(from left) Bill Ronan, Moyna Doherty, Terry Trench, Fr. Joe Dooley, Michael Leahy, Sheila Crehan. Madge Fortune (Treasurer) not in photo.
Slane parish provides a rich heritage containing within its bounds the ancient pagan monuments at Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth with the Christian site on the Hill of Slane and St. Erc’s Hermitage on the bank of the Boyne. Over the years sub-committees have researched many subjects including Slane Races, 1798 Rebellion, Slane in the 1940’s as well as Senior Citizens anecdotes and memories of bygone days. The latter has been videoed and recorded for posterity.
One sub-committee had a plaque erected at the house in Slane Village where Dean Cogan was born. He compiled the first history of the Diocese of Meath.
Last year a sub-committee was formed to research the life of locally born sculptor and artist John Cassidy. This culminated in an exhibition of his works in October 2004.
Four historical journals have been published to date. The first one entitled “150th Anniversary of Slane National School” which deals with the history of the school since its foundation in 1847 was published in 1997. “The Old Frequented Ways”, published in 2000, contains articles on the local history and folklore of Slane. It was written by members of the society and can be purchased from any of the officers. The above book ,
“John Cassidy , sculptor and artist” was published in 2004.
“ Slane Reflections” was compiled and produced by members of the Society in 2008.
Field trips and outings to places of historical interest are organised during the summer. At Christmas a visit to the theatre or concert hall is enjoyed. Sometimes a dinner in a local restaurant or hotel fits the bill.
Trip to Fore and Tullynally Castle ,Co Westmeath, 2005.
Slane and District History Society 