There Is Far More To Millstreet

There is far more to Millstreet and to Millstreet Town
Than show jumping or elite sportspeople who brought to the place renown
In Duhallow near Sliabh Luachra it is known far and wide
For it’s hospitable people in a scenic countryside.
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When people ask me what part of Ireland I come from to them I always say
From Claraghatlea near Millstreet Town far north and far away
In view of Clara Mountain overlooking Claramore
Though I’ve not seen the old homeplace for three years with a score.
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Were I a poet of Millstreet a poem I would write
That would make others happy to read and to recite
Of Springtime in Duhallow in the gray April sky
When meadow pipit o’er the rushy field does sing as he does fly.
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And dark brown dipper with the snow white breast is singing in the rill
That babbles to the river down the high fields by the hill
And male robin breast of orange puffed out sings on a leafy tree
And everywhere one turns to look great beauty one does see.
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When some talk of Millstreet in Duhallow sporting greats they do recall
Of car racing and athletics as well as gaelic football
Distinguished artists, dancers, writers and musicians nowadays live in Millstreet
In the Town by Clara Mountain such people one does meet.
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Though I am one who always finds plenty for to write about
My worth as a simple rhymer I have reason for to doubt
But to my old homeplace of Millstreet In Duhallow far north of this southern shore
There is more than elite sportspeople oh yes indeed far more.

by Francis Duggan