School: Droichead na Dóinne (roll number 10261)
- Location:
- Blackwater Bridge, Co. Kerry
- Teacher: Tadhg Ó Scolaidhe
Archival Reference
The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0465, Page 176
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“Prior to February the 2nd every year the young men of this locality congregate at some house and decorate and disguise themselves...”
(continued from previous page)Other bands are accompanied by an accordian player and these are in the majority. Usually three or four bands of Biddy Boys visit us annually.
Having performed for the household they request some thing for the Biddy and the household & others therein contribute some silver shilling, florin or half crown &c. as best they can. They devote this money to a dance buying tea, bread, jam, stout sometimes &c. from the proceeds of the collection.
The head-dress of straw strikes one immediately. They are of very fantastic designs - very, very similar to those illustrated on "savages" or aborigines of various lands! The straw is pleated or woven by the wearer. Straw (sugans) ropes are often placed round the trouser legs also.
The collectors or Biddy Boys only travel at night and walk long distances. It is a very old custom hereabouts & observed annually.
In the village of Sneem it(continues on next page)