jbsphotoskilkenny
In 2021, when the flag to commemorate the signing of the Truce in 1921, was raised above the historic Closh in Kilkenny city, no one could imagine the series of actions that would unfold over the following four years. Actions conceived, thought through and completed by volunteers across all walks of life in Kilkenny, has led to a space for locals and visitors alike to enjoy and at the same time a space that is contributing to transformational change in how we consider what is beautiful.
Keep Kilkenny Beautiful led the project over four years and welcomes people from a wide range of walks of life. The committee are always keen to include people with disabilities in their activities. Central to the development of this beautiful inclusively created space has been the contribution of the participants of the Bloom School of Horticulture. The Bloom School of Horticulture is one of the options available to people attending the SOS disability services and this is where participants can engage in a range of activities, where they learn how to grow and care for plants and engage in gardening activities. The opportunity to include the work of the people in the Bloom School of Horticulture was one that was readily accepted and the added bonus of the expertise of Donal Croughan, the project leader was a great boost to the development of the Closh Truce Garden.
Aptly named The Closh Truce Garden, this area was developed following the erecting of a flagpole to commemorate the 1921 Truce marking the end of the War of Independence. The part of the Closh nearest Friary St has now been reclaimed for nature and the idea of remembering the past and moving forward to the challenges of today, we must make peace with nature and reverse the damage that has been done to nature particularly in the last 50 years.
This garden with the support and input of the local community under the remit of Keep Kilkenny Beautiful has evolved into a place to remember, to reflect and to reconcile and make peace. The work and contribution of the Bloom School of Horticulture is a major part of that space and demonstrates the ability of everyone to contribute to make the world a better place for everyone in our community. The circular cobble lock area was laid down with stone that was removed from one of the city streets. The pots that were used to grow the plants were recycled from a wholesale nursery. The pollinator friendly plants were grown from tiny plugs, with the participants in Bloom School of Horticulture and the design and choice of plants in the two large pollinator beds were overseen by staff in SOS Bloom School of Horticulture. This design was then planted by Keep Kilkenny Beautiful, The Lions Club and Kilkenny Volunteer Centre.
Commemorating the War of Independence, seven Mountain Ash trees were planted. Each representing the signatories of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic. Also included here are three Hollies each representing those that died in the ambush on Friary St during that time not far from the Closh.
The mural on the old handball alley was designed in conjunction with local residents who shared their stories in workshops over a 6 week period, with artist Graham Carew. The garden has matured beautifully. Late last year over 30,000 pollinator friendly bulbs were planted in front of the mural and adds another piece of beauty and food for bees in the spring. Most recently, two benches have been added, with help from the Kilkenny Municipal District team. These were donated through the Kilkenny UN Vets Association. They were built by hand in the Midlands Prison Portlaoise. Another example of how we can all contribute to making the world a better place.
Now it’s beautiful to see the local people come out, meet, sit and enjoy the area and be proud of that beautiful space, that is the Closh, in full bloom!
