From Ilen to Roaring Water Bay: Volume 2

Historic Aughadown stories brought to life in new local history book

The rich heritage, history and memories of Aughadown are being celebrated in a new

publication that captures the voices, stories and traditions of one of West Cork’s most

distinctive parishes.

From Ilen to Roaring Water Bay – Volume Two will be officially launched on Friday, 16

October 2026, at 7.00pm in the West Cork Hotel, Skibbereen. The book will be

launched by acclaimed theatre director, actor and author Karen Minihan, whose books

include Ordinary Extraordinary Women.

Produced by the Aughadown Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA), the book is the

second volume dedicated to preserving the social history of the parish, situated

between the Ilen River and Roaring Water Bay. It follows the success of the group’s first

publication almost thirty years ago and reflects years of research, recording and

community involvement.

The idea for the book was inspired not only by the popularity of the original publication,

but also by the many stories shared during the Aughadown ICA Heritage Week Pop-up

Museum in Skibbereen Town Hall in 2025. The exhibition brought together treasured

artefacts and memories from local families, highlighting the importance of recording

these stories before they are lost.

Described as a “time capsule” of parish life, the new publication features first-hand

recollections of school days, farming, fishing, religion and everyday life in Aughadown

over the generations. The book includes personal memories of places that have played

an important role in the fabric of the community over the years, including the shop in

Lisheen, Minihane’s Bar and the Dairy in Aughadown. Alongside these recollections are

local poems, historic photographs and original research contributed by local historians.

Among the many highlights is an article by Terri Kearney about the house in which she

lives in Lisheen, and an illustrated study by Finola Finlay of one of Ireland’s earliest

churches on Skeams Island. The book also includes articles reflecting on the

development of local industries, including Roaring Water Bay mussel farming and

Skeaghanore Duck, two products that have earned international recognition. Also

included is previously unpublished research by the late Tim Cadogan on the history of

trees planted around Cobh and Lake Marsh.

The publication also celebrates the remarkable longevity of 19 people from the parish

who reached the age of 100. It features the work of local poets alongside stories of

previous generations, demonstrating that the creative spirit of Aughadown continues to

flourish. Local poet Elaine Desmond, a native of Whitehall, captures the importance of

preserving these memories when she writes:

“It is a grandchild’s delight to ask their grandparents about their lives, but we always

regret not asking more.”

Aughadown ICA hopes the book will encourage younger generations to learn more

about their own families and community, while ensuring that the stories and memories

of previous generations are preserved for the future.

Everyone is welcome to attend the launch on Friday, 16 October at 7.00pm in the West

Cork Hotel, Skibbereen, where copies of From Ilen to Roaring Water Bay – Volume Two

will be available.