Longford steps back in time for a very special display of transport through the ages

The National Heritage Council encouraged communities across Ireland to respond to the theme of 'Connections, Routes and Networks' for National Heritage Week 2024. Longford kick-started the week in style.

In Granard at the Knights and Conquests Heritage Centre, crowds gathered and were amazed by designs once only seen in the diaries of Leonardo De Vinci and James Watt brought to life.

The design build of the first steam-propelled vehicle by William Murdock has been built over the last year in Granard by Eamonn Creamer.

Also read: Ballinamuck proudly rolls out red carpet for arrival of Pride of Place judges in Longford

The master craftsman responsible for it's construction was on hand to explain and demonstrate it along with the realisation of a Leonardo De Vinci's design cart and many more amazing creations.

Rath Mhuire Granard's men shed had a full display of associated artefacts and equipment. From beautifully restored carts to the amazing Bianconi mode of transport.

PICTURES | Saturday night fever! Enjoying a fun night out in Longford in 2011

Alongside the array of heritage crafts and display by Eamonn and Gabriel Creamer, visitors could easily step back in time sitting beside an olden hearth and taking in the views from a yester age.

Visitors were then treated to a sight to behold as the members and guests of Lakeland Vintage Club arrived in style to Granard for a very special display of transport through the ages with vintage vehicles driven by personnel in period dress.

The day was a wonderful celebration of people and place. When all were gathered, Knights and Conquests manager Déirdre Orme invited all to join in the heritage talks and discussions at the centre.

PICTURES | Longford Ulster Bank employees reunite at co:worx Edgeworthstown to unlock past

Eilish Creamer delivered a most insightful talk on the Dunclá or Black Pig's Race which extends for 10.3km between Lough Gowna and Lough Kinale. Eilish's artworks brought the ancient boundary route to life and a most engaging discussion followed.

PICTURES | North Longford steps back in time with fabulous community heritage day celebration

Local Authority Waters Programme officer Luke Kenny addressed the audience and the talks continued with laidlaw scholar and Teathbha contributor Ros McAdden delivering a fascinating account of 'Longford's National prominence in Wetland Archaeology'.

Also read: Memories of growing up in Longford captured vividly in lovely new book

Knights and Conquests Heritage Centre manager Déirdre Orme thanked everyone who contributed and encouraged all to continue to conserve our traditions, our ways and our heritage.

The sun shone on another great day for Granard and County Longford.

PICTURES: Sun shines on another fabulous day for Granard and county Longford