Ballymore celebrations for Centenary

April 24th 1916 was the actual date that the rebel leaders of the Easter Rising signed the Proclamation and as such, Ballymore Eustace is noting the event on Sunday next, writes Rose Barrett O’Donoghue.

“We are holding a flag raising ceremony in the Square on Sunday next, April 24 at 2pm,” says Kerrie Anne O’Sullivan, local resident and owner of Tilly’s Gifts & Fashion. “We will have the Proclamation read by the grandson of James Connolly, Sergeant James Pearse, with the raising of the old republican flag by a member of the Mulcahy clan, descendants of Richard James Mulcahy, Army General and Commander in Chief.”

The iconic ballad ‘Grace’ will be performed by Áine O’Neill and Liam Lawlor, along with a reading of '100 Years a Nation’. Sons of Peter Pearse and Elizabeth Deegan, who are the great, great grandsons of James Connolly will also raise one of the flags whilst members of the Foster family, relatives of Baby Sean Foster who was tragically shot on Easter Sunday 1916, will read a piece about their losses and links to the Irish Rebellion.

Tilly’s Marquee will display local arts and crafts by local artisans and producers whilst Mick Murphy’s Bar will host historic readings by members of the local drama society at 4pm and Paddy’s will host ‘Barley and Wine’, who play a lively mix of Irish music from 6pm.

Locals are encouraged to will come dressed in period clothing of the era, with prizes for the most appropriately dressed Lady, Man and Children. You can also preview Tilly’s delectable fashions and accessories for Raceweek! Proprietor Kerrie Anne and Collette Hempenstall Ryan recently joined the local CDA; along with Margaret McDonald, seasoned veteran of the CDA and Chris Dennison, local photographer; together they are organising Sunday’s events in conjunction with 1916. Activities begin at 2pm. Collette reminds locals and visitors that traffic restrictions will be in place from 2-4pm at The Square, with the left lane on Mick Murphy’s side closed to traffic.

“The area will be cordoned off with cones and Garda Tom O’Donoghue will be on duty. With the marquee on one side, traffic will only travel down the village with only be one lane in use during the celebrations. If you can walk to the village, please leave your car at home. This will reduce congestion and make things safer for all. The CIE bus will turn at the school and pick up there.”

See Ballymore Eustace News on Facebook for the Commemoration Programme or Tilly’s on Facebook for full details.