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BACK IN THE DAY: The Southern Star’s celebration of West Cork nostalgia in all its forms.

March 7th, 2023 7:10 AM

By Southern Star Team

The United Irish Societies of Baltimore, Maryland had organised a clothes drive for their namesake West Cork village in 1958 (65 years ago). Intended as a gesture of support during economically difficult times, it was well-received by some and not so by others. Frank Hennessy, a radio celebrity in Maryland, travelled to Ireland to present the gift and strengthen ties, and was warmly welcomed in the small square in Baltimore. This photograph was taken on St Patrick’s Day, Monday, 17th March 1958 in Baltimore. From left: Fr Edward Lambe (PP Rath and the Islands), Mrs Marguerite Hennessy & Mr Frank Hennessy (of Baltimore, Maryland), an unidentified gentleman, Mrs Rita Downey (nee O’Driscoll, postmistress of Baltimore) & Mr Peter Downey (of Bantry), an unidentified girl and Ms Mary Sullivan (of Baltimore). Sandra Downey, a Dublin-based member of the Skibbereen Historical Society (whose grandparents are Peter and Rita Downey) is currently researching the event with a view to writing an article on it, and would love to hear from anyone who remembers it or may have other photos/records. Contact her at [email protected]

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READERS: If you want to share your memories, send us old photos, film or video and pictures of memorabilia that may be of wider interest by email to: 

[email protected]

 

View past copies of The Southern Star and The Skibbereen Eagle by going to www.irishnewsarchive.com

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