Ciarán Bairéad facts for kids
Ciarán Bairéad (1905–1976) was an Irish folklorist, scribe (someone who copies texts) and scholar (a person who studies a lot). He spent his life collecting and writing down important parts of Irish culture and history.
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Who Was Ciarán Bairéad?
Ciarán Bairéad was born in Dublin, Ireland, on February 17, 1905. His family spoke Irish at home, which was their native language. His parents were Siobhán Ní Mhurchú and Stiofán Bairéad. His father, Stiofán, was important in an organization called Conradh na Gaeilge. This group worked to keep the Irish language and culture alive. Stiofán was the first treasurer of this group.
His Work as a Collector
In the mid-1950s, Ciarán Bairéad moved to Galway. There, he started working with the Irish Folklore Commission. This group collected stories, songs, and traditions from all over Ireland. He also worked with An Fáinne, another group that helped promote the Irish language.
Collecting Songs and Stories
One of Ciarán Bairéad's important jobs was transcribing Leabhard na nAmhrán. This was a duanaire, which means a collection of poems or songs, by Pádhraic Ó Comáin. This collection of folksongs is very special because the original book seems to be lost. Ciarán Bairéad's copy is now very valuable.
He also wrote detailed life stories of other scholars. These scholars were part of the Gaelic Revival. This was a time when people worked hard to bring back Irish language, music, and traditions. One person he wrote about was Seosamh Laoide.
Interviewing Local People
Ciarán Bairéad also talked to many local people. He interviewed them about different topics, like the 1504 Battle of Knockdoe. He also asked about local place names and how the Irish language was used in their area. He even recorded stories about old local disputes, sometimes called "faction fights." Some of the people he interviewed included Micheál Ó Síoda and Séan Ó Loirgneáin.
Later Life and Legacy
Ciarán Bairéad lived in Lackagh, County Galway, for more than twenty years. He passed away on August 18, 1976, and is buried in Claregalway Cemetery. His important writings and collections are now kept at the National University of Ireland, Galway. They help us learn more about Irish history, language, and culture.
See also
- Thomás Bairéad
- Tomás Bairéad
- Bridget Barrett
- Coleman Barrett
- Francie Barrett
- Slim Barrett
