What is recorded here

In a hollow ash tree stands a well of living water, waiting for the touched or the tired. People have drunk from its cavities for generations, believing the liquid leaves behind what the body no longer needs. The tree does not explain itself. It gives water, remembers the request, and waits for the next person to return changed.

In an elevated area beside the road. An ash tree containing water which is said to have healing powers (O'Hanlon and O'Leary 1907, 200-209). According to Comerford an old tree, opposite the well (LA017-003003-), is popularly supposed to be connected with it. In some cavities in the trunk, water is said to be at all times found, in which healing properties are ascribed (Comerford 1886, vol. 3, 298). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 17 December 2007

The site is associated with a sacred ash tree believed to hold healing water, reflecting a tradition of tree veneration and holy well practices common in early Irish Christianity. Local lore suggests the tree and its water were thought to cure ailments, with possible links to pre-Christian beliefs in the spiritual power of trees.

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