28th Fieldwork Trip - 6th December 2018 - New Developments Update

On 6th December 2018 , the Togher Historical Association made its 28th Fieldwork Trip to date. Beginning with a local interview with long time resident Mrs. Dalton on Togher Road near Rose Lawn who moved to a vastly different Togher in 1962 and witnessed many changes as they happened ( which will feature in a separate article soon ) , the group took a look at the ongoing progress of the new developments in Togher plus two other features in the locality.

Dalton home on Togher Road

Mrs. Dalton Togher Road 1962 to present

First port of call was to the new builds at Togher Cross on the site of the former Lodge of Lehenaghmore House ( both now long gone ). Work is progressing rapidly and should soon be completed. Also the stone wall fronting onto main road is possibly slated for removal.

 Ongoing work at Togher Cross near Palmbury

 New stone wall meets old stone wall

 Corner perspective of new builds at Togher Cross

Close up view of new stone wall purpose not known

Next port of call was a coffee break at Applegreen and an informal meeting with Manager Eileen Feehily who was instrumental in having a replacement sign erected on site to honour the old National School. The Blog would like to thank Eileen for all her work in securing the new sign.

Newly erected sign on Applegreen site , Togher Road

Whilst in the general area , it was decided to make a visit to the grounds of Foroige , who are resident in the former Girls National School. Beautifully crafted structures included a Healing Garden and an Irish-style Tardis. Many thanks to the people behind these wonderful creations which showcase the talent of Togher's youth.

Healing Garden on grounds of Foroige , Togher Road

Foroige Tardis on display doubling as Garda Call Box

Cleverly crafted Well to side of building

It was then time for the group to take a close look at the ongoing construction of a two storey extension to the Boy's National School across the road. Progress is moving along nicely and the additional classrooms should be ready in time for the new term. 

 Side view of new extension to Togher B.N.S.

Corner view of new two storey classroom

The group moved onto the new Estate of Shournagh Grove which is springing to life. It will change the face of this section of Togher Road for a long time. It is planned to photograph and video this area when it is finally finished. The Blog is acutely aware of the privilege it enjoys in capturing these developments for future generations. 

Corner view of Shournagh Grove to left of Credit Union

Shournagh Grove to right of Credit Union

View from Deanrock Avenue of Shournagh Grove

Final stop of the day was reserved for a casual look at Minnie's Orchard. Nowadays this mysterious relic from the past serves as a car park to the right hand side of the Shopping Centre near the Lough ( SuperValu , Togher Road ). However closer inspection reveals its high stone walls which are buttressed by concrete plinths at its base with Earlwood Estate behind it. The Blog hopes to uncover the story behind this former Orchard in the future. Just another example of Togher's past hidden in plain sight.

Stone wall of Minnie's Orchard 

rear of Shopping Centre , Togher Road