In the picturesque landscape of County Waterford, David Keohan, known to many as Indiana Stones, has embarked on a remarkable journey to revive the nearly forgotten sport of stone lifting. This ancient practice, once a vital part of Irish culture, served not only as a test of strength but also as a means of fostering community bonds. Through his passion and social media presence, Keohan is not only rekindling interest in this historical sport but also illuminating the rich narratives intertwined with each stone.
Unearthing a Cultural Legacy
Standing on a sandy beach, Keohan discovered a limestone boulder, approximately 115 kg in weight, half-buried beneath the surface. With the help of a crowbar, he prised it free, brushed off the sand, and prepared to lift it. As he hoisted the stone to his chest, a moment of connection with the past washed over him. “It’s not just about strength. Every single lifting stone has an amazing story attached to it,” he noted. At 47, Keohan is not merely lifting stones; he is resurrecting an entire culture.
Known on social media as Indiana Stones, Keohan has gained a dedicated following by sharing his explorations of Ireland’s lifting stones. These stones, he explains, have historical significance—some were lifted to honour the deceased during funeral games, while others marked significant community events, such as harvest festivals or the ascension of chieftains. “One stone was almost like a job interview to become a stonemason—you had to be strong enough to lift it,” he reflected.
A Personal Journey into History
Keohan’s introduction to this ancient sport occurred during the pandemic when gyms closed, and he began using stones as weights in his garden. Inspired by documentaries exploring stone lifting in regions such as Scotland and the Basque Country, he made a post-lockdown pilgrimage to Scotland, where he lifted the 127 kg Fianna stone. “It was strength, mythology, history. I fell in love with it,” he shared.
His fascination deepened when he discovered Liam O’Flaherty’s short story, “The Stone,” which features a man attempting to lift a significant rock from his youth. This literary connection propelled him to locate a granite stone that mirrored the story’s description on the island of Inishmore, further igniting his passion for the sport.
Building a Community of Enthusiasts
What once seemed like a forgotten pastime has transformed into a vibrant community, thanks in large part to Keohan’s efforts. He has identified 53 lifting stones across Ireland, each with its unique lore. His ambition extends beyond mere discovery; he aims to locate even more stones, creating a bridge between the past and present. “To lift such a stone today is to connect with all those who previously managed the feat,” he explained, highlighting the continuity of tradition that spans centuries.
The resurgence of stone lifting has garnered attention on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where enthusiasts share their lifting experiences. Additionally, competitions are now being organised by groups such as Irish Stone Monsters, and notable sponsorships, like one from Lyft for a stone lifting facility in Dublin, reflect the sport’s growing popularity. Women have also embraced the challenge, inspired by tales of legendary figures like Mrs Kildea, who is said to have lifted a massive boulder.
A Cultural Movement Towards Preservation
Cultural historian Conor Heffernan emphasises the broader significance of stone lifting, noting its historical roots across Europe, Asia, and Africa. In Ireland, the sport has occasionally served as a metaphor for resistance, with stories of strong individuals lifting stones as acts of defiance during colonial times. Keohan and Heffernan are now advocating for stone lifting to be recognised as part of Ireland’s intangible cultural heritage, a crucial step towards potential UNESCO recognition.
Keohan, enriched by the tales and traditions associated with these stones, has found a renewed sense of purpose. “It has given me purpose and a reattachment to what it means to be Irish,” he remarked. He is currently penning a book titled “The Wind Beneath the Stone,” which promises to share the stories of these lifting stones and their cultural significance.
Why it Matters
Through the revival of stone lifting, David Keohan is not merely celebrating an ancient sport; he is reconnecting people with their cultural heritage. In an age where traditions can often fade into obscurity, his efforts to bring back this forgotten practice serve as a reminder of the importance of community, strength, and the stories that bind us to our past. By championing these cultural narratives, Keohan is ensuring that the legacy of stone lifting endures for future generations to appreciate and cherish.
