A wonderful school reunion in Caherdaniel

A reunion has been held for all past pupils of St Crohan’s National School in Caherdaniel.

The reunion for pupils of the school which educated local children from 1874 to 1971 took place in and around Caherdaniel between May 26 and 28.

Events commenced on Friday night with a gathering in the village hall.

Old friends mingled and got reacquainted while viewing an extensive and fascinating exhibition of memorabilia and photographs.

They were then treated to some excellent presentations from Michael Sheehan regarding the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve; Michael Donnelly of Derrynane Inshore Rescue; Patrick O’Donoghue of Derrynane GAA and local historian Michael Corridan. The night finished with a viewing of the Carnival of 1963.

Other screenings over the weekend included Seine Boat races and ‘Leading the Way’, a documentary which featured local farmer Michael O Connor.

On Saturday there was an afternoon open-air mass in the cemetery on Abbey Island. Fr O’Brien of Sneem conducted a beautiful ceremony in a stunning sun-splashed location. Atmospheric music from local trad musicians Wally and Vinny enhanced the service. Later, a memorial stone was unveiled by Tony O’Shea commemorating all deceased past pupils of Scoil Crohán.

The crowd reconvened in the hall that evening for a wonderful meal laid on by Corcán Catering. This was followed by a night of song and storytelling. Special guest Batt Burns, the famous storyteller, had his audience enraptured. Many old pupils also got up to perform and delighted the crowd. Special memento souvenirs – personalised candles – were presented to all past pupils of 80 plus years. These were presented to Maurice O’Sullivan; Maureen O’Donoghue; Timmy Clifford and Joseph White all of whom were present on the night. Also awarded were Cáit Dwyer; Bridie Keating; Bridie Curran and Sean O Shea who unfortunately were unable to attend on this occasion. Live music was provided by Tradish.

On Sunday morning things were rounded off in the hall with refreshments – kindly provided by Anne Boland. The organising committee led by Kay Woods thanked everyone who attended and who helped make the reunion such a resounding success.

All photos by Michael Donnelly. Altar server Conall Cournane assists Fr Liam O’Brien during the St Crohan’s NS reunion mass on Abbey Island.

(Above) The reunion committee. (Back from left) Breda O’Grady, Mary Margaret Casey, Kay Woods, Caroline Donnelly, Patrick O’Donoghue. (Front from left ) Michael Donnelly, Seamus Galvin, Tony O’Shea, and Michael Corridan.

(Below) Timmy Clifford and Maurice O’Sullivan at the St Crohan’s get together.

(Left) Jerry Clifford and Michael Curran at the reunion.