Thomas MacDonagh To Be Honoured In Cloughjordan Tipperary

Posted on April 27, 2014 by George

Lament for Thomas MacDonagh – by Poet Francis Ledwidge

“He shall not hear the bittern cry in the wild sky, where he is lain,
Nor voices of the sweeter birds above the wailing of the rain.
Nor shall he know when loud March blows thro’ slanting snows her fanfare shrill,
Blowing to flame the golden cup of many an upset daffodil.
But when the Dark Cow leaves the moor and pastures poor with greedy weeds,
Perhaps he’ll hear her low at morn, lifting her horn in pleasant meads.”

This coming May Bank Holiday Weekend (2nd – 5th May 2014) the town of Cloughjordan [Map Ref .] here in Co Tipperary invite you to the home of the late great Poet, Writer, Gaelgóir, Dramatist, Patriot and Signatory of the Irish Proclamation, Thomas MacDonagh, (Irish: Tomás Mac Donnchadha; 1st Feb 1878 – 3rd May 1916).

macdonagh

Weekend Programme of Events

(Please do ‘Right Click’ on picture here [Left] to ‘View Image’ of Weekend Programme of events in greater magnification.)

Thomas MacDonagh was born here in Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, one of eight children born to parents Joseph MacDonagh, latter a schoolteacher and Mary-Louise neé Parker. It was in this environment that he developed a love of music, poetry and education together with a passion for both English and Irish culture. He went on to attend Rockwell College near Cashel at the age of fourteen, where he initially aspired to become a priest or brother, spending several years studying, before realising that this life was no longer for him personally. Soon after, while residing in Co Kilkenny, saw the publication of his first book of poems; “Through the Ivory Gate,” (1902), followed one year later by “April and May,” (1903) and “The Golden Joy,” (1904).

MacDonagh’s lament by Francis Ledwidge, shown above, is a metaphor where “the wailing of the rain” represents the obvious grief associated with MacDonagh’s death. The words “when loud March blows thro’ slanting snows represents the poets hope that perhaps out of this historic grief might come something better thus conjuring up vivid images of weather, wild daffodils, both the appearance and sensation that today remains the Cloughjordan countryside, which visitors this weekend will experience themselves. In Ledwidge’s mind “the Dark Cow leaves the moor,” is a metaphor for Ireland as a nation, in the expectation that things will improve eventually for his beloved country and perhaps MacDonagh’s own execution will become acknowledged as not being totally in vain.

This subject I feel sure will be discussed in even greater debate here in Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, this May weekend, so teachers do encourage you students to attend.

Cloughjordan May Weekend Programme

The weekend long programme features talks on various aspects of the historic events that shaped our nation. Events extend out into the surrounding countryside, which was a source of inspiration for many of MacDonagh’s poems; a guided walk through Knocknacree Wood, a field trip to sites of heritage interest (Modreeny Medieval Settlement) and numerous exhibitions. Come along and enjoy music and song agus beidh fáilte roimh cách ag an Oíche Ghaelach. ( Latter translation from Irish: “and everyone is welcome at the Irish Night.” )

The talks, a painting workshop, exhibitions and evenings of song and story will take place in the Thomas MacDonagh Heritage Centre, Lower Main Street, Cloughjordan and other venues in the town. In this year of commemorations Thomas MacDonagh, World War I and Cumann na mBan (Women’s Association) receive special attention. The programme invites people of all ages to reflect on our past, which is manifest in the rich heritage of this area.

Volume VIII in the Cloughjordan Heritage series will be launched on Friday at 8;00 pm. The Thomas MacDonagh Summer School begins at 11.00 am on Saturday. On Sunday Prof. Peadar Kirby presents a talk on MacDonagh and later Dr. Mary McCauliffe will speak on Cumann na mBan. Enjoy a family friendly afternoon with Heritage Games and the MacDonagh Pipe Band from Templemore. The programme concludes on Monday with a guided walk in Knocknacree Wood, a CineClub presentation of “War Horse” (based on WWI) agus Oíche Ghaelach le ceol agus caidreamh. (Latter translation from Irish: “and Irish Night music and relationships.” )

This area in North Tipperary, “in calm of middle country” (T. MacDonagh’s own words) is rich in heritage and natural environment. Cloughjordan is now home to the International Award Winning Sustainable Community and visitors are welcome to come on a guided tour of the Eco Village on Sunday at 3.00 pm. Stay in the Eco Hostel and in local B&B accommodation. Enjoy the evenings in a friendly festival atmosphere.

Bí linn ag comóradh Tomás Mhac Donnachadha ina bhaile dhúchais. ( Latter translation from Irish: “Join us in commemorating Thomas MacDonagh in his home town.” )

Further information on “Cloughjordan Honours Thomas MacDonagh,” can be found by clicking Here and Here.

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Derrynaflan Trail Tipperary To Get Initial Launch

Posted on April 19, 2014 by George

Untitled-1The new ‘Derrynaflan Trail’ tourism project is all set to be launched; hosted in the Horse & Jockey Hotel, Thurles, at 10:00am on Friday April 25th next. Launch is by the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Mr Jimmy Deenihan and note all are welcome to attend.

This project is being spearheaded by three Tipperary community organisations, namely; Littleton Development Association, Holycross Community Network and Slieveardagh Rural Development. The project has the support and guidence of South Tipperary Development Company under the Rural Development Programme and these groups jointly have now completed the first phase in this exciting trail development.

A one hour audio guide together with a thirty six page booklet has now been produced, together with a brochure highlighting the rich ecclesiastical heritage of this previously hidden part of middle Tipperary. These three community groups are continuing to develop guided tours of the sites with Holycross Community Network already providing tours of Holycross Abbey and it is now planned to put regular tours of other sites in place. Interpretive signage at each site is now their longer term objective. The overall aim of this project is to now provide a much needed economic boost to rural Tipperary, through increasing overall visitor numbers from both home and abroad.

The ‘Derrynaflan Trail’ will connect ancient ecclesiastical sites from the Slieveardagh Hills, across through Littleton Bog, to the banks of the River Suir. Holycross Abbey, Kilcooley’s Cistercian Abbey, Liathmore’s twin churches and ruined round tower and of course Derrynaflan Island itself, are numbered amongst the places of significance along this most ancient of early Christian routes. This trail will span fifteen centuries of Irish history since early Christian times. Along the way travellers will encounter the rich local folklore concerning rebel priests, saintly miracles, a Viking battle, Cromwellian invaders and indeed much, much more.

All these wonderful sites are free of charge, though donations are appreciated when visiting at Holycross Abbey, latter which provide excellent professional tour guides.

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Tipperary Following The Trail Of Brian Ború

Posted on February 25, 2014 by George
Brian_Boru,_King_of_Munster

Brian Boru, King of Munster

Historical sites in County Clare relating to the life and times of Brian Ború are now being promoted in a newly developed guide marking the 1000th anniversary of the death of the Last High King of Ireland, who was crowned in Cashel, here in Co Tipperary.

In the 10th century Brian Ború, one of the most influential and colourful characters in Irish history, was born in Killaloe, close to the Tipperary border, in Co. Clare. A member of a powerful Dalcassian tribe he went on to become High King of Ireland and ruled from his palace at Kincora in Killaloe. He died in 1014 after an emphatic victory over the Vikings in the Battle of Clontarf. His descendants became the mighty O’Brien clan – one of the greatest Gaelic clans and whose influence extends to this very day.

The newly launched Brian Ború Trail features information on the important sites and buildings associated with Ború and the O’Briens, including Kincora, Bunratty Castle, Clare Abbey, Lough Derg and Dromoland Castle.

Other sites of interest include Magh Adhair, the place of inauguration of the O’Briens as Kings of Thomond; Scattery Island where Brian Ború attacked and killed the Viking King Ivar of Limerick in 975, Lemenagh Castle, the ancestral home of the O’Briens; Inis Cealtra (Holy Island), one of Ireland’s most famous monastic sites; and Doonbeg Castle, the site of a famous battle in 1595 between the Earl of Thomond and the McMahon Clan.

Speaking at the launch the 18th Baron Inchiquin, Conor O’Brien who is a direct descendent of Ború stated: “Brian Ború’s influence on Ireland’s political landscape is well known but his legacy is also evident throughout the physical landscape of County Clare with dozens of buildings linked to his fascinating story and that of his ancestors,” explained Lord O’Brien.

He added: “I am delighted with the production of this new guide which is the first of its kind produced for visitors in relation to an individual who is an indelible part of Clare /Tipperary and the island of Ireland’s history.”

The launch of the Brian Ború Trail coincides with a nationwide programme of commemorative festivals and events taking place during 2014. The programme features a series of commemorations in the four main locations with connections to the life and High Kingship of Ireland’s best known historical figure; namely Cashel, Co Tipperary, where Brian was crowned High King of Ireland, Killaloe/Ballina which was the seat of Brian’s High Kingship of Ireland (1001-1014 AD), Clontarf where Brian was killed following his victory over the Viking rulers of Dublin at the Battle of Clontarf, and the City of Armagh where Brian is buried.

Welcoming the new tourist guide, Mayor of Clare Councillor Joe Arkins stated: “From a Clare County Council perspective, significant effort has been undertaken to ensure that the Brian Ború millennial anniversary is established as an important cultural and tourism activity which lays the platform for further cultural and tourism development in future years. This Guide will serve as a useful tool for promoting Brian Ború’s close links with County Clare, and in doing so help to promote other sites of interest in Clontarf, Armagh and Cashel, latter in Tipperary.”

Produced by the Brian Ború 2014 Steering Group, the Brian Ború Trail guide is available at tourist offices, as well as at the County’s libraries and Council area offices. Thousands of copies of the new guide are also being distributed to visitor attractions and accommodation providers throughout Clare.

For more information visit www.killaloeballina.ie.

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Hidden Tipperary – Thurles Remembers WW1

Posted on January 25, 2014 by George

Major WW1 Exhibition Scheduled for Thurles

 

Here in ‘Hidden Tipperary,’ the Thurles WW1 (1914-1918) Memorial Wall is dedicated to some 71 known soldiers from Thurles, Co Tipperary, who so unselfishly gave of their lives in the defence of small nations.

This Memorial Wall is possibly the first such monument erected in rural Ireland, same being funded by Thurles Town Council (TTC) and erected by a TTC Fás scheme in 2000, based on research undertaken and made available by Holycross author, Mr Thomas Burnell.

On Saturday March 1st 2014, as part of a memorial to all those brave Irish men who gave their lives in this ‘War to end all wars,’ an exhibition of WW1 artefacts will go on display at Thurles Famine & War Museum, here in Thurles, Co Tipperary.

Special Admission Price
Old Aged Pensioners & Retired Groups – €2 per person.
School Student Groups – €1 per person.

Booking: Same is by appointment only . Tel: 0504-21133.

Those who intend to visit Thurles for this major exhibition are also invited to check out the other major attractions within the town and its immediate environs.

Other Recommended Attractions Nearby

Cabragh Wetlands.  Clare Glens.  Cormackstown Heritage Centre.  HolyCross Abbey.  Lár na Páirce GAA Museum.  Semple Stadium.  St Mary’s Famine & War Museum. Upperchurch Walking Routes & Indoor Rock Climbing Wall.

Bookmark this page to find out more information on special Week-End Accommodation Packages, which will be announced during February 2014.

To find Thurles & St Mary’s Famine & War Museum – Click Here

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Go Christmas Carolling In Upperchurch Tipperary

Posted on December 12, 2013 by George

KnockaloughOpen Air Carol Service

Feel like a short, brisk, refreshing night walk with a break along the way for a short seasonal Christmas Carol service?

Then Upperchurch, Thurles, Co Tipperary is the place to be this coming weekend, with the annual Christmas Carol Night Hike taking place from Upperchurch village on next Sunday, December, 15th starting at 7.30 p.m.

This year the walk reverts back to the shorter half mile Knockalough Loop Route as was wont in previous years.

There will be all the usual features including refreshments, readings, prayers and Christmas carols under the stars on the mountainside, followed by tea and sandwiches in the warmth of the local community centre later.

Registration will be in the community centre immediately prior to the walk, with a fee charged of €5 simply to cover expenses.

Further information about this event and more is available on their website www.upperchurch.ie or simply Telephone 086-0518934.

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