School: Convent of Mercy, Kilmacthomas

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1. Old Crafts

   

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   Old Crafts.

   1. Candle-making. - In the olden days about 70 years ago the people made their own candles. They melted fat in a pot, and then dipped in the fat wicks tied on a stick. The stick was lifted out, and the fat on the wicks got cool. Now the candle was half formed. The stick was put to the mouth of the pot again, and the half-shaped candles dipped up and down in the fat, until the candle was the right size. These were "tallow candles." These "tallow candles" burnt very fast, and gave out a great smell of grease which was not so nice.

   2. Coperage. - My Grandfather went to a Coperage to learn the trade. When he had finished his time he started business on his own account. He made tubs and baisins to hold milk and cream. The milk was put into tubs, and the cream skimmed from the top, and put into the baisins. He made churns for butter-making. He also made firkins to hold the butter that was sent away to the markets. He made barrels to hold rain water, and the people used to bring him their carts to mend the wheels. He was kept going making for the people of the district. It was a great trade in olden times.

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   Transcribed by a member of our volunteer transcription project.

   History Edit

   Language

   English

   Collector

   Maisie Walshe

   Gender

   Female

   Address

   Baile Uí Fhógarta, Co. Phort Láirge