Barrel Top

Project Partner:
Cork Traveller Women’s Network

Venue: Cork City Museum

Project Description:
The use of the wagon is now very rare in Ireland; however it remains a pivotal image and focus of Traveller culture with widespread interest amongst the Traveller community in the lifestyle, skills, stories and traditions associated with its use. The aim of the Barrel Top Wagon project, proposed to Cork 2005 by the Cork Traveller Women’s Network, was to engage the Traveller community in researching, constructing, equipping and decorating a full-size traditional barrel top wagon.

Constructed over a nine-month period in the National Sculpture Factory in Cork, the construction team of the three was led by a man with extensive experience in traditional wagon building with a view to preserving and passing down the traditional craft skills. Every effort was also made to equip the wagon using traditional materials with women from groups affiliated to the Cork Traveller Women’s Network making clothing for display in the Wagon and soft furnishings for the interior, as well as sourcing other traditional items and equipment.

The finished wagon, completed for the Cork 2005 Opening Ceremony, was showcased throughout the year at events such as the Cork St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the Lifelong Learning Festival, prior to taking up its new permanent exhibition space at Cork Public Museum. It will serve as a vital resource for learning about traditional Traveller skills and lifestyles and for preserving the unique heritage of the Traveller community.

Image Reference:
Barrel Top 1
Barrel Top 2
Barrel Top 3