An Emigration Poem, Some old Santa Photos and Kennelly family of Cloth Hall to Retire

Brian Power, Mallow Camera Club

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A Poem to Tug at the Heartstrings

by John McGrath

Leaving - July 1st, 1966

(Written July 1st, 2017 - Where do the years go?)

Seventeen, no fear, no hesitation

A young boy smiles and wipes away his tears

July morning, Ballyhaunis station

His mother cries and curses emigration

That takes away her boy of tender years

Seventeen, no fear, no hesitation

Young mind filled with hope and expectation

The rhythm of the rails is all he hears

July morning, Ballyhaunis Station

Boarding school a feeble preparation

For Sixties’ Manchester, a web of snares

Seventeen, no fear, no hesitation

Climbs on board his future with elation

Anticipation ringing in his ears

July morning, Ballyhaunis Station

His farewell kiss a meagre consolation

She turns away as through the glass he peers

Seventeen, no fear, no hesitation

July morning, Ballyhaunis station.

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Do you recognise these children ?

Kay O'Leary has been in touch.

Mary, I’m looking for your help. I was going through old stuff during the lock down and I came across some photos. At one time we used to have ‘Santa in the Forrest’ in Lyreacrompane during the weekends of November and December – no electricity in the forest so we ran it from 12 to 5pm.  Pat McGrath from Coillte gave us a wooden shed for Santa.  We recognised most of the children in the photos and have delivered them but I’m left with three and I’m hoping you/your followers might recognise the children and adults?  I think the photos are lovely so hopefully someone will recognise them.  

 

Thanks and keep safe,
Kay

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Pedestrian Covid Precautions

During the Covid pandemic Kerry County Council have decided to prioritise pedestrians. To this end we have parking spaces all over town being given over to designated areas for pedestrian overtaking.

This is the area between AIB and the hotel where 7 car parking spaces have been sectioned off to widen the footpath, leaving just 3 car parking spaces.

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Cloth Hall is To Close

Cloth Hall is one of the oldest businesses in Listowel. Even the name is like a throwback to a bygone era.

The sign on the window yesterday advised customers that a retirement sale was in progress.