1,100 years of Waterford history

captured in new primary school book

A new primary school workbook published in Waterford recently captures highlights from the 1,100 year history of Ireland's oldest city.

Produced by Waterford City Council and running to almost 70 pages, 'Waterford where I live' offers an accessible but reliable take on Waterford's rich history. The book is also illustrated and has interactive features to allow the children challenge themselves and each other on how well they know the gateway to the southeast.

Aimed at fifth and sixth class pupils, the book will be distributed free of charge to primary schools in the city and its hinterland in time for the new school year in September to help encourage civic pride and greater awareness of Waterford's heritage.

To make it a more active and engaging workbook, details are also included of awalking tour route taking in the historic city walls and other sites of interest while pupils can also collect stamps in their workbook by visitingvarious historic landmarks and visitor attractions.

Launching the publication in the city's Christ Church Cathedral which is itself on a site that has been a place of worship since the 11th Century, Cllr Pat Hayes, Mayor of Waterford, said: "This is a very exciting project and one that all involved can be very proud of delivering. What we have here is a workbook that will help bring this city's tremendous history vividly to life for the children who use it at school and home. By getting to know their city's history better, they can more fully understand where they are growing up and what life was like here for previous generations.

"In my view, history is one of the most important subjects taught in our schools. It is what helps give us our sense of place and of belonging. One of the things I have enjoyed the most in my 21 years as a member of Waterford City Council has been the renaissance that there has been in interest in and awareness of Waterford's history. This is something that continues and will be further encouraged with this publication in a city that is not only Ireland's oldest but also one of the oldest in northern Europe.

"What has been delivered at Bishop's Palace and the work that is ongoing near us here in the Viking Triangle will all come together in a unique urban environment that respects our past but also provides a first-class, 21st Century urban environment. In 2014, we will mark 1,100 years since the founding of a settlement at Waterford in 914. The publication of 'Waterford where I live' and other activities leading up to that milestone will all help increase our knowledge of Waterford from the Viking era to the present day. I commend it to all schools and families while also again recognising the team who have created it."

Further information about 'Waterford where I live' is available from Waterford City Council, (051) 849709 or by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.