The Story Behind Brow of the Oak: Handcrafted Irish Walking Sticks

Growing up in Edenderry, a town rich in Irish heritage, I was always surrounded by the beauty of natural bogs and woodlands. One of the most iconic pieces of Irish craftsmanship is the blackthorn walking stick—a tool of both function and folklore, carried by generations before us. What started as a personal passion has now grown into a little business I call “Brow of the Oak”, where I craft and share these traditional Irish walking sticks with those who appreciate their beauty and history.

The Meaning Behind ‘Brow of the Oak’

My brand name, Brow of the Oak, is a tribute to my hometown. The Irish name for Edenderry is Éadan Doire, which translates to “Brow of the Oak” or “Hill-Brow of the Oak.” This name reflects my deep connection to the land and its natural materials. I work with native woods like blackthorn, hazel, oak, elm, and some rare pieces of 5000 year old bog oak, ensuring that each piece carries the spirit of Ireland within it.

Every stick I craft is hand-selected and fully seasoned, ensuring strength, durability, and a natural character that makes each one unique.

More Than Just Walking Sticks

While my focus is on traditional Irish walking sticks, I also have a passion for other forms of Irish woodcraft, including bog oak jewellery and handcrafted wooden items. This blog will be a space where I share:

• Behind-the-scenes insights into my crafting process.
• The history and folklore behind traditional Irish sticks.
• Tips for caring for and maintaining a handcrafted walking stick.
• Other handcrafted Irish woodcrafts as I expand my work.

Join Me on This Journey

I’d love to hear from you! Whether you own a blackthorn walking stick, have a story about them, or are interested in traditional Irish craftsmanship, feel free to connect.

Follow my journey on Facebook:

Thank you for supporting traditional Irish craftsmanship