Welcome to Dysart

Dysart is a special little townland in County Laois, Ireland, which is like a tiny piece of our beautiful country. It's not very big, but it has its own unique story just like every place.

Long, long ago, when your great-great-great-grandparents might have been little kids like you, Dysart was part of a larger area called the Kingdom of Ossory. The people who lived in this kingdom were known as the Ossorians. Isn't that a cool name?

The most exciting thing about Dysart's history is its old church. This isn't just any church, it's a really old one that was built around 700 years ago! Can you imagine that? That's even older than your oldest teddy bear! This church, called Dysart Enos Church, stands as a reminder of the people who lived there centuries ago.

Even though nothing famous like a big battle or a royal visit happened in Dysart, it's still an important part of our country's history. It's like a quiet, tiny piece in the big puzzle that makes up the story of Ireland. So, remember, every place, no matter how small, has its own unique tale to tell.

  1. What is the name of the old church in Dysart?
  2. What kingdom was Dysart part of long ago?
  3. What were the people who lived in this kingdom called?
  4. Why do you think even small places like Dysart are important to the history of a country?
  5. Imagine you lived in Dysart 700 years ago. How do you think your life would be different?

All About Dysart

Dysart Co. Laois is a wonderful place that's full of adventure waiting to be discovered by curious minds like yours! It's located in a beautiful part of Ireland known as County Laois.

The area is full of nature, with many different types of plants and animals. You may spot a fox or a rabbit hopping around! The green fields are dotted with wildflowers, and if you're lucky, you might even see a colourful butterfly or buzzing bee!

There are no big mountains or rivers in Dysart Co. Laois, but there are lots of lovely fields and hills to explore. The scenery is very peaceful, and it's a perfect spot for a picnic.

In the village, you'll find quaint streets lined with charming houses. There's a friendly community here, and it's a great place to make new friends.

The most notable street is the Main Street, where you'll find the local school, shops, and the beautiful church that's been there for many years. The church is a special place where people come together, it's like the heart of the village.

So, whether you're a nature explorer or a village adventurer, Dysart Co. Laois has something for everyone!

  1. What types of wildlife might you encounter in Dysart Co. Laois?
  2. Describe the geographical features of Dysart Co. Laois.
  3. What can you find on the Main Street of Dysart Co. Laois and why is it important?
  4. Using a map of County Laois, can you locate Dysart and identify other nearby places of interest?
  5. Plan a trip to Dysart Co. Laois and describe the geographical features or locations you would like to explore.

My Family and Dysart

Hi! I'm Sam and I'm 8 years old. I live in a place called Dysart Co. Laois. It's really cool here. There's a big mountain called Slieve Bloom and it's really big and tall. Sometimes, I go there with my mom and dad. We walk and play all day. It's fun! There's also a pretty lake called Garryhinch Woods. We go fishing there sometimes and I even caught a big fish once!

There's also an old castle here. It's called Rock of Dunamase. It's really old and big. I like to pretend I'm a prince or princess when I go there. It's fun to imagine. I also like to play in my backyard with my dog, Buddy. We play fetch and run around. I love living here in Dysart Co. Laois. It's a fun and beautiful place!

  1. What is the name of the mountain in Dysart Co. Laois?
  2. What activities does Sam enjoy doing at Slieve Bloom?
  3. What is the name of the lake where Sam goes fishing?
  4. What does Sam like to pretend when visiting the Rock of Dunamase?
  5. Who does Sam play with in the backyard?

The Logainm of Dysart

Dysart is a small town in County Laois, Ireland. The word 'Dysart' comes from two old Irish words, 'díseart', which means 'hermitage', and 'coill', which means 'wood'. So, in English, Dysart means 'hermitage of the wood'. A hermitage is a place where hermits, people who lived alone and away from others, stayed.

Long ago, Irish hermits used to live in the woods, away from the hustle and bustle of towns and cities. They liked the peace and quiet of the woods. Just like them, the people of Dysart today enjoy living in a peaceful and quiet place. They are proud of their town's name, which reminds them of their history and the hermits who once lived there.

Even though the town has modernised over the years, with new buildings and facilities, the name Dysart still holds a special meaning for the people. It links them to their past, and reminds them of the peaceful nature of their town. So, Dysart is not just a name, but a part of the people's identity and their connection to history.

  1. What is the English meaning of the word 'Dysart'?
  2. What is a hermitage?
  3. Why do you think hermits chose to live in the woods?
  4. How does the name 'Dysart' connect the people to their past?
  5. Why is the name Dysart important to the people of the town?

Slideshow - Dysart
A full set of teaching plans for teaching about Dysart