Laois grandfather keeping the May Bush tradition alive

A Rosenallis man has been doing his bit to pass an old tradition down through the generations. 

Dan Lynch of Rosenallis, has been putting up a May Bush for over 40 years at the Ridge of Capard.

Dan is originally from Stradbally. His daughter Kathleen Nelson said “Daddy is 80 years old and originally from Luggacurran, Stradbally.  He brought the tradition with him when he married my mother RIP who was born and raised in Capard.” 

“Daddy has been putting up a May Bush for well over 40 years. Based at the Ridge of Capard, many visitors add ribbons and messages to the May Bush every year.”

Kathleen said Dan’s two granddaughters Lexi,14, and Síomha,8, help him with the May Bush every year. 

“Daddy is part of the Slieve Bloom organisation and they keep traditions alive. They put up a May Bush in different villages throughout the Slieve Blooms every year,” she revealed.

Kathleen said a May Bush will be unveiled in Kinnitty on the Offaly side of the Slieve Bloom Mountains this Sunday, May 5 and there will be music on the day. 

The May Bush is traditionally decorated every year with painted egg shells and ribbons in a bid to keep the Pisheogs(fairies) away.  

The old rural custom which was practised throughout Ireland was believed to improve the harvest.