Browsing the OS Ireland collection of historic maps just now, I found, just outside Shillelagh town, near the former railway station, "Sprig of Shillelagh (Site of)". Written in the mediaeval- style letters used to denote a historic site, it indicates a spot on the opposite bank of the River Derry from the station, and was accessible via a footbridge.


The Sprig of Shillelagh is a tune perhaps better known here as The Black Joke, but I can't find any reference to it as a historical p[lace. Does anyone know the story behind this- or was it a folklore confection designed to boost the offensive weapon industry that still appears to flourish in the town?