School: Aughacashel (roll number 15356)

Location:
Aghacashel, Co. Leitrim
Teacher:
Joseph Conifry
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The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0211, Page 426

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The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0211, Page 426

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  1. XML School: Aughacashel
  2. XML Page 426
  3. XML “Rush Candles”

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  1. The rush candle was an improvement on the reisin candle. We cut the strongest and thickest rushes we could get on our own, or on a neighbours farm. We then peeled them, that is took off the green outside skin. Then we hung the white inside parts up to dry. In grease - I'm not sure of the kind or where it was got - that was melted in a grisset, the peeled rushes were placed. When they had absorbed some of the hot grease, and when it had cooled and a good quantity had stuck to them they were lifted, and tied in little bundles. Then they were hung up from the rafters till they were required for use. I may tell you they were sparingly used, much more so, than candles are to day. They gave a better, steadier, and cleaner light than the reisin candle. There were no tradesmen engaged in
    (continues on next page)
    Transcribed by a member of our volunteer transcription project.
    Topics
    1. activities
      1. economic activities
        1. trades and crafts (~4,680)
          1. candle-making (~728)
    Language
    English
    Collector
    Joseph Conifry
    Gender
    Male
    Informant
    Micheal Mc Kieornan
    Gender
    Male
    Address
    Mullaghgarve, Co. Leitrim