The last city I visited and explored around in Ireland before returning to Dublin and on to home, was Waterford, where of course I wanted to tour the glass factory. Prior to my trip, I didn’t know much about the city, only that growing up I had loved the beautiful Irish crystal and glassware some of my family had. I’m aware that the company may no longer be Irish owned, but its Irish heritage still held a place in my heart.
I learned a lot about the city in a short amount of time, though I hate to say after the several months that have passed, I don’t quite remember it all. Oh well, I guess I’ll just have to go back. But I do remember that it was – or rather, I guess, is – the oldest city in Ireland. I also didn’t quite associate Ireland with the Vikings, but guess what I learned? It was the Vikings who founded the city in the early 10th century. Yes. 10th Century. The 900s.
Now granted, there may not be much still standing from all those centuries ago. But there’s still plenty to see when walking around. There were murals along many walls that were stunning. And it also felt like there were so many churches, each with their own unique feel and decor. The afternoon I arrived, I think I visited a few – certainly more than one – just wandering around. And there were still more to go in. And then on the walking tour the next day we visited at least two. (Note: As I’m writing this, I am not finding the name of our walking tour guide since it had been arranged by others, but I am going to be looking for it! Our guide was fantastic. He was funny, told some great stories, and was such a wealth of information).
Then of course we visited the Waterford factory for a tour (and some shopping). It was fascinating to see the crystal making in action, learning about how they work, what the apprenticeship entails, and seeing them blowing glass and checking it over. And to attest to the careful inspections – and those that do not pass are crushed – we certainly heard a few shatterings while passing through the inspection area.
I imagine it might be fairly stressful working on glass, and as we walked through the factory, I just thought it must even be more so with all these people coming through and staring at you, taking pictures or videos of the process! But I don’t know, maybe there’s also something rewarding about so many people taking an interest in your work?
Given that background of seeing these pieces among my family, I also remember the excitement of learning the ball drop at the turn of the millennium was made of Waterford crystal pieces. I didn’t know, but it makes sense, that over the years some of the pieces have to be replaced. So another little fun thing? I got to hold a glass panel during the tour!
I know I will treasure my Waterford ornament I brought home from my visit. There’s much I will treasure about my first visit to Ireland, and I’m already looking forward to planning another trip back to see even more.
