Whispering Stones

"Sean's Bar - Unveiling the Secrets of Ireland's Oldest Pub"

Step into the enigmatic world of Sean's Bar, a seemingly unassuming little pub in the heart of Athlone, Ireland. At first glance, it may appear like any other cozy watering hole, but behind its unpretentious exterior lies a history so ancient and captivating that it has earned its place in the Guinness Book of Records.

In this week's episode of Whispering Stones, we journey back over a thousand years to the year AD 900, where the story of Sean's Bar begins. Imagine a time when a ford named Áth Mor, "The Great Ford," spanned the mighty River Shannon. Here, a man named Luain Mac Luighdeach, also known as Luain son of Lewy, established an inn to guide travelers crossing the rapid waters. This inn, now known as Sean's Bar, was the genesis of a settlement that later evolved into the vibrant town of Athlone.

The mysteries of Sean's Bar run deep, with intriguing revelations from the National Museum of Ireland. Carbon-dated mud, wattle, and wood fragments suggest that a pub or tavern may have operated on this site for an astounding millennium. And brace yourself for a surprise - during a renovation in the 1970s, an ancient back wall made of wattle and wicker dating back to the 9th century was uncovered!

Within the walls of this venerable establishment, artifacts like tavern tokens shed light on the lives of the settlement's inhabitants from a bygone era. These tokens were once minted by landlords and bartered with customers, akin to early loyalty rewards. One can only imagine the tales these tokens could tell!

As we delve deeper into Sean's Bar's history, we learn that the town of Athlone was built upon the Ford of Great Antiquity, a strategic crossing point on the Shannon. King Turlough O’Connor further fortified the settlement in 1129 with the construction of a wooden castle.

And here's the crux - in 2004, the Guinness Book of Records bestowed upon Sean's Bar the esteemed title of the "Oldest Pub in Ireland." The proprietors proudly claimed to have a recorded lineage of previous owners stretching back centuries, all the way to the time of Luan, the namesake of the town Athlone.

Yet, the intrigue continues as researchers embark on a quest to unearth the oldest pub in the world. As of now, Sean's Bar stands tall, with its illustrious title, waiting for any challenger to come forth and claim the crown.

So, fellow history enthusiasts, join us on this enthralling adventure as we uncover the hidden stories and ancient secrets of Sean's Bar. From its humble beginnings as Luain's inn to its Guinness-certified title, this beloved pub carries a legacy that transcends time.

Tune in to this week's Whispering Stones, and let the stones whisper the tales of Sean's Bar - where history comes to life, and every pint is a toast to the ages.

If you would like to browse my building portraits please do visit my website https://bernicecookeartist.com/collections/stone-tape-ii-the-westmeath-collection this is my take on Sean's Bar, I hope you like it https://bernicecookeartist.com/products/seans-bar-athlone-county-westmeath-original-painting

Until next time!

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To the East of Athlone lies the remnants of Moydrum Castle, nestled on private property, which means I can admire it from a safe and lawful distance without trespassing. Sadly, the castle was devastated by a fire in 1921, and the passage of time, along with the forces of nature, has brought about significant changes.

What was once a grand, winding driveway leading to the castle now hosts several private dwellings, and the relentless grasp of Mother Nature has engulfed the remains of the once magnificent structure.

Discover the enchanting allure of Moydrum Castle brought to life on canvas! Click here to explore my exclusive artwork, a captivating reimagining of this historic masterpiece.

Why not subscribe to my newsletter and keep up to date with all my events and exhibitions https://bernicecookeartist.com/

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Today we embark on a journey to explore the faded glory of Waterston Park House, a once-magnificent residence nestled in Glasson, County Westmeath, Ireland.

Through meticulous research and old photographs, I have reimagined the splendor of Waterston Park House. You can explore these reconstructions here https://bernicecookeartist.com/products/waterston-house-glasson-county-westmeath-original-painting

If you wish to get in touch with me or have any inquiries regarding a building portrait commission, feel free to send me an email at [email protected].

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Fore Abbey, is a featured painting in my upcoming exhibition.

If you would like to have a look here it is https://bernicecookeartist.com/products/fore-abbey-county-westmeath-original-painting

Alternatively if you would prefer to view it in person, drop in to my next exhibition. located in the County Buildings in Athlone, Co. Westmeath. September 2023.

Did you hear about the Seven Wonders of Fore?

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The Battle of Aughrim a little village in East Galway with a massive history attached to it.

America has its Gettysburg we have the battle of Aughrim. One of Ireland's most bloodiest battles.

Who will succeed to the English Throne.

https://bernicecookeartist.com/ if you would like to browse and possibly purchase some work.

My new collection is now complete and ready for my upcoming exhibition in June. If you would like a fancy invite please do drop me an email with your name and address and I will pop one in the post for you [email protected]

Chat to you next week!

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As the weather was so beautiful on Saturday, I downed paintbrush and paints for a few hours and we headed to the banks of the River Shannon. The youngest and the dog, water bottles, sunscreen and some treats we were ready for our adventure.

Our destination was Meelick, instead of walking the weir we decided to hike up the back of Meelick Church on the banks of the River. The grass was very long so we were lucky that we were wearing long pants and boots - not a fan of ticks!

Ireland's oldest Church by 600 years Meelick has its legends.

My Flash Sale has also started over on my website https://bernicecookeartist.com/collections/original-pen-and-watercolor-paintings 25% off on all my original art works. Ending on May the 22nd in about a week from now. Free shipping in Ireland.

My upcoming exhibition takes place from June the 26th in the Atrium Mullingar. Official opening night with refreshments and light bites and of course chats with me, is Tuesday the 27th. If you would like a nice sparkling invite please do pop me an email with your name and address to [email protected]

Chat with you next week!

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Woodlawn Estate encompassing the train station, golden mile walk and many protected structures is located 12 miles North of Ballinasloe.

You will find so much information here on times gone by https://woodlawn.galwaycommunityheritage.org/

A website full of interesting facts, stories, photos and history of a once bustling townland and large Landed Estate.

I also created a painting of Woodlawn house on how it may have looked limited prints are available here https://bernicecookeartist.com/products/woodlawn-house-co-galway-then-pen-watercolor-sketch-giclee-print-by-bernice-cooke-mounted-to-10-x-8

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