The Rise and Fall of Linen in Clonakilty c.1730 – 1826
Lecture by
Con O’Neill
on
Thursday March 26 2026
at
8pm
in
Clonakilty GAA Pavilion, Ahamilla, P85 WN84
The year 2026 marks the bicentennial of a pivotal moment in Clonakilty’s history. In the late 18th century, the linen industry transformed a stagnating settlement into a thriving market town. Conversely, its collapse in 1826 was felt almost overnight, leaving behind starving weavers, sponsored emigration, and an economic slump that impacted generations.
While focusing on Clonakilty, the talk explores the influence of Sir Richard Cox in Dunmanway and the wider ‘linen belt’ which stretched along the coast to Skibbereen.
Con O'Neill is an estate agent with Sherry FitzGerald O'Neill and has a keen interest in local history. As well as giving the occasional walking and cycling tour of the area, Con has published articles in the Clonakilty Historical and Archaeological Journal on 'the long eighteenth century' and is editor of the forthcoming journal.
Cover charge: €5