'Hip to be square' - Retro baler makes hay while sun shines in Offaly

"What is rare is wonderful!" This picture in the sunshine with a clear blue sky and a field full of small square bales of hay on a farm at Lumcloon, Cloghan during the recent heatwave was taken by Marty Guinan.

The square baler arrived in Ireland in the 1950s but this retro hay-making method has almost disappeared now having being replaced by the much larger round baler. 

While round bales might be more practical, square bales were much more craic. Anyone else remember building forts and other structures from square bales? Ah the good old days.... but loading them wasn't easy!

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We are inviting people to share photos that capture the spirit of the county. From special occasions to quieter moments, your pictures help tell the story of everyday life in our community.

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