Abbeyfeale Mart Celebrates 50 Years of Agricultural Heritage
An iconic institution in the heart of County Limerick marked a significant milestone this week as Abbeyfeale Mart celebrated its 50th anniversary, continuing a legacy of excellence in livestock trading that dates back to the town’s historic calf fairs.
By Donal O’Regan
17 October 2024
Nestled alongside the River Feale, Abbeyfeale Mart holds a special place in the local community. Known for its high-quality livestock, it has been a vital meeting point for farmers since the mid-20th century. Originally, calves were sold on the streets until a group of visionary local men established the mart in 1974, changing the landscape of agricultural trading in the region.
The anniversary celebration kicked off with an air of nostalgia and excitement, despite concerns about a rainy forecast. “Thankfully, it seemed as if the deceased members of Abbeyfeale Mart were smiling down on the venue, as the heavy rain held off until after the large crowd had made it inside,” remarked Lorcan Curtin of the advisory committee. Past board members and employees reminisced about their experiences while browsing through copies of Seán Liston’s book, which chronicles the history of Golden Vale Co-operative Marts.
A Rich History
Seamus Lane, chair of the advisory committee, opened the proceedings with remarks highlighting the mart’s rich history. “From a survey conducted by vocational school students in the early 1970s to the scale model built at the time, Abbeyfeale Mart has undergone numerous renovations and expansions,” he noted, outlining how the facility has evolved to meet the needs of the community.
Guests heard from Maurice Lyons and James O’Connor of GVM, who shared their insights on the mart’s pivotal role in local agriculture. However, the highlight of the event was a heartfelt speech from Ted Hunt, a founding member and former chairman. Through his words, Hunt reminded attendees of their responsibility to uphold the legacy built over the past fifty years, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and community involvement.
A plaque was unveiled in honor of Hunt and the original founders, serving as a lasting tribute to their foresight and dedication. This commemorative gesture was celebrated with rounds of applause from the crowd, many of whom have direct ties to the mart’s inception.
Community Spirit and Future Prospects
Despite its long history, Abbeyfeale Mart continues to adapt and innovate. Curtin concluded the event by expressing optimism about the future: “Just like the River Feale flows beside it, the mart continues to forge a path ahead, nurturing agricultural practices that benefit both the land and its people.”
The event not only celebrated the mart’s past but also showcased its ongoing significance in promoting local farming practices and facilitating economic activity in Abbeyfeale and beyond.
For those interested in following Abbeyfeale Mart’s journey, updates and additional information can be found on their website and social media platforms, where community members are encouraged to engage and share their stories related to the mart.
As Abbeyfeale Mart enters its next chapter, the community remains hopeful that it will continue to thrive as a cornerstone of agricultural life in County Limerick.
Will you be attending the myriad of events and sales scheduled for the upcoming year at Abbeyfeale Mart? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
