Clare FM

Hedge Schools & M&S: The Unexpected Duo Making History in Clare!

Discover how hedge schools and a new M&S store are sparking excitement in Clare!

This week on Clare FM’s History in Focus, local historian Colm Liddy joined host Alan Morrissey to delve into the intriguing world of hedge schools and the famed poet Brian Merriman. Hedge schools, which thrived during the 18th and 19th centuries, were clandestine places of learning held under the open sky or in the hushed confines of local farmhouses. In a time when formal education was sparse and often unavailable to the common folk, these makeshift schools provided crucial opportunities for children, particularly in rural Ireland. The charm of this underground educational movement not only cultivated minds but also served as a breeding ground for significant cultural and literary figures, with Merriman being one of the most notable examples, whose works continue to inspire generations.

In a delightful twist of fate, the history buffs in Ennis also had something modern to celebrate this week—the grand opening of a new Marks & Spencer store located in the Applegreen Service Station! This new outlet marks the retailer's 20th branch in the Republic of Ireland and promises to bring an array of quality foods, clothing, and homeware to the lively county town. Local residents are thrilled as they flock to the store, popping in for a quick meal deal or to check out the latest fashion. This brand-new shopping destination is expected to boost the local economy and provide a fresh hub for socialising and community gatherings.

What better way to blend the old with the new? Hedge schools paved the way for community-led education, donning the same vibrant spirit that helps businesses like Marks & Spencer thrive in today’s modern economy. With an emphasis on community, both these historical and contemporary happenings remind us of the strength and resilience found in the heart of Clare. The hedge schools stood as a testament to the community's dedication to education, similar to how today’s retailers promote local engagement and beauty in everyday life.

As history nerds share stories of Merriman's poetic legacy, shoppers comment on their favourite new finds at M&S, proving that whether it’s literature or lunch, Clare County knows how to keep both the mind and the belly satisfied!

Did you know? Hedge schools got their name because they were often found beside hedges! And speaking of M&S, the iconic store has been serving people in Ireland since 1979, bringing quintessentially British goods across the Irish Sea and delighting Irish shoppers. So whether you're pondering an old poem or picking up a fresh scone, Clare is proving to be the place to be for both history and shopping!