Kenry 'Hidden Curragh Chase' Outing, Aug. 23, 2009
HISTORY WALKS
In spite of threatening weather on Sunday August 23, a dedicated group of enthusiasts turned up for the walk in Curragh Chase. Coillte had generously waived their usual entry fee to facilitate this tour and their representative Eileen O’Keeffe welcomed all to the Forest Park. Michael Costello who was born and reared in the locality, led the group and outlined the people and places behind the scenes on the estate. His first port of call was the ‘Big House’ where he explained the demise of the house due to the fire of December 1941. We were next brought into the rear of the house and its services in that area were outlined, for example, following the fire Mrs De Vere lived in one of the barns for a period until she settled into what is now the Scout House near the entrance to the estate. From here the short walk brought the party into the back yard where cattle were housed, along with some of the farm hands. One such herdsman was represented by his grandniece who spoke of her mother’s recollections, whose own mother had served as dressmaker and latterly cook in the house. The memories of many other workers on the estate were recalled by the tour guide who is in contact with family members of these families. The bell tower which tolled out its call to the workers adjoining the estate and in cottages around, was pointed out to the visitors. The many places associated with the poet Aubrey which are dotted around the pleasure garden, were pointed out. By now the sun was shining on the group as they made their way through the gateway into the ‘Deer Park’, in which the poet in his recollections recalled the deer running from brake to brake of trees cover. The well-defined ring fort was visited and its history could only be surmised at as like many another such, these dated to before written records were made. A visit to the monument at the ‘monument gate’ and it was on to the kitchen garden and the holy well called the ‘Siveen’, before the group returned to their cars, replete with new insights into the history of the De Vere family, their house and estate. Another very successful outing for the Kenry Historical Society with enthusiasm mounting for their next outing.
ANNIVERSARIES
The following, whose anniversaries occur around this time are remembered and Masses are being arranged: Bridie Nash-Kennedy, Mellon ,Nora Stokes,Milford,
Una Nolan,Ballyvareen, and Helen Cullinan,Ballyrune.
Solas na ngrást dóibh uilig.
MASS TIME CHANGES
As and from Saturday September 5th the following revised Mass time arrangements will apply:
Saturday Vigil Mass 7pm in St Mary’s Church, Pallaskenry
Sunday Mass 11.00 St Joseph’s Church, Kildimo.
Bantracht Na Tuaithe Cill Díoma
Members are reminded that ICA activities will resume early next week. The Killulta ICA Book Club’s September meeting is scheduled for Tuesday next September 1st at ‘De Bucket’Pub, Ferrybridge, commencing with lunch at 1.15pm.
On the following night September 2nd the guild meeting takes place at the Seven Sisters ‘pub, Old Kildimo at 8pm.Any outstanding membership fees will be collected on the night.
COMMUNITY GAMES
This season has ended with the National Finals in Athlone. Congratulations to all the participants and their families and mentors for another successful year of endeavour. Sisters Regina and Emer Griffin were in with the best of Gymnasts and Regina is preparing for her next outing in representing the nation at the games in Portugal. Young Steven O’Brien of Ballyculhane proved a promising prospect in Under 12 swimming and is already training for next year’s Finals. In Under 10, 200 meters, Liam Wilson of Ardlahan came a creditable fourth in his first outing. Molly McKenna, whose speciality is the Ball Throw at Under 12, again proved her superiority by achieving Gold.
COMMUNITY LOTTO
In the weekly draw on August 18, numbers 4, 10, 19 & 22 were the winning combination for a Jackpot of €2,400. As no punter made the winning prediction, five ‘Lucky Dips’ were drawn for prizes of €20 each, which went to Mike Dillon, Snr, Phyllis McKenna, Joe Gleeson, Sean Kelly and Pat Bourke. The new Community Council invites your participation in this draw, the proceeds of which are channelled back into community development.
POPULATION GROWTH
The citizenry of Ballynacarriga have been added to by one in the person of baby Thomas McMahon. Thomas is carrying the name of his paternal grandfather for his proud parents Ger and Siobhán and grandparents Michael and Brenda who are only waiting in the wings to dispense their wisdom on newborns and act as dedicated and unpaid babysitters.
HERITAGE WEEK
This specially designated week ends on Sunday, August 30, when the Kenry Historical Society descends on Ringmoylan. Derek Cahill, who has conducted previous tours of this area, will be on hand from 3.00pm at the Pier where the walk commences. Following an outline of the history of the pier and boating from that area as well as the events surrounding the KLM air disaster, the walk will turn uphill where Derek will point out the many interesting features in the area, most of which are associated with the Bury estate and Shannongrove House its centre. All are welcome and the event is free.
Active Retirement Ireland
Despite the inclement weather, members of the Civil Defence Active Retirement group had a most enjoyable outing in the Ballingarry area last week. The DeLacy Castle, Protestant Church and School, and the Workhouse are all of historical interest in this area together with Knockfierna with its associated folklore, flora and fauna. The local converted 19th century convent is now home to the ‘The Mustard Seed’ restaurant where proprietor Dan Mullane entertained the group to afternoon tea and a tour of the extensive gardens. All too soon it was time to disperse with promises of reconvening ‘Under Shandon Bells ‘ for next month’s gathering.
PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION
Participants in Heritage Week are invited to enter a competition by sharing their photographic records of the event. There are three competitive levels, from age 7-12, 13-21 and over 21. The winners will be those who illustrate originality and creativity and demonstrate an understanding of the theme of Heritage Week- ‘be part of it, it’s part f you. All details are available on the Heritage website.
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