O’Keeffe get together

DUHALLOW is bracing itself for an influx of the O’Keeffe Clan gathering from September 9-11 for a weekend of discovery and fun while tracing the paths of ancestors.

Proceedings open in Dromtariffe Hall on Friday, September 9 by clan chieftain Dan Joe O’Keeffe followed by entertainment by the local traditional group ‘Buttons and Strings’ from Rathcoole. Maurice O’Keeffe of Irish Life & Lore will also give a talk on O’Keeffes.

Saturday features historical exhibitions and genealogical advice, guided bus tours to historical sites related to the O’Keeffes, such as castles and strongholds along the beautiful Blackwater valley, in addition to trip to Newmarket, where there is rich O’Keeffe history linked to the area. The tours will be given by local historian/folklorist Raymond O’Sullivan and Dromtarriffe historian David O’Keeffe.

A full banquet in the Wallis Arms Hotel, Millstreet on Saturday night is followed by entertainment in true Sliabh Luachra style by Ceoltoiri Sliabh Luachra.

Sunday begins with the O’Keeffe Memorial Mass at noon followed by a talk on ‘O’Keeffe Coshe Mang’ by genealogist Lorna Moloney, UCC lecturer. Tours are costing €10 each and banquet tickets cost € 30 per person. Bookings for the banquet is essential through the following mobile numbers: 087-2547498 or 086-8248537.