New book on parish history
A Journey Through Time From Land to Sea in the Parish of Haggardstown and Blackrock’ – a new 176 page history book which celebrates the diversity and uniqueness of our parish was officially launched at a special ceremony in St. Oliver Plunkett National School, Blackrock, by Most Rev Eamon Martin, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, following the Mass of Thanksgiving.
The publication which has been compiled and written by Noel Sharkey is priced at €20, and is now available in local shops Centra in Blackrock, and Pat Flanagan Motors, Dublin Road, Haggardstown. The book can also be purchased in Dundalk at Carroll’s Books, Park Street
Commissioned by Fr. Pádraig Keenan P.P. and the Parish Pastoral Council, ‘A Journey Through Time From Land to Sea in the Parish of Haggardstown and Blackrock’ features over 350 previously unpublished photos, over 50 of which are in full colour, and covers the history of our parish from the first Christian mission of the 5th century.
The opening chapter includes extensive features on the life, ministry and death of St. Oliver Plunkett, the effects of the potato famine in the Dundalk Union Workhouse at Rath on the Ardee Road, the Mary Stoddart disaster in Blackrock Bay and also features some ultra-rare photos of members of the Fortescue family, local landlords.
A nostalgic pictorial journey through the parish from 1900 to 2000 includes some 230 photos, many of great antiquity and will appeal to young and old alike.
The last section ‘Into the New Millennium’ features a stunning set of colour reproductions of our church windows courtesy of photographer Owen Byrne and includes in-depth coverage of the recent parish initiatives untaken by Fr. Padraig and his various parish committees.
The book will make an excellent Christmas present, and once the cost of publishing has been covered, surplus funds will be directed to clearing outstanding debt on St. Oliver Plunkett Church and constructing a proper enabling access and toilet facilities in St. Fursey’s Church.