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creative
Communities

Dates
1st Jul 2026
to 31st Oct 2026

Age Range
All ages

Venue
County Wexford Archives

Address
0000000

The life and times of travelling people as seen through the eyes of Willie ‘The Tinker’ O’Connor

This heritage project will preserve and share the remarkable life story of a member of the Traveller community from New Ross through the digitisation and publication of his handwritten diaries.

Spanning from childhood to retirement, the diaries offer a unique first-hand account of family life, work, travel and the lived experiences of an Irish Traveller over many decades. They provide a valuable insight into Traveller culture, traditions and history, while documenting the challenges, resilience and achievements experienced throughout his life.

As part of the project, the diaries will be professionally digitised and combined with a full transcription, making them accessible online through the County Archive website. A limited edition publication will also be produced for County Wexford libraries, the County Archive, Pavee Point and the diarist's family, ensuring that this important personal history is preserved for future generations.

The project will also record and explain traditional Cant words and expressions featured throughout the diaries, helping to preserve an important element of Traveller language and cultural heritage.

By safeguarding and sharing this unique personal story, the project will celebrate Traveller heritage and ensure that an important part of County Wexford's social history is accessible to all.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.

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