Frenchpark Historical Society
We’re building a living archive of Frenchpark’s past — one story, photograph, and memory at a time. The FHS blends historical research, community outreach, and creative interpretation. From early Christian foundations to estate-era landmarks, folklore, and field names, we’re uncovering what’s been lost, re-sharing what’s been overlooked, and reconnecting people to the deeper story of this place. Whether it’s updating the historical record or painting it on a wall, we believe our village history is something to be seen, heard, and carried forward.
Current Research
The following are current areas of focus. If you have relevant information, please feel free to reach out. You can use the form below, or get in touch on Facebook.
- Documenting the history and use of the Market House- Recording local folklore and place names (we'd love to know what Pollnagollum was)- Previous uses for village buildings (ie identifying which was hotel, post office, dispensary, RIC Barracks, circa 1900 etc)- Photographing and documenting the current state of listed heritage sites, historic objects, and places of local significance.- Identifying places, markers, caves, standing stones, memorials, graveyards, buildings, other sites of interest etc. that have been overlooked or forgotten, so they can be included in the heritage map and considered for future care.
Autumn/Winter 2025
Objectives for the following season are:
- Compiling and organising historical information
- Identifying local heritage sites and objects
- Continuing community outreach
- Maintaining open communication with local council authorities.
Contact
We’re gathering stories, images, and artefacts that help tell the deeper history of Frenchpark and its surrounds — and we’d love your help.
We’re especially interested in:- Old photographs of Frenchpark and neighbouring townlands- Images or descriptions of buildings that no longer exist- Documents or objects of local interest- Rare field names and forgotten place names- Family stories of notable events or turning points- Local folklore, myths, and memory- Local customs, traditions, or sayings passed through generationsThough we are the Frenchpark Historical Society, we know that history doesn’t happen in a bubble. The life of Frenchpark has always been shaped by the people, places, and patterns of surrounding villages and townlands — and we value them equally. Essentially, we are collecting the history of the lands between Castlerea, Ballaghaderreen, Boyle, and Tulsk. If you reside within this area — no matter how small it may seem — please reach out. Every contribution helps.
Frenchpark Historical Society
Website and content developed by N. Folan. Cloonshanville photos by Andreas F. Borchert.
Thank You
Thank you for taking the time to reach out.
We will be in touch soon.