Hand Querns

Querns were made from 2 stones and were used to ground the corn. One stone was left on top of the other and the uppermost stone had a hole in the middle. If the stone was then turned by a handle the corn would be crushed. There is an old saying that goes:

“Barley bread will do you no good

Rye bread will do you no harm

Oaten bread will strengthen your arms

Wheaten bread will strengthen your arms”

Fohanagh, Co. Galway

Collector: Bridie Sweeney, Fohanagh, Co. Galway

Informant: Mrs Sweeney (her mother)

Duchas, ‘The Schools’ Collection’, www.duchas.ie