The 52M has been synonymous with the village for nearly a century and had been a focal point for heritage in the area. Built in 1928 the 52M has a rich history of use as a workboat, tripper barge, leisure boat, had a starring role in an RTE drama production starring Gabriel Byrne, hosted Rose of Tralee finalists and featured on Ear to the Ground. However, the “hey-day” of the 52M was the period circa 1970 to 2005 when it was used for festivals, weddings, bus-trips, provided canal tours for schools, local interest groups and numerous other businesses and general tourists.

In 2005 Muintir Na Tíre sold the Grand Canal Hotel, which had been operated as a heritage museum and restaurant, into private ownership. The fate of the 52M, which had also been operated by Muintir Na Tíre, was undecided for a number of years until it was transferred into the ownership of RCAA. Unfortunately, during the intervening period old age caught up with the 52M and it fell in to a state of disrepair.

RCAA now want to restore the 52M to its former glory and use it to promote Robertstown's unique heritage .