Fairy Thorn
Ulster Folk and Transport Museum
County Down


    The Ulster Folk Museum has long had this exhibit as an example of a solitary tree growing in the middle of a field. Irish farmers have often left such trees stand in deference to the fairies believed to reside there. A member of the Museum staff told me that a decision was made not long ago to clear the field and use it for some other purpose. However, the workmen told to cut the tree down refused to do so.