Researcher and historian Monica Wallace will create an inventory and digital collection of 100+ photographs taken by Gustavus Handcock of Coolbrook, Wellingtonbridge, in the late 19th century.  Handcock’s work offers a unique perspective on life in a remote part of County Wexford on the cusp of major change.

Monica, working closely with Handcock’s great-grandson, Jack Handcock, and his wife, Peggy, will ensure that these wonderful early photographs are documented and made accessible in a variety of formats to current and future generations. This will bring the Handcock story and images to a much wider audience in County Wexford.

Monica will also evaluate the collection from the perspective of the history of photography in Ireland by tapping into local memories and knowledge, researching and documenting the stories and back-stories of the people and places depicted in the photographs. To do this, she will visit Grantstown daycare centre, residential care homes in the district, plus people in the community who may have links to some of the families identifiable in the photographs.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.