Michael Dwyer 200 is a two-day event commemorating the 200th anniversary of the death of the renowned "Wicklow Chief," Michael Dwyer, leader of the 1798 rebellion. This Heritage Week event is scheduled for 23rd and 24th August in Glenmalure.
Join us on Saturday, 23rd August for a one-day seminar that explores Dwyer’s legacy. The program will feature talks focusing on his early life in the Glen of Imaal, his role in the 1798 rebellion, the aftermath of the rebellion, his exile to Australia in 1806, and his significant legacy within the Irish community in Australia until his death in 1825.
The guest speakers include:
- Carmel O’Toole, Local Historian, Glenmalure Resident, and Author
- Dr. Ruan O'Donnell, University of Limerick, who has written several historical books, including a biography of Michael Dwyer
- Dr. Perry McIntyre, Australian Historian and expert genealogist
- Dr. Joan Kavanagh, Author and Historian.
Following speeches from our distinguished guests, we will unveil a specially commissioned piece in memory of Michael Dwyer on this significant anniversary. This full-day event will take place in the grounds next to Glenmalure Lodge.
On Sunday, 24th August we will host a guided bus tour starting in Glenmalure. This tour will explore sites associated with Michael Dwyer, including Barravore Valley, The Military Road, Dwyer/McAlister Cottage, The Glen of Imaal, Rathdangan, and Dunlavin villages. This tour is organised in partnership with West Wicklow, Rathdangan and Donard Historical Societies, providing a unique opportunity to discover locations and stories related to Dwyer, along with a "Living History" performance.
In conjunction with these events, an educational pack on the Leaders of the Rebellion has been reimagined through Wicklow County Council Archives and will be distributed to all secondary schools throughout the county.
Additionally, a recently launched four-part podcast series on the history of The Military Road, curated by Fin Dwyer and Wicklow County Council Heritage Office, offers excellent context for the Michael Dwyer 200 commemorations. This podcast is available from the Irish History Podcast at Acast.
Cathaoirleach of Arklow Municipal District Cllr. Miriam Murphy, commented, "It is wonderful that Arklow Municipal District, Wicklow County Council, and the organising committee have coordinated this important program of events. I am grateful to all who have contributed their time and expertise to make this program a success, especially the local communities who treasure and preserve the history of their localities."
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Emer O’Gorman, stated, "Wicklow County Council is proud to support the Michael Dwyer 200 commemoration program, honouring our famous 1798 Rebellion leader, Michael Dwyer, and marking this important period in our county’s history. I look forward to the events that will be held in August in Glenmalure."
Cllr. Pat Kennedy, Chairperson of the Michael Dwyer 200 Committee, remarked, "I am proud of the program developed to remember and honor our own Michael Dwyer. This program began with an under-13 GAA match—the inaugural Michael Dwyer Memorial Cup—and has evolved into a two-day event featuring guest lectures, the unveiling of a specially commissioned monument, a tour of Dwyer landmarks, and a re-enactment event."
These events will be an integral part of Wicklow County Council's Heritage Week program, and we are grateful for the funding contribution from The Heritage Council for the Sunday tour as part of the County Wicklow Heritage Plan.
To book your place, please visit the Eventbrite links below:
Saturday, August 23rd: One Day Seminar (full day event) Saturday 23rd August Tickets
Sunday, August 24th: Guided Bus Tour (full day event) Sunday 24th August Tickets
For further information, please email arklowmd@wicklowcoco.ie.
IMAGERY
Picture of Michael Dwyer