Folklore
The Folklore Commission at UCD undertook a scheme for the collection and preservation of Folklore in 1937-1939.
Senior pupils in 83 schools in Westmeath collected folklore from their own areas and wrote essays on the material they gathered. Under the guidance of teachers, they gathered information on healing, riddles, proverbs, customs and beliefs, mostly from their parents, grandparents or older members of their community. These manuscripts provide a valuable insight into local lore, legend and traditions.
The collection is of huge interest to scholars of folklore. In addition, it is of special interest to the families of those who collected the information, and those who were interviewed as part of the scheme.
This material is available on microfilm in the the Local Studies Dept., Mullingar Library, courtesy of the Department of Irish Folklore, University College, Dublin
Those wishing to publish any portion of the Collection must contact the Department of Irish Folklore giving precise details – name of school, vol. and page number.
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