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As of late 2024, the WCOH Audio Collection consists of thirty-nine digitally recorded interviews with forty-five interviewees, born between the approximate years of 1916 and 1950. The collection contains material collected according to two broad themes/projects
1- 1916 Collection – focused on connections to the Easter Rising and revolutionary period (1916 – 1923) in West Cork
2- Life Story Recordings which focuses on the memory and tradition of older people in the Dunmanway and Bandon area including emphasis on tradition, customs, folklore, change, social life, religion, agriculture, politics and work.
The collection is an invaluable record of everyday life in the past, culture, tradition, experience, and social change within the West Cork area and further afield. As part of the promotion of oral heritage, the WCOH Group have a role in the identification and engagement of the community with intangible heritage (such as oral histories, storytelling, cultural histories etc.). The implementation of these initiatives will be closely linked to the key directions within relevant strategies such as Creative Ireland, Arts and Culture, Cork County Heritage Plan etc.
It is an ongoing process to transition our collection into a resource for users
worldwide and encourage interest in the oral tradition and folklore of West Cork by making curated, accessible audio material available on an online platform for schools and general users.