Here's something more than just a little bit different as a way to better appreciating the lives and experiences of your ancestors.
The Institute for Collaborative Research in the Humanities is running a public event called Gruelling Ordeals: The Irish Workhouse Diet, 1850-1950 on Monday 12 October. The Institute describes it as 'an immersive encounter with the diets of Belfast's poorest inhabitants over 100 years ago' and is offering an invitation to experience workhouse life by sampling the oatmeal gruel, broth and suet puddings served to inmates. These meals will be compared with the rich diets of meat pies and fruits enjoyed by the city's middle-classes at the same time.
This unusual 'feast' will be followed by a short programme of talks. Among the speakers will be Dr Ian Miller from the University of Ulster and Dr Linda Price and Dr Olwen Purdue from Queen’s University, Belfast. The talks will offer insights into the diets of the past in order to stimulate debate about our 21st-century eating habits.
The event will end with an informal drinks reception.
Time: 3–7pm.
Venue: Duncairn Centre for Culture & Arts, Duncairn Avenue, Belfast BT14 6BP.
Tickets are free but must be booked.