Avoca - History

Avoca Village

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The scenically located Avoca village developed on a bridging point on the Avoca river which winds its way lazily in a south-easterly direction in its floodplain to the sea at Arklow. Architecturally, the old and the new blend well to make Avoca one of the most interesting villages in Ireland. This small linear village has a recently restored 19th century courthouse adjacent to the riverside park, the older terraced shops and residences and the more recently constructed modern housing along the roads which extend out from the main village.

The Avoca area has a rich heritage which is dominated by agriculture, mining, forestry and tourism. The Avoca Handweavers, reputed to be the oldest weaving mill in Ireland, has been weaving colourful and quality tweed garments for many years. It was started in the last century because of the availability of wool supplied from the sheep of the local farmers. The origins of the mining industry, which was mainly for copper, dates back to the middle of the 18th century. The ruins of the old steam engine houses and the few old slag heaps and open pits bear testament to a mining industry which once flourished in the area. The evidence of the mining industry can be easily seen along the lovely walks and drives around the area. The Avoca area is richly covered with deciduous and coniferous forests. These surround the green pastures for cattle and sheep and provide a colourful environment with picnic areas and forest walks.

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