About Kilmacthomas

Welcome to Kilmacthomas

Kilmacthomas (Irish: Coill Mhic Thomáisín), often referred to locally as "Kilmac", is a charming town nestled on the banks of the River Mahon in County Waterford, Ireland. Located halfway between Waterford City and Dungarvan, our town serves as an important hub along the spectacular Waterford Greenway.

With a rich history dating back centuries, Kilmacthomas has evolved from a small rural settlement to a vibrant community that celebrates its heritage while embracing the future. From the historic railway viaduct that now forms part of the Greenway to the repurposed Workhouse that houses thriving businesses, our town showcases how the past and present can harmoniously coexist.

Quick Facts

Irish Name: Coill Mhic Thomáisín (meaning "Wood of the Son of Little Thomas")
County: Waterford
Province: Munster
Location: On the R677, north of the N25 national primary road
River: Mahon River divides the town, with the east bank known as Kilmacthomas and the west bank as Gruaigeshuneen (Gráig Sheoinín)
Nearby Features: Comeragh Mountains to the west, Copper Coast 5 miles to the south
Notable Landmark: Railway Viaduct (now part of the Waterford Greenway)

Local Economy

Historical Industries: Wool production, milling, agriculture
Current Economy: Tourism (Waterford Greenway), food production, agriculture, small businesses
Major Employers: Flahavan's (established c.1785), Penn Products Furniture (since 1973)
Recent Development: Kilmacthomas acts as a commuter town for Waterford and Dungarvan
Tourism: Growing sector centered around the Waterford Greenway, Comeragh Mountains, and local heritage

Historical Timeline

Explore the rich history of Kilmacthomas through key events that have shaped our community over the centuries.

Pre-17th Century

Early Settlement

The area around Kilmacthomas has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with several ancient sites in the vicinity. The town's name, Coill Mhic Thomáisín in Irish, means "Wood of the Son of Little Thomas," suggesting early woodland settlements.

1649

Cromwellian Period

During the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland, Oliver Cromwell marched from Waterford to Kilmacthomas during the Siege of Waterford. Due to wet and stormy weather, the River Mahon was in flood, preventing the army from crossing. Cromwell's forces spent two nights in what is now the public park. Cromwell reportedly described Waterford county as "a craggy and desolate place" during this march.

18th Century

Cultural and Industrial Development

Irish-language poet Donnchadh Ruadh Mac Conmara lived in the area after returning from Newfoundland. The town became an important center for the wool industry during this period. In 1785, Flahavan's began milling Irish oats, establishing what would become one of Ireland's oldest family-owned food companies that continues to operate today.

19th Century

Political Movements and Famine

Daniel O'Connell passed through Kilmacthomas on a campaign trail and noted the strong popular support despite the town belonging to the Beresford family. The Kilmacthomas Workhouse was established, formally coming into existence on June 7, 1850, during the Great Famine (1845-1852), a period of immense hardship for the region.

1870s

Railway Era

The industrial revolution reached Kilmacthomas when the Waterford to Mallow railroad came to town. A magnificent stone viaduct was built spanning the Mahon River, which still stands today as one of the town's most iconic landmarks. The railway brought new economic opportunities and connected the town to wider markets.

1960s

End of Passenger Rail

The last passenger rail services ceased in the late 1960s, marking the end of an era for Kilmacthomas. The railway continued to operate with the haulage of oil and magnesite for another couple of decades before becoming completely disused, leaving the viaduct as a reminder of this important chapter in the town's history.

2017

Waterford Greenway Opens

The historic railway viaduct found new life as part of the Waterford Greenway, a 46-kilometer off-road cycling and walking trail built along the former railway line from Waterford to Dungarvan. Kilmacthomas, positioned at the halfway point, became a key hub for Greenway visitors, bringing new tourism opportunities to the town.

Present Day

Renewal and Growth

The former Famine Workhouse has been converted into Kilmacthomas Business Centre, now home to Coach House Coffee, Waterford Greenway Bike Hire, and Mayfield Birds of Prey, employing approximately 70 people. The town continues to develop as both a tourist destination and a vibrant community, balancing respect for its rich heritage with embracing new opportunities for growth.

Cultural Heritage

Kilmacthomas has a rich cultural heritage that reflects both Irish and English language traditions. The town has been home to poets, artists, and notable figures who have contributed to its cultural landscape.

Language and Traditions

Kilmacthomas has a dual heritage of Irish and English language traditions. The Irish name, Coill Mhic Thomáisín, reflects the area's Gaelic roots, while the influence of English language and culture became more prominent following the Cromwellian period and subsequent centuries of British rule.

Local traditions include:

Traditional music sessions that continue to this day in local pubs
Storytelling traditions that preserve local folklore and history
Agricultural customs and seasonal celebrations
Craft traditions, including wool processing and textile production

Today, the community works to preserve these cultural traditions while embracing contemporary arts and cultural expressions. Local festivals, community events, and arts initiatives help keep the cultural heritage of Kilmacthomas alive for future generations.

Geographic Significance

Kilmacthomas occupies a strategic location in County Waterford, with distinctive geographical features that have shaped its development and character.

Location and Landscape

Situated on the River Mahon, with the east bank known as Kilmacthomas and the west bank as Gruaigeshuneen (Gráig Sheoinín)
Located halfway between Waterford City and Dungarvan, making it an ideal stopping point
To the west are the foothills of the Comeragh Mountains, offering spectacular scenery
Five miles to the south is the 'Copper Coast' with the beach of Bonmahon/Bunmahon
The surrounding countryside features rolling hills, farmland, and woodland

Geological Significance

Kilmacthomas gives its name to the "Kilmacthomas Formation," composed of Palaeozoic deep marine metasediments and metavolcanics. This geological formation is of interest to scientists studying the ancient geological history of Ireland.

The nearby Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, named for the 19th-century copper mines that once operated in the area, showcases 460 million years of geological history through its diverse rock formations and coastal features.

The Comeragh Mountains, visible from Kilmacthomas, were formed by glacial activity and feature dramatic coums (corries), valleys, and plateaus that attract hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Kilmacthomas Today

Today, Kilmacthomas is a vibrant community that honors its rich heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth and development.

A Thriving Community

Kilmacthomas has experienced a renaissance in recent years, largely due to the opening of the Waterford Greenway in 2017. This 46-kilometer cycling and walking trail, built along the former railway line, has brought new visitors and businesses to the town.

The repurposed Workhouse, once a symbol of the hardship endured during the Great Famine, now houses thriving businesses including Coach House Coffee, Waterford Greenway Bike Hire, and Mayfield Birds of Prey. This transformation exemplifies the community's ability to honor its past while creating new opportunities for the future.

Flahavan's, one of Ireland's oldest family-owned food companies, continues to mill oats in Kilmacthomas as it has done since 1785, providing employment and maintaining a connection to the town's agricultural heritage.

The town serves as both a tourist destination and a commuter base for those working in Waterford City and Dungarvan, creating a diverse and dynamic community.

Looking to the Future

Kilmacthomas continues to develop and evolve, with a focus on sustainable growth that respects the town's heritage and natural environment. Community initiatives, local businesses, and tourism development all contribute to a bright future for the town.

The community is actively involved in preserving local history and traditions while embracing new ideas and opportunities. Local events, festivals, and community groups help foster a strong sense of identity and belonging.

As Kilmacthomas moves forward, it remains committed to maintaining the balance between development and preservation, ensuring that the town's unique character and charm continue to thrive for generations to come.

We invite you to explore our community, learn about our history, enjoy our attractions, and become part of the ongoing story of Kilmacthomas.

Kilmac.ie