An Grianán residential Adult Education College was entrusted to the Irish Countrywomens Association by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation of America in 1954 for "the health, education and welfare of the people od Ireland." Throughout the year the College provides over 200 courses for students from home and abroad on subjects ranging from Home Economics and Crafts to Literature and Music.
Since 1954 the College has grown and developed and, today, can accomodate eighty-six visitors on a residential basis. By means of debate, demonstration, lectures and practical instruction, An Grianán - `The Sunny Place' - tries to provide an educational enrichment in an atmosphere which is conductive to friendly dialogue and social interaction.
Needless to remark, any attempt to encourage the development or improvement of domestic, educational and recreational activities could not materialise without the support and goodwill of the Department of Education, County Louth Vocational Education Committee and many State and Semi-State organisations. The status of the College is further enhanced by the generous sponsorship received from the agricultural, business and commercial sector enabling adult students to avail of scholarships for sponsored courses.
An Grianán has been a forerunner in keeping alive and fostering a love of traditional art and crafts such as basketry, crochet, Carrickmacross and Limerick Lace, embroidery, jewellery, lumra, macrame, rushwork, pottery, weaving and woodcarving. Located within close proximity of Termonfechin, Co. Louth, An Grianán's idyllic setting in rustic seclusion ensures that the college is particularly suitable for conferences and seminars and visitors can combine business and pleasure, education and entertainment in privacy and tranquility.
Ireland's first residential Adult Education College has attempted to widen the horizons of thousands of visitors and, hopefully, will continue to make a contribution to the nation socially, culturally and educationally.