The theme of the next talk on the Winter Lecture Series is “Waterford Newfoundland and the Atlantic World 1500-1800″ and will be delivered by Guest Speaker Jack Burtchaell.
Throughout the 18th and into the 19th century, many thousands of Irish people passed through the ports of Waterford and Passage East to seek a new life in “Talamh an Éisc”, the fishing grounds of Newfoundland. Their descendants preserved their local traditions and in recent decades a strong connection has been established between them and the land of their ancestors.
About the Speaker Jack Burtchaell
“Jack Burtchaell qualified in Archaeology, History and Geography at UCD in 1982 and since then has pursued an active career in the field of Historical Geography. He has been a frequent contributor to publications on Waterford history. For the past 35 years he has conducted walking tours of medieval Waterford and one- or two-day tours of south-east Ireland. These have proved immensely popular, and he has been the recipient of many awards.”


You are invited to attend this History Lecture for the Winter Series XX, 2026 by Jack, followed by a questions and answers session, on Wednesday 18th February 2026, which will take place in Block B, Dunhill Ecopark, Ballyphillip, Dunhill, Co. Waterford. X91 FVF9. The lecture starts at 19:30 and it will be followed by refreshments. Cost: €7.50.
