Wren Boys in Limerick City, Ireland 1971

Taking inspiration from the western ‘A Fistful of Dollars’, a group of Wren Boys make their way through Limerick on horseback and on foot, collecting money for charity.
Wren Day, Lá an Dreoilín, is celebrated each year on 26 September, Saint Stephen’s Day. Traditionally a wren was hunted and put on top of a decorated pole or holly bush.
Groups of costumed men and boys, called Wren Boys, with faces blackened or wearing masks, parade the wren through towns and villages. They call to houses to regale residents with musical laments for the unfortunate bird, as well as to collect money for its funeral.
Traditionally the Wren Boys call on households singing songs and collecting donations.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 26 December 1971.