Shandon history group honoured with award
Geraldine Fitzgerald
The Shandon Area History Group were recognised for their work this month, accepting the accolade from the Cork International Community Spirit Awards for their work in preserving the historical and cultural significance of Shandon, and for sharing the untold stories of ordinary people who have made a difference.
The Shandon Area History Group began in 2012 with a small number of people who were interested in their local history. Since then, it has collected and preserved photographs of an historic value, produced exhibitions, published a book, contributed to several TV and radio documentaries and has given talks across Cork and online.
The local history group put on an exhibition at the St Peter's Visitor Centre, dedicated to 11 Cork women and their role in the fight for Irish independence. This exhibition has since been transformed into a book, which has gone into its second print.
The group also launched a documentary called ‘Ordinary Women in Extraordinary Times’, which focuses on the contribution of Cork sisters to the fight for independence and was showcased at the Cork Indie Film Festival in October 2022.
From leading historical walks and research projects to producing a series of storyboards outlining various elements of history in the locale, the Shandon Area History group has fascinated and informed thousands and made local history come to life.
General Manager of the Cork International Hotel, Eoghan Murphy said: “Their passionate dedication to preserving the history and culture of Shandon is genuinely inspiring, and their contributions have touched both the local and wider community. Their work is a testament to the significant impact that can come from grassroots community initiatives.”
Speaking of the group’s monthly history talks, Cllr Tony Fitzgerald said, “It’s wonderful to see that their monthly talks have resumed in person with large audiences turning out once again - a legacy of research and information for the next generation of Corkonians about the Shandon area and the city itself.”