What type of items are you looking for and how old can they be?
We are looking for objects that reveal an aspect of our food history and culture over the past 150 years. The remit is broad and being a people’s project, we are asking you to decide which aspects of our food history should be included. Unique family recipes, cherished cookbooks, old utensils, shop ledgers, they are all welcome and we are happy to be surprised with items you deem important!
Do you physically take my submission?
No. We are creating a digital archive of food material culture and folklore which will include a photograph of the item. By submitting to this website there is no obligation to physically hand over your object to us or to anyone. We simply want you to photograph the object and submit it along with your story.
Can I submit more than one object?
For website submission, you can submit as many items as you would like however each object should be added as an individual item with its own unique caption.
Where is this project going?
The website creates a digital archive exploring Irish food history and folklore. Later this year, a TG4 television series will explore many of the items that are included in the project. The archive itself will ultimately be handed over to the National Folklore Collection for future generations to enjoy, creating a lasting legacy for the project.
I don't feel my object is relevant or interesting enough?
The most interesting objects are often passed down through generations and their attached stories can fade over time. The importance of a project like this is to capture all stories as sometimes a seemingly insignificant memory can reveal a unique and important aspect of our history. Food is a trigger for memory and we want to use your submissions as a catalyst to explore Ireland's distinctive and often fascinating folklore and social history.
I am having technical difficulties submitting your object.
Contact us for help in submitting objects to the website here
Tips on Submitting
- Don’t clean your object! As a people’s archive, we welcome objects that have lived a life. Wear and tear tells its own story.
- Photograph your object using a plain uncluttered background. If you do not have a plain wall to photograph against, place a solid colour card / piece of paper behind the object.
- If your object is a printed item and you have access to a scanner, use that instead of taking a photograph for best results.
- Turn off the flash and use natural light if possible locating the object in a bright space.
- Use a tripod or rest your camera / phone on something to avoid shake and blur.
- Fill the frame with the object at the centre.
- Take multiple photographs at different angles to highlight important details.