An exhibition of a digital archive of photographs of Athy Workhouse by Brian Cregan, with an introduction to the Poor Law Union archives of County Kildare by Karel Kiely, archivist, will take place on 6 December at 11am at Kildare County Archives and Local Studies, Harbour View, Naas. All are welcome to attend.

This is the culmination of two Creative Ireland funded projects in 2023 and 2024 which involved artist photographer Brian Cregan working with local communities to explore and reflect on the heritage and history of the workhouse in Athy through a series of creative workshops, as well creating a digital archive of photographs.

Like many of its kind in Ireland, Athy Workhouse has undergone several transformations over time. From an institution that symbolised oppression and despair to a hospital providing care for older people, the building is an important part of the area's architectural and social history. The digital archive is now part of the Kildare County Archives collections, and will be on display throughout the day on Dec 6th.

The project has enhanced wellbeing through creative participation from the local community. A key element of the project was a series of photography workshops at Athy Library, with Athy Photographic Society and with a local national school Scoil Phádraig Naofa where participants and pupils learnt about composition, exposure, lighting and editing techniques.

For more information on the project visit Reclaiming the Workhouse webpage.

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