Description

Achill Island – Archaeology, History and Folklore is the definitive study of the history and heritage of Achill Island, County Mayo. Written by archaeologist and historian Theresa McDonald, founder of the Achill Archaeological Field School, this extensively researched volume combines archaeological discoveries, documentary evidence, and local traditions to present a detailed account of the island’s development from prehistoric times to the modern era.

Beginning with the island’s earliest inhabitants over 5,000 years ago, McDonald explores Achill’s geology, prehistoric monuments, Bronze and Iron Age settlements, early Christian heritage, medieval society, and the influence of powerful families such as the O’Malleys. The book also examines the Great Famine, the Achill Mission, patterns of emigration, traditional farming practices, and the folklore that has been passed down through generations, creating a vivid picture of life on Ireland’s largest offshore island.

Richly illustrated with maps, photographs, and archaeological findings, the book serves as both a scholarly reference and an accessible introduction to Achill’s unique cultural landscape. Theresa McDonald’s decades of fieldwork and research make this an authoritative resource for historians, archaeologists, genealogists, students, and visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Achill Island’s remarkable past. Whether exploring ancient monuments, local traditions, or the island’s dramatic history, readers will find this volume an indispensable companion to one of Ireland’s most captivating regions.