Film on the recreation of gown found in Offaly bog in 17th century launched

A FILM on the recreation of the Shinrone Gown was shown to a packed house in Shinrone over the weekend.

To an emotive musical score, Rosalind Fanning and Bernie Stapleton shared their highs and lows of recreating the 17th-century Shinrone Gown - a story beautifully captured on film by Garret Daly of Offaly-based Mixed Bag Media.

The film captivated the audience, sparking thought-provoking discussions and admiration for the time, effort, and expertise required to create the historically accurate gown. The film left a lasting impression, with the general sentiment afterward being, “Wow.”

Speaking to the Tribune, Ger Murphy reflected on how the community entrusted the project to Rosalind and Bernie, who have done more than just recreate the gown - they have added a new chapter to its story, bringing the Shinrone Gown to a much wider audience.

Elaine Smyth of Cangort Park, who wore the dress for the filming, was thanked by the Shinrone Heritage Group for bringing the gown to life and playing a central role in the film’s visual narrative.

Ger Murphy reflected on the gown’s deep-rooted ties to the Shinrone area. "It’s very likely that the descendants of those who reared the sheep, wove the fabric, dyed the wool, made the dress, and wore it are still living in and around Shinrone today," he remarked.

As for why the dress ended up in a bog outside Shinrone? While historians may speculate, Ger quoted the words of a young girl who attended one of the community workshops: "The bog holds the secret to her story."

The project’s success was no mystery, and the Shinrone Heritage Group was keen to acknowledge the role played by the Heritage Office for their support, guidance, and funding. Heritage officer Amanda Pedlow highlighted how community projects like the Shinrone Gown foster connections and preserve local history. She noted that Offaly County Council was delighted to have funded both the gown’s reproduction and the film through Creative Ireland Grants and encouraged community groups interested in working with artists to reach out, as Creative Ireland funding applications are now open.

Following the film, Bernie and Rosalind were presented with a photobook capturing their journey, along with a presentation of flowers and St Brigid’s Day crosses made by Maura Campbell.

Eileen Patterson, St Mary’s Vestry, and the local community were especially thanked for supporting the film screening in Cloughmoyle.

The afternoon concluded with meaningful discussions with the artists, reflecting the deep connection the film created within the community. It was a fitting end to a day of history, mystery, and community spirit.

The Shinrone Gown Project is part of the community’s ongoing efforts to learn, reflect, and celebrate heritage. Past projects include the conservation of the 19th-century Shinrone Hurl, the restoration of the village’s Turret Clock, the oldest example in the county, and the Mary Lowndes stained-glass window, a rare and unique example in Ireland.