Today is the Exact Centenary of the Clonbanin Ambush

We thank Donal Kelleher for sharing images of the very impressive new Monument situated in the Church Car Park of Derrinagree Church remembering the Clonbanin Ambush of 1921 which on this Friday, 5th March 2021 is the exact Centenary of the historic event.  Tap on the images to enlarge.  (S.R.)

New Clonbanin Ambush 1921-2021 Monument at Derrinagree Church Car Park.

[read more …] “Today is the Exact Centenary of the Clonbanin Ambush”

Clan Callaghan….The O Callaghan Family of County Cork…Book Reissued

Clan Callaghan…..The O Callaghan Family of County Cork

Maureen Phibbs from Co. Wicklow (formerly Maureen Hickey of Cullen) is Editor of the renowned “Irish Roots” Magazine and has recently been in touch with us in regard to an important Book which has just been reissued.  Maureen writes:

“The author is Joseph F. O Callaghan, (the “O” is without the apostrophe throughout the book)  now aged about 93 and living in the US. He is professor Emeritus of Medieval History, Fordham University. He first published the book in 2004 after spending many years researching the history of the O Callaghans. The revised and updated edition is now just published. It traces the fate of the O Callaghans from the tenth to the twentieth century including the O Callaghans along the Blackwater valley from Mallow to Clonmeen against the background of local and national history. It has copious notes, 16 genealogical tables of family trees and the bibliography is an excellent research tool for anybody studying local or national history.

His father, William, was born at Dromcummer.

We are featuring the book in the next issue of “Irish Roots” which has just gone to print.  We are publishing which is really the 10th article in the Clan Callaghan book.

Cost of Book in case anyone is interested.
Revised edition 2020. 302 pages. (A4 size) €34 www.amazon.co.uk or www.amazon.com or from other fine booksellers.”

 

“Worth The Wait – The Drishanebeg Train Ambush” Book Now Available

The outstanding book “Worth the Wait – The Drishanebeg Train Ambush” has been printed locally by Kanturk Printers and is now available to purchase from the following Millstreet shops for just €10. 
  • Wordsworth, The Square.
  • Coleman’s Centra
  • Herlihys  Centra
  • Supervalu.
  • Anglands Filling Station, Dromagh.
  • Guerins Filling Station, Ballydaly.
The Committee would like to thank these businesses for facilitating & supporting the sale of this publication. 

Tap on the image to enlarge. (S.R.)
The Book is an excellent compendium of all available information from numerous sources and historians and includes many new photos that have never been previously published.. On this the 100th anniversary of the Ambush, the Book is a fitting memorial to the bravery of those who took up arms against an Empire and will help ensure that their memory lives on.

The Drishanebeg Ambush Centenary Commemoration Address by Jack Lane

The Drishanebeg Ambush Centenary Commemoration Address

 by  Jack Lane 

 Aubane Historical Society

 CENTENARY OF THE DRISHANEBEG AMBUSH

11th February 2021

I want to thank the Committee for organising this event and inviting me to speak. A good indication of their efficient and professional approach was to ask me to speak here some months ago. That is much appreciated. I also want to thank the Committee for doing this and making such an event as we have today.

I think many of you will agree that this type of event was unimaginable a few years ago. Irish history writing by our academics and commentators went through a very bad period for a number of years.

There was an attempt to give us a bad conscience about the war of independent and these types of commemorations were seen as in bad taste.  The only disagreement I have with the commemorations is that they should be called celebrations but never mind.

There was an attempt to create a narrative of the War of the Independence that was designed to give us bad conscience about the whole thing because it was alleged to be a sectarian episode; that it was war against Protestants. This was incredible to anyone who had any knowledge at all of the people who fought that war or the events of the war. It was an attempt to try to prove that our state was deformed at birth, so to speak.

The location of the Ambush at this cutting, just over 90 years later, Tuesday 8 March 2011, near MP17½, looking towards Millstreet where, on Friday 11 February 1921, the 5:15pm train from Cork to Tralee was ambushed. (Photo: Oliver Doyle)
The train afterwards, 3rd class 6-wheel carriage No. 663 at Tralee Bay platform, blood-stained and with bullet holes, Saturday 12 February 1921. The platform side of the coach with substantial window damage. (Photo: Museum of the Royal Fusiliers, HM Tower of London)

[read more …] “The Drishanebeg Ambush Centenary Commemoration Address by Jack Lane”

Today is the Centenary of the Drishanebeg Train Ambush

Pictured at the Drishanebeg Ambush Commemoration Site marking the Centenary on this 11th Feb. 2021 – the Crowley Family – from left: Kevin, David, Margaret and Emmet. We thank Michael Thornton for the photograph. (S.R.)

We thank Michael Thornton for the following wonderfully comprehensive feature regarding the upcoming historic Centenary Event.   And thanks to Michael also for the recent photo of Tom Meaney at the Ambush Commemoration Site by the main Millstreet – Mallow Road near Keale Bridge.  Tap on the pictures to enlarge.  (S.R)

THE DRISHANEBEG TRAIN AMBUSH COMMEMORATION

On 11th February 100 years ago, men from Millstreet and the surrounding areas successfully carried out an audacious and meticulously planned operation against British soldiers travelling by train between Mallow and Killarney.  Two volunteers boarded the train at Rathcoole and by holding the train driver and fireman at gunpoint, forced them to stop the train at Drishanebeg, where an ambush had been prepared. After a period of intense gunfire, the British troops who had suffered casualties, surrendered.  Fourteen rifles, 600 rounds of ammunition plus sundry equipment was taken, before the train, with the wounded onboard, continued to Killarney.

The arms captured at Drishanebeg proved to be of immense help to in later engagements at Clonbanin and Rathcoole.

This event was deemed one of the more successful engagements against the Crown Forces for the Millstreet Battalion Volunteers during the War of Independence.

The Drishanebeg Train Ambush Commemoration Project Committee was established to commemorate the events of that historic night at the Glebe Railway Cutting. [read more …] “Today is the Centenary of the Drishanebeg Train Ambush”

Millstreet Team of 1956

We thank Seáno Murphy of Knocknagree (originally from High Mill Lane, Millstreet) for sharing this wonderfully historic photograph of 1956 showing the Millstreet Team playing an important Match in Macroom – a County Quarter FinalSeáno is pictured on the extreme left in the front row.   Tap on the image to enlarge.  (S.R.)   Seáno has just kindly shared the names of all in the picture:

Back Row from left:  Ted O’Connor, John O’Shea, Denis Kelleher,  John O’Keeffe,  Con Corcoran,  Brendan Moynihan,  Teddy Kelleher,  John Kelleher,  Cormac Dineen, Neily Dennehy,  J.J. Hinchion and  Jim O’Connor (Dooneen).    Front Row from left:   Seáno Murphy,  John  Corcoran,  John F. Daly,  Dan O’Leary,  Garda Mick Byrne stationed in Knocknagree – father of the former Garda Chief Commissioner, Pat Byrne (Goalie),  Joe Buckley,  John “Sing” O’Sullivan,  William O’Leary,  Pat Joe Kelleher and Anthony Manley.

Captain Con Murphy Remembered in Millstreet & Ballydaly Today

Marking the Centenary on 1st Feb. 2021 of the death of Captain Con Murphy a dedicated Committee paid special tribute to his memory firstly at The Square, Millstreet today (Sunday, 31st Jan. 2021) at 10 a.m. and one hour later in Ballydaly.  Here we share images from the historic events.  Later in the week John Tarrant will share a full illustrated report in the “Corkman”.  Tap on the pictures to enlarge.  (S.R.)

Pictured this Sunday Morning at the Monument in The Square – from left: Pat Joe Creedon, Noel Keating, Jerry Lehane and Donal Dennehy. It was Nora Kelleher, Minor Row, Millstreet who very kindly presented the historic banner to the organising Committee.
The historic ceremony at Ballydaly/Rathduane this Sunday morning. Many of those present were related to the late Captain Con Murphy.
Meave O’Leary from the Sliabh Luachra area laid the special wreath in memory of her late great-grand uncle Captain Con Murphy.
Tim O’Sullivan of Sliabh Luachra
John McCarthy recited a Decade of the Rosary while Tim Murphy addressed the gathering.

It’s almost twenty years since the Monument in tribute to the memory of the late Captain Con Murphy, was unveiled.

[read more …] “Captain Con Murphy Remembered in Millstreet & Ballydaly Today”

Superb Original 1916 Painting by Artist Supreme Tony Barrett

We extend sincere thanks to Artist Supreme, Tony Barrett of Tullig, Millstreet for sharing his magnificent original Painting relating to 1916.   Tony explains:  ” The Painting depicts the surrender of Pádraig Pearse on the event of the Easter 1916 Rising to the British Brigadier General Lowe and his son Captain John Lowe

Elizabeth O’Farrell who was a Nurse attending on the day served as a go between and approached the British barricade waving the white flag of truce.  She seems to have been airbrushed out of the history books so I painted this to as a remembrance to her, to her bravery and to her contribution at this historic moment.”

Tap on the image to enlarge. (S.R.)

“Where the Road Takes Me” at 7pm this Sunday on C103 Features “The Butter Road”

We thank Presenter, John Greene for advance information on this Sunday evening’s programme – 10th Jan. 2021 at 7pm on C103.  (S.R.)

In the middle of the 18th century, Kerry was making a name for itself in tourism circles.  There was a desire in Cork to connect with their nearest neighbours.

As the road network was virtually non existent, a John Murphy from Castleisland was commissioned to build a 56 mile long stretch of road linking Killarney with Rathmore, Millstreet and Cork City.

He would have to include a total of 24 bridges along the way and raise the money himself to do so. 

Having completed the work, Murphy was in financial ruin, but his road network helped one industry to thrive and flourish.

‘The making of the Butter Road’ – the first of a two part programme. [read more …] ““Where the Road Takes Me” at 7pm this Sunday on C103 Features “The Butter Road””

“Lunchtime Favourites” Today Features Minor Row of the Past

We invite you to submit your Requests for our weekly Music Request Show “Lunchtime Favourites” (Sunday, 10th Jan. 2021) on Cork Music Station which is broadcast today from 12:30pm until 1.30pm.   This is our second Lunchtime programme of the New Year where our songs and music reflect the favourite songs and music of the past year as well as beautiful songs by Charlotte Church and Bing Crosby.  Just email your requests anytime either to corkmusicstation @gmail.com OR to millstreetmuseum @gmail.com or text/WhatsApp to 086 825 0074.   Or check out the Seán Radley Facebook Page.  (S.R.)  And we reflect on the Minor Row of a bygone era – 1994 and before…. All from our Millstreet Museum Pictorial Archives.  Tap on the following images to enlarge.

The late Dan Hallissey – such a truly friendly gentleman – sets off home down Minor Row in the 1970s passing Lucey’s Garage.  His wonderful donkey had just received four new shoes at Tom Radley’s Forge in The Square!  This is the first of many pictorial gems we’ve been arranging to display in our renovated Millstreet Museum. (S.R.)

[read more …] ““Lunchtime Favourites” Today Features Minor Row of the Past”

Recalling the 98th Anniversary of Carnegie Hall Attack on 4th Jan. 1923

We thank John P.Kelleher for reminding us of this important Anniversary which occurs on Monday, 4th Jan. 2021.  A full and excellent comprehensive account of this milestone event in the history of Millstreet may be viewed here:  http://www.millstreet.ie/blog/2017/01/03/this-day-91-years-ago-today-in-millstreet

Millstreet’s Carnegie Hall 2020.
Millstreet’s Carnegie Hall in 1980s.

 

Class from St Patrick’s College, Millstreet 1964 or maybe 1965

Seán Creedon originally from Rathmore sent in this picture and needs help with filling in the names.   Seán was born in  Gortnagown, which is the townland where the famous City is located and has been working in Dublin now for over 50 years.
Back row: L/r: Donie Hickey (Cullen), Seán Creedon (Rathmore),  Denis O’Connell (Cullen), Tim Burton (Millstreet area), John Hickey (Gneeveguilla).
Middle row: L/r. Garret Hickey, Principal; Tony Shine (Derrinagree), Derry Murphy (Rathmore), Denis Kane (Gneeveguilla), Pat Hickey (Rathmore), Denis McCarthy (Carriganima), Tony Gallagher (Millstreet). Con Kelleher, (Cloghoulabeg, Millstreet), and Joe Garvey (Teacher).
Front row: L/r. T. C. Buckley (Millstreet area), Mick Hickey (Rathmore), Jerry Dennehy (Cullen),   Con O’Connor (Millstreet area), Murty O’Sullivan, RIP (Cullen), Pat Buckley (Millstreet) Leo (?) O’Leary (Millstreet), Jerry O’Riordan (Millstreet area), Donie O’Leary (Rathmore).
We thank Jerry O’Riordan of Ballinatona, Millstreet for helping to further identify the remainder of the names from this most interesting Coláiste Pádraig photograph from the mid 1960s.   Jerry’s extra identifications are in red print.  Jerry himself is one of the Class Members.  We thank Seán Creedon for providing the original image and we are very glad to be able to fill in the blanks from the original picture….And sincere thanks to Hannelie for uploading the feature.  (S.R.)

Historical Reenactment Group’s Tribute to Captain Paddy McCarthy

On Sunday afternoon, 29th Nov. 2020, a very impressive Historical Reenactment Group having travelled from the Kilmichael Site visited Millstreet to pay tribute at Mill Lane to the memory of Captain Paddy McCarthy the centenary of whose death in 1920 occurs about this time.  A superbly dignified ceremony took place by the Group who came from Cork City and County.   Following an uplifting introduction the Proclamation was read with great feeling.   Appropriate prayers were recited.   Seán Ó Cróinín from Cork City delivered an excellent speech regarding the life and death of Captain Paddy McCarthy.   A gentleman with beautiful native Irish sang in a magnificent manner “Mo Ghile Mear” and “Amhrán na bhFiann”.  The Organisers recognised that due to COVID-19 the event could not be advertised but hoped that in time to come a much bigger Tribute Event could take place with a far bigger attendance – at a time when COVID-19 will be a memory.   Here we share a selection of images from Sunday’s event and we thank Seán Ó Cróinín for sharing two images recorded at Kilmichael over the weekend.  (S.R.)

Kilmichael Ambush Site Reenactment

[read more …] “Historical Reenactment Group’s Tribute to Captain Paddy McCarthy”

Seáno Shares Important Information Relating to Captain Paddy McCarthy

We are most grateful to Seáno Murphy of Knocknagree and formerly of Mill Lane, Millstreet for sharing a very important memory and two historic images relevant to the recent Centenary Commemoration of the death of Captain Paddy McCarthy at Mill Lane on 22nd Nov. 1920.  Seáno writes:

“Seán, in keeping with your report on Paddy McCarthy’s death I have to mention the story my mother Katty Dineen told me about the night he was shot by the side of Lena and Agnes Dennehy’s house.   She (my mother) and her mother moved three doors down to Neily Hickey’s garage for safety.   Paddy’s body was brought down and laid in front of mother’s window where he died the following morning.   My mother had to wash away his blood from under the window.   I am sending two photos to illustrate the exact location of that very window where he died and also of the  back of Lena Dennehy’s house where he was shot.”

An image from the 1950s showing Seán Casey of Cloghoula taken in Mill Lane with Lena Dennehy’s house in the background outside which Captain Paddy McCarthy was shot. At that time the entrance to Mill Lane from Main Street was much narrower. Tap on the image to enlarge. (S.R.)

Taken in 1947Seáno’s brothers – Jim and Frank outside their home in Mill Lane. It was by the window on the right where Captain Paddy McCarthy died one hundred years ago on 22nd Nov. 1920.

Remembering Captain Paddy McCarthy on 1920 Centenary

On this Sunday morning, 22nd November 2020 a special Committee assembled at Mill Lane, Millstreet to commemorate the late Captain Paddy McCarthy – a native of Meelin – who lost his life on this exact date one hundred years ago at Mill Lane.   A wreath was placed by Tim Murphy and a prayer was recited to honour the hero of the War of Independence.   Here we share a selection of images including a picture of the permanent plaque at the entrance of Mill Lane.   Tap on the images to enlarge.  A feature on the “Corkman” by John Tarrant will appear shortly. (S.R.)

Captain Paddy McCarthy
Jerry Lehane very kindly presented to Millstreet Museum after the Commemoration a wonderfully historic 1932 Fianna Fáil official receipt relating to a fundraiser.

Remembering 22nd Nov. 1920 in Millstreet 

[read more …] “Remembering Captain Paddy McCarthy on 1920 Centenary”

“Millstreet Memories” by Noel Bourke

Author, Noel Bourke has wonderfully fond memories of his Summer Holidays together with his brother, Paddy in the Millstreet of the 1950s especially when they both arrived from their home in Kilkenny on their annual holidays being greeted by superbly welcoming Relatives from Murphy’s Terrace and Kippagh and beyond.  Over the past few years Noel has dedicated lots of energy and time in comprehensive research.   The fruitful result is this 272 page book “Millstreet Memories”which will very shortly be available to buy in Millstreet at “Wordsworth” in The Square, Millstreet at €15.00.   I believe it can also be obtained by post for an extra €5.00.  Some twelve poems are also included as well as excellent place name explanations.   Blank and white photographs further enhance the publication.   Had it not been for COVID-19 there was to have been an official launch of the book in Millstreet and in Ballydaly.  Here we share some images of the book cover.  Tap on the images to enlarge.  (S.R.) 

Remembering Terence MacSwiney in Millstreet on Sunday

Sunday, 25th Oct. 2020 marked the Centenary of the Death of Cork’s Lord Mayor, Terence MacSwiney.   Noel Keating placed a wreath in commemoration of the highly significant 1920 happening.   Jerry Lehane and his dedicated Team created a very dignified feature at the National Monument in The Square, Millstreet at 11.00 a.m..  Terence  MacSwiney had visited Millstreet in 1915.   Here we share a selection of some 14 images recalling Sunday’s historic event.   Tap on the pictures to enlarge.  (S.R.) [read more …] “Remembering Terence MacSwiney in Millstreet on Sunday”

Drishanebeg Train Ambush….Feb. 11th 1921…Supporting the Commemoration

Drishanebeg Ambush Site looking west towards Millstreet.  Tap on images to enlarge (S.R.)

Drishanebeg Train Ambush….Feb. 11th 1921 

In anticipation of the quickly approaching centenary commemoration of the Drishanebeg Train Ambush of Feb. 11th 1921, members of the Committee, including Tom Meaney, recently visited and surveyed the Ambush site which is located at a railway cutting 400 metres west of the Railway Bridge on the Millstreet to Mallow road just 2 miles from the town. For many of the Committee, it was the first time they looked down the steep slopes to the railway tracks where the ambush had occurred and where local volunteers of the Millstreet Battalion and Flying Column successfully stopped a train containing British Troops, forcing their surrender and relieving them of their arms, ammunition and equipment before allowing it to continue to Killarney.

This successful and morale boosting encounter with the soldiers of the British Empire led the way in what was a very successful few months for the Irish Volunteers in Cork.

Just three weeks later the Clonbanin Ambush took place near Derinagree and in mid-June one of the largest ambushes of the entire conflict took place at Rathcoole. The rifles and ammunition captured at Drishanebeg were crucial to the success at both Clonbanin and Rathcoole.  These events all occurred within a few miles of each other and together were a significant contributory factor to the Truce which emerged between the Irish Volunteers and the British Government on July 11th 1921.

So you might wonder why should events from a war fought 100 years ago, be commemorated?  

One of the reasons we might like to commemorate historical events such as this is because the ordinary men and women involved in the War of Independence displayed extraordinary bravery, fearlessness and courage.  They were farmers, schoolteachers, students, shopkeepers and labourers who believed that the injustice of British occupation of an Irish people was wrong and they were prepared to put their lives on the line for the cause of Irish freedom.

Like Pádraig Pearse in the GPO in 1916, they must have doubted their ability to win this conflict against the might and resources of the British Empire. This doubt, however, did not prevent them from trying, succeeding and finally establishing the Irish Nation that we enjoy today.

It is interesting to note that the Irish success inspired Nationalists across the globe from India and Malaya to Palestine and many African nations.   

The inspirational courage of our forefathers and the immensity of their achievement is worth remembering and should be cherished.  On February 11th 2021, the centenary anniversary, we have the ideal time and opportunity to remember their struggle and reflect on the nation we have become.  

One hundred years after the event the Commemoration Committee now plan to commemorate the Drishanebeg Ambush,

  • Firstly by erecting an INFORMATION BOARD at the Railway bridge near the ambush site which will provide a synopsis of the key events and personnel,
  • Secondly, by COMPILING A BOOK which will examine the circumstances leading up to the event, the Ambush itself in detail, the personnel involved and the events of the aftermath.

For the onerous task of researching and compiling the book on ‘The Drishanebeg Ambush’ and designing the Information Board for the centenary commemoration….Noreen Meaney, Séamus Buckley, Tim Murphy, Cathal O’Callaghan, Donough Reardon and Declan Crowley deserve great accolades and our thanks.

The Drishanebeg Ambush Centenary Commemoration Committee offer you the opportunity to support this project by making a donation towards the cost of this venture.  The Committee is a community based, non-political group of volunteers who wish to commemorate the local men and women who were involved in this event.

To facilitate contributions for this project a GoFundMe page has been set up under the name of:

The Drishanebeg Train Ambush Commemoration Project.   Please click on this highlighted link to enter GoFundMe page so as to Donate.

An Account has also been opened in Mallow/Millstreet Credit Union for this purpose.

Account Name:    The Drishanebeg Train Ambush Commemoration Project.

                 IBAN:     IE72MATN99221206224002

                   BIC:      MATNIE21XXX.

The Officers of the Committee are as follows.

President:  Mr. Tom Meaney

Chairman:   Mr. David Crowley   

Secretary:   Mrs. Elaine Crowley-Dennehy

Treasurer:    Mr. Tomás Meaney/ Noel Crowley

P.R.O:          Mr. Michael Thornton

  

Millstreet Carnival Fancy Dress Parade Autumn 1951

We thank Annabelle O’Sullivan, Jerry O’Regan and Hannelie O’Connor for arranging to share this truly superb image of Millstreet Carnival Fancy Dress Parade in the Autumn of 1951 (the year I was born!).   Most likely the picture was taken by Frank Reen (Snr.) outside his Pharmacy looking across the road to the O’Regan Family home and capturing two young participants in the Parade.   Members of the O’Regan Family, the Reen Family and the Justice Family are seen in the background of the image.   Feel most welcome to share on our Comment platform the names of any further people you may recognise in this wonderfully historic photograph 0f 69 years ago.   Tap on the image to enlarge.  (S.R.)

Eileen Presents Additional Wonderfully Historic Items

Following the recent presentation of the splendid 1916 Soldier’s Belt strongly believed to have been taken from Eamon de Valera following noble surrender at Boland’s Mills, Dublin in 1916 – Eileen Cronin of Scrahan, Knocknagree has recently very kindly sent by post a number of additional items for display in Millstreet Museum.  These include a letter from New York sent in 1896 by a gentleman to his relatives in the Knocknagree area.  (We shall share the contents of this letter in next Tuesday’s “Radio Treasures” on CMS.) Other items include a superb postcard collection of Cleethorpes in UK sent by Major John Robson in 1954 with an interesting “Post early” stamp at the back of the envelope.  It was Major John who originally sent the historic Belt to Eileen in the 1960s.   We sincerely thank Eileen for such great kindness to our Museum where we shall soon create a full display of the fascinating items.  (S.R.)

Tap on the images to enlarge. (S.R.)

A very old picture from 1960s

Tap on the image to enlarge.

A very old picture from 1960s…my uncle is far right Garry Murphy Prohous…and far left is Ger Cronin Killoween. ..Could the public identify the others? …Paddy Sullivan.  (Two further people whom I can identify are Mrs. Kelleher who owned the Public Bar near Reen’s Pharmacy in Main Street, Millstreet – a true lady and at the centre is the very well known John “Sing” O’Sullivan  …. Many thanks, Paddy, for sharing such an interesting image on our website …. And we thank Frank Reen and Bernie O’Rahilly (née Murphy) for just now sharing in our Comments Forum their truly comprehensive captions to the superb photograph….Seán Radley.)

“Where the Road Takes Me” This Sunday at 7pm on C103

We thank Presenter, John Greene for advance information regarding this week’s programme at 7pm on C103 on Sunday, 21st June 2020.  (S.R.)

This week on ‘Where the road take me’, John Greene concludes the three part programme ‘Inspiration from the past’.   

The failure of the 1916 Rising, proved, that while the Irish were willing, they weren’t able or ready for the power of the enemy.    Those who were rounded up in its aftermath were shipped off to Frongoch prison camp in a remote part of Wales, and left basically to their own devices.  The camp now became known as a ‘University of Revolution’.  As a result, when the ‘War of Independence’ came about, the Irish were still willing, but as a result of the secret training they received at Frongoch, they were now also ready and able.  [read more …] ““Where the Road Takes Me” This Sunday at 7pm on C103″

Fr. James Captures Magnificent Image of Millstreet from Tullig

We thank Photographer Supreme, Fr. James McSweeney for sharing this truly outstanding panoramic view of Millstreet from Tullig this Friday morning (1st May 2020).   And we also include an historic postcard of Millstreet Town taken some decades ago…kindly shared by a Loyal Follower of our Millstreet Website.   Two special treats on this 1st May 2020!  Stay safe and well All.  Tap on the images to enlarge. (S.R.)
[read more …] “Fr. James Captures Magnificent Image of Millstreet from Tullig”

Millstreet Museum Presented with the West End O’Connor Family Archive Collection

We at Millstreet Museum are so very grateful to have today (Monday, 23rd March 2020) been presented with what we shall now entitle “The West End O’Connor Family Archive Collection” which consists of a truly magnificent collection of historic newspapers with fascinating supplements especially from the 1932 Eucharistic Congress in Dublin as well as a wonderful selection of booklets and newscuttings of very real relevance to Millstreet.  Below we share 14 images of just some of this hugely appreciated Historic Collection which Mrs. F. O’Connor and Family of West End, Millstreet have shared with Millstreet Museum to be enjoyed by future generations.   Sincere thanks to Jerry O’Connor who delivered these treasures today to my home….within recommended social distancing measures.   The superb items will later be on display at our Museum Centre.   Tap on the images below to enlarge.  (S.R.) [read more …] “Millstreet Museum Presented with the West End O’Connor Family Archive Collection”

Issue 14 of “Discover Duhallow” Now Available

With some two pages of Millstreet-related photographs and a very interesting Guy’s Almanac description of Millstreet in 1914 – Issue 14 of “Discover Duhallow” is now available free of charge in local shops and outlets throughout Duhallow.   All Issues may also be viewed online – justGoogle “Discover Duhallow”.   We thank the IRD Duhallow Team who so wonderfully coordinate the fortnightly publication.   We illustrate some pages from the current issue.  Tap on the images to enlarge.  (S.R.)

Update on Centenary Celebrations for An tAthair Peadar Ó Laoghaire

We thank Brendan O’Keeffe for the following important update.  (S.R.)

Carriganima Community Development has been making steady progress in organising the centenary celebrations for An tAthair Peadar Ó Laoghaire.  An tAthair Peadar, who was born in the townland of Liscarriguane, spent his formative years here.  He was a renowned Gaelic scholar and a champion of the spoken Irish of the people.  He wrote several works, and his novel Séadhna was the first novel in modern Irish.  He died in March 1920, and it is only fitting that we, his own people, mark this important centenary.

The commemoration will commence on Friday, March 20 with an opening ceremony and a gathering of musicians in ‘The Pub’ – beginning at 8.30pm.  Representatives of Carriganima Community Development will speak.  Tim Joe O’Riordan will be the anchor musician, but all others are very welcome to join in.

On Saturday, March 21, there will be a guided bus tour to sites associated with An tAthair Peadar and his ancestors, including Carrignacurra Castle, Carraig na Madraí and Liscarrigane (the family homestead).  The bus will leave the village at 12 noon, and return at approximately 4pm.  Soup and sandwiches will be available for purchase in The Pub afterwards. All those on the tour must stay together, and comply with the Country Code.  Carriganima Community Development is very grateful to the affected landowners for their permission to allow people to access sites as part of this tour.  Prior booking is essential via Eventbrite.  To book your place, please click here (You may need to hold down the ‘Ctrl’ key at the same time), or Google Tour An tAthair Peadar. This guided tour is compliments of Carriganima Community Development.

At 6pm, Rt. Rev. Msgr. James O’Donnell will lead a concelebrated bilingual Mass, before which he will bless a commemorative plaque, which is due to be installed in the Church.  Local singers and musicians have been rehearsing for the Mass, and we welcome others to join in. After Mass, there will be a social gathering in The Pub, and refreshments will be served.  Murt Kelliher will lead musicians, and again, others are welcome to join in.

The community has, under the stewardship of James O’Leary, compiled a book ‘Ár Scéal Féin’ – brimming with genealogy, stories, tales, heritage, history and folklore from the wider locality over the past one hundred years.  This will be formally launched after Mass.  Copies will be on sale, on the night, and patrons will have to be quick to get their copy of this momentous publication.  

For further information, or if you would like to assist in any way, please email: carriganima2020 @gmail.com

All are welcome / Fáilte roimh chách.

Millstreet Museum Archive Images from 2000

Here we share a selection of images from our Millstreet Museum Pictorial Archives from the year 2000.   Our pictures from 20 years ago refer to Ardfert, Aubane and Ballydaly.  Tap on the images to enlarge.  (S.R.)

Pictured at Ardfert Retreat Centre in 2000 – From left: Sr. Christina O’Sullivan, Peggy Twomey and Mary Dennehy.
Three special images recorded at the official unveiling of the very impressive monument in honour of Captain Con Murphy at Ballydaly in 2000. Many famous people were in attendance.

Time for refreshments at Aubane Community Centre in 2000.

Millstreet Connection with WTRTM on C103 Sunday at 7pm

Presenter John Greene of “Where the Road Take Me” provides us with much appreciated weekly advance information regarding his excellent radio documentaries.  But this Sunday (26th Jan. 2020) there is a Millstreet connection in that one of the main people interviewed is Sr. Bernadette Maria who is Coordinator of the Mercy Heritage Centre in Charleville Town.   Along with Michael McGrath (photojournalist with “Corkman”), Michael Donegan and Kerry Corkery – Sr. Bernadette Maria recently visited Millstreet Museum (and “Cinnamon”) to explore ideas in advance of the establishment of a new Museum in Charleville.  Tap on the images to enlarge.  (S.R.)

Michael, Sr. Bernadette Maria, Kerry and Michael McGrath (who arranged the visit to Millstreet Museum from Charleville).

The Mercy Order of nuns have had a lengthy, historical and warm connection to the town of Charleville.

After receiving a donation of a house and five hundred pounds from local landowner Mary Clanchy in 1836, Catherine McAuley opened her second house outside of Dublin, here in the town. 

They began by visiting the sick and poor, nursing in the Kilmallock workhouse during the famine of 1845 to 1852, and providing education to those who were willing to learn.

During the Crimean war, two sisters from Charleville were sent to nurse the sick and wounded, many of whom were Irish.  Working in deplorable conditions, they received anything but a warm welcome from ‘The Lady with the Lamp’ – Florence Nightingale.

On this week’s edition of Where the road takes me,  John Greene visits the Mercy Provincial Heritage centre, which is attached to the convent in Charleville.  Artifacts from all of their work down through the years is on view here, including an educational exhibition from the fifties and sixties.  [read more …] “Millstreet Connection with WTRTM on C103 Sunday at 7pm”

An tAthair Peadar Ó Laoghaire, Comóradh 100 Bliain in Carriganima on 20th and 21st March 2020

We thank Breandán Ó Caoimh for the following very interesting Press Release regarding the upcoming Centenary Commemoration of the renowned An tAthair Peadar Ó Laoghaire.  (S.R.)An tAthair Peadar Ó Laoghaire, Comóradh 100 Bliain

The people of Carriganima extend a céad míle fáilte to everybody to join with them in commemorating the centenary of An tAthair Peadar Ó Laoghaire.  The commemoration will take place over two days: Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21.  The renowned priest, scholar and author was born in the townland of Liscarrigane, in the parish of Clondrohid & Carriganima, and he spent his formative years here.  The locality had a profound impact on his work.  An tAthair Peadar was a strong advocate of vernacular Irish – the language of the people.  His most beloved works include Séadna and Mo Scéal Féin.  These stories, among other works, are much loved by students and scholars of Irish to this day.  Following his clerical formation in St Patrick’s College, Maynooth, An tAthair Peadar, served as a priest in the Diocese of Cloyne, including in Macroom.  He died in Castlelyons in 1922, and he is buried there.  An tAthair Peadar is widely regarded as one of the founders of modern Irish literature.   [read more …] “An tAthair Peadar Ó Laoghaire, Comóradh 100 Bliain in Carriganima on 20th and 21st March 2020”

Superb Tureen Creamery Commemorative Book & DVD

We thank Denis O’Mahony for alerting us to an ideal Christmas Present which is on sale at Boherbue Co-Op, Boherbue Supervalu and Tureen Creamery for the very reasonable price of €10.00 – the splendid “Tureen Creamery Commemorative Book incorporating a DVD”.   Tureen is a Branch of Boherbue Co-Op located near Knocknagree.   Here we share some five images from the recent launch of this historic gem.   Tap on the images to enlarge.  (S.R.) [read more …] “Superb Tureen Creamery Commemorative Book & DVD”