Bishop's historic local film and new sign to be unveiled in Laois village
Film reel taken in 1950s by Laois born bishop to be screened for locals along with unveiling of new church information sign
Historic film footage of Laois villagers, recorded by a local bishop in the 1950’s, is about to be screened publicly as part of a Heritage Week event.
Camross village is about to get their own screening of the precious footage of local parishioners setting out on a pilgrimage, recorded by film enthusiast and Camross native, Bishop Patrick Collier some 74 years ago.
It will be part of a double bill of heritage events, along with the unveiling of a new information board at the original St Kavan’s Catholic Church in the pretty village.
Bishop Collier was born in Camross in 1880, ordained as a priest in 1907 and then as bishop in 1928, leading the Diocese of Ossory until his death in 1964.
Joanna Steenkist of Camross Tidy Towns told the Leinster Express about the film.
“He was here for the pilgrimage departure. It seems he was ahead of his time because he had a camera and made the movie. We hope that people will recognise family members in the film. The women are all dressed up with their hats and handbags, like movie stars. We hope to put it online afterwards, if permitted,” she said.
A beautifully crafted sign has been made by a local artist, detailing the church’s interesting history.
Artist Peter Dooley was commissioned by the Camross Heritage Committee to create the board, with funding from Creative Ireland Laois.
It will outline the architectural and local history of the original stone church which still stands intact beside the modern church that replaced it, and the famed Poet’s Cottage that is now a community café and hub.
“This was always on our wishlist, because our old church and graveyard don’t have any information displayed. Often people who visit here ask questions about it. Fr Brian Griffin is absolutely fantastic and is very much behind this.
“We are so lucky to have Peter also. He has gathered information, history and old photos which people were kind enough to loan to us for the event. It’s absolutely wonderful,” Joanna said.
“We are very grateful to all for giving their photos. We will have them on display and we hope people bring more on the day,” Joanna said.
The big reveal will take place during National Heritage Week 2026, on Sunday, August 16 at 7 pm, with all welcome to gather at the base at the bell tower of the old church.
Afterwards all will be welcomed for refreshments in the hub until 8.30pm, hosted by Camross Tidy Town Group.