Last chance to share your ‘Stories from the Gardens’: National Botanic Gardens make final call to visitors to submit experiences

The National Botanic Gardens is delighted to extend the submission date of this exciting initiative. The theme of this years National Heritage Week, 'Connections, Routes and Networks', explores the links between people and community. The National Botanic Gardens are calling on visitors to share their memories, connections and experiences of the Gardens. This is an exciting opportunity to reminisce about a time past in the gardens and to share the stories for all to hear. The stories submitted will be displayed in an upcoming exhibition ‘Stories from the Gardens’ to be held in August as part of National Heritage Week.

Maybe you visit the National Botanic Gardens for a walk every day or had your wedding photos taken here? Do you recall a happy memory of the gardens from your childhood? Have you a story about a famous person you met here or to a recent historical event? Maybe the connection is familial, maybe a relative worked here over the years or you are just a big fan of a particular tree or plant and come to see its progress through the growing season? The deadline is fast approaching, be sure to share your story, we want to hear it!

The exhibition will showcase the fascinating social history that has shaped the National Botanic Gardens over the years. By inviting people to submit their stories and memories, we hope to highlight the importance of the gardens locally, regionally, and nationally.

The Chairman of the Office of Public Works, John Conlon said:

"We are excited to hear the stories and experiences that visitors have had down through the years in the National Botanic Gardens. This historic site means different things to so many people, with over 600,000 people visiting the gardens each year. By documenting these stories, we can create a meaningful exhibition that celebrates the rich history of this iconic site."

Participants can submit their stories using a special questionnaire at the following link - questionnaire . Alternatively, you can email your story and images to Joseph Lynch at joseph.lynch@opw.ie . Entries must be received by 15 June 2024. Selected stories will be displayed in the exhibition, along with any photos that participants wish to submit. Check out some of the stories submitted – YouTube

Do not miss this opportunity to be a part of 'Stories from the Gardens' during National Heritage Week. Join us in celebrating the unique heritage and connections that the National Botanic Gardens hold.

Notes

Felicity Gaffney and Joseph Lynch, OPW spokespersons are available for interview to discuss some of the unusual stories received to date and to discuss this initiative.

Please contact pressoffice@opw.ie for more information and to arrange an interview.

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