County Wexford
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{{Infobox Irish Place|
name = County Wexford |
gaeilge = Contae Loch Garman |
crest image = Wexford crest.gif |
motto = Exemplar Hiberniae |
map image = IrelandWexford.png |
area = 2,353.19 [[km²]]<br>(908.54 [[mi²]])<br>236,549.80 [[Hectare]]s<br>(584,521 [[acre]]s)<ref name="OSiArea">{{cite web |url= http://www.osi.ie/mapping/FAQ/areaWaterLand.shtml
|title=FAQ - Area by County in Land and Water (Fresh)
|work= [[Ordnance Survey Ireland]] (OSi) Website
|accessdate=2008-05-19
}}</ref>|
county town = [[Wexford]] |
code = WX |
population = 131,749 <ref>{{PDFlink|[http://www.cso.ie/census/documents/census2006_volume_1_pop_classified_by_area.pdf Census 2006 — Volume 1 - Population Classified by Area (Dublin: Stationery Office, 27 April 2007)]|4.22 [[Megabyte|MB]]}} – [[Central Statistics Office (Ireland)]]. Retrieved on [[2008]]-[[May 16|05-16]].</ref>|
census yr = 2006 |
province = [[Leinster]] |
web = www.wexford.ie |
|}}
'''County Wexford''' ({{lang-ga|Contae Loch Garman}}) is a maritime county in the southeast of [[Republic of Ireland|Ireland]], in the province of [[Leinster]]. It takes its name from the principal town, [[Wexford]], founded by [[Vikings]] and named by them 'Waesfjord', meaning 'inlet or bay ([[fjord]]) of the mud-flats' in the [[Old Norse language]].<ref>''Furlong'', p. 22.</ref><ref>''Colfer'', p. 21.</ref> In pre-Norman times it was part of the Kingdom of [[Uí Cheinnselaig|Uí Cheinnsealaig]], whose capital was at [[Ferns, County Wexford|Ferns]].<ref>''Furlong'', p. 18.</ref><ref>Byrne, ''Irish Kings and High Kings'', pp 130 - 164.</ref> The county's total area (including inland fresh-water areas) is 2,353.19 [[km²]] (908.54 [[mi²]]).<ref name="OSiArea"/> In 2006 the county had a total population of 131,749 people.
{{TOClimit|limit=3}}
==History==
{{main|History of County Wexford}}
[[Image:Enniscorthy castle.jpg|left|thumb|280px|'''Enniscorthy Castle''', Co. Wexford.]]
The county is rich in evidence of early human habitation.<ref name=StoutWex>Stout, Geraldine. "Essay 1: Wexford in Prehistory 5000 B.C. to 300 AD" in ''Wexford: History and Society'', pp 1 - 39.</ref> ''Portal tombs'' (sometimes called [[Dolmen]]s) exist at Ballybrittas (on Bree Hill)<ref name="TombBallybrittas">{{cite web |url= http://www.megalithomania.com/show/image/2148/Ballybrittas.htm
|title= Ballybrittas Portal Tomb (with Photo) - well preserved
|work= Megalithomania.com
|accessdate=2008-05-16
}}</ref> and at Newbawn<ref name="TombNewbawn">{{cite web |url= http://www.megalithomania.com/show/image/7881/Newbawn.htm
|title= Newbawn Portal Tomb (with Photo) – badly dilapidated
|work= Megalithomania.com
|accessdate=2008-05-16
}}</ref> — and date from the [[Neolithic]] period or earlier. Remains from the [[Bronze Age]] period are far more widespread.<ref name=StoutWex/> Early Irish tribes formed the Kingdom of Uí Cheinnsealaig, an area that was slightly larger than the current Co. Wexford. The county was one of the earliest areas of [[Ireland]] to be [[Christianity|Christianised]], in the early 5th century. Later, from 819 onwards, the Vikings plundered many Christian sites in the county.<ref name= A.F.M.>[[Annals of the Four Masters]] (A.F.M.)</ref> Wexford town became a Viking settlement near the end of the [[9th century]].<ref name= A.F.M./>
Wexford was the site of an the invasion of [[Ireland]] by [[Normans]] in 1169 at the behest of [[Dermot MacMurrough|Diarmuid Mac Murrough]], King of Uí Cheinnsealaig and King of Leinster (Laigin), which led to the subsequent colonisation of the country by the Anglo-Normans. The native Irish began to regain some of their former territories in the 14th century, especially in the north of the county, principally under Art McMurrough Kavanagh.
Under [[Henry VIII]] the great religious houses were dissolved, 1536-41 - in Co. Wexford this included Glascarrig Priory, Clonmines Priory, [[Tintern Abbey (County Wexford)|Tintern Abbey]], and [[Dunbrody Abbey]].
On [[23 October]] [[1641]], a major Rebellion broke out in Ireland - Co. Wexford produced strong support for Confederate Ireland. [[Oliver Cromwell]] and his English Parliamentarian Army arrived 1649 in the County and captured it. The lands of the Irish and Anglo-Normans were confiscated and given to Cromwell's soldiers as payment for their service in the Parliamentarian Army. At [[Duncannon]], in the south-west of the county, [[James II of England|James II]], after his defeat at the [[Battle of the Boyne|Boyne]], embarked for [[Kinsale]] and then to exile in France.
[[Image:JFK-New Ross 1963.jpg|thumb|right|President John F. Kennedy in New Ross – 27 June 1963.]]
Co. Wexford was the most important area in which the 1798 rebellion was fought, during which significant battles were fought at [[Battle of Vinegar Hill|Vinegar Hill (Enniscorthy)]] and [[Battle of New Ross (1798)|New Ross]]. The famous ballad [[Boolavogue (song)|Boolavogue]] was written in remembrance of the Wexford Rising.
The [[19th century]] saw the arrival of the Railways in the county. In 1916, a small [[Easter Rising|Rebellion]] occurred at [[Enniscorthy]] town on cue with that in [[Dublin]].<ref>''Furlong and Hayes'', pp 46 - 70.</ref> During [[WW2]], [[Luftwaffe|German planes]] bombed [[Campile]].<ref>''Furlong'', p. 143.</ref><ref name=WexPeop2000>{{cite web
|url=http://www.wexfordpeople.ie/news/bombing-of-campile-remembered-992708.html
|title=Bombing of Campile remembered
|work=Wexford People
|date= Friday, [[1 September]] [[2000]]
|accessdate=2008-05-21
}}</ref> In 1963 [[John F. Kennedy]], then [[President of the United States]], visited the county and his ancestral home at Dunganstown, near [[New Ross]].
==Transport==
[[Image:Rosslare Strand.jpg|thumb|right|A train leaving [[Rosslare Strand railway station]] (October 2007).]]
[[Image:S2300002.JPG|right|thumb|'''Rosslare Europort''', [[Co. Wexford]].]]
'''Rail'''<br>
The [[Dublin-Rosslare railway line|Rosslare - Dublin railway line]] runs through the county, serving Rosslare Europort, Rosslare Strand, Wexford, Enniscorthy and Gorey. Three trains run in each direction daily, with additional commuter services from Gorey.
The [[Limerick-Rosslare railway line|Rosslare - Limerick railway line]] runs through the southern part of the county, serving Bridgetown, Wellington Bridge, Ballycullane and Campile.
'''Bus'''<br>
Rosslare and Dublin are also linked by [[Bus Éireann]] route 2 [http://www.buseireann.ie/site/your_journey/printed_timetable_pdfs/expressway/2.pdf], while route 5 operates Waterford-New Ross-Ennicorthy-Dublin [http://www.buseireann.ie/site/your_journey/printed_timetable_pdfs/expressway/5.pdf].
'''Ferry services'''<br>
[[Rosslare Europort]], located at [[Rosslare Harbour]], operates a busy [[Ferry|Ferry service]] - there are regular sailings to [[Wales]] ([[Pembroke, Pembrokeshire|Pembroke]] and [[Fishguard]]) and [[France]] ([[Cherbourg-Octeville|Cherbourg]], [[Roscoff]] and [[Le Havre]]) for passengers and vehicles.
There is also Ferry service in operation between Ballyhack and Passage East (Co. Waterford) at the [[River Barrow|Barrow estuary]].
'''Roads'''<br>
Recent years has seen a major upgrading of the county's main roads.
==Politics==
[[Wexford (Dáil Éireann constituency)|Wexford]] is a 5-seat constituency - returning 5 [[Teachta Dála]] (T.D.s) to [[Dáil Éireann]].
The current T.D.s representing the constituency are:
*[[John Browne (Fianna Fáil)|John Browne]] ([[Fianna Fáil|''Fianna Fáil Pary'']]).
*[[Seán Connick]] (''Fianna Fáil Party'').
*[[Paul Kehoe]] ([[Fine Gael|''Fine Gael Party'']]).
*[[Michael D'Arcy, Jnr|Michael D'Arcy]] (''Fine Gael Party'')
*[[Brendan Howlin]] ([[Labour Party (Ireland)|''Labour Party'']])
There is also a ''County Council'' and the larger towns each have individual ''Town Councils''.
==Media==
The local radio station is called [[South East Radio]]. <ref>[http://www.southeastradio.ie/ South East Radio's Website].</ref>
Some of the county's main Newspapers are: The [[Wexford People]], The [[New Ross Standard]], The [[Gorey Guardian]], and The [[Enniscorthy Echo]].
Damien Tiernan is currently [[Radio Telefís Éireann|RTÉ's]] South-East Correspondent.
==Geography==
===Location===
The county is located in the south-east corner of the Island of Ireland. It is bounded by the sea on two sides - on the south by the [[Atlantic Ocean]] and on the east by St. George's Channel and the [[Irish Sea]]. The River [[River Barrow|Barrow]] forms its western boundary. The Blackstairs Mountain range forms part of the boundary to the north, as do the southern edges of the Wicklow Mountains. The adjoining counties are [[Co. Waterford|Waterford]], [[Co. Kilkenny|Kilkenny]], [[County Carlow|Carlow]] and [[Co. Wicklow|Wicklow]].
===Demographics===
{| class="wikitable" style="font-size:90%;width:100%;border:0px;text-align:center;line-height:120%;"
|+ align=center style="background:#cef2e0; color:#000080;"|Census of Population Results for County Wexford, 1841 — 2006
! style="background: #99CCCC; color: #000080" height="17" | Year
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1841
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1851
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1861
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1871
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1881
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1891
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1901
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1911
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1926
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1936
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1946
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1951
|-
! style="background: #99CCCC; color: #000080" height="17" | Population
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 202,033
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 180,158
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 143,954
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 132,666
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 123,854
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 111,778
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 104,104
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 102,273
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 95,848
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 94,245
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 91,855
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 90,032
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="font-size:90%;width:100%;border:0px;text-align:center;line-height:120%;"
! style="background: #99CCCC; color: #000080" height="17" | Year
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1956
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1961
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1966
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1971
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1979
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1981
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1986
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1991
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 1996
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 2002
! style="background: #FFFFFF; color:#000080;" | 2006
|-
! style="background: #99CCCC; color: #000080" height="17" | Population
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 87,259
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 83,308
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 83,437
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 86,351
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 96,421
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 99,081
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 102,552
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 102,069
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 104,371
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 116,596
| style="background: #FFFFFF; color: black;" | 131,749
|-
| colspan="15" style="text-align:center;font-size:90%;"|<small>'''Source:''' {{PDFlink|[http://www.cso.ie/census/documents/census2006_volume_1_pop_classified_by_area.pdf Census 2006 — Volume 1, p. 16.]|4.22 [[Megabyte|MB]]}} – [[Central Statistics Office (Ireland)]]. Retrieved on [[2008]]-[[June 10|06-10]].</small>
|}
As stated above, in 2006 the county had a total population of 131,749 people. Of these, 65.4% (86,137 people) lived in rural areas and 34.6% (45,612 people) lived in urban areas.<ref>''Census 2006'', Volume 1, p. 19.</ref> Between 2002 and 2006, the population of County Wexford increased by 13% (15,153 people).<ref>''Census 2006'', Volume 1, p. 13.</ref>
===Towns and villages===
[[Image:800px-Enniscorthy.jpg|thumb|right|Enniscorthy viewed from Vinegar Hill.]]
[[Image:Gorey-1.jpg|thumb|right|Main Street, Gorey.]]
[[Image:Bunclody.jpg|thumb|right|Bunclody town centre.]]
By Population the largest town is [[Wexford]], [[Enniscorthy]] the next largest, [[New Ross]] next, and then [[Gorey]].<ref>2006 Census</ref>
[[Bunclody]] comes next — it is considered as either a very large village or a small town.
*[[Adamstown, County Wexford|Adamstown]], [[Arthurstown, County Wexford|Arthurstown]]
*[[Ballycanew]], [[Ballycullane]], [[Ballyedmond]], [[Ballygarrett]], [[Ballyhack, County Wexford|Ballyhack]], [[Ballywilliam]], [[Bannow]], [[Blackwater, County Wexford|Blackwater]], [[Bree, County Wexford|Bree]], [[Bridgetown, County Wexford|Bridgetown]], [[Broadway, County Wexford|Broadway]], [[Bunclody]]
*[[Camolin, County Wexford|Camolin]], [[Campile]], [[Castlebridge]], [[Castletown, County Wexford|Castletown]], [[Cleariestown]], [[Clohamon]], [[Clonroche]], [[Coolgreany]], [[Courtown]], [[Craanford]], [[Crossabeg]], [[Cullenstown]], [[Curracloe]]
*[[Duncannon]], [[Duncormick]]
*[[Enniscorthy]]
*[[Ferns, County Wexford|Ferns]], [[Fethard-on-Sea]], [[Foulkesmill]]
*[[Gorey]]
*[[Hollyfort]]
*[[Inch, County Wexford|Inch]]
*[[Kilanerin]], [[Kilmore, County Wexford|Kilmore]], [[Kilmore Quay]], [[Kilmuckridge]], [[Kiltealy]]
*[[Monamolin]], [[Monaseed]], [[Murrintown]], [[Monageer]]
*[[Newbawn]]
*[[New Ross]]
*[[Oulart]], [[Oylegate]]
*[[Poulpeasty]]
*[[Rathangan, County Wexford|Rathangan]], [[Rosslare Strand|Rosslare]], [[Rosslare Harbour]], [[Raheen, County Wexford|Raheen]], [[Rathnure]]
*[[Saltmills]]
*[[Taghmon]]
*[[Watch House Village]], [[Wellingtonbridge]], [[Wexford]]
Principal port:
*[[Rosslare Europort]]
===Physical geography===
====Climate====
{{climate chart|[[Rosslare Harbour]]
| 3.9 | 8.2 | 94.8
| 3.8 | 7.9 | 69.9
| 4.3 | 9.3 | 67.8
| 5.6 | 10.9 | 55.7
| 7.9 | 13.2 | 55.8
| 10.4 | 15.9 | 50.6
| 12.1 | 17.9 | 50.7
| 12.2 | 17.9 | 68.7
| 10.8 | 16.3 | 73.3
| 9.0 | 13.8 | 94.9
| 5.9 | 10.6 | 97.1
| 4.8 | 9.1 | 97.8
|float=right
|source=[http://www.met.ie/climate/rosslare.asp Rosslare Met. Station Avg. (1961—90)]
}}
Co. Wexford is known as 'Ireland's sunny south-east' because of the high amount of sunshine it receives relative to the rest of [[Ireland]] - in general, the number of hours of sunshine received daily is higher. Overall, Co. Wexford has a mild, but changeable, [[Oceanic climate]] with few extremes. The [[North Atlantic Current|North Atlantic Drift]], a continuation of the [[Gulf Stream]], moderates winter temperatures. There is a Meteorological station located at [[Rosslare Harbour]].<ref>[http://www.met.ie/climate/rosslare.asp Rosslare MET Station.]</ref>
[[Temperature]]: January and February are generally the coldest months, with temperatures ranging between 4 - 8 {{nowrap|°C}} on average.<ref name="RosslareMET30yrAv">{{cite web|url=http://www.met.ie/climate/rosslare.asp|title=Climate - 30 Year Averages – Rosslare MET Station - monthly and annual mean and extreme values (1961-1990)|work= MET ÉIREANN Website|accessdate=2008-05-14}}</ref> July and August are generally the warmest months, with temperatures ranging between 12 - 18 {{nowrap|°C}} on average.<ref name="RosslareMET30yrAv"/>
[[Wind]]: The prevailing winds are from the south-west.<ref name="METwind">{{cite web|url=http://www.met.ie/climate/wind.asp|title=Climate - Wind|work= MET ÉIREANN Website|accessdate=2008-05-15}}</ref>
[[Precipitation]]: Precipitation falls throughout the year - Mean Annual Rainfall is between 800-1200 mm.<ref name="METrainfall">{{cite web|url=http://www.met.ie/climate/rainfall.asp|title=Climate - Rainfall – & Map (Mean Annual Rainfall (mm) 1961-90)|work= MET ÉIREANN Website|accessdate=2008-05-15}}</ref> Generally, the county receives less [[Snow]] than more northerly parts of [[Ireland]]. Serious snowfalls are relatively rare, but can occur. The one exception is [[Mount Leinster]], visible from a large portion of the county, which is frequently covered with Snow in the Winter months.
[[Frost]] is frequent is winter months. However, fewer days of Frost occur in coastal areas.
====Mountains and Hills====
[[Image:Mt Leinster.jpg|right|thumb|'''Mount Leinster''' (2003)]]
Largely low-lying fertile land is the characteristic landscape of the county. The highest point in the county is Mount Leinster (795 m,<ref>''The Times Atlas of the World'', p. 107 (Map - Ireland).</ref> 2610 ft) in the [[Blackstairs Mountains]] in the north-west on the boundary with [[Co. Carlow]].
Other high points are:
*[[Black Rock Mountain, County Wexford|Black Rock Mountain]], which is 599 m (1,965 ft) high. It is located near the Wexford-Carlow border, but in Co. Wexford.
*Another is [[Croghan Mountain]] (or ''Croghan Kinsella'') on the Wexford-Wicklow border - 606 m (1,988 ft) high.
*Another is Annagh Hill 454 m (1,490 ft), near the Wicklow border.
*Lastly there is [[Slieveboy]] at 420 m (1,378 ft) high.
Notable Hills include: Carrigbyrne Hill, Camross (or Camaross) Hill (181 m),<ref name = OSI77DSer>OSI, ''Discovery Series 77''.</ref> Carrigmaistia (167 m),<ref name = OSI77DSer/> Bree Hill (179 m),<ref name = OSI77DSer/> Gibbet Hill, Vinegar Hill, Slievecoiltia, Forth Mountain (237 m),<ref name = OSI77DSer/> and Tara Hill.
====Rivers and Lakes====
[[Image:WexBann1998c.jpg|thumb|right|River Bann - a tributary of the river Slaney.]]
The major rivers are the [[River Slaney|''Slaney'']] and the [[River Barrow|''Barrow'']].
At 192 Km (119.5 miles) in length, the river Barrow is the second longest river on the island of Ireland.<ref name="OSiRivers">{{cite web |url= http://www.osi.ie/mapping/FAQ/longRivers.shtml
|title=FAQ - Longest Rivers in Ireland
|work= Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSi) Website
|accessdate=2008-05-19
}}</ref>
Other smaller rivers of note are the Owenduff, Pollmounty, Corrock, Urrin, Boro, Owenavorragh, Sow and [[River Bann (Wexford)|Bann]] rivers.
There is no significant fresh-water lake in the county. Small sea-side lakes or [[lagoon]]s exist at two locations – one is called [[Lady's Island Lake]] and the other ''Tacumshin Lake''.
====Islands====
The [[Saltee Islands]], located off [[Co. Wexford|Wexford's]] south coast, are the only major islands in the county. They consist of two main islands - ''Great Saltee'' and ''Little Saltee''. Two small rocks, known as Coningmore and Coningbeg, lie roughly south-west of these Islands.
[[Image:The Great Saltee.JPG|right|thumb|The '''Great Saltee''', the biggest of the two Saltee Islands.]]
''Bannow Island'', approx. 1.6 km (1 mile) in length, lies just inside the entrance of Bannow Bay. This is the island where the Normans first landed in Ireland in 1169. Since then the island has become attached to the mainland due to the process of silting and is no longer an island. Today, there is also a roadway between the former island and the mainland.
In Lady's Island Bay are two small islets - ''Inish'' and [[Lady's Island Lake|''Lady's Island'']].
In Tacumshin Lake there are two small islets named the ''Sigginstown Islands - Little and Great''.
West of Ballyteige Bay are the two ''Keeragh Islands'' (or islets), a rocky reef.
About 8 km east of Greenore Point is [[Tuskar Rock]] - on which sits Tuskar Lighthouse.
===Human geography===
====Political geography====
The county is one of 12 counties located within the province of [[Leinster]], which is currently part of the 26-county state called the [[Republic of Ireland]] - part of the island of [[Ireland]]. [[Ireland]] is subdivided into 32 counties and 4 provinces - the other three provinces are [[Connacht]], [[Munster]] and [[Ulster]].
The main Political subdivisions are the [[Baronies of Ireland|Barony]], [[w:Civil_parish#Scotland.2C_Wales_and_Ireland|Civil Parish]] and [[Townland]].
There are currently 10 Baronies within the county. They are: Gorey, Scarawalsh, Ballaghkeen North, Ballaghkeen South, Shelmaliere East, Shelmaliere West, Bantry, Slelburne, [[Bargy]] and Forth.
The Barony is based on pre-Norman Gaelic tribal areas and is not used much anymore.
Co. Wexford contains 134 Civil Parishes.
Civil Parishes are subdivided into townlands. The townland is the smallest division and is unique to Ireland. The townland is the division most often utilised on a day to day basis.
====Agriculture====
The economy is chiefly agricultural. Cattle, sheep, pig rearing and some horse breeding are the main types of husbandry practiced. Poultry rearing, once popular, has very much declined. Wheat, barley, rapeseed, and oats are grown, as are potatoes. [[Sugar beet]] is no longer grown due to the recent closure of all the country's beet factories. The numbers involved in farming have been declining for many years and many of the seasonal workers are now eastern Europeans. Mushrooms are also grown indoors. Tomatoes are grown under glass, for example at [[Campile]]. Wexford strawberries are justly famous and can be bought in shops and wayside stalls throughout the summer. <ref>Every year, near the end of June, a 'Strawberry Fair' Festival takes place in the town of [[Enniscorthy]] - and a ''Strawberry Queen'' is crowned.</ref>. Dairy farming forms an important part of the agricultural industry. Locally produced milk is on sale in many supermarkets. Wexford Irish Cheddar is an award winning brand, and Carrigbyrne, a full flavoured soft cheese, is produced near New Ross.
====Fishing====
[[Image:KilmoreMarina.JPG|right|thumb|170px|The Marina at [[Kilmore Quay]].]]
Much maritime activity takes place - especially at [[Kilmore Quay]] and Slade, but also on a smaller scale at many other locations.
Common Fish Species include: [[Herring]], [[Mackerel]], Cod, Monkfish, [[Merlangius merlangus|Whiting]], Bass, Perch, Gurnard, [[Haddock]], [[Mullet]], Pollock, [[John Dory]], Sole, Conger eel, Shad, Salmon, Trout, Pike, Carp, and Tench.
Shellfish include: [[Mussel]], [[Cockle (bivalve)|Cockle]], [[Common periwinkle|Periwinkle]], [[Clam]], and Oysters.
====Forestry====
Evergreen tree species are extensively cultivated, especially in more recent years - [[Norway Spruce]] and [[Sitka Spruce]] are the most common varieties planted. These are generally sown on poorer quality soils (mainly in bogs and on hills or mountainsides). A small amount of Deciduous trees are also sometimes planted - but these require better soils.
Also see [[w:County_Wexford#Flora|Flora]] (below).
==Sport==
===Gaelic games===
[[Image:wex flag.gif|right|thumb|85px|Co. Wexford Flag.]]
[[Gaelic Athletic Association|GAA]] is very popular in the county, which is noted most for [[Hurling]]. Wexford last won the [[All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship]] in 1996, beating [[County Limerick]] in the final. However, there has been a rapid decline since then in terms of success. In recent years the county [[Gaelic football|Football]] team has been making rapid advances. [[Camogie]], a women's version of [[hurling]], is also played and Wexford won the All Ireland in 2007. [[Wexford Park]] is the county's main GAA pitch. Also, [[Gaelic handball|Handball]] is played on a limited basis — and there are a number of Handball alleys located throughout the county.
===Soccer===
[[Wexford Youths F.C.]], recently formed, is the major Soccer Club in the county.
===Golf===
There are numerous Golf Clubs in the county - including Rosslare (a [[Links (golf)|Links course]]), <ref>[http://www.rosslaregolf.com/ Rosslare Golf Club] (18 holes).</ref> and Enniscorthy.<ref>[http://www.enniscorthygc.ie/ Enniscorthy Golf Club] (18 holes).</ref> Two more are located near Gorey - Ballymoney Golf Club and Courtown Golf Club - both 18 hole courses. <ref>[http://www.courtowngolfclub.com/ Courtown Golf Club Website].</ref> There are also a few others. New Ross Golf Club, however, is actually located in [[County Kilkenny]] - about 1 Km from New Ross town.<ref>[http://www.newrossgolfclub.ie/ New Ross Golf Club] - 18 holes.</ref>
There are also many Par-3 courses in the county, such as Scarke Golf Course & Driving Range, <ref>[http://www.scarkegolf.com/ Scarke Golf Course & Driving Range Website].</ref> located about 2 km east of New Ross town, the 'Abbey Par 3' course, at Winningtown, Fethard-on-Sea, Blackwater Par 3 Golf Course,<ref>[http://www.blackwatergolfpar3.com/ Blackwater Par 3 Golf Course Website].</ref> Kilnew, Blackwater, located a few kilometres northeast of Wexford town, Garrylough Golf Course and Driving Range, Screen, and Rathaspeck Manor Golf Course, Rathaspeck, near Rosslare (there are also few Par-4 holes on this course). There are also a number of other Par-3 courses in the county.
===Other sports===
Wexford Racecourse (Horse Racing) is located at [[Wexford|Wexford town]] <ref name=WexRaceC>{{cite web
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| title = Wexford Racecourse
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| publisher =
| date =
| url = http://www.wexfordraces.ie/
| format =
| doi =
| accessdate = 2008-05-10}}</ref>
and there is a Greyhound Racing track at [[Enniscorthy]]. <ref name=WexGreyhC>{{cite web
| last =
| first =
| authorlink =
| coauthors =
| title = Enniscorthy Greyhound Track
| work = Irish Greyhound Board Website
| publisher =
| date =
| url = http://www.igb.ie/stadia/enniscorthy/
| format =
| doi =
| accessdate = 2008-05-10}}</ref>
[[Angling]] is also popular.
A range of other Sports are also played and pursued - these are just some of the main ones.
==Energy==
[[Image:IMG WindfarmKilmuck1920.jpg|right|thumb|270px|'''Ballywater Wind Farm''', near Kilmuckridge - currently the largest Wind Farm in Co. Wexford (consisting of 21 wind turbines).]]
[[Carnsore Point]] made the national headlines in the late 1970s after a proposal was made to build a nuclear energy plant there — the plans were abandoned after extensive protests from the public resulted due to environmental and health concerns.<ref name=WP12Sept2001>{{cite news
| last =
| first =
| coauthors =
| title = Remembering Carnsore crusade
| work = Wexford People
| pages =
| language =
| publisher =
| date = Wednesday, [[12 September]] [[2001]]
| url =http://www.wexfordpeople.ie/news/remembering-carnsore-crusade-989861.html| accessdate = 2008-05-19}}</ref> A [[wind farm]] has now been built on the site, featuring 14 wind turbines generating electricity. It was completed in November 2002 and was the first wind farm on the east coast of Ireland. Wind farms also now exist at a few other locations in the county. They are all recent developments — [[Ballywater Wind Farm]], at Cahore (near Kilmuckridge), on the county's east coast, and Richfield wind farm (located in the southeast of the county), are other examples.
Great Island Power Station, operated by the [[Electricity Supply Board]] (ESB), opened in 1967. It is an electricity-generating station that is fueled by Oil. It is located at the confluence of the rivers Barrow and [[River Suir|Suir]], near Campile. However, it is scheduled to close by 2010. <ref name=ESBweb>{{cite web
|url= http://www.esb.ie/main/about_esb/powerstations/greatisland/home/index.jsp
|title= Great Island generating station
|author=
|work= ESB Website
|date=
|accessdate=2008-05-10
}}</ref> <ref name=Nrstandard30Apr08>{{cite web
|url= http://www.newrossstandard.ie/news/no-more-smoke-from-chimneys-1364731.html
|title= No more smoke from chimneys
|author=
|work= New Ross Standard
|date=[[Wednesday]], [[30 April]] [[2008]]
|accessdate=2008-05-10
}}</ref>
==Geology==
===Bedrock===
The [[Blackstairs Mountains|Blackstairs mountain range]] consists of Caledonian granite. Silurian rocks cover almost the rest of the entire county – these are sedimentary bedrocks of almost entirely marine origin (shales and mudstones, marls and limestones, sandstones and grits).
According to the [[Geological Survey of Ireland]] (GSI),
“The bulk of the geology of the county comprises Ordovician slates and volcanics dating back to a vanished ocean bed, which was approximately 450 million year old. Overlying the Ordovician there is a succession of Devonian sandstones (ORS [Old Red Sandstones]) passing up into Carboniferous Limestones and up into the Permo-Trias rocks.” <ref name =GSIwex>{{cite web |url= http://www.gsi.ie/Newsletters/Geology+Matters+No5+Autumn+2006.htm#wexford |title= Geology Matters, Issue No.5, Autumn 2006 - A Geological Synopsis of Co. Wexford
|work= [[Geological Survey of Ireland]] (GSI) Website
|accessdate=2008-05-21
}}</ref>
and,
“the most common rock types in [[Co. Wexford]] are:
* 1. Slates (1630 km² or 69% of the county) Cambrian and Ordovician.
* 2. Greywacke, sandstone and quartzite (348 km² or 15% of the county).” <ref name =GSIwex/>
Some of the oldest rocks in Ireland are found near Rosslare in the southeast of the county - the Greenore Point and Kilmore Quay Groups are older than 620 million years.<ref name =GSIwex/>
Hook Head is noted for the many fossils that occur in the Carboniferous limestones located there. <ref name =GSIwex/> It is also noted for its Red Sandstone, quarried there in the past.
A series of volcanic rocks are located in the county, including: Carrigbyrne Hill, Camross Hill, Bree Hill and Vinegar Hill. They are said to be of Ordovician age (dating from approx. 430 million years ago). These volcanic rocks are said to have emerged from small underwater volcanoes pushing molten material up to the surface which solidified to form hard rocks that have resisted breakdown by weathering agents to the present day. Of course, these Volcanoes are long since extinct, like those elsewhere in the country. With the absence of any major fault lines, this region, like the rest of Ireland, does not experience earthquakes or tremors of any significance.
===Soils===
Most, but not all, of the county was covered with the [[Ice Sheet]] during the last [[Ice Age]]. As the [[Ice]] retreated, [[Co. Wexford]] would have been one of the first areas to be covered with glacial drift - a mixture of [[boulder]]s, [[clay]], [[sand]] and [[gravel]] - that blanketed the existing [[bedrock]]. This has led to high quality [[soil]]s, suitable for a wide range of [[Agriculture]].
A very detailed Soil Survey of the county was published in 1964, as part of the 'National Soil Survey of Ireland'. It also contains a useful Soil map of [[Co. Wexford|Wexford]]. It classifies each area of the county according to its specific [[Soil type]]. The full reference is:
*Gardiner, M.J. & Pierce Ryan. ''Soils of Co. Wexford''. Dublin: An Foras Talúntais, 1964.
Most of the county is covered with soil called [[Brown earth|''Brown Earths'']], described as well drained and having a wide use range. After that, [[Gley soil|''Gleys'']] (poorly to imperfectly drained with a limited use range) are the next major [[Soil type]], primarily located in the south-east of the county and east of [[Gorey]] (along the coast). [[Gley soil|''Gleys'']] are dotted elsewhere around the county in small areas, and where they occur they generally form [[bog]]land. The last major soil type is [[Brown podzolic|''Brown Podzolics'']] (well drained with a fairly limited use range) - located mainly near the edges of the [[Blackstairs Mountains|Blackstairs Mountain range]] and around [[Bunclody]] and in the Baronies of East Shelmalier and South Ballaghkeen.
Though there are areas covered with other [[soil type]]s, these are of limited extent.
===Mining===
[[Silver]] was once mined at Clonmines - primarily in Tudor times. [[Lead]] was mined at Caim, 1818-c1850 - this mine also contains Zinc; the two are usually found together. Copper ore ([[Malachite]]) is found at Kerloge, just south of the town of [[Wexford]]. Iron is found in small quantities at Courtown Harbour. The county is not noted for mineral reserves. No significant mining activity is currently practised, with the exception of quarrying for Stone.
There is one exception. In 2007, a significant Oil find was made 60 kilometres off Hook Head in Co Wexford. <ref name=Ind10thOct07>{{cite news
| last =
| first =
| coauthors =
| title =Irish firm reports 'significant' oil find off Hook Head
| work = [[Irish Independent]]
| pages =
| language =
| publisher =
| date = Wednesday, [[10 October]] [[2007]]
| url = http://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/national-news/business/irish-firm-reports-significant-oil-find-off-hook-head-1139280.html | accessdate = 2008-05-10}}</ref>
==Wildlife==
===Flora===
Common species of tree include: [[Oak]], [[Ash tree|Ash]], [[Sycamore Maple|Sycamore ]], Alder, Blackthorn, Hawthorn (in Irish called 'Sceach'), [[Beech]] and Birch. Less common (but plentiful) are: [[Wild Cherry]] and [[Scots Pine]] (also called Red Deal). Elm is now far less common, due to the devastating effects of a disease called [[Dutch elm disease]]. [[Common Gorse|Gorse]] (or Furze) is very common.
There is very little natural forest in the county. Most natural trees and vegetation grows on hedgerows (or 'ditches', in Irish lingo).
===Fauna===
[[Image:Stamp irl 1997 £1goose.jpg|right|thumb|105px|[[White-fronted Goose|Greenland White-Fronted Goose]] - Postage Stamp.]]
South-eastern [[Co. Wexford|Wexford]] is an important site for wild birds - the north side of Wexford Harbour, the [[Wexford Harbour|North Slob]], is home to 10,000 [[White-fronted Goose|Greenland White-Fronted Geese]] each winter (roughly one third of the entire world's population), while in the Summer [[Lady's Island Lake]] is an important breeding site for [[tern]]s, especially the [[Roseate Tern]]. [[Grey Heron]] is also seen.
Throughout the county [[Common Pheasant|Pheasant]], [[Wood Pigeon]] and [[Feral]] [[Rock Pigeon|Pigeons]] are widespread. The Wood Pigeon is larger than the Feral Pigeon. In Co. Wexford the Wood Pigeon is almost always called the 'Woodquest'. [[Swan]]s, [[Mallard|Wild Duck]], [[Common Kingfisher|Kingfisher]], and Owls (the Long-eared Owl, the Short-eared Owl, and the [[Barn Owl]]) are less common - but plentiful. [[Red Grouse]], once common, is now extremely scarce.<ref> The species has been in decline for some decades. Threats include habitat degradation, disease, predation and over-hunting. Sometimes the ‘Irish’ Red Grouse and the ‘British’ Red Grouse are considered different subspecies (in this situation, the ‘Irish’ Red Grouse is named ''Lagopus lagopus hibernica'' and the ‘British’ Red Grouse is named , ''Lagopus lagopus scotica'') – but this is disputed and they are generally regarded as the same subspecies, ''Lagopus lagopus scotica''. Red Grouse in Ireland is now considered ''Threatened''. [http://www.bto.org/birdtrack/bird_recording/red_list_ireland.htm] [http://www.client.teagasc.ie/environment/natural_heritage/Birds_of_conservation_concern_in_Ireland.asp]</ref> The [[Corncrake]], also once very common, is now almost never (if ever) seen. Smaller birds - such as Crows, Swallows, Robins, Wrens and so on - are very common. The first [[Magpie]]s in [[Ireland]] were recorded by Robert Leigh, of Rosegarland, Co. Wexford, as having appeared in the County of Wexford about [[1676]]. <ref>Herbert F. Hore (ed.), ''"A Chorographic Account of the Southern part of the County of Wexford, written Anno 1684, by Robert Leigh. Esq., of Rosegarland, in that County"'' in ''"The Journal of the Kilkenny and South-East of Ireland Achaeological Society"'' (Dublin, 1859), p. 467.</ref> <ref>See William Thompson, ''"The Natural History of Ireland"'', Vol. 1 - (London, 1849), p. 328, for further details - other historical accounts mentioned here confirm Leigh's statement.</ref>
Land Mammals include: [[Badger]], [[European Rabbit|Rabbit]], [[Eurasian otter|Otter]], [[Hedgehog]], [[Red Fox]], [[American Mink|Mink]], Bats, [[Squirrel]] ([[Red Squirrel|Red]] and [[Eastern Gray Squirrel|Grey Squirrel]]),<ref>The [[Red Squirrel]] (a protected species) is native to Ireland and is smaller than the [[Eastern Gray Squirrel|Grey Squirrel]]. The [[Eastern Gray Squirrel|Grey Squirrel]] is not a native species - it was introduced to [[Ireland]] in the early 20th century. [[Red Squirrel|Red]] and [[Eastern Gray Squirrel|Grey]] Squirrels do not interbreed.</ref> [[Rat]] ([[Brown Rat|Brown]] and [[Black Rat|Black]]),<ref>It is nearly always the [[Brown Rat]] that is seen; however, the [[Black Rat]] is also occasionally seen in [[Co. Wexford]]. Neither is native to [[Ireland]].</ref> and [[Mouse|Mice]] (the [[Wood mouse|Wood (or Field) Mouse]] and [[House Mouse]]). Two types of [[Hare]] - the [[Mountain Hare|Irish (or Mountain) Hare]] and the less common [[European Hare|Brown (or European) Hare]] - are found. Hare is not nearly as common as Rabbit. The [[Stoat]]<ref>''Mustela erminea hibernica.''</ref> is also reasonably common. Locally the [[Stoat]] is just as often called a [[Weasel]] - incorrectly so, as it is not a [[Weasel]].<ref>The [[Mink]], however, is a member of the [[Weasel]] family.</ref>
[[Image:Red squirrel mallerstang.jpg|right|thumb|105px|'''Red Squirrel'''.]]
Only two types of Seal are found on Co. Wexford's coast - [[Grey Seal|Atlantic Grey Seals]] are very plentiful in coastal areas, but the slightly smaller [[Common Seal|Common (or Harbour) Seal]] is less common, yet plentiful.
The ''Small Tortoiseshell Butterfly'' (reddish-orange colour, with black markings) is the most common species of [[Butterfly]] in the county. Various types of [[Moth]] are also common. The [[Common Frog]] is plentiful, and is the only type of [[Frog]] found.
Extinct species include the [[Irish Elk]] (or Giant Irish Deer) and the [[Gray Wolf|Irish Wolf]]. Some evidence suggests [[Gray Wolf|Wolves]] became extinct in Co. Wexford in the 1730s.
==Arts==
===Wexford Festival Opera===
[[Image:Wexford Theatre Royal 2002.jpg|thumb|right|160px|[[Theatre Royal, Wexford]] during the opera festival]]
Since 1951, an [[opera]] festival — [[Wexford Festival Opera]] — takes place every year in the Theatre Royal in Wexford town and runs for a few weeks.<ref>http://www.wexfordopera.com</ref> A new Opera House has recently replaced the old one on the same site, but it will still be called the Theatre Royal — the new theatre is expected to open on the first night of the 57th Wexford Festival Opera, on 16 October 2008 .
===Singing Tradition===
There is a renowned singing tradition in County Wexford. Having an abundance of traditional songs, many of which relate to the rebellion of 1798, the county has for many years had a strong presence in the Irish traditional singing scene. Noted singers include [[List of All-Ireland Fleadh Champions|All-Ireland Fleadh Champions]] [[Paddy Berry]], Seamus Brogan and Niall Wall. Paddy Berry has also collected and published a number of [[List of Wexford Songs|songs from Wexford]].
==Public Libraries==
There are public libraries located at [[Wexford]], [[Gorey]], [[Enniscorthy]], [[New Ross]] and [[Bunclody]].<ref name="WexLibraries">{{cite web |url= http://www.wexford.ie/wex/Departments/Library/BranchLibraries/
|title=Branch Libraries (Co. Wexford)
|work=Wexford County Council Website
|accessdate=2008-05-18
}}</ref> The Library service hosts many literary activities, featuring such famous guest speakers such as [[Séamus Heaney]], [[Roger McGough]], [[John Banville]], [[Claire Keegan]] and [[John Montague]].
==Health==
''Wexford General Hospital'' is located in [[Wexford]] town. It has a [[Emergency department|Accident and Emergency department]]. Wexford General Hospital also provides the following services – [[Medicine]], [[General Surgery]], [[Gynaecology]], [[Obstetrics]], [[Pediatrics]].<ref name="SEHBwexhosp">{{cite web |url= http://www.sehb.ie/services/sm-gen-hospitals.html#WEXFORD|title=General Hospitals - Services Map
|work=South Eastern Health Board Website
|accessdate=2008-05-11
}}</ref>
St Senan's psychiatric hospital is located on the edge of Enniscorthy town.<ref name="SEHBennSShosp">{{cite web |url= http://www.sehb.ie/services/sm-psych-hospitals.html#ENNISCORTHY|title=Psychiatric Hospitals - Services Map
|work=South Eastern Health Board Website
|accessdate=2008-05-11
}}</ref> St John's Hospital in Enniscorthy and New Houghton Hospital in New Ross provide services for the elderly while Gorey also has a District Hospital.
==Places of Interest==
The scenic Bannow Drive, popular amongst tourists, is a signposted route through four Wexford villages including [[Duncormick]], [[Cullenstown]], [[Bannow]] and [[Wellingtonbridge]].
Ballyteigue Burrow, located by [[Duncormick]], is one the finest protected sand dune systems in Ireland. Rich in wild flowers, wild life and butterflies, this 9 km coastal stretch is a protected nature reserve by the golden sands of Ballyteigue Bay, spectacular scenery, a joy to walk over.
The [[Hook Peninsula]] is noted for its many beaches and spectacular scenery. It features the medieval [[Hook Head]] lighthouse and the historic townland of [[Loftus Hall]].
Popular Beaches are located at [[Courtown]], [[Curracloe]], and [[Duncannon]].
'''Some other places of interest include:'''
{|border="0" align=center
|-
|valign="top"|
*Ferns Castle & Abbey.<ref name="HerIreFernsCast">{{cite web|url=http://www.heritageireland.ie/en/South-East/FernsCastle/|title=Ferns Castle|work=Heritage Ireland Website|accessdate=2008-05-15}}</ref>
*Enniscorthy Castle & Museum.
*Vinegar Hill.
*National 1798 Visitor Centre ([[Enniscorthy]]).<ref name="Nat1798VisitCent">{{cite web|url=http://www.iol.ie/~98com/|title=National 1798 Visitor Centre |work=National 1798 Visitor Centre Website|accessdate=2008-05-15}}</ref>
*Boolavogue.
*Oulart Hill.
*Castleboro (Ruins).
*the Seven 'Castles' of Clonmines.
*Johnstown Castle.
*Ballyteigue Castle.
*Bannow Church (dates from [[13th century]]).
|valign="top"|
*Selskar Abbey ([[Wexford]] town).
*Irish National Heritage Park (Ferrycarrig).
*Tacumshin Windmill (southeast Co. Wexford).
*St. Mary's Church ([[New Ross]]).
*[[Dunbrody Abbey]].
*[[Tintern Abbey (County Wexford)|Tintern Abbey]].<ref name="DunbrodyAbbey">{{cite web |url= http://www.dunbrodyabbey.com
|title= Dunbrody Abbey
|work= Dunbrody Abbey Visitors Centre Website
|accessdate=2008-05-16
}}</ref>
*Slade Castle.
*Ballyhack Castle.
*J.F. Kennedy homestead and Park.
*Slieve Coilte.
*Duncannon Fort.
|}
<center>
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|[[Tintern Abbey (County Wexford)|Tintern Abbey]]||Ballyteigue Bay
|-
|[[Image:Tintern Abbey (Co, Wexford).jpg|250px|Tintern Abbey, Co. Wexford.]]||[[Image:03-04-07 1514.jpg|250px|Ballyteigue Bay.]]
|}
</center>
<center><gallery perrow="4">
Image:Lighthouse HookHead CtyWexford IRE.jpg|Hook Lighthouse.
Image:St. Peters College, Wexford.JPG|[[St Peter's College, Wexford]].
Image:Ballyhack Castle.jpg|Ballyhack Castle.
Image:Vinegarhill eastview.jpg|Vinegar Hill - view from Enniscorthy.
</gallery></center>
==Famous natives==
{|border="0" align=center
|-
|valign="top"|
*[[John Barry (naval officer)|John Barry]] - Commander [[United States Navy]].
*[[John Banville]] - [[journalism|Journalist]] and author (winner of the [[Man Booker Prize]] in 2005).
*[[Paddy Berry]] - [[Traditional Irish Singers|singer]], song collector and folklorist.
*[[Myles Byrne|Miles Byrne]] - Participant in the [[Irish Rebellion of 1798]].
*[[Thomas Cloney]] - Participant in the Irish Rebellion of 1798.
*[[Brendan Corish]] - [[Irish Labour Party]] leader and [[Tánaiste]].
*[[Francis Danby]] - Painter.
*[[Pádraic Delaney]] - Actor.
*[[Anne Doyle]] - [[Radio Telefís Éireann|R.T.É.]] Newsreader.
*[[Kevin Doyle]] - Soccer Player.
*[[Nicholas French]] - Former RC Bishop of Ferns.
*[[Nicholas Furlong]] - [[Author]], journalist and [[historian]].
*[[Edward Hay (County Wexford)|Edward Hay]] - Author of a history of the Irish Rebellion of 1798.
|valign="top"|
*[[Bagenal Harvey|Beauchamp Bagenal Harvey]] - Participant in the Irish Rebellion of 1798.
*[[Herbert F. Hore|Herbert Hore]] - Historian.
*[[Patrick Kennedy (1823-1858)|Patrick Kennedy]] - Great-Grandfather of [[John F. Kennedy]] (former [[United States President]]).
*[[Dermot Mac Murrough]] - King of Leinster (probably native).
*[[Father John Murphy|John Murphy]] - Participant in the Irish Rebellion of 1798.
*[[Aidan O'Brien]] - Horse trainer.
*[[Michael O'Hanrahan]] - Irish Rebel executed for fighting in the 1916 [[Easter Rising]].
*[[Nicky Rackard]] - Hurling player.
*[[Dick Roche]] - Politician.
*[[James Ryan (Irish politician)|James Ryan]] - Politician and Irish Revolutionary.
*[[Martin Storey]] - Hurling player.
*[[Tara Mc Namee]] - Film Director.
|}
==Famous residents==
*[[Michael Balfe]]- musician, grew up in Wexford
*[[Des Bishop]] - American-Irish Comedian.
*[[Chris de Burgh]] (born Christopher John Davison) - Singer-songwriter and musician.
*[[Dermot Desmond]] - Entrepreneur.
*[[Anna Maria Hall]] (Mrs. S.C. Hall) - Author.
*[[D'Arcy McGee|Thomas D'Arcy McGee]] - Author, journalist and historian.
*[[John Redmond]] - Politician.
==In popular culture==
Beaches in [[Curracloe]], Co. Wexford were used to film the opening scenes of the movie ''[[Saving Private Ryan]]'', which depicted the [[Battle of Normandy|D-day]] assault on [[Omaha Beach]] [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120815/locations].
==References & footnotes==
<div class="font-size:9px">
{{reflist}}
</div>
==Bibliography==
<DIV style="font-family:Arial; font-size:12px; ">
*Byrne, Francis J. ''Irish Kings and High Kings''. Dublin, 1973-2001.
*Carlyle, Thomas. ''"Oliver Cromwell's Letters and Speeches"''. Vol. 1. New York: Wiley & Putnam, 1845.
*[[Gerald of Wales|Cambrensis, Giraldus]]. ''Expugnatio Hibernica - The Conquest of Ireland''. Dublin: R.I.A., 1978.
*Colfer, Billy. ''The County of Wexford''. Co. Wexford: Foillsitheoirí Cois Sláine, n.d. - 1980 or 1981.
*[[Nicholas Furlong|Furlong, Nicholas]]. ''A History of County Wexford''. Dublin: Gill & MacMillan, 2003. ISBN 0 7171 3461 X.
*[[Nicholas Furlong|Furlong, Nicholas]] and John Hayes. ''County Wexford in the Rare Oul' Times''. Vol. IV. 1910-1924. Wexford: Old Distillery Press, 2005. ISBN 0 9512812 3 2.
*Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSi). ''Discovery Series 77 - Co Wexford (part).'' Scale 1: 50,000. Dublin: OSI, Phoenix Park, 1997. ISBN 0-904996-71-9.
*''The Times Atlas of the World – Reference Edition''. London: Times Books, 1995-2002. ISBN 0 00 712400 7.
*Whelan, K.(ed) & W. Nolan (assoc. ed.). ''Wexford: History and Society''. Dublin: Geography Publications, 1987.
</DIV>
==See also==
*[[List of abbeys and priories in the Republic of Ireland#County Wexford|List of abbeys and priories in the Republic of Ireland (County Wexford)]]
==External links==
{{Commonscat|County Wexford}}
<div class="font-size:9px">
* [http://www.wexfordcinemas.com/ Co. Wexford Cinema Guide]
* [http://www.wexford.ie/ County Council website]
* [http://www.wexfordweb.com/ The Wexford Web]
* [http://www.shamrockcottages.co.uk/maps/wexford.jpg Map of Wexford]
* [http://www.wexfordtourism.com/ County Wexford Tourism]
*[http://www.botanicgardens.ie/herb/books/philips/wexford3.jpg Late 19th Century A.D. Map of Co. Wexford.]
</div>
{{Ireland_counties}}
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