Gathering In – Hidden Treasures

Hidden Treasures is a highly acclaimed four-part documentary series examining the history of Irish folklife. The series combines restored 16mm field recordings (produced by the National Museum of Ireland from the 1950s to the 1970s) with contemporary recordings of traditional rural crafts and rituals. These images emphasise the self-sufficiency of rural householders and craft specialists, as they utilise everyday materials to make practical objects for use in their daily lives.

Episode three explores community participation in a range of rural activities such as  harvesting, hay-making and turf-cutting.  It includes a  traditional performance by a group of Strawboys at a wedding in County Mayo. The appearance of these revellers disguised in straw costume and wearing conical straw hats is believed to bring luck, wealth and health to the newlyweds.

Hidden Treasures is part of The Loopline Collection Volume 2. To view the entire collection, click here.