolutionary period; Dr Mel Farrell (Royal Irish Academy) and Professor Diarmaid Ferriter (UCD).

The Man Who Was Empire explored the life of Sir Henry Wilson, exploring his Longford connections, and the lead-up to his assassination outside his own home. It spoke of Wilson’s militant characteristics, his life and explored speculation behind his death.

“We came across him a couple of years ago. We hope it paints what Ireland was like at a different time,” said Robert. ‘His death was the catalyst for the Civil War. Thank you all for coming out here tonight and continuing to grow a community of historical interest here.”

The Man Who Was Empire really thrived off the archival footage that Harp Media had acquired, while receiving expert input by interviewees about Wilson's involvement in WWI; how the family arrived in the 17th century and climbed the social status.

From the scar over his eye to his foresight of a war against Germany, Harp Media explored the complexities of this historical figure who would have so much involvement in Irish and Longford history.

As Robert said prior to this event, it was the first time screening as a two-part series as planned. These documentaries were made over the past couple of years. The decision paid off. A round of applause followed, and the two men were engrossed in in-depth conversations with the audience who wanted to chat about the historical figures and praise what hard work.

The screening of these documentaries captured the attention of varying demographics. Young people and older people were fascinated by what Harp Media had to offer. The media company delivered on highlighting Longford’s vital place in history.
Once the screening was done, the two co-founders invited attendees to stick around Valentine's for drinks and socialising after what had been a successful evening for the pair.

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After the screening, the co-founders reached out the following day and told the ‘Longford Leader’:

Paddy said, "We'd like to extend a big thank you to everyone who came out to the screenings on Wednesday night. It was brilliant to see such a big crowd turn out for the event and take time to dive into local history."

"Alongside our film work, we are very passionate about local history and making these shorter documentaries have always been brilliant experiences. We hope to continue making works like this and to shine a light on Irish history,” added Robert.