Where the River Remembers - Tales from Oatlands

A journey through history, memories and nature along the river at Oatlands House.

The event will begin with a short walk down to the river, where we will discover some of the hidden stories of the Oatlands landscape, including the remains of the old coach house and mill, the waterfall and the river that has shaped this landscape for generations.

We will then hear from Jean Beattie, who will share her memories of growing up in a bus beside the river during the 1950s and 1960s. Her stories will offer a fascinating glimpse into childhood and everyday life by the river at a time when the landscape was a very different place.

The river is not only part of our history — it is also a living habitat. Kate Wieczorkiewicz, Community Water Officer with Mayo County Council, will give a biodiversity talk exploring the river, its wildlife and habitats, and the importance of protecting our local waterways for the future.

But we also want to hear your stories. Do you remember playing by the river as a child? Fishing, exploring, swimming, building dens, collecting wildflowers or simply spending time along its banks? Perhaps you remember the old mill, the waterfall, the coach house or people who lived and worked in this landscape.

This is an event for everyone — young and old — and an opportunity to discover how history, childhood memories and biodiversity are all woven together along the Oatlands riverbank.