This past weekend, the Ballymacoda & Ladysbridge Historical Group had the pleasure of welcoming visitors to our historical Photo Exhibition at Kilcredan National School, held as part of National Heritage Week 2025. Over three days, we were delighted to share a curated collection of historic photographs that captured the spirit, stories, and everyday life of our community across the decades.
From the moment the doors opened on Friday evening, there was a warm buzz of conversation, recognition, and shared memory. Locals and visitors alike gathered to explore the faces and places of the past – some familiar, some long-forgotten, all treasured. Many paused to exchange stories, point out relatives, or reflect on how much – and in some ways how little – the community has changed.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the exhibition was witnessing the emotional connections sparked by the photographs. Many visitors were moved to find images of family members, neighbors, or even themselves from years gone by! Chatter and laughter echoed through the room as stories were shared, tales of school days, local dances, sporting triumphs, and many local characters fondly remembered.
Several guests travelled from outside the parish to attend, with some remarking that they hadn’t seen certain photos in decades. We spoke to visitors from Youghal, Cloyne, Churchtown South, Ballycotton, and even folks from as far away as Ardmore & An Rinn Co. Waterford, and Killarney Co. Kerry! Others brought younger family members along, using the exhibition as an opportunity to pass on local knowledge and family history, which was fantastic to see.
There was a real sense of pride in the room – pride in where we’ve come from, and in the people who helped shape our community. The event became more than just a display – it was a space for renewed connection, conversation, and also remembrance. In addition to the approximately 560 photographs on display over the weekend, the slide show displaying all photographs collected by the group was also a big hit – with many remarking of the ‘cinema feel‘, and some people sitting for hours taking it all in, and enjoying the tea and biscuits.
The photographs that were displayed are more than just images — they are living links to our past. They remind us of who we are, where we come from, and the people and places that built the foundations of our community. This exhibition highlighted just how vital it is to preserve and share visual records of local history – and ensure that metadata such as names and places is recorded with the photographs. In a fast-changing world, these photos offer a tangible sense of continuity. They capture moments of ordinary life – a school group, a wedding day, threshing days, a forgotten building – that together tell the extraordinary story of our parish. They provide future generations with the chance to see, quite literally, the faces of their heritage. By putting these images on display, we’re not just celebrating the past — we’re keeping it alive. Each conversation sparked, each memory recalled, helps to ensure that the people and events depicted in those photos are not forgotten. In many ways, this exhibition was a collective act of remembrance and respect.
As we reflect on the success of our 2025 Heritage Week Photo Exhibition, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended over the weekend. Your presence, stories, and enthusiasm helped make the event so special. We also want to thank all those who submitted photographs through our collection days back in April, or via email, or through members of the historical group. The exhibition could not have been successful without you. It was great to see generations coming together to share memories, make connections, and celebrate the rich heritage of Ballymacoda and Ladysbridge.
A final special word of thanks must go to the dedicated members of the BLCC Historical Group, whose phenomenal work and tireless planning made this exhibition possible. From holding collection days way back in April, to researching and selecting the photographs, to designing displays, setting up the space, and welcoming visitors (and keeping them fed and watered!) — their passion and commitment to local history shone through in every detail.
Together, we’ve not only honoured the past, but helped ensure it continues to inspire and inform the future.
Go raibh míle maith agaibh go léir.
P.S. – As we reflect on the success of this event, we also look forward – stay tuned for what’s next by following us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573114838390
Jimmy Collins, Chairperson, BLCC Historical Group
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