Before the arrival of mechanical aids to farming and electricity in the home, the hearth-fire was the very heart of the Irish kitchen. As well as being the only source of heat, the hearth-fire was also essential for cooking, baking, drying and airing clothes. Housewives of old were solely in charge of the hearth - and indeed, were judged by it, making sure the fire never went out - even at night.

Last thing at bedtime, the housewife would pile ashes on top of the embers to keep the fire smouldering, ready to be raked out and brought to life in the morning.

Apart from the practical aspect, the fire was also seen as a symbol of family continuity, and often the only cheer after a hard day's work.

It was common practice in those days for neighbours to drop in (or rakers, as they were known in this area), when the day's work was over.

Gathered round the fire, they made their own entertainment - be it telling stories, singing songs or listening to traditional fiddle music, played by one or other of the travelling families of the time, the best known of which were the Doherty family...renowned for their fiddle playing over several generations.

To show pictures of the numerous artefacts in Biddy and Joe's on this website would be a wasted exercise. The real attraction of this little cottage is the feeling of antiquity experienced once inside...and the unmistakable smell of burning peat...something that will bring back long-forgotten memories to many.

Since its opening, the cottage has seen many visitors from all over the world, their attention drawn by the comical figures of Biddy and Joe seated outside. The pair were handmade by the late George Woodhall, Ballybotemple. On occasion, both smoke clay pipes and wear traditional Irish dress. They've also met a few famous people in their time...none more so than the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, her husband Martin and son Justin, who called in unexpectedly in August 1998, during a trip to Donegal.

Says Michael of the visit: "I can tell you I was shocked when the President's car pulled up outside, but I must say, it was the nicest shock I ever got. I was also delighted to have Gerry Adams, President of Sinn Fein stopping in with his wife and family".