120 Years of The Cope
From a small co-operative founded in Cleendra in 1906 to one of West Donegal’s best-known community businesses, The Cope has grown through generations of change while remaining rooted in the communities it serves.
Built on Heritage
The Templecrone Co-Operative Society began in Cleendra in 1906 as a small co-operative serving its local community. Over time, it grew into an important enterprise supporting farming, retail, industry and construction throughout West Donegal.
From its earliest days, The Cope was guided by local people. That connection to community has remained at the centre of the organisation throughout generations of growth and change.
Discover More
If you would like to learn more about The Cope, our founder Patrick Gallagher and the remarkable story behind the Templecrone Co-operative Society, these books offer a fascinating look at the people, events and ideas that shaped our history.
The Cope • 1906–2009
Discover the extraordinary history of the Templecrone Co-operative Society, from its beginnings in 1906 through more than a century of community, resilience and co-operation.
Patrick Gallagher
Read Paddy the Cope's story in his own words. Patrick Gallagher's autobiography tells of his life in the Rosses and the beginnings of the co-operative movement that would become The Cope.
Paddy's Story for Younger Readers
Introduce younger readers to Paddy the Cope, his life in West Donegal and the story of how he helped establish the Templecrone Co-operative Society.