The theme of the next talk on the Winter Lecture Series is “The Waterford Dredger Portlairge 1907-1987″ .
The Portlairge dredger was built in the Liffey dockyards and first entered Waterford port in September 1907.  The vessel operated faithfully to keep the quays and harbour operational for almost 80 years.  Based at the hulk at Reginalds Tower, the “Mudboat” rivalled this iconic landmark to many and became an object of affection not just to those that operated the boat, but to river folk and ordinary citizens alike.  Her steam whistle, rattling chains and charming chug of the country’s last working steam vessel became synonymous with the port.  This talk examines the history of the vessel through the lens of her three masters, the need for a dredger, her operational role, and some anecdotes related to her career.   

About the Speaker, Andrew Doherty:
Andrew Doherty lives in Cheekpoint, Co Waterford. He followed his family into commercial fishing for fifteen years of his adult life. He has written since childhood and in 2014 he started an online blog to promote local maritime history and heritage. He is the author of two books – Before the Tide Went Out (2017) and Waterford Harbour Tides and Tales (2020).  Andrew regularly contributes articles to local newspapers, Ireland’s Own, and heritage publications.  He has contributed to numerous radio and TV programmes.  He regularly leads walks and talks both on land and on the river. The blog is at www.tidesandtales.ie. 

This talk will take place on the 11th of February at 19h30 at Dunhill Multi-Education Centre, X91FVF9