Ballyshannon Local History Walk Bank Holiday Monday 1st August 2016

Ballyshannon Local History Walk

All Welcome

Bank Holiday Monday 1^st August

Meeting Point: Abbey Centre Ballyshannon 2.30 p.m.

Guide: Anthony Begley Local Historian

Title: “A Walk through Ballyshannon   history 100 years ago”

Event organised by Ballyshannon Regeneration Group and Erne Enterprise

Three Ballyshannon men died on opening day of the Battle of the Somme

Seven Ballyshannon men named on Thiepval Memorial 

                                                                                                

On Sunday 28th June, 1914, the Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, and his wife Sophie, were assassinated in Sarajevo in Bosnia. Their killings were the final act which led to a World War resulting in the deaths of over eight million servicemen and millions of civilians. Britain’s entry into the war in August 1914 led to recruitment drives in Ireland. Ballyshannon witnessed the arrival of large numbers of  soldiers to drill at Finner Camp in preparation for active service in the war. The military bands and recruitment campaign would have been very evident in the Market Yard in Ballyshannon. The British military presence in Ballyshannon for over 300 years also  resulted in many families having connections with the army. The sight of troops marching from the GNR railway stations at Ballyshannon and Bundoran to Finner Camp or on their way to the Western Front meant that the glamour and excitement of the war was on our doorsteps. National politicians, such as John Redmond, leader of the Home Rule Party were encouraging recruitment to the army and, in return for this support,  they believed that Ireland would be granted Home Rule. The lack of local employment would have encouraged some young men to join the army, as would the guarantee of a regular income. No doubt some were influenced by the medias condemnation of German atrocities and the desire to fight for the freedom of small nations,such as Belgium. Some young men would have been attracted by the perceived  glamour and sense of adventure, of a soldiers life, and the excitement of performing heroic deeds.The attraction for others would have been the fight for King and for country. Some supported Edward Carson and  the Ulster Volunteer Force and their opposition to Home Rule. For whatever reasons, young men  joined the British Army and landed in France, where the horrors of  trench warfare and poisoned gas were at variance with the glamourous propaganda of the recruitment campaigns. The war of attrition was to last from 1914-1918, with barbed wire, machine gun fire, poisoned gas, no man’s land, shell shock, injuries and death as constant companions.

Finner Camp-A Training Ground for World War I

Ballyshannon had been an English garrison town since the period of the Ulster Plantation. The Rock Barracks was the local headquarters for the British Army in the late 1800s but it lacked the space for drilling manouevres and a rifle range. The site for Finner Camp was purchased in 1896 from the Folliott family who had in earlier times resided at Wardtown Castle. The site had the advantage of space, water and a dry sandy base with ideal flat ground for a rifle range. This period saw unrest in South Africa and Finner became a training camp for soldiers destined to fight in the Boer War. A Ballyshannon native, Robert Johnston of “Laputa” won a Victoria Cross in the Boer War. The officers’ horses were stabled at Camp View House, Dunmuckrum and also at Portnason House during the early 1900s. Officers were billeted in Portnason House at the period of the Great War. Indeed Ballyshannon Golf Club was established as a nine hole course on the grounds above the house, overlooking the Erne in 1907.

The outbreak of the First World War in August 1914 saw an increasing use of Finner Camp by the 109th Brigade, of the 36th Ulster Division under Col. T.E. Hickman. The 109th  Brigade consisted of the 9th Battalion (Tyrone), 10th Battalion (Derry) and 11th Battalion (Donegal and Fermanagh) Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and the 14th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles (Belfast). These were all volunteer battalions. The soldiers trained for forthcoming action in France and the weather was good during September and October. However subsequently a severe winter set in at Finner but despite this the soldiers trained and used the excellent shooting range in the sandhills. Afer their initial training at Finner, the 109th Brigade left in January 1915, destined for the trenches on the Western Front in France. By July of 1915 all elements of the 36th Division had let Finner on their way to fight in the World War.  Young men from the Ballyshannon area who fought in France, would have enlisted  in Finner, Enniskillen or other parts of Ireland. Emigrants from  Ballyshannon  joined the British, Canadian, Australian or American armies and in a variety of different uniforms fought in  World War I. A record of over 40 deaths  of men from the area exists but no doubt others died and their details have not come to light  as yet. Many more returned from the war wounded or shell-shocked. For a small community this must have been traumatic as each year brought further sad news from the  war front. The first to die was George Browne, a member of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, born in Ballyshannon, but who later resided in Duke Street in  Derry and in Hume Street, Clydebank in Glasgow. He died  on the 1st September 1914 and is remembered at the Verberie Communal Cemetery, Oise, France. Grave No. 7. His name is also on a monument in  the Diamond in Derry.

Three Ballyshannon men die on First Day of the Battle of the Somme

The Battle of the Somme in France is remembered as one of the bloodiest and most tragic in British military history, with some of the most horrific examples of trench warfare,with the gaining of little ground at great loss of life. The battle began on the 1st July 1916 and by the end of that day there were over 60,000 casualties. The Battle of the Somme was a war of attrition which lasted from July to November 1916. The Thiepval Monument was erected in memory of the Allied soldiers who died along the river Somme. It is forty four metres high and was constructed as a series of arches, in the shape of a pyramid. Erected on the 31st July 1932, the Portland Stone panels contain the names of 72,000 servicemen who lost their lives on the Somme and whose bodies were not located properly.At least seven men from the Ballyshannon area are commemorated on the Thiepval monument. Jim Melly was present last week at the centenary commemoration of the Battle of the Somme on the 1^st July 2016, at the Thiepval memorial, to remember his great-uncle Patrick Melly who died on the 1st July 1916 and also to pay respects to the other Ballyshannon soldiers listed on the memorial

Three local men died in action  on the 1st July 1916 on the opening day of the Battle of the Somme:  Corporal Patrick Melly son of Peter and Margaret  Melly was born at Finner Ballyshannon. He was a career soldier who was a private in the First Battalion Royal Inniskiling Fusiliers and took part in the 1915 Gallipoli Campaign. In 1916 he joined the 87th Company Machine Gun Corps and is remembered on the Thiepval Memorial at Pier and Face 5C and 12 C. The family still reside in the Finner area in Ballyshannon. Sergeant Christopher Laird, son of Alexander and Elizabeth Laird ( nee Funsten) , born Main Street Ballyshannon, 8th March 1895. He was a member of the 11th Battalion, Royal Inniskiling Fusiliers, (The Donegals), and is commemorated on Pier and Face 4D and 5B on Thiepval Memorial,  in France. He was killed in action on the opening day of the Battle of the Somme. His brother Private John Laird emigrated to the U.S.A. and served in the American army on the Western Front in France. On his return to the USA he died of his wounds. The Laird family are well known in the commercial life of Ballyshannon and still reside there. Private Robert, Victor, Alexander Kearney, son of Adam and Frances C. Kearney of Beaufoy Lodge, Rossnowlagh was a member of the 9th Battalion of the Royal Inniskiling Fusiliers, and is remembered at the Thiepval Monument Pier and Face 4D and 5 B. He was 19 years of age and was killed on the first day of the Battle of the Somme.

Other Ballyshannon soldiers commemorated at the Thiepval Monument are: Private John Mc Donagh, son of William and Bridget Mc Donagh, 94 Erne Street, was a member of the  7th Battalion of Royal Inniskiling Fusiliers, formerly Leinster Regiment, who died on the 9th September 1916 , aged 29 years. He is remembered on the Thiepval monument at Pier and Face 4 D and 5 B. Private Patrick Gallagher formerly from Kilbarron, whose mother Annie was residing at 4 Fountain Street Strabane, was a member of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and was killed on the 10th July 1916, aged 28 years. He is remembered on Pier and Face 4D and 5.B on Thiepval Monument. Private Frederick Armstrong was a member of the 8th Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers who died on the  9th September 1916. Remembered at the Thiepval Memorial Pier and Face 4D and 5B. Private John Joseph Mc Shea son of Terence and Kate McShea (nee McGowan). Born Rathmore 24th February 1894. Enlisted: Enniskillen. 1st Battalion. Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. (Formerly Leinster Regiment). died 30th January 1917 aged 28. Remembered at Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France, Pier and Face 4D and 5B. Private McShea was wounded at the Somme in 1916.

Major Myles and some other local survivors of the Somme

Major Sproule Myles was a member of a prominent Ballyshannon merchant family and he  fought at the Somme. He was company commander in the 11th Battalion of The Royal Inniskiling Fusiliers ( The Old Donegals): “On the morning of 1st July 1916 their task was to support another Battalion in the attack at the Somme. It was their first big battle and they were full of fervour to prove their mettle. They had to attack one of the best defended German positions. It was reached at a terrible sacrifice of men. Nothing was won but glory.Captain Myles was severely wounded and was awarded the Military Cross for his gallantry and leadership. Five hundred and seventy seven officers and men of the battalion were killed or wounded and the losses of that fateful morning brought mourning and sadness to many Donegal homes.^”Major Myles was a prominent politician in the Irish Free State and served in Dáil Éireann for a long period. Private W. Friel and Private Fred Vaughan were wounded at the Somme. Thomas Carberry 1889-1975 served in the 11^th Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers (Ulster Division) and was disabled on 1^st July 1916 at the Battle of the Somme. Rev. Wright, Presbyterian Minister on the Mall Ballyshannon from 1908-1925,  served as a chaplain  with the 36^th (Ulster Division) in France during the Battle of the Somme. He was awarded the Military Cross. John Torrens R.I.F. Lisahully was wounded at the battle of the Somme. He was later captured by the Germans in the last few months of the war. He was repatriated after the Armistice and is buried in the Abbey graveyard. A War Memorial tablet was unveiled at St. Anne’s Church Ballyshannon on Sunday 23 September 1923 by Dr. Peacock Bishop of Derry and Raphoe. It contained the names of 51 survivors of the Great War.

Talk on Local Memories of World War One and the Somme

On Friday 4^th November 2016 Anthony Begley, local historian, will present new research on Ballyshannon memories of the Battle of the Somme and World War One at the Annual Emerson Memorial Lecture in the Abbey Centre Ballyshannon. The talk organised by County Donegal Historical Society will be held in association with the Allingham Arts Festival.

A  Local History Book suitable for those at Home and Away

"Ballyshannon. Genealogy and History" reveals newly researched history and genealogy of the town, extending as far as the Rossnowlagh, Cashelard, Corlea, Clyhore, Higginstown and Finner areas. Includes the parishes of Kilbarron and Magh Ene. It contains the full story of  The Green Lady which  was recently performed in Ballyshannon  to great acclaim. The genealogy material provides detailed guidelines for anyone tracing their roots in the area or anywhere in County Donegal or Ireland. The book contains 500 pages and is richly illustrated with stunning colour, aerial photography, original illustrations and rare photographs of the area not seen before. Available in Novel Idea, Ballyshannon Museum, Local Hands, Clearys, O'Neills  in Ballyshannon and 4 Masters Bookshop Donegal Town.

Also available from Anthony Begley for postal enquiries email anthonyrbegley@hotmail.com

Ballyshannon Folk and Traditional Music Festival- The Early years

Barry Britton's iconic poster from 1987

There are many strands to the music tradition in Ballyshannon and, for the past thirty years, Ballyshannon Folk Festival has attracted musicians and visitors to the town during the August Bank Holiday. The festival has outlived similar events in Ireland and this is due, in no small measure, to the voluntary input of all who give freely of their time and talents in co-ordinating what is a major event in the town. The Festival has also survived because it had clear objectives, namely, to foster and promote musical traditions and to attract visitors to Ballyshannon and the North West. The presence over the years of many continental visitors, who were attracted by their love of Irish music has helped to promote the region. Most of the household names on the Irish scene have appeared at the Festival: Christy Moore, Clannad, De Dannan, Altan, The Furey Brothers and Davy Arthur, Andy Irvine, Dolores Keane, Mary Black, Charlie Mc Gettigan, Davy Spillane, Stockton’s Wings, Sharon Shannon, Kieran Goss, Liam Óg ÓFlynn, Dervish and the list is endless.

How it all Began

The festival had its roots in a Fleadh Cheoil held in Ballyshannon in 1977 and, due to the popularity of that event, a number of people who had been involved decided to organise a Folk and Traditional Music Festival in 1978. The first committee were: Kevin Mc Daid (Chairperson),Philip Mulligan (Secretary), Pat Mc Gee ((Treasurer), John Bromley, Marie Bromley, Raymond Mc Daid, Bernie Finn, Louis Culkin, Patsy Herron, Vincent Mulligan, Mick Mc Grath, Sean Ferguson, Benny Dorrian, Jim Mc Intyre, Sean Óg Kane, Brendan Mc Gill, Herman Mc Neilis and Eileen Hoey. The sight of tents pitched in the Fr. Tierney Park area, The Fair Green and the Brothers’ Field was to be a regular happening for many years. In the Market Yard the marquee was the focus for the concerts until the move in recent years to the Abbey Centre. Street theatre and music events brought a richness of colour to the town, and many young locals would have derived their musical inspiration, from participating in these fringe events. No doubt the festival has been an important event for local people, living away from the town, who returned for the music and to meet friends and renew acquaintances. The posters advertising the Folk Festival have become collector’s items and their artistic merit is regularly admired by locals and visitors alike. Barry Britton, a talented artist from Rossnowlagh, has interpreted the history of Ballyshannon and its folk festival in his posters which has given the Folk Festival an image which any marketing company would be proud to claim. The numbers of people involved in organizing this voluntary festival over the years must run to hundreds but the following, along with those previously named, were the chief officers from 1978-2007 : Phonsie Travers, Anthony Travers, Ray Gaughan, Brendan O’ Reilly, Jim Mc Intyre, Herman Mc Nelis, Gerry Whelan, Kate Grehan, Carmel Merrifield, Margaret Gallagher, Fidelma Gaughan, John Meehan, Sean Staunton, Vincent Mc Nally, Carmel Doyle, Michael Mc Corry, Barney Mc Laughlin, James Kelly, Pauric Bromley, Billy Grimes, Danny Carron and Mick Mc Grath.  

                      Twas in the town of Ballyshannon I first ceilidh’d to De Dannan

And the voice of sweet Dolores warmed the air

There I le’rned of Ireland’s history from the singing of ould Christy

I was proud to tell my fri’nds that I was there

When next year I went back I fell in love with Mary Black

As her “Song for Ireland” nearly curled my hair

Then I joined the clapping hand to the singing’f the Sands

I was proud to tell my friends that I was there.

Danny Kyle verse above from his ballad "The Glasgow Pub Run to Ballyshannon


A  Local History Book suitable for those at Home and Away

"Ballyshannon. Genealogy and History" reveals newly researched history and genealogy of the town, extending as far as the Rossnowlagh, Cashelard, Corlea, Clyhore, Higginstown and Finner areas. Includes the parishes of Kilbarron and Magh Ene. It contains the full story of  The Green Lady which  was recently performed in Ballyshannon  to great acclaim. The genealogy material provides detailed guidelines for anyone tracing their roots in the area or anywhere in County Donegal or Ireland. The book contains 500 pages and is richly illustrated with stunning colour, aerial photography, original illustrations and rare photographs of the area not seen before. Available in Novel Idea, Ballyshannon Museum, Local Hands, Clearys, O'Neills  in Ballyshannon and 4 Masters Bookshop Donegal Town.

Also available from Anthony Begley for postal enquiries email anthonyrbegley@hotmail.com

Images of Famine Walk in Ballyshannon on Heritage Week 2015

Script and photographs courtesy of Discover Ballyshannon whose site can be viewed on line at  discoverballyshannon.ie also on their facebook site.

Meeting point at the "Famine Orphan Girls' Memorial" at  Ballyshannon Workhouse. The only one of its type in Ireland. Anthony Begley (red jacket) welcomes part of gathering on behalf of Ballyshannon Regeneration Group and Afri who jointly organised the event. Ballyshannon workhouse is the  only complete workhouse in County Donegal.

The walk route on Sunday went up the Main Street, as would have been the "final journey" route of the Famine victims. Initially by wheelbarrow and later by horse and cart the bodies were taken via Main Street to Bishop Street where the burial site was accessed via the Stone steps still visible there. Map drawn by Barry Sweeny of the Regeneration Group.

Historian, Anthony Begley gave a great insight into the history of the graveyard. Though there are very few records relating to the times, Anthony had some amazing stories of a few individuals buried here. 

Waylon Gary White Deer (in centre of photo) of the Choctaw Indian Tribe and member of AFRI (Action from Ireland) said a few words here in the Famine graveyard. We had a poignant moments silence and laid a floral tribute at the memorial in the Famine graveyard.  St. Anne's clock and tower in the background.

 Aine and Paul of the Ballyshannon Regeneration Group kept a close eye on things... and made sure everyone was well looked after.

Here you can see the memorial placed here in 1995... and you can get a glimpse of the fantastic view over the Erne Estuary behind. The memorial was erected by the Donegal Association in New York  in conjunction with County Donegal Historical Society.

A  Local History Book suitable for those at Home and Away

"Ballyshannon. Genealogy and History" reveals newly researched history and genealogy of the town, extending as far as the Rossnowlagh, Cashelard, Corlea, Clyhore, Higginstown and Finner areas. Includes the parishes of Kilbarron and Magh Ene. It contains the full story of  The Green Lady which  was recently performed in Ballyshannon  to great acclaim. The genealogy material provides detailed guidelines for anyone tracing their roots in the area or anywhere in County Donegal or Ireland. The book contains 500 pages and is richly illustrated with stunning colour, aerial photography, original illustrations and rare photographs of the area not seen before. Available in Novel Idea, Museum and Local Hands in Ballyshannon and 4 Masters Bookshop Donegal Town.

Also available from Anthony Begley for postal enquiries email anthonyrbegley@hotmail.com

Invitation to Famine walk in Ballyshannon Sunday 30th August

The Paupers' graveyard was located in the field behind the tower at St. Anne's church

Remembering our Famine dead in Ballyshannon

On Sunday 30^th August at 2.15 p.m. a local history walk will make the journey from Ballyshannon Workhouse to the Pauper’s Graveyard in the town. This workhouse served large areas in County Fermanagh extending from Belleek to Churchill. It also served areas in Kinlough and Tullaghan in County Leitrim and areas in County Donegal extending to

Bundoran, Ballyshannon, Rossnowlagh, Cashelard and Clyhore. Guides for the walk will be Anthony Begley, local historian, and Waylon Gary White Deer and Máire Nic Fhearraigh of the Afri-Choctaw Landscape project. This Heritage week event has been organised by Ballyshannon Regeneration Group and all are welcome to meet at the Orphan Girls’ Memorial at the Workhouse.

A  Local History Book suitable for those at Home and Away

"Ballyshannon. Genealogy and History" reveals newly researched history and genealogy of the town, extending as far as the Rossnowlagh, Cashelard, Corlea, Clyhore, Higginstown and Finner areas. Includes the parishes of Kilbarron and Magh Ene. It contains the full story of  The Green Lady which  was recently performed in Ballyshannon  to great acclaim. The genealogy material provides detailed guidelines for anyone tracing their roots in the area or anywhere in County Donegal or Ireland. The book contains 500 pages and is richly illustrated with stunning colour, aerial photography, original illustrations and rare photographs of the area not seen before. Available in Novel Idea, Museum and Local Hands in Ballyshannon and 4 Masters Bookshop Donegal Town.

Also available from Anthony Begley for postal enquiries email anthonyrbegley@hotmail.com

"10 Interesting things to see in Ballyshannon on the Wild Atlantic Way" Friday 7th August

Forthcoming Events about Ballyshannon please pass on

Well done to the 75 brave souls who ventured out in all weather on the historical walk on  Monday 3^rd August 2015.  “Famous people in Ballyshannon on the Wild Atlantic Way” with Anthony Begley and Conor Carney. Hope to see you at the free indoor illustrated talk on 10 interesting things to see in Ballyshannon on Friday night in Dorrian's Hotel at 8 p.m. 
 

Friday 7^th August: A local history talk for all the family. “Ten Interesting things to see in Ballyshannon on the Wild Atlantic Way”. An illustrated talk by Anthony Begley in Dorrian’s Imperial Hotel at 8 p.m. All welcome to this free event. The walk and talk are part of a week of events called “Discover Ballyshannon” organised by Erne Enterprise Arts, Culture and Tourism and Ballyshannon Regeneration Group. Check programme.

Short Film on Orphan Girls’ Memorial: Ballyshannon Orphan Girls memorial the only one of its type in Ireland is featured on Irish TV programme Donegal Matters Number 50. You can watch it on the internet. Go to Sky191, click on Ireland, click on Ulster, click on Donegal Number 50 to view.

Ballyshannon Musings: This is a local history blog on Ballyshannon and surrounding areas which is being viewed worldwide. There is a wide archive of stories to read. ballyshannonmusings.blogspot.com is being viewed by thousands of hits worldwide. 

A  Local History Book suitable for those at Home and Away

"Ballyshannon. Genealogy and History" reveals newly researched history and genealogy of the town, extending as far as the Rossnowlagh, Cashelard, Corlea, Clyhore, Higginstown and Finner areas. Includes the parishes of Kilbarron and Magh Ene. It contains the full story of  The Green Lady which  was recently performed in Ballyshannon  to great acclaim. The genealogy material provides detailed guidelines for anyone tracing their roots in the area or anywhere in County Donegal or Ireland. The book contains 500 pages and is richly illustrated with stunning colour, aerial photography, original illustrations and rare photographs of the area not seen before. Available in Novel Idea, Museum and Local Hands in Ballyshannon and 4 Masters Bookshop Donegal Town.

Also available from Anthony Begley for postal enquiries email anthonyrbegley@hotmail.com

Forthcoming events about Ballyshannon August 2015.

Forthcoming Events about Ballyshannon please pass on

Monday 3^rd August 2015: A local history walk for all the family. Meet at Market Yard at 2.30 p.m. Guide Anthony Begley. “Famous people in Ballyshannon on the Wild Atlantic Way”. All welcome to free event.

Friday 7^th August: A local history talk for all the family. “Ten Interesting things to see in Ballyshannon on the Wild Atlantic Way”. An illustrated talk by Anthony Begley in Dorrian’s Imperial Hotel at 8 p.m. All welcome to this free event. The walk and talk are part of a week of events called “Discover Ballyshannon” organised by Erne Enterprise Arts, Culture and Tourism and Ballyshannon Regeneration Group. Check programme.

Short Film on Orphan Girls’ Memorial: Ballyshannon Orphan Girls memorial the only one of its type in Ireland is featured on Irish TV programme Donegal Matters Number 50. You can watch it on the internet. Go to Sky191, click on Ireland, click on Ulster, click on Donegal Number 50 to view.

Ballyshannon Musings: This is a local history blog on Ballyshannon and surrounding areas which is being viewed worldwide. There is a wide archive of stories to read. ballyshannonmusings.blogspot.com is being viewed by thousands of hits worldwide. 

A  Local History Book suitable for those at Home and Away

"Ballyshannon. Genealogy and History" reveals newly researched history and genealogy of the town, extending as far as the Rossnowlagh, Cashelard, Corlea, Clyhore, Higginstown and Finner areas. Includes the parishes of Kilbarron and Magh Ene. It contains the full story of  The Green Lady which  was recently performed in Ballyshannon  to great acclaim. The genealogy material provides detailed guidelines for anyone tracing their roots in the area or anywhere in County Donegal or Ireland. The book contains 500 pages and is richly illustrated with stunning colour, aerial photography, original illustrations and rare photographs of the area not seen before. Available in Novel Idea, Museum and Local Hands in Ballyshannon and 4 Masters Bookshop Donegal Town.

Also available from Anthony Begley for postal enquiries email anthonyrbegley@hotmail.com

Ballyshannon Orphan Girls Memorial

On Sunday 5th July 2015 at 11 a.m. Irish T.V. features the Orphan Girls memorial in Ballyshannon. Tune in to Donegal County matters on SKY 191 to view. If visiting the area the memorial is well worth a visit and is open at all times beside Ballyshannon Workhouse in the town.

A  Local History Book suitable for those at Home and Away

"Ballyshannon. Genealogy and History" reveals newly researched history and genealogy of the town, extending as far as the Rossnowlagh, Cashelard, Corlea, Clyhore, Higginstown and Finner areas. Includes the parishes of Kilbarron and Magh Ene. It contains the full story of  The Green Lady which  was recently performed in Ballyshannon  to great acclaim. The genealogy material provides detailed guidelines for anyone tracing their roots in the area or anywhere in County Donegal or Ireland. The book contains 500 pages and is richly illustrated with stunning colour, aerial photography, original illustrations and rare photographs of the area not seen before. Available in Novel Idea, Museum and Local Hands in Ballyshannon and 4 Masters Bookshop Donegal Town.

Also available from Anthony Begley for postal enquiries email anthonyrbegley@hotmail.com

Views of St.Patrick's Well and Catsby Cave at Ballyshannon Co Donegal

Check out two of Ballyshannon's  ancient sites in beautiful and accessible locations close to town. Well worth a visit.


 Grotto at St. Patrick's Well

One of the stations that pilgrims prayed at

Tying rags  in an ancient custom

Catsby Cave at Ballyshannon

Listening to the history of the Abbey Well

Holy water font at St. Patrick's Well

Rag Tree at St. Patrick's Well Ballyshannon

Rag Tree with the Abbey bay in the background

The photographs above were taken by Pauline Kilfeather Coláiste Cholmcille on a tour I gave to students  from the local community school on 12th May 2015.

A  Local History Book suitable for those at Home and Away
"Ballyshannon. Genealogy and History" reveals newly researched history and genealogy of the town, extending as far as the Rossnowlagh, Cashelard, Corlea, Clyhore, Higginstown and Finner areas. Includes the parishes of Kilbarron and Magh Ene. It contains the full story of  The Green Lady which  was recently performed in Ballyshannon  to great acclaim. The genealogy material provides detailed guidelines for anyone tracing their roots in the area or anywhere in County Donegal or Ireland. The book contains 500 pages and is richly illustrated with stunning colour, aerial photography, original illustrations and rare photographs of the area not seen before. Available in Novel Idea, Museum and Local Hands in Ballyshannon and 4 Masters Bookshop Donegal Town.

Also available from Anthony Begley for postal enquiries email anthonyrbegley@hotmail.com

Lady Gregory in Ballyshannon tomorrow night - not to be missed

Mother, socialite, folklorist, traveller, landlady, lover, writer, patron ,activist and Gaelic speaker, Lady Augusta Isabella Gregory is well known for her role as a founding member of the The Abbey Theatre, Dublin, and as close friend of WB Yeats. Less public is her life as a London socialite, her interest in European architecture, the politics of her day and the fact that she spoke with a charming lisp…Tale of the Gael tells a carefully researched tale of a woman who influenced the social and literary currents of her time, and was equally influenced by them…
Often defined in terms of others, this well researched evening with Tale of the Gael presents Lady Gregory as herself. Their trademark blend of traditional music with classical overtones provide the perfect backdrop for a woman whose story is synonomous with Irish culture, but whose early experiences were colonially British and European.

The Ballyshannon Area during the Emergency/ World War 11 (1939-1945)

The Donegal Corridor at Ballyshannon on the river Erne

Seventy years ago Éire or Ireland was neutral in the Second World War and the period was referred to as The Emergency; and yet people in the Ballyshannon area witnessed the sights, sounds, censorship and shortages of the war. Indeed many people who had emigrated to England, U.S.A. and Australia in the 1930s, and earlier, enlisted in the armies of their adopted countries and some died and were wounded in the main theatres of the war. Others who emigrated worked in industries and the caring professions who provided support to the war effort. Closer to home Northern Ireland was engaged in the war and a secret arrangement with the British government allowed planes to fly over Ballyshannon in an area known as the Donegal Corridor.  This enabled the allies to provide aerial support for their shipping fleets in the Atlantic and was also of great benefit as planes could fly along the Erne to Ballyshannon from places like Castle Archdale in Fermanagh, and also transatlantic flights had a much shorter journey than having to avoid Donegal’s airspace. A lucrative black market resulted in the smuggling of goods back and forth across the border from Belleek as shortages were a permanent feature of the war. As a result of censorship people in this area knew little about events concerning the war and rumours of pending invasion were rife. On the 14^th July 1940 reports that an invasion force were marching along the Port in Ballyshannon proved false and the noise coming from the Bar was mistaken as the muffled sound of gunfire!

The Donegal Corridor

The Fairy Bridges Bundoran  and Tullan strand scene of a tragic plane crash on 23rd January 1944

Tullan Strand in Bundoran was to be the scene of an incident on the 10^th May 1943 when a Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress landed on the beach having ran out of fuel. Nearby golfers at Bundoran golf club rushed to the scene and photographs were taken but these were later confiscated in line with censorship restrictions. The crew and plane were returned across the border. In instances like this neutrality was not strictly enforced in the Donegal Corridor. However the crew of a British Handley Page Halifax Bomber were not so fortunate, when their plane crashed into the cliffs at the same location  in Bundoran on Sunday 23^rd January 1944.  The eight man Canadian crew were all killed and the spot is marked with a memorial today. On the 19^th June 1944 fishermen in their boats witnessed an American B24 Liberator Bomber travelling upriver on the Erne towards the bridge at Ballyshannon in search of a landing place. Eventually the plane headed inland over St. Patrick’s Well and the sound of the plane scraping on stone ditches could be heard before it crashed in the Abbeylands. Two of the crew died and the rest were given excellent medical treatment in the Sheil Hospital under the guidance of Dr. Daly, Dr. Gordon and Sister Fidelma. Cashelard was the scene of the crash of a Sunderland Flying Boat on 12^th August 1944 when two of the Canadian crew lost their lives. The remainder received medical treatment in the Sheil Hospital. A number of bodies were washed up along the shoreline as a result of shipping fatalities and a Chinese sailor called Chu Ning Lai was washed up at Creevy Pier and he was interred in the Paupers’ Graveyard at Ballyshannon. Radio Officer V.C. Coleman of HMS Patroclus was washed ashore at Rossnowlagh and is buried in St. Anne’s Churchyard. Older residents still remember these events which brought the reality of the war a bit closer to people in this area.

Preparing for Invasion and Air Attacks

Local discussion on what to do in the event of an air raid bombing attack, resulted in the identification of cellars which could be used as air raid shelters. Amongst the places considered were the underground caves in Munday’s field, the cellars under the old barracks at the bridge and the souterrains at Dungravenen on the Mall although the latter would have accommodated a small number of people. There were also cellars along Main Street and Castle Street. Locally a Parish Council, fire fighters, the Red Cross, the Local Defence Force (LDF) and the Local Security Force (LSF) were given roles in protecting the community and many volunteered to serve. Concerns that an attack on Finner Camp would result in the reservoir there being destroyed with the loss of water supply for Ballyshannon resulted in the following comment from Major Myles. “If the Camp was bombed they would want to be better shots than in some parts of the country. To hit the reservoir the bomb would have to be dropped at Tullaghan."

Cycling to Football Final in Glenties 1942

On Friday the first of May 1942 the government order restricting the use of motor vehicles, except in certain circumstances, came into effect. Ballyshannon returned to the sounds of life in the late 19^th century however the jaunting cars were not too visible as yet. The bicycle now became a very important mode of transport with the young folk cycling to the dances in Bundoran, Belleek or Ballintra. Football and hurling teams cycled to their matches and a very well remembered match took place on Sunday 17^th of May 1942. Gweedore and Ballyshannon met in the final which was played in Glenties before a large attendance. The Ballyshannon team had cycled to Glenties on Saturday evening, leaving the town with a band of enthusiastic supporters. The Ballyshannon team went into an early lead with a point from Mick Slevin and a goal by Jack Gallagher.  John McDermott added a further two points. The only score for Gweedore in the first half was a point by J. Gallagher scored from 70 yards.  Half-time saw the Ernesiders in front by 1-3 to 0-1.  Three further points were added to the Ballyshannon tally in the second-half with points by James Daly, John McDermott and M. Murray. Hugh Gallagher added a second point for the Gweedore men; but Ballyshannon were worthy winners, in a spirited and skilful match on a score line of 1-6 to 0-2. The Ballyshannon team were: Hugh Mc Guinness (goal-keeper), J. McGarrigle, Mick.Melly, Sean Slevin, Paddy O’ Neill, Dan Doherty, Seamus Slevin, James Daly, B. Gallagher, Mick Slevin (captain), S. Kane, Jack Gallagher, M.Murray, John McDermott , P.J. Goan. Shortly after the match the jubilant team began the 30 mile cycle back to Ballyshannon with the Democrat Cup. Their team spirit showed how to cope with life’s difficulties in a positive manner. 

Rationing and Recycling

Ration books became the order of the day with tea, sugar, bread, butter and flour in short supply. Going to the bog was now a top priority and local businesses such as Morgans who had been coal providers now provided peat. People pined for the days when salt and tallow candles had been manufactured locally and paraffin was also in short supply. Fortunately those in the urban areas in Bundoran and Ballyshannon had electricity supplied by Myles’ who also had timber yards and a hardware shop beside the Erne at Ballyshannon. A Bundoran chemist J. O’Reilly invented a successful coffee substitute made from dandelion and local smoking addicts used a plant called colt’s foot (pronounced “cowl’s fut” by local people) as a cigarette substitute, although the smell was quite foul. Anderson’s grocery shop on Main Street advised customers to bring jars for jam, bags for meal, paper for bread, jars for oil, bags for flour, baskets for everything. Old corsets could be handed in to the drapery shops and they were forwarded to a factory called Twilfit Regd. who cleaned them in an acid bath and new corsets were then made. Severe restrictions were imposed on the amount of material and pockets etc. in garments. In March 1944 a Ballyshannon tailor was summoned under the Emergency Power Order for producing a jacket with more than three pockets and producing trousers with a width of more than 20 inches at the end of each leg.  He got off with a caution. Cross border trafficking in household items like the white loaf and eggs was common. Compulsory tillage was introduced by the government, but not every one liked being compelled to put in crop. Indeed there were a few  instances in this locality of crops being sown but then neglected.

Local Men fought in World War 11

In the First World War a conservative estimate of 40 men, from the area around the town, died in the war whilst in the Second World War local fatalities are currently estimated at around 11 men but the number is probably higher. Allied planes stopped using the Donegal Corridor over Ballyshannon at midnight on the 3^rd of June 1945 and the war was finally over. Many local men fought in the war and now that censorship was ending more details emerged about some of those who had served in the allied armies.

Gerard Darcy, R.A.F., East Port was a prisoner of war for 3 years in Italy, escaped and made his way over the Alps, travelling by night into Switzerland, where he was employed in a factory until repatriation.

Richard Davis, Corp., R.Inn. Fus. Sminver, captured in Greece, and imprisoned in same camp as Charlie McBride relieved by Allies and was on way home in June 1945.

Charlie McBride, formerly Tírconaill Street was in the Australian forces, wounded at Crete and taken prisoner by the Germans, one of the first batch to be repatriated to Australia.

Patrick J., Neil, Frank and William Doherty, four brothers originally from Erne Street, all served in the American army overseas.

Pte. Harry Hutton, born at Lisahully, was awarded the Military Medal.

Eddie and Michael McManus were in the American forces, sons of Michael McManus; Johnnie McManus,  born Erne Street, another son of Michael McManus, Glasgow, was at the battle of Dunkirk and one of the escort of Queen Wilhemina, made Tank Commander after D- Day and named his tank “Ballyshannon”, was decorated for bravery. Johnnie McManus was a well known boxer and spent some time as a prisoner of war in Germany. 

Robert Bradford Myles, Lieut., R. Inn. Fus. was awarded the Military Cross for his courage and leadership on May 15^th 1944 on the Gustav line.

Thomas J. Myles, Serg., R.A.M.C., Legaltion, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal . On March 26^th 1944 during n attack on enemy positions near Maungdaw-Buthidaung road, this N.C.O. was in command of attached section of Indian Field ambulance. During the attack he moved with the leading position and immediately went forward treating and evacuating each casualty as it occurred.

Fred Patchell, Lanc. Sergt., R.A.M.C. wounded in China; Henry Patchell, Staff Serg. R.A.S.C. wounded in Africa.

T.R. Stubbs Captain, Transport Corps, Danby wounded in the Middle East.

Some Local Soldiers who died in World War11

James Barron, Cashelard, U.S.A., wounded in France but drowned on the way back to U.S.A.

Patrick Darcy, R.Inn.Fus. West Port

Jack Fannon,  Pte., R.Inn.Fus., Ballinacarrick, died in Burma Road, China

Thomas Edward Lapsley,  Pte., R. Inns. Fus., Abbey View Tce.

P. Mc Gonigle, R.A.F., Mall

Willie McCafferty, West Port, died in India

Flight Sergeant Mulroney, R.A.F. killed in air raid, nephew of John James McGloin, Abbey

M. O’Reilly killed in action, son of Mrs. O’ Reilly, O.S., Main Street

A. Ramage, Lieut., Laputa

G.E, Roper, Capt., U.S.A. Paratroops

Eddie Taite Gnr. R.O.A., Erne Street, died in Holland. Eddie Taite had been an accomplished cornet player in Ballyshannon Brass and Reed Band prior to the war.

Forgotten Memories

During the era of the earlier First World War 1914-1918, many local people enlisted in Finner Camp which was occupied by the British Army, at the time, and the sight of soldiers marching through Bundoran and Ballyshannon on their way to the Great Northern Railway station or to church was a regular sight for local people. The independence struggle from 1916-1921 resulted in those who fought in the First World War being largely forgotten except by their families. 

Those local people who fought in the Second World War 1939-1945 were mostly living abroad when they enlisted, and there was no local discussion about their involvement, due to Ireland’s neutrality and censorship of the media. For different reasons those local people who fought in both World Wars were for the most part forgotten.
  
A  Local History Book suitable for those at Home and Away
"Ballyshannon. Genealogy and History" reveals newly researched history and genealogy of the town, extending as far as the Rossnowlagh, Cashelard, Corlea, Clyhore, Higginstown and Finner areas. Includes the parishes of Kilbarron and Magh Ene. It contains the full story of  The Green Lady which  was recently performed in Ballyshannon  to great acclaim. The genealogy material provides detailed guidelines for anyone tracing their roots in the area or anywhere in County Donegal or Ireland. The book contains 500 pages and is richly illustrated with stunning colour, aerial photography, original illustrations and rare photographs of the area not seen before. Available in Novel Idea, Museum and Local Hands in Ballyshannon and 4 Masters Bookshop Donegal Town.

Also available from Anthony Begley for postal enquiries email anthonyrbegley@hotmail.com