On The Roots of Samhain

On the Roots of Samhain with Charlotte Salter-Townshend 

This immersive walk explores the folklore and ecology of plants found along the River Nore and in the hedgerows and hinterland of Inistioge. Samhain is a liminal phase, when life draws inwards. As leaves shrivel and overripe fruits drop to the earth, energy is drawn back into the soil, providing sustenance for the next cycle.Inspired by this process, we will celebrate the potency and alchemy of dynamic riverside vegetation. Delving into the human history of plants, we will explore the medicinal properties and folktales of trees and herbs found in Inistioge.

Charlotte Salter-Townshend is a plant folklorist and science communicator. On The Roots of Samhain walk she will share her interest in the reciprocal relationship between science and culture and the ways in which we can take inspiration from the natural world in building Communities. Currently she is the Communications and Network Officer for the Irish Wildlife Trust. For over a decade, she worked as a guide and lecturer at the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, designing and delivering talks and tours on a wide range of topics relating to plants. She also worked on expedition cruises as a Botany and History Lecturer and travelled to many regions including Scottish islands, Cape Verde, South America, and Antarctica. She has an MPhil in Public History and Cultural Heritage and recently completed an MSc in Biodiversity and Conservation at Trinity College Dublin.