The Keeper of the Bees
Bees and Beekeeping in Irish Folklore
Did you know that bees have been around for over 100 million years? Or that the Brehon Laws included judgements about the rightful ownership of swarms? And why do Irish beekeepers plant bluebells around their hives?
The Keeper of the Bees
Beekeeper’s daughter and student of Irish folklore Eimear Chaomhánach weaves folktales about bees with memories of growing up in a beekeeping household.
Upcoming Events
The Liberties Festival
Bee8, Watling Street, Dublin 8
26 July 2025
Conversation: The Keeper of the Bees
A moderated conversation with Anthony Freeman, a beekeeper from Bee8 and Eimear Chaomhánach, author of The Keeper of the Bees ~ Bees and Beekeeping in Irish Folklore.
Listowel International Storytelling Festival, Kerry
20 sept 2025
Talk: Bees & Beekeeping in Irish Folklore
Presenting folklore and legend about bees and beekeeping including tales of St Gobnait, patroness of the bees, and her travels across county Kerry.
Dromineer Nenagh Literary Festival (DNLF), Tipperary
12 oct 2025
Conversation: Bees & Beekeeping in Irish Folklore
Sharing the myths, legends and folklore inspired by the bee and its keeper.