Golden anniversary for Keane’s in Killarney

KEANE’S Jewellers has turned 50 and the chain’s first shop outside of Cork remains a mainstay of High Street half a century on.

To mark the occasion, Gerard Keane Snr was presented with a copy of The Kerryman newspaper from 50 years ago featuring the opening of the shop with a photo that included Gerard with the store’s first manager, Denis O’Neill.

“I remember the opening well, even though it was back in 1966,” Gerard said.

“We liked what we saw from the people of Killarney; they were working hard to promote their town, and we wanted to be part of a vibrant, thriving community.

“We were impressed with the welcome we received; it was second to none, and we’re very proud to be celebrating 50 years in the town.”

The High Street building is laced with history. It opened over 110 years ago, and served as a photography store for decades before it became the property of GAA legend Jackie Lyne.

Lyne sold the building to Keanes in 1966, and the store was furnished and renovated by local tradesmen. Since then, it has become an integral feature of the locality.

In a competition to mark the occasion, Irene Tuite was the lucky recipient of a €1,000 voucher from an instore competition, while four others won €100 vouchers.

In a separate competition, Trish Keane was awarded a €1,000 voucher after sharing her lovely memories of the Killarney based store.

Photos by Michelle Cooper Galvin Gerard and Pat Keane, Director Keanes Jewellers, with rugby star Siobhan Fleming, Paul Trant Manager and Lianne O’Sullivan, Sheila O’Donoghue and Joan Lenihan at the Keanes Jewellers 50th anniversary celebration in Killarney.

ABOVE: Pat and Gerard Keane Director Keanes Jewellers, Paul Trant Manager Keanes Killarney with Anne Clifford of Milltown, winner €100 voucher; Irene Tuite Killarney winner of the €1,000 voucher and Mary Lyons Killorglin with a €100 voucher. LEFT: Pat...