an mhuc dhubh historic railway

Translated Cumann Traenach na Gaeltachta Lair is the Central Gaeltacht Train Society. Gaeltachts are designated areas of Ireland where Gaelic is still the primary language and old Irish traditions and culture from part of everyday life.

An Mhuc Dhubh translates as the Black Pig. This was how locals christened the arrival of the first steam engine 100 years ago. Puffing, "snorting", and billowing plumes of black smoke, this monstrous creature evoked memories of St. Colmcille's prophesy centuries earlier: that there would never be peace in Ireland until the return of the wild pig to the shores of Loch Finn….

No visit would be complete without experiencing at first hand the "navy trade". Track laying is ongoing (weekdays) and the goods store/workshop is always a hive of activity. Also worth a second glance are the beautifully restored platform and watertower.

The railway embankment runs parallel to the road most of the way to Glenties and there are many impressive cut stone bridges particularly at Shallogans, the Beanna Bui and Stranaglough. Shallogans Halt platform still exists and all of the original station buildings at Glenties are intact, on the right as you enter the town. Glenties is renowned as Ireland's tidiest town, winning the coveted title for the 5th time in 1995. St. Connell's C.D.R. artefacts and memorabilia.