Rush Candles

Date: 12th May 1938

The kind of light that used to be used in every house about sixty years ago was got from rush candles. These candles were made by pulling rushes from the roots, then peeling the skin off them, next lard or unsalted butter was melted in a pan. Then the peeled rushes were dipped in the grease and tied up in little bunches and hung near the fire to dry.
Tinkers used to make what was called a sconce to hold the candles while burning.

“INFORMANT: Mrs Kelly, Age 70, Cregg, Co. Mayo”

— Dúchas.ie