Laois PPN welcomed an array of community groups and heritage enthusiasts to Donaghmore Workhouse & Agricultural Museum for Heritage Week 2025.

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National Heritage Week 2025 celebrated Ireland’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

As part of National Heritage Week 2025,  Laois Public Participation Network (PPN) welcomed community groups, volunteers and heritage enthusiasts to a special guided tour at the Donaghmore Workhouse & Agricultural Museum.

Heritage Week 2025 took place between August 16 and 24, with this year’s theme being 'Exploring Our Foundations'.

The tour in Donaghmore, led by Trevor Stanley, provided visitors with an informative and educational experience as they explored the historic site, which tells the powerful story of the families who lived and died within the walls of the workhouse during and after the Great Famine.

The Donaghmore Workhouse is one of County Laois’s most significant heritage sites, offering a window into a tragic chapter of Irish history.

During the Great Famine (1845-1849), approximately 1,200 individuals—about 10% of the local population—were forced to seek refuge in the workhouse, a grim testament to the widespread devastation that shaped Ireland's social landscape.

The Donaghmore Workhouse & Agricultural Museum serves as a vital resource in preserving and sharing this history, educating future generations about the resilience and hardship endured by those who lived through the Famine era.

Laois PPN would like to express its sincere appreciation for the support of the Heritage Office in Laois, whose collaboration helped coordinate the series of events held throughout the county.

The group have said that their support has been 'instrumental' in ensuring the success of National Heritage Week 2025 in Laois.

“We are proud to be part of National Heritage Week and to share the history of the Donaghmore Workhouse with the community,” said Majella Moore, Laois PPN Administrator.

“This event was an important opportunity to not only reflect on the past but to deepen our understanding of the lasting
impact of the Great Famine.”

Laois PPN consists of 700+ Member Groups from the Community, Social Inclusion and Environmental Pillars. All groups
registered with Laois PPN are given the opportunity to attend Laois PPN events.

Any group wishing to join Laois PPN can do so by completing the application on the Laois PPN website www.laoisppn.ie.

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