The Shillelagh
From walking stick to warrior's weapon—uncover its surprising history
Dear Ireland,
There’s something about the soft morning mist clinging to the fields, the echo of an old folk tune drifting from a pub the night before, and the way history whispers from every stone wall. You are more than a place—we carry you in our hearts like a memory we never want to fade. No matter how far we wander, there is always a part of us that longs for your wild coastlines, your stories, and your welcome.
Today’s Newsletter Presented By
In today’s email:
The Shillelagh
Don’t Let Your Ireland Trip End In Tears
From Our Love Ireland Community - If You Could Live Anywhere In The World
Where can I buy a shillelagh?
Can You Answer The Travel Quizzer Question of The Day?
At the bar - Live Music this weekend
Around The Web: Must-Try Adventure Activities Along Ireland’s North Coast, I’m in Ireland, looking to meet my cousins, and I find a church my great great grandfather built, Wild, Blue and Irish , and more
From Social Media - Not Just for Locals - A Global Irish Family
Irish Food You Will Love - Eat Well, Travel Often
The Craic - All Four Essential Food Groups
The Shillelagh
👉 Read the full story
It’s more than just a curious souvenir. The Shillelagh carries centuries of Irish folklore, rebellion, and craftsmanship in its stout blackthorn frame. From its roots in County Wicklow to its role in fierce faction fights and martial tradition, today’s article traces the wild journey of this legendary stick. Whether wielded in ceremony or combat, the Shillelagh is Ireland in your hand—knotted, enduring, and proud.
👉 Read the full story
and do Reply:- Do You Own A Shillelagh?
Don’t Let Your Ireland Trip End In Tears
Top Experiences In Ireland Likely To Sell Out
2025 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!
“...so you can focus on making memories, not managing schedules.”
From Our Love Ireland Community
The Love Ireland Facebook Group is a community of 1.2 Million happy people!
If You Could Live Anywhere In The World
County Clare, where my paternal grandfather, Michael David Ratchford, was born in 1860 and lived for his first 12 years, emmigrated to US, then settled in Ohio. He worked in the coal mines, got involved with the union and at 36 became the President of the United Mine Workers of America. Got them their first contract for 1 year, so if the miners got hurt they would still get paid. He also got the workday shortened to 8 hours instead of 16 hours. Baptized at St. Mary's in Quin, near Ennis.
Any Ratchfords still there?
Share Yours!
Where can I buy a shillelagh?
Looking to own a true piece of Irish heritage? This guide leads you straight to the heart of County Wicklow, where the O'Caidhla family has been handcrafting authentic blackthorn shillelaghs for generations. Whether you're shopping in person at the charming village of Shillelagh or browsing from abroad, you’ll discover where to find these storied walking sticks—each one steeped in tradition, skill, and legacy.
👉 Read the full story
🌟 Do You Know The Answer? - Travel Quizzer is Here!
Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!
Here’s a taste:
Travel Quizzer Question:
Which Irish village is traditionally associated with the origin of an Irish walking stick?
A) Doolin
B) Shillelagh
C) Killarney
D) Cong
Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!
Answer to a previous question: - A) Ha’penny Bridge
At The Bar
Live Music this weekend
Peadar’s Bar Moate
Sat Night @10pm Pat OToole
Sunday evening @7pm
Around The Web
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I’m in Ireland, looking to meet my cousins, and I find a church my great great grandfather built
Wild, Blue and Irish
From Social Media
Not Just for Locals - A Global Irish Family
And YouTube
For More From Social Media:
Irish Food You Will Love
Eat Well, Travel Often
Interested in more Irish Recipes?
The Craic
All Four Essential Food Groups
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Essentials you need to pack for your Ireland Trip
