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School: Kilaneerin (roll number 950)

Location:
Killinierin, Co. Wexford
Teacher:
Nuala, Bean Uí Chadhla
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The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0888, Page 138

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The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0888, Page 138

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  3. XML “Folklore - Old-time Custom of Hunting the Wren”

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  1. Folklore - Old-time Custom of Hunting the Wren

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    In olden times it was the custom for boys to go around with the wren dressed up. The wren boys are also disguised and go from door to door singing the song of the wren.
    This old custom is celebrated because on St Stephsn's dayit became the king of the birds. On that day the birds all came together and said who-ever would fly the highest would be king. The cute little wren huddled under the eagle's wing the bird in which he knew would fly the highest.
    One boy carries the wren on the top of a stick and is disguised in glowing
    (continues on next page)
    Transcribed by a member of our volunteer transcription project.
    History Edit
    Topics
    1. events
      1. events (by time of year) (~11,476)
        1. Feast of St Stephen (~402)
    Language
    English
    Collector
    Martha Connell
    Gender
    Female
    Address
    Curragh, Co. Wexford