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Labourer's Cottages of County Wexford

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My name is Simon Bates, I am a documentary photographer based in South East Wexford.

I am currently documenting the Labourer's Cottages, or 2 up 2 down houses of County Wexford. There are approximately 2000 of these spread out around the County.

Although recognised academically as important, their heritage value has gone unremarked, and to date none have been accorded protected structure status. Local Authorities are not currently in a position to dedicate finances or resources to recording these quietly iconic buildings.

Designed by Wexford County Council from the 1890’s up until the 1930’s, they are simple in form and detail they show enduring qualities. They have classical proportions, pleasing scale, and durable finishes. The basic form has been extended to, and individualised by painting, finishes, colours, etc. Despite extensive changes to many of the houses, they remain readily recognisable.
 
The cottages are a part of the vernacular architectural heritage of County Wexford with layers of cultural, historic, and social significance. Although they occur in other counties, their proliferation in County Wexford points to a marriage of specific housing policy with land ownership conditions, and the status of the agricultural labourer at the time. They are so associated with the landscape of Wexford that it is valid to call them a local icon. The fact that so many survive and continue to be adapted is evidence of their formulaic success. Interesting key issues include the pattern of distribution, nuances in building styles, and the different ways they have been adapted and extended over time.

Donated funds will enable me to continue documenting these iconic buildings, and hopefully in time, to secure protected status for them.

I would be very grateful for any financial assistance to enable to continuation of this project. Thank you for your help.

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Simon Bates
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