The “Harvesting Our Heritage” conference, which will be held on 11 July at Mountbellew Agricultural College, will explore Co. Galway’s agricultural and veterinary developments, commemorate the 200th anniversary of Hely Dutton’s seminal survey and honour the contributions of Aleen Cust and the Franciscans through expert talks and heritage exhibits.
An upcoming conference, “Harvesting Our Heritage”, will delve into the rich history of agricultural and veterinary advancements in Co. Galway. This free event will take place on Thursday, 11 July, at Mountbellew Agricultural College, Mountbellew, Co. Galway (Eircode: H53 WE00), starting at 9am and running until 5pm.
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Hely Dutton’s survey
The conference will commemorate the bicentennial of Hely Dutton’s Statistical and Agricultural Survey of the County of Galway, a volume that offers detailed insights into the county’s farming practices some 200 years ago. Dutton, who specialized in landscape design and cultivation, meticulously documented his observations on the county’s landscape, agricultural methods, land tenure and farm sizes, while also touching on customs, language and religion.
Marie Boran, Special Collections Librarian at James Hardiman Library, University of Galway, commented:
“As we mark the 200th anniversary of Hely Dutton’s seminal Statistical Survey of County Galway 1824, we are pleased to invite scholars, historians and enthusiasts to a conference that will bring a focus on this remarkable achievement. Hely Dutton, a renowned nurseryman and landscape gardener, holds a significant place in Ireland’s history as one of the principal landscape gardeners of his time.”
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Aleen Cust
The “Harvesting Our Heritage” conference will also honour the life and legacy of veterinary surgeon Aleen Cust (1868–1937), a pioneering figure whose legacy continues to influence the veterinary community. Hailing from Tipperary, Cust was Ireland’s and Europe’s first female veterinary surgeon.
Cust qualified in veterinary science at the New Veterinary College in Edinburgh in 1900, though she was barred from using the title “veterinary surgeon” by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), citing their inability to admit women.
In 1905, Cust was appointed as a veterinary inspector for Galway County Council, an appointment denied by the RCVS due to her lack of professional recognition. When the position was re-advertised in 1906, Cust was once again selected, and an agreement was reached that allowed her to carry out the duties of the position with the amended title of “inspector”. Cust volunteered during World War I, providing crucial care for horses on the Western Front.
After more than two decades of fighting for recognition, Cust was finally awarded her veterinary qualification in 1922. Donal Connolly of the Aleen Cust Society made the following observations regarding her legacy:
“Aleen Cust’s perseverance and trailblazing spirit continue to inspire generations of aspiring veterinarians, particularly women, to break barriers and pursue their dreams. Join us at the conference as we celebrate the life and legacy of Aleen Cust, a true visionary whose impact resonates to this day in the veterinary community.”
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The Franciscans
This event will also pay tribute to the enduring legacy of the Franciscan Brothers in the fields of education, agriculture and sustainable development, particularly their work in Mountbellew since 1820. Notably, in 1904, they founded Ireland’s first residential agricultural college in Mountbellew, which has been a beacon of education and sustainable development for over a century. Dr Edna Curley, Principal of Mountbellew Agricultural College, commented:
“This year marks the commemoration of 120 years since the establishment of the prestigious Mountbellew Agricultural College, a testament to the dedication of the Franciscan community and the impact they have made in shaping future generations.”
Following these talks, Chief Veterinary Officer Martin Blake will launch a booklet on Aleen Cust. Attendees can also view local heritage and vintage exhibitions and displays throughout the day.
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This conference is funded by the Heritage Office of Galway County Council, Atlantic Technological University and University of Galway, with support from the Aleen Cust Society, the Franciscan Brothers and various heritage organizations, vintage clubs and community groups throughout Co. Galway. Marie Mannion, Heritage Officer with Galway County Council, said:
“Harvesting Our Heritage promises to be a comprehensive examination of the key developments that have shaped the landscape of Galway. It is an event aimed at anyone with a keen interest in the region’s rich heritage.”
Registering for Harvesting Our Heritage
The “Harvesting Our Heritage” conference is free to attend, but spaces are limited, so early registration is recommended. For more information and to register, visit Eventbrite here or email Ita Gordon at igordon@galwaycoco.ie.
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