Residents invited to explore the history of their area through free heritage workshops
Residents are being invited to explore the rich and diverse heritage of Fermanagh and Omagh
RESIDENTS are being invited to explore the rich and diverse heritage of Fermanagh and Omagh through a programme of free workshops, talks, events and creative activities.
'Know Your Place', delivered through the 'Exploring Our Local Heritage' programme, is one of 13 programmes included in the Fermanagh and Omagh PEACEPLUS Local Action Plan, a project supported by PEACEPLUS and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
The programme aims to engage 350 residents across all seven District Electoral Areas to learn about local history, family stories, folklore, industrial heritage and the evolution of our towns, villages and landscapes.
The programme will be delivered through a series of hands-on workshops, each focusing on a particular heritage theme and offering opportunities to develop relevant skills, which may include oral history (storytelling), or photography, filmmaking or exhibition design.
Workshops will take place across the district in November, including Enniskillen, Lisnaskea, Ederney, Florence Court, Carrickmore, Dromore and Omagh. Tea and coffee will be provided at each event, and there is no need to book.
By exploring diverse heritage together, participants can celebrate our cultural roots and commonalities, strengthen cross-community and cross-border relationships, promote mutual understanding and respect, and contribute to building stronger, more inclusive and peaceful communities.
Speaking on the 'Know Your Place' programme, the chairwoman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Debbie Coyle, said: “'Know Your Place' offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the rich and varied history of our district, while meeting others in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
“Heritage is all around us. It is the buildings, landscapes and landmarks that shape our places, alongside the stories, traditions and memories passed down through generations. It connects us to our past, helps us understand one another and gives our communities a shared sense of identity and belonging.
“I would encourage residents from across the district to get involved, take part in the free activities on offer and enjoy learning more about the people, places and traditions that make Fermanagh and Omagh such a special place to live, work and visit.”
'Know Your Place' workshops will take place on the following dates:
• Wednesday, November 11, Enniskillen Workhouse, Enniskillen, 7pm (Genealogy, Surnames and Family Identity)
• Thursday, November 12, The Patrician Hall, Carrickmore, 7pm (Exploring Townlands, Place and Field Names)
• Thursday, November 12, Dromore Sports Complex, Dromore, 7pm (Ancient and Sacred Landscapes)
• Tuesday, November 17, Murphy's on Main Street, Ederney, 7pm (Waterways, Landscape and Borders)
• Thursday, November 19, Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, 7pm (Exploring Town Life and Social History)
• Tuesday, November 24, Castle Park Leisure Centre, Lisnaskea, 7pm (Town Life and Industrial Heritage)
• Wednesday, November 25, Larganess Centre, Mill Road, Florence Court, 7pm (Rural Heritage Life)
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council formally launched its Heritage Plan 2030 last year, setting out its commitment to promoting, protecting and celebrating our unique heritage.
For more information on the programme and upcoming workshops, visit: www.fermanaghomagh.com/services/community/the-peaceplus-programme/events-and-workshops/