Sophia Sturge

For basketry group members who have travelled to Connemara to attend workshops with Joe Hogan and indulge in such noteworthy pleasures as seaweed baths at Leenane, this book adds a delightful chapter about the development of basketry in the area.

Written by Joan C. Johnson, the book tells the story of Sophia Sturge, a story little known and remembered today. It relates to the 'why what and how' of this remarkable woman from a Birmingham Quaker family, coming to Letterfrack in the aftermath of the Famine. She established the Connemara Basket Industry in Letterfrack, which operated from 1888 to 1905.

Sophia's contribution to Letterfrack is a significant part of the heritage of the fine, vibrant community existing today. But, above all, it is a magnificent story of how basketmaking contributed value to an impoverished community.

The book is available from Bridget at the reception desk at Connemara West Reception@connemarawest.ie

The book is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in basketmaking, but especially for anyone familiar with Connemara.