School: Stoneyford, Thomastown (roll number 3029)
- Location:
- Stonyford, Co. Kilkenny
- Teacher: Finghín Mac Íobhair
Archival Reference
The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0849, Page 094
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- XML School: Stoneyford, Thomastown
- XML Page 094
- XML “Festival Customs”
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- St. Stephen's Day. On that day the boys dress themselves in old clothes and masks and go around playing music and gathering money. These boys are called "Wren Boys". They have a special song:
"The wren, the wren, the King of all birds, St Stephen's Day she was caught in the furze. Up with the kettle and down with the pan, Give us something to bury the wren."
In the evening they divide the money amongst themselves. Then they spend the money.
"New Year's Eve". At twelve o'clock on that night the people ring the chapel bell, and drums are played in the street to welcome the "New Year".
"St Patrick's Day". The people wear Shamrock and badges.
"Shrove Tuesday". The people make pancakes for their tea on that day.
"Good Friday". People visit the chapel and kiss the Cross. "Easter Saturday". The people go to the chapel and get Easter water.
"May Day". People skim the well and they rub a piece of butter on the door to make sure that they would have plenty of butter for the year.
"Feast of the Assumption". People visit Lady's Well(continues on next page)
