In this illustrated talk, the writer and journalist Paul Clements will speak about the year he spent living in a cottage in the Montalto woods of Co Down. His talk reflects aspects of the 260-year-old history of the mansion house where five dynasties have lived, and which was the scene of major fighting in 1798. The Battle of Ballynahinch was part of the Rebellion by the United Irishmen and was fought in Ednavady Hill in the Montalto grounds. The talk will also consider the changing seasons, wildlife, trees and the woodland flora recorded by Paul in detail in his journal. This is a local study of historic change in one place, and reflects how Montalto has become a magnificent 21st century showpiece garden that is once again as compelling as its past and worthy of the 18th century heritage from which it stems.
Highlights Include
- A short drone music video to capture the mood of Montalto from on high
- Illustrated lecture by Paul Clements, author of A Year in the Woods: Montalto through the Seasons
- Q&A session and informal discussion
- Book sales and signing opportunities, special price, £15 (cash/cheque only)
The painting of the Battle of Ballynahinch (1798) by Thomas Robinson. Courtesy of Aras an Uachtarain, Phoenix Park, Dublin
