Welcome to Irishtown

Irishtown, in County Mayo, is a small but charming townland in Ireland. It's not a big city, but it has a big heart and a very interesting history!

Did you know that Irishtown is one of the oldest settlements in Mayo? That's right! People have been living in this townland for hundreds of years. The name "Irishtown" might make you think it was named because it's in Ireland, but it actually got its name from the Irish people who moved there in the 17th century.

One cool thing about Irishtown is its annual fair, which has been happening for over 200 years! Long, long ago, people would come from all around to buy and sell animals, like cows and sheep. Nowadays, people come to the fair to have fun, eat yummy food, and enjoy music and games.

Nothing world-changing happened in Irishtown, but that doesn't make it any less special. Sometimes, the quiet, peaceful places have the most fascinating stories to tell. Irishtown, with its long history and friendly people, is one of those places.

  1. How old is the settlement of Irishtown?
  2. Why is the town called Irishtown?
  3. What happens at the annual fair in Irishtown?
  4. If you were to visit Irishtown, how would you describe the experience based on the passage?
  5. Why might Irishtown be considered special, even though nothing world-changing has happened there?

All About Irishtown

Irishtown, Co. Mayo, is a small, friendly village in the west of Ireland. It's surrounded by beautiful green fields, where sheep and cows love to graze. You might even spot a leprechaun if you look closely! The main street of the village is simply named Main Street. It's where you'll find the local shops, the school, and a charming church. As you explore, you might notice post boxes painted in bright red - a delightful contrast against the lush green landscape. There are also benches scattered around the village, perfect for enjoying a peaceful moment or an ice cream. The Derrinkee River flows nearby, a favorite spot for ducks. If you're lucky, you might spot a heron, standing still as a statue, patiently waiting for a fish to swim by. The surrounding landscape is filled with rolling green hills, not quite mountains, but certainly a challenge to climb. The land is also known for its wildflowers that bloom in the spring, painting the fields with a colorful array of flora. Irishtown, Co. Mayo is a real treasure of Ireland, a magical place where nature and village life coexist harmoniously.

  1. What is the name of the main street in Irishtown, Co. Mayo?
  2. Describe the Derrinkee River and its surroundings. What kind of wildlife can you find there?
  3. If you were to visit Irishtown, where would you go to explore and why? What geographical feature attracts you the most?
  4. Using a map, can you locate Irishtown, Co. Mayo and identify any notable physical features around it?
  5. How do the red post boxes and the green fields create a contrast in the landscape of Irishtown?

My Family and Irishtown

Hi, I'm Taylor, and I am 8 years old! I live in a beautiful place called Irishtown in Co. Mayo. It's a small but super fun place to grow up in. I love exploring around my home. There's loads of green fields to run freely and play football with my friends.

One of my favourite places to visit is Round Tower. It's really, really old and tall, and when I look up, it seems to touch the sky! I like to imagine it's a giant's toothpick. I also love going to the river Moy. I sometimes see fishermen trying to catch salmon, and it's fun to watch.

We also have a church in Irishtown, called St. John's Church. It looks pretty with its stained glass windows. They shine like a rainbow when the sun hits them. I like to go there with my family on Sunday.

Irishtown is a place full of wonders for a kid like me. There's always something to do and see. And, the best part is, I get to share it all with my friends and family. Growing up here is like being on a never-ending adventure!

  1. What is Taylor's favourite place to visit in Irishtown?
  2. Why does Taylor like to watch the fishermen at the river Moy?
  3. What does Taylor imagine the Round Tower to be and why?
  4. What does Taylor do at St. John's Church?
  5. How does Taylor feel about growing up in Irishtown?

The Logainm of Irishtown

Irishtown, or 'Baile Gaelach' in Irish, is a lovely little village in County Mayo, Ireland. 'Baile Gaelach' means 'Irish Town'. It is called so because long ago, when English people came to Ireland, they made the Irish people live outside their town. The place where the Irish people lived became 'Baile Gaelach' or Irishtown. It was the town for the Irish.

One of the most famous people from Irishtown is a brave man named Michael Davitt. He was born in 1846 and was a very important person in Irish history. He fought for the rights of Irish farmers who did not own their land. Because of his hard work, many farmers were able to own their farms. Today, his home in Irishtown is a museum where people can learn about his life and work.

Today, Irishtown is still a vibrant community. It has a beautiful church, a primary school, and a GAA club, where children and adults play Irish sports. It is proud of its Irish roots and its history, and it continues to be a special place in Ireland.

  1. What does 'Baile Gaelach', the Irish name for Irishtown, mean in English?
  2. Why was the village named 'Baile Gaelach' or Irishtown?
  3. Who is Michael Davitt and why is he important to Irishtown's history?
  4. What is now located in Michael Davitt's old home?
  5. What are some things you can find in Irishtown today?

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