The Maharees/Castlegregory Onion Basket Revival

Join us in a conversation about the Maharees/Castlegregory Onion Basket Revival. Funded through the Heritage Council's Community Heritage Grant 2025, this project sought to re-create a one-time, often-used basket that was an integral part of community life in the Castlegregory/Maharees area.

These willow baskets were used in the harvesting of onions and potatoes in the last century and had been lost in the move from natural to man-made materials. An archival photograph and descriptions from community elders formed the basis for a demonstration model. A two-day workshop followed in which basket maker Diane Southey imparted the onion-basket-making skills to a group of community members. The baskets and their stories have inspired much conversation and nostalgia about times past and we hope to continue this with a panel discussion on the history of the baskets and this basket project on Monday 18th August from 7.30-8.30pm at the Club Rooms, Castlegregory. A short film which captured the story of the basket revival will also be presented.

This event is supported by Kerry County Council.