Here is the traditional turf or bog wheel-barrow made in their hundreds to provide a simple solution to an every-day work task in rural Ireland in days gone by.
The importance of this ‘machine’ maybe forgotten but they were crucial for transporting turf to feed open fires which were vital for cooking, heating and hot water back then.
Martina Reid (née Foy) gives us some personal recollections on her families use of a turf barrow.
Turf barrows are prefect example of handmade rural folk craft using simple sturdy materials (wood & iron pieces) that you would find around any farm or homestead.
But it does take some skill to get a finished ‘machine’ that works well and lasts a lifetime literally.
Photos: Ireland Made® and ‘Turf Cutting By Sleán’ by Paul Kelly
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