Tuskar Rock tragedy recalled in journal

THE son of a local Kilbrittain man who lost his life in the Tuskar Rock air tragedy 50 years ago was the guest speaker at the recent launch of Kilbrittain Historical Society’s new journal – Articles and Records from The Past 2018/19 Volume 4 at  Kilbrittain Parish Hall.

A lieutenant colonel with the Irish army for the past 37 years, David Cowhig is the eldest son of Michael Joe Cowhig who was a native of Burren, Kilbrittain, who died in the Tuskar Rock air tragedy in 1968 that claimed 61 lives.

‘A lot of Michael Joe Cowhig’s relatives were in attendance on the night as David gave a vivid and moving synopsis of the articles detailed in the journal, including one on his father and the event that claimed his father’s life,’ said Denis O’Brien, chairperson of Kilbrittain Historical Society.

David really captured the spirit and essence of the journal in his talk and the family of John Nyhan from Ballinspittle – who also lost his life alongside his dear friend Michael Joe – were also in attendance.

As well as an article on local people who lost their lives in the Tuskar Rock air disaster, this year’s journal also includes articles such as the history of Coolmain Castle, the early life and career of 3rd Cork Brigade Comdt  Charlie Hurley and the rare stained glass cruciform of St Patrick’s Church in Kilbrittain by renowned stained artist Stanley Tomlin. 

Other articles include one on the killing of Constable Bolger and evictions and egarian disturbances in the local area during the 1880s, by Jerome Lordan.

The journal is now on sale in shops throughout West Cork at €10, and is also available on Kilbrittain Historical Society’s Facebook page.

Killbrittain Historical Society members will be also be talking about Kilbrittain and the new journal with John Greene on his Sunday evening C103FM radio show ‘Where The Road Takes Me’ on Sunday December 16th.

The journal was designed, laid out and printed by Southern Star Creative.