Historically Longford was known as Annaly, and Longfort Uí Fhearghail – Longford of the O’Farrells. As part of the 10th International Farrell Clan Rally that will take place this July, a Schools’ Heritage Project was envisioned and set in motion.
Several schools in Co. Longford were invited to participate in the Farrell Clan Schools Heritage Project 2026. Also taking part are St. Christopher’s Centre.
Our project encompasses a range of art forms – including music, dance, and literature. It embodies the spirit of inclusion, collaboration, and self-expression. Participants were encouraged and supported to unlock their creativity. A display will be held in Edgeworthstown Library in May, and later during the Clan Rally at other venues. The project will be digitised.
The participants explored and recorded the history of the Farrells / O’Farrells e. g. ancient castles, islands, place names, and personalities such as James Farrell – Titanic, Dr. Mary Farrell, J. P. Farrell – politician etc. Some schools focused on Farrells / O’Farrells who are now making history at home or abroad: Clare Farrell – sport, Maggie O’Farrell – writer, Niamh Farrell – trad. singer.
We hope to raise the profile of The Farrell Clan in the local community, and to highlight the importance of our shared ancestry.
The themes of the diaspora, of roots, and ‘Fáilte’ are also central to the project, ‘An áit a bhfuil do chroí, is ann a thabharfas do chosa tú.’ ‘Your feet will lead you to where your heart is.’
Farrell Clan Website
