Irish Ambassador, Dr. Ray Bassett, visits New Brunswick Page 29 2 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Inside This Issue:
Letters to the Editor………..... …...4 Montserrat: the other Emerald Isle..5 ICCA Chapter News…..7, 15, 17, 33 Inishmore: a magical place ...….. ...8 Irish apple cake ……...……….….10 Bishop William Moorhead…...….11 Hunger didn’t end with famine ....12 Nothing funny about starving …...14 Irish Christmas traditions … ..…..19 12 days of Christmas ...……….....20 Advertising Rates for the Shamrock Leaf ($CAN): Bits & pieces .. …………….. …..21 Business card size……………………………..$25 The way we said it ……………....22 1/4 page………………………………………..$45 An Irish stamp album ………...... 24 1/2 page………………………………………..$60 Farewell to Eva Steele ……….….26 Front Page Banner……………………………..$100 Full page……………………………………….$100 Logic puzzle ………………….…27 Full Page Back Cover………………………….$200 Does anyone know? …………….28 Advertising requests should be given to an ICCA member in your area Irish ambassador visits ...………..29 or sent to: [email protected] Irish potato blight gone forever ...34 Book review—D’Arcy McGee.....35 Irish room—William Crane .……36 Cassidy family of Cassidy Lake ..38 Irish tour summary ….……...... …40 Kitchen party to remember .….....41 Porthumna workhouse open ...... 42 Irish blogs...... 43 From the bookshelf ……………..44 Certificate of Irish heritage ……..46
The Shamrock Leaf is a publication of the Irish Canadian Cultural Association of New Brunswick (ICCANB). All materials contained herein are copyrighted to either the ICCANB or the individual contributors/authors and, as such, may not be copied or otherwise used for any other purpose without written permission from the copyright holder.
The Shamrock Leaf is published twice a year—June and December. Designed by ICCANB; Printed by Acadie Presse, Caraquet, NB. Deadlines for submission are April 15th and October 15th respectively. Anyone wishing to submit to an issue should first contact the Editor at: [email protected] or by regular mail to: Editor, ICCANB, 261 Cape Breton Rd., Irishtown, NB E1H 1W7 Canada December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 3
dor’s visit to the prov- tories and topics to ex- ince is obviously high- pand our vision. If you Linda Evans lighted as such an hon- would like to contribute, Downtown Irishtown our doesn’t happen here send feedback, new Email: in New Brunswick every ideas or just say ‘hello’, [email protected] day. get in touch. We love to There is some news hear from you! and history and various Nollaig Shona Dhuit! pieces on Ireland, as well as some historical and interesting pieces on our Irish Canadian story here in New Brunswick as As we put the Sham- well. rock Leaf together each So close to Christmas time, Marilyn and I try we’ve sneaked in a cou- to make sure we have a ple of Christmas pieces little bit of everything. along with our usual I think we’ve regular features and a achieved that in this is- few surprises as well. sue. We are always look- A Christmas scene from Ireland The Irish Ambassa- ing for new stories, his-
The President’s Message
It is my pleasure and honour to greet We are always looking for new you as President of the Irish members to join our committees on a Canadian Cultural Association of voluntary basis to help provide input New Brunswick. I was drawn to the and contribute to finding solutions to ICCA by its commitment to promot- challenges that lie ahead. ing our Irish culture and its strong sense of community. I admire all that I look forward to working with you has been accomplished since it be- and meeting with you as I travel to all gan. the Chapters in New Brunswick.
We are very fortunate to have a dedi- In closing I would like to thank all cated volunteer base who, like all our volunteers for their contributions. cultures, have a desire to get our We have a special group in our asso- Sincerely yours, story out . As we approach the 30th ciation and their commitment to en- anniversary of our very first annual hancing our association is impres- - Keith Vickers general meeting it is important that sive! I encourage anyone who would ICCANB President our story gets recognition and like to get involved with our commit- [email protected] acknowledgement. tees and help us find solutions for the challenges at hand. 4 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Letters to the Editor
Missing sign to Irish cemetery like to incorporate a little online technology to get the kids more interactive! Dear Editor: The kids thought of the idea to email you because It would be appreciated if you could give me some they wanted to share a resource they found: http:// information regarding the location of an Irish cemetery www.perioimplants.us/dental-analysis- in- which I believe is between Cap Pele and the Traffic Cir- archaeology.html . They thought it'd be a great fit for cle at Port Elgin. In the past my husband and I made your page and that maybe other visitors would find it many trips from Bathurst to PEI to visit family mem- fantastic as well! bers. We noted a small sign on the return side of the old I thought that maybe if their resource gets added, I'll road which read “Old Irish Cemetery”. It was in a reward them with some of my bakery treats...cupcakes wooded area and could not be seen from the high- sounds good! way. Regretfully we didn’t pursue our intention to lo- If you like the resource they suggested and think cate or visit the site. With the change which came about you'll add it to your page, let me know! They'd love to with the new road, the sign disappeared. It might be a see it up! nice idea to replace the old sign with a larger one in the - Amy Ashline (by email) withheld on request designated area. There is another Irish cemetery on the highway between the Circle and the Confederation [Editor’s note: Amy—better get baking! The suggestion Bridge which is visible when driving by...this is not the from your students has been added to the lesson plans one I am referring to. on our website. Thank you and thank the children as Thank you for your work as Editor of The Sham- well!] rock Leaf. I look forward to its arrival with each print- ing. My husband, Patrick McLaughlin, and I attended the first meeting of the ICCA in Bathurst many years ago. It became our favorite association and I continue to be a proud member. Unfortunately Pat passed away al- most five years ago. - Millie McLaughlin (by email) [email protected]
[Editor’s Note: Is there anyone out there who can solve this question. I believe that the cemetery she is referring to is the one in Botsford Portage. The sign is indeed gone.]
Lesson plans on ICCA website prove useful
Dear Editor: I'm a volunteer tutor for a local homeschool group. The kids and I wanted to take the time to tell you that we think your page [on the ICCA website], http:// www.newirelandnb.ca/Lesson-Plans/LP1-High-School- Activity-2.html, has some great archaeology resources! I had the kids go on an online mission to find some re- sources that the group could take a look at and use. I
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR should be sent to: Nollaig Shona Duit
[email protected] or by regular mail to Happy Christmas and the best of Editor, ICCANB, 261 Cape Breton Rd., Irishtown, NB E1H 1W7 Canada the holiday season to all our Irish friends, families and Due to space limitations, not all letters are guaranteed to be printed. We reserve the right to edit for length or content. associates! December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 5
Montserrat: the other Emerald Isle
On the bottom of page 12 in the last issue of the Shamrock Leaf we described a flag and we asked if anyone could identify it. Here is the answer to that question…
Did you know that: In the beginning, most of Montserrat is the only ‘nation’ those transported to Montserrat were outside of Ireland to honour St Pat- political or military prisoners but it rick’s Day as a national holiday? wasn’t long before others – those Montserrat’s flag includes the who were a ‘burden to society’, such island’s crest which is “a lady named as orphans, widows, and the unem- ‘Erin’ dressed in green, supporting a ployed were also sent to work the cross and holding a golden harp”? plantations. By the 1660’s the ma- Visitors to the island have jority of slaves or ‘indentured ser- their passport stamped with a sham- vants’ were Irish. Indeed, it was rock? estimated that 70% of the colony’s Located south of Antigua, the population in 1678 were Irish. tiny island of Montserrat is only 39 Montserrat, like many of the square miles, with a population of Caribbean islands, was a hive of about 4,500 inhabitants. Many of thriving sugar, rum, arrowroot and them have Irish roots. cotton plantations and the economy Claiming to be the friendliest depended on slaves to survive. island in the Caribbean, the island Whether described as ‘slaves’ includes place names such as Kin- or ‘indentured servants’, the termi- wasn’t bad enough, it became com- sale, St Patrick’s, Sweeney’s Hill, nology matters not. They were mon practice for estate owners to Farrell’s Yard, Cork Hill, and even bought, sold, and owned by their ‘inter-breed’ Irish women to African Galway. Surnames on the island still masters. men to produce ‘mulatto’ slaves who have Irish antecedents – such as Some were allowed to find brought a much higher price on the Reilly, O’Brien and Kelly. Many of their own way after seven years, and market. This experiment was finally the residents are known today as they too became slave masters as banned in 1681. It is one of the rea- Afro-Irish and with good reason. well over time. sons that most of the inhabitants in Despite its fierce pride in ‘all As slavery become prominent Montserrat today are known as things Irish’, Montserrat’s historical in the Caribbean, African slaves “Afro-Irish”. beginnings are dark indeed. The tiny were preferred over Irish slaves as Boatloads of impoverished Leeward Island came under British they were not ‘tainted with the Irish were sent to Montserrat – and control in 1632 when anti-Catholic dreaded Catholic theology’, but they other Caribbean countries – through- violence in St Kitts and Nevis forced were much more expensive. African out the 18th century. On St Patrick’s a group of Catholic Irish slaves there slaves cost £50 in the late 1600’s. Day in 1768, the slaves rose up to flee and settle in Montserrat. Irish slaves were of lesser value. against their owners but failed to Their hope for freedom was immedi- They were only £5 each. find freedom. Today, residents cele- ately squashed as Montserrat had In the early years, most trans- brate their Irish roots and the failed already began importing Irish slaves ported from Ireland were men but rebellion on March 17th. It is a fit- and ‘indentured servants’ to the is- soon women and young children ting date for a national holiday. land since 1625 during the reign of would also be sent across the seas to They celebrate with song, dance, and James II. They had unfortunately work on the plantations. Thousands food. left one oppressive island for an- left Ireland. Many of them didn’t (cont’d) other. Oliver Cromwell continued make the crossing. the practice. If the indignity of slavery 6 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Montserrat: the other Emerald Isle — (cont’d)
Traditional costumes are worn – Just as tourism was beginning canic activity has covered the lower which coincidentally include the col- to take hold and economic conditions half of the island in thick ash making ours green, white and gold. were improving, devastating natural it uninhabitable. Only the northern Slavery was abolished in Mont- disasters depopulated the island, re- half of the island is fertile and the serrat and other British Caribbean is- ducing the population from 13,000 in southern half is now part of an unsafe lands in August 1834. 1994 to only 4,500 today and the trend exclusion zone. Only a few, with per- Economic woes plagued Mont- continues. In 1994, Hurricane Hugo mission, are allowed there. Most of serrat throughout the 19th and 20th cen- destroyed nearly 90 per cent of the the Irish named settlements are lo- turies. Labour was no longer free. island’s structures. Since 1995 vol- cated in the exclusion zone. Montserrat’s historical beginnings were indeed shameful and her future may seem bleak, but there is a stubborn resilience among those left behind that must be Irish in nature. They are still very proud of their Irish past and the struggles they have suf- fered along the way. Some describe her coastline as a mirror image of the western shores of Ireland and suggest that that is why it is known as the Emerald Isle of the Carib- bean. The real reasons obvi- ously run much deeper than that.
New Brunswick was over 50% Irish at the time of the first New Brunswick census. Nova Scotia, known more for its Scottish roots than its Irish roots, also saw a large influx of Irish. Many sailed into the Halifax-Dartmouth region from the southern counties of Ireland before and during the famine years. They stayed as labourers and skilled craftsmen and were instrumental in building much of the Halifax waterfront as well as the Schubenacadie canal. By the early 1860’s it is estimated that nearly 50% of Halifax-Dartmouth’s population was Irish.
St Dominic’s RC Church in Portland Maine closed its doors in 1997, and is now home to the Maine Irish Heritage Cen- ter which houses Maine’s Irish genealogical center, a museum, archives and library, preserving the story of the Irish in Maine. With so many NB Irish crossing the border to work in Maine’s back woods, on the railway and the factories – many of Maine’s Irish have NB roots and so their story is part of our story as well.
As PEI prepares to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Charlottetown conference next year, it seems a good time to remember that Thomas D’Arcy McGee was not the only Father of Confederation with strong Irish roots. PEI’s Edward Palmer’s father, Joseph Palmer, was a lawyer from Ireland. One of the two delegates representing Newfoundland at the Charlottetown conference was Ambrose Shea. His father came from Carrick-on-Suir, County Waterford and his mother was a Ryan. Although not at the Charlottetown conference, journalist Edward Whalen represented PEI at the Quebec conference. He was born in Balina, County Mayo. December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 7
By Pat Murphy
The Bathurst Chapter was repre- The recipient of the $400 bur- sented at the Miramichi Irish Festi- sary this year was Paige Sullivan, val with a booth and seven members daughter of Lester and Cindy Sulli- to help man the local and Provincial van of Janeville. Paige is attending booths. A special thank you to those the University of PEI. members who volunteered. The Chapter was unable to enter The focus of the Chapter booth an Irish float in the Hospitality Days was to help raise funds for the Chap- parade again this year since it is on ter high school bursary. The booth the same weekend at the Irish Festi- is sponsored by P & B Electric. The val. prize this year was a set of eight Tru- The annual corn boil this year del wine glasses which were won by was hosted at the Rec. Center in Pat Murphy, Jerry Thibodeau, Sean Dan and Grace King of Salmon Belledune and again there was a Murphy, and Marcel Duguay preparing Beach. good turn-out of members. Wind for the annual corn boil caused a bit of a delay for the cooks but otherwise everything went well. We wish to take this opportunity We wish to thank all members for to wish our members a Merry Christ- taking part and especially those who mas and a Happy New year. helped with the boil.
Our annual Christmas Eggnog party is the final event of the year.
8 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Inishmore—a magical place By Mike Jos. P. Magee
A trip to the Burren, the small bus and after a quick Aran island of Inishmore ride, were soon at Kilmur- (known as Inis Mór in vey House, operated by Irish), and Galway City Bert and Treassa Joyce. marked my fifth trip to Located halfway along the Ireland, and it was by far island between Kilronan the best. Ireland welcomed and Bun Gowla, this home all in 2013 with “The was a grand one. Made up Gathering” and it proved to of 40 rooms, it was ex- be a spectacular visit. panded over recent times From the onset, our but belonged to the ancient travel itinerary was family of Fierce planned to include the Irish O’Flaherty’s who ruled central western coastal re- Connaught during the Mid- gion around Galway Bay dle Ages. They once lived and the Aran Islands. Geo- in Galway and were ex- graphically speaking Ire- The next day Paschal, at the wharf was filled with pelled by the Anglo- land’s land mass is ap- our friendly B&B owner entertainment and we had Norman families who ruled proximately twenty percent took us down to the Doolin great vista. As we looked Galway as an oligarchy. larger than New Bruns- quay for our trip to Inish- in a southerly direction we Just a few feet from Kil- wick. The area we visited more. Here we met Bill saw the Cliffs of Moher murvey House was a 1,000 has a radius of no more Kelly, the owner of one of and got a glimpse of Hags year old Celtic Church. than thirty five miles. the ferry boat companies. Head. Mr. Kelly’s boat Treassa and Bert certainly The first night was It wasn’t long before he carried about forty of us took care of us and had spent in Doolin, Ireland’s shared a few anecdotes, and lasted close to an hour wonderful fare in their centre of traditional music, and taught me some Irish. and a half. The sea did get kitchen which allowed us followed by the next two Mr. Kelly also told us rough for a while but other to remain on site and im- days on Inishmore Island, a about accomplished Irish than a slew of choppy merse ourselves in the im- remote setting known for ‘seanchaithe’ Eddie Leni- waves, we were soon at the mediate area. I recall go- harboring Ireland’s great han. small village of Kilronan ing to a few stores that writers, and then it was on His website - on the island of Inishmore. were nearby. All the locals to Galway City. Our visit www.eddielenihan.net is It had a well maintained speak Irish and were so was filled with great views well worth a visit. quay, a few nice homes, willing to allow me to lis- of west coast rocky coastal We soon lined up at the fishing huts, restaurants, ten. One woman (Mrs. outcrops, small villages, quay for our boat ride to and good pubs. Beattie) sold us a postcard and lush grazing farmland Inishmore, the largest of Not long after we ar- which had a picture of a through the countryside. the Aran Islands. The wait rived, we hopped on a (cont’d) December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 9
Inishmore—a magical place (cont’d) man in his thatched cottage through and paid homage looking out. I was amazed to the past. There was a when she told us that it place where candles had was a picture of her hus- been left and we did the band and that they lived same and simply stood and comfortably in that home pondered about humanity just a few miles close to and the past. It was a time the local quay, where most spent with the spirits of lived on the island. Irish mythology. This We visited Dun Church had been built to Aengus, a Bronze and Iron withstand marauders who Age fort - one of Europe’s pillage and attacked Chris- most famous prehistoric tians who occupied the forts which had spectacular area. views all around it. Some I shall always think describe it as one the most fondly of Inishmore and incredible barbaric monu- how the island affects all ments in Europe. It sits on who visit her. It’s mystical a 400 foot promontory and and magical, and the peo- has 4 ramparts built during ple remain as they were the Iron Age. The inner plan, if the invaders ever that is home to hundreds of centuries ago. Leaving fort upper part sits over the got past the last wall. To people. It is no wonder Kilronan port, I felt a little ocean which seemed to me think it was built such a that many go there because sad. The crossing to Gal- a last point of desperation long time ago on an island it is peaceful and remote. way City was indeed pleas- It is raw beauty. It was ant and eventful as we en- one of the last places countered three pods of where pagans lived and Dolphins, and we were still worshipped deities. blessed with beautiful vis- There at the National tas along Galway Bay’s Park Dun Aengus Interpre- shores leading to the great tation Centre I met Parican city. I can still see the Clancy who has not only baby dolphin trying so written about this historic hard to keep up to the pod fort but was such an amaz- as he strayed well behind ing guide to this historic its pod. site. Upon entering the When I shared that I harbor I could only think was taken by the primitive of that opening verse of beauty of the Celtic that famous song, Galway Church near Kilmurvey Bay: House she reminded me to “If you ever go across the return and find the Horse sea to Ireland, Deity that had been in- Then maybe, at the scribed on the walls of the closing of your day, ruins. I spent several hours You can sit and within the ruins contem- watch the moon rise over plating its existence. I Claddagh found this part of my visit And see the sun go to be more than special to down on Galway Bay” share with someone. Over the years many have gone 10 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Irish apple cake—scrummy!
Over the years I have tried to replicate a now popular dessert in the UK called “Sticky Toffee Pudding”. I was first introduced to this little delight while staying at St Bride’s Castle in Wales and I tried several - and they were okay – or not okay – and then I fell on ‘the English Kitchen’ blog site and tried that version – it was spot on! The English Kitchen blog is created and maintained by Marie Rayner, a Nova Scotia Ex-Pat who moved to the UK in 2000. A personal chef in a ‘Big House’ for many years she is now retired and spends her time preparing and providing well-illustrated daily recipes on her blog. Once you finish reading the ‘recipe-de-jour’ you want to head directly to the kitchen and get started on it right away! The blog - http://[email protected] - has over 63,000 followers and has won a number of awards over the years. Determined to de-bunk the old myth that British cooking is drab and tasteless, her recipes are simple, nutritious and in her own word – scrummy! Sometimes, whether she is aware of it or not, her recipes have a certain Maritime flavor to them as her Nova Scotia roots quietly makes its way into her daily offering. Her second passion is watercolours and she also offers for sale some delightful little illustrated on-line booklets with quaint titles like “A Royal Tea Party” (for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee), “The Great British Picnic” and “Christmas in the English Kitchen”. Over the years I’ve attempted several Irish Apple Cakes – from on-line cooking sites to old Irish country cook- books. The results were mixed and I’d pretty well given up - until Marie offered one on her blog. It was moist, tasty, and yes, scrummy! Do try it and do check out her blog for other delicious temptations. You’ll be glad you did….
Irish Apple Cake 2 generous cups self-rising flour ½ cup butter 1 large egg, slightly beaten 1/3 cup milk Filling 2 cooking apples, peeled and sliced ½ tsp cinnamon 41/2 Tbs brown sugar Topping A little beaten egg 1 Tbs sugar
Preheat oven to 350. Butter a deep 9” flan pan with a loose bot- tom (or pie plate). Rub the butter in the flour to form a bread- crumb mixture. Sir in the sugar and add the beaten egg and milk with a round-bladed knife. If the dough seems too sticky, add more flour. You want a soft dough but not a sticky one. Turn out onto a floured board and cut the dough in half. Place half the dough in the flan pan, pressing it in with your fingers to cover the bottom of the dish. Spread the apple slices over the base, leaving a bit of an edge all around. Sprinkle with the brown sugar and cinnamon. Carefully roll out the other half of the dough into a circle about the same size as the dish. Place on top of the apples, pressing the edges together with the bottom crust. Cut several slits in the top of the cake for ventilation. Brush with a little beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 35 minutes, until well risen and golden brown. If using a flan pan, place the pan on top of a jar and push down the sides and remove. Cool on a wire rack before cutting into wedges to serve. Serve warm with cus- tard or cream. December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 11
Bishop William H. Moorhead was from Drumlish, Ireland
By Eugene Campbell
Ed note: In our last issue we printed an article by Eugene Campbell on Rt. Rev. William Dollard and this is a con- tinuance of articles on Irish clergy in New Brunswick. The final installment will be found in the next issue.
Rt. Rev. William H migration chaplain at the Moorhead was born on Port of Quebec. From 1913 April 7th, 1882 in Drumlish, to 1915, he served as an County Longford, Ireland, assistant at Sherbrooke. the son of Alexander and In 1915, Moorhead Catherine (Woods) Moor- joined the armed forces, head. where he was to become On January 25, 1939, chaplain of the 117th Battal- in Fredericton, he was con- ion for a year, at which secrated Bishop of the time he joined the 13th Ar- Capital, by Rt. Rev. J. C. tillery Brigade. From there Fielding, Bishop of Mont- on he served in France and real, and acting Metropoli- Germany until the war tan of Canada. He was as- ended in 1918. sisted by the Bishops of After the war, Moor- Ontario, Nova Scotia, Que- head was to hold charges in bec and Maine. Quebec until 1927, at Moorhead’s record is which time, he came to impressive. He chose the New Brunswick. Arriving Church as his vocation in Saint John, he served as from an early age. He was Rector of St Paul’s (Valley) educated at St Mary’s Ap- Church and it was from ostolic School, Moyne, here that he was appointed County Longford, before as Dean of Christ Cathedral coming to Canada. Upon in Fredericton in 1936. his arrival he entered the After his arrival in University of Bishop’s Col- Saint John, he took an ac- lege, Lennoxville, Quebec, tive interest and role in where he received his BA community affairs, becom- in 1909. Two years later he ing Chaplain of the Cana- received his licentiate in dian Legion and the New Systematic Theology. That Brunswick Dragoons. He Following his retire- Bishop of the Diocese of same year – 1911 – he was also served on the Board of ment in 1956, he took up Fredericton, and will ever ordained a deacon in the the New Brunswick Protes- residence, with his family, remember his great kind- Diocese of Quebec. The tant Orphan’s Home, as in Quintin Heights in the ness and courtesy.” following year he became a well as the Board of the Port City. He died in 1962 His successor as priest. Saint John Tuberculosis at the age of 80. New Bishop of Fredericton, Rt. Form 1911 to 1913 he Association. Moorhead Brunswick’s Premier at the Rev. A. H. O’Neill, said served as an assistant at the was also active in the Ki- time, Louis J. Robichaud, that “the Diocese of Freder- Cathedral in Quebec City, wanis Club and the Eclectic said in tribute to Moorhead, icton had lost one of its as well as his role as an im- Reading Club. “I knew him well as a most able and (cont’d) 12 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Bishop William H. Moorhead (cont’d)
most devoted of leaders.” good humor and straightfor- He added, “During my years ward approach to problems in the Diocese of Frederic- of the church, community ton, I have discovered that and family….From the time he was very greatly beloved, of his appointment as and that he was always will- bishop, he wore the tradi- ing and ready to help the tional bishop’s gaiters and clergy and the laity, and to breeches, and in other ways, guide them to the best of his demonstrated his great be- ability.” He said further, “I lief in the solemn impor- have never known anyone tance of the office to his more greatly beloved any- church, but he was ever where than Bishop Moor- ready to join in the laughter lege, an honorary Doctor of death] of St. Jude’s Parish head…” of young and old, and trav- Laws in 1939.” in West Saint John.” His obituary in the elled constantly throughout “He left behind his His funeral service Saint John newspaper re- the diocese to meet the con- wife, the former C. Mabel was conducted by Rt. Rev. called Moorhead as “short gregation in his charge.” Wilson, of Sherbrooke, R. H. Waterman, Bishop of of stature and retaining an “From Bishop’s Col- Quebec and two sons: Wal- Nova Scotia, and he was attractive Irish brogue lege he received an Honor- ter A. Moorhead and Rev. laid to rest in Fernhill throughout his life. Bishop ary Doctorate of Divinity in John F Moorhead, Rector Cemetery. Moorhead was noted for his 1936 and from King’s Col- [at the time of the Bishop’s
Hunger didn’t end with the Great Famine: Erris and Tyrawley, County Mayo in 1860
Ed note: Famine did not abruptly stop with the Great Famine. It came back to haunt those left behind many times, often just as they were getting their lives back to some semblance of normal again. The following is an editorial taken from the Irish Times, 11 May 1860 describing the desperate situation in County Mayo in the spring of 1860 and the futility of the situation. Help was on the way, but it was going to be too little too late. The only other option beyond starvation was the workhouse and this too was seen as an inadequate response.
The most skeptical must now be trict, where there are at least 21,000 The winds of the Atlantic scatter convinced that very great distress people suffering privation! sand over the sea districts, the prevails in, probably, one of the How long will this vessel be on storms of September shook the seed most primitive and interesting dis- her way? What if a storm should from the husk and broke the stems of tricts in Ireland. arise and she be lost? How are the the oats. The “stalks” of the potato We have not only the testimony people far away among lonely hills were broken by tempests. A long of the landowners and clergy of both to receive the food, such as it is? and bitter winter, with a still more denominations, in Erris and Tyraw- We have done far more for Africa bitter spring, have frozen and killed ley, but… it is painful to think how than for Erris. the grass. little has been done yet. A small In the latter there are no roads; For a while, one farmer shared vessel carries out 65 tons of yellow the traveler makes his way over bogs what potato he had with their cattle, Indian meal, 40 barrels of seed oats, and fens, on layers of reeds over and the carcasses of 18 were lying turnip seed, and a small quantity of which the earth is sprinkled. The round his dwelling. other goods. The 65 tons of Indian cottages are few and far between. At another humble homestead, meal are for food; how small an Some are located in hidden nooks the owners have retreated to an inner amount is that in an extensive dis- between the hills, or on the borders room, but in the outer, three cows of the many lakes. All are suffering. (cont’d) December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 13 Hunger didn’t end with the Great Famine (cont’d) lay dead. It is pitiable that this coun- thing of Erris, and we state that if try of Erris was just recovering from there is a peculiar characteristic of the effects of the great famine, and the peasantry, it is an absolute horror given the promise of prosperity. The of the workhouse. The man who people were hard-working, industri- enters it thinks himself lost beyond ous, and frugal. Slowly, but stead- all hope of recovery, and that he has ily, they had added to their means, fixed an indelible stigma of disgrace when this visitation came perhaps upon his kith and kin. designed by Providence to direct our This benediction of 65 tons of attention to the neglected districts of meal will by no means alleviate the our own land, for which, whatever distress which prevails. There is the Deity has done, man continues to need for more, much more; nor do so little. should we rest contented with Perhaps the most painful portion merely relieving immediate want. of this suffering is the fact that this The seeds have been consumed distress is not simply on those of to support life, and it is very ques- very lowest class of people. The tionable whether there is time now to landowners have given portions of prepare the land to sow and till, land, often extending to many acres, where the summer is so brief, and Photo: The Crying Stone at rents varying from £1 to £10 a the winter has progressed so far into stands beside the N59 just east year, to an energetic tenantry. spring. of the village of Bangor in Er- The people had set to work “with There will be a need for Chris- ris and represents the sorrow a will”, and from that passion for tian benevolence to enable the peo- land which is peculiar to the Irish ple to outlive next winter. Mr. Card- felt by many families as they peasant, have reclaimed portions of well, indeed, talks blandly of the waved to their family mem- the bog and sand drift by the most operation of the Poor Law, but he bers as they left for a better persevering industry. Once they knows little of Ireland, and less of life in America. (Copyright succeeded in getting the “short Erris. In this country we have not Oliver Dixon, and licensed for grass” to grow, they procured a cow progressed so far in the cold doc- reuse). or two, and thus gradually were in- trines of political economy as to creasing the grass land for their cat- think the best thing we can do for differences, are united in a bold en- tle, when this visitation came upon our people is to allow them to droop deavor to save life, and what is of them, and fell the more heavily upon and die within the walls of a poor- much more value is life, independ- those whose industry had given them house. ence. A Christian people, surely, something to lose. We have a primitive people, cannot adopt a Chief Secretary’s These people will not enter the hardy, honest, and industrious, vis- doctrine and consign a race of whom poorhouse; they will die at their ited by misfortune; that Protestant any Queen might be proud, to the hearthstones first. We know some- and Roman Catholic, forgetting their mercy of the Poor Law.
Isle, the free on-line Irish magazine, has just celebrated its first anniversary. It features pieces exclusively on Ireland – including travel destinations, fashion, food and drink producers, artists and craftspeople, chefs, entrepreneurs and much more. Isle is a fine read. Check it out at www.islemagazine.com. In Issue 3, there is a great travel feature on Dingle and just out in Issue 4 is a great 8 page spread on Derry, City of Culture in 2013. The site is well worth a visit.
While on the topic of free on-line magazines, genealogy researchers may be interested in Irish Lives Remembered at: http://www.irishlivesremembered.com. This magazine is well-illustrated and digitally formatted so that you can ‘flip pages’ and zoom in on what interests you. The most recent issue has information and details for anyone with County Laois roots as well as informative historical sketches. You can easily access past issues as well. The first issue gives you an idea how to start your family tree and the focus is on County Cork. If you subscribe, you can have the magazine in your in-box every month.. 14 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
There’s nothing funny about starving immigrants
By Alden Nowlan Alden Nowlan was a poet, writer, reporter and columnist who could be regarded as Irish New Brunswick’s most ar- dent spokesman in his day. A founding member of the ICCA, he sadly left us just as we were getting started in 1983 at the age of 50. The following column was written not too long before he died, after St Patrick’s Day, and is still very relevant today.
terms of food, clothing and shelter The forebears of today’s Saint than the slaves of the southern Johners came over in the same United States. “coffin ships” as the people buried Fleeing from one of the Four on Partridge Island. Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Fam- You would expect there to be a ine, the emigrants were overtaken by yearly memorial day for those poor another, Plague. Thousands died wretches, of whom one observer from diseases such as typhus and wrote that in their death agonies they cholera. Many of them are buried on resembled fish that had been thrown Partridge Island in Saint John har- on the beach. bor. You certainly wouldn’t expect Some people are fond of an- anyone with an ounce of imagination nouncing smugly that they are or a grain of sensitivity to crack “unhyphenated Canadians.” I am as jokes about them. Least of all, Canadian as it is possible for anyone someone whose origins were the to be. That doesn’t mean I have to same as theirs. deny my ancestry. To me, that would be like disowning my own New Brunswick must be the father. only place in the world where people My people lived in Ireland for Alden Nowlan Quotes: of Irish ancestry crack jokes about 2,000 years before they came to the potato famine. I’ve heard them what is now Canada. My grand- do it from the head table of banquets mother’s grandmother was among “Being a foreigner is not a dis- and from the platform of public those who starved to death in County ease.” meetings. Wexford. According to family leg- The famine occurred a long time end, she died in a field where in her “I couldn’t help being part of my ago, in the 1840’s; but I find it im- desperation she had eaten grass. race. A race that continued to be possible to conceive of anybody of It is possible to honor the mem- tough. It was possible for me to Jewish origin cracking jokes about ory of those hundreds of thousands accept myself, finally, only when I the Holocaust 100 years from now. of human beings who died like my realized—emotionally—that poetry So many Irish died or were grandmother’s grandmother without is tough too, that a poem can con- forced to emigrate that Ireland is the reviving old accusations and old ani- tain as much fury and power as a only country in Europe – probably mosities. fist or a blackjack.” the only country in the world – with The fact that we observe Remem- fewer inhabitants today than it had a brance Day doesn’t mean that we century and a half ago. hate the Germans. “The day the child realizes that all The death toll on the “coffin The English people bear no adults are imperfect, he becomes ships” that carried the emigrants to responsibility for the things the Eng- an adolescent; North America was actually higher lish landlords and the English gov- The day he forgives them, he be- than the death toll on the ships that ernment did or did not do in Ireland comes an adult; transported black slaves. An Ameri- 130 years ago. The day he forgives himself, he can sociologist, who happens by the Saint John is an Irish city. You becomes wise.” way to be black, has written that in only have to leaf through the tele- the middle of the last century the phone book and glance at the sur- Irish peasants were worse off in names listed there to realize that. December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 15
WAK (Moncton) Chapter News
By Paul McCloskey
Once again, our Chapter is up and running. We’ve had a fairly quiet summer although recently things have picked up some. The first thing I want to bring up is that somehow our chapter bursary winners’ names and pictures slipped through the cracks in 2012. I hope to rectify that omission by presenting to you the 2012 winners of the bursaries. The pictures here show chapter treasurer Don O’Connor making the awards. (Top ) Cassandra K. Paddon—2012 recipient of the Gerry McCarthy bursary
(Below ) John Patrick Kelly— 2012 recipient of the Rev. Peter McKee bursary
Through the generosity of members Dan and Marie McGee, the Chapter now has a third bursary to offer in the coming years to a student going into the medical field. A special thanks goes out to the McGees for making this pos- sible. Our bursary winners in 2013 were Erin Passin, Mor- gan Cavanagh, and our first recipient of the medical bur- sary, Cassandra Paddon.
Don O’Connor presenting to Morgan Cavanagh and Cassandra Paddon (above) and to Erin Passin (left)
Our chapter was once again invited to take part in the Highland Games this past summer. Peter Rafferty, Don O’Connor and I had a great time spreading the good news of Irish culture and history. It amazes me how so many people are unaware that they have Irish roots. (cont’d) 16 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
WAK (Moncton) Chapter news — (cont’d)
. It’s wonderful to see the Hughes and with the able beautiful playing of many portion of his visit went light in their eyes once they assistance of members Peter old Irish standards. We had smoothly and many of our realize that they too are part Rafferty, Don O’Connor new members join us along members turned out to meet of God’s chosen. and Mike Magee everything with long time members and him both at the Irish Monu- Our chapter held a went off without a hitch. We everyone enjoyed an Irish ment on the banks of the fundraiser this summer to had women from the Monc- afternoon… even those of Petitcodiac River and the raise money for our Irish ton Magma Association as- us who didn’t win any Old Triangle Ale House Room at Thomas Williams sist us with hor d’oeuvres money. afterwards. House. The event was a and longtime member Brian As you are all no We’re looking for- great success and a good Murphy emceed the entire doubt aware we recently had ward to another rewarding time was had by all. The affair. Dorothy Brzezicki, a visit from Dr. J. Raymond and enlightening year here function was the brainchild harpist extraordinaire, kept Bassett, Irish Ambassador in Moncton. of founding member Frank us entertained with her to Canada. The Moncton
Moncton scholar earns Marie Curie Fellowship
Moncton’s Dr. Ruth Canning Irish form a new identity and has been awarded a Marie Curie planted the seeds for the Catholic- Actions Fellowship, the European Protestant conflicts that still plague Union’s flagship fellowship pro- the country today. gram for researchers, to continue Canning was born in Ireland her study of the roots of the centu- but grew up in Moncton and did her ries-old Anglo-Irish conflict. undergraduate studies at Mount Al- Apart from the prestige that lison University. She had been in comes with the fellowship, it pro- Ireland at University College Cork, vides $300,000 in research funding but is now freshly arrived at Corcor- to fuel Canning’s three-year re- dia University in Montreal, doing search project on a lost yet surpris- her postdoctoral work and teaching ingly pertinent corner of Irish his- in Concordia’s new School of Irish tory: the Nine Years’ War. Studies. Although waged more than It may seem strange to come nationality or field of research. 400 years ago in the last days of the to Canada in order to study Ireland, Readers may remember Ruth reign of England’s Elizabeth I, it set but Canning said she finds the dis- Canning’s article in the June 2012 the tone for centuries of Catholic- tance offers a new and fresh per- issue of the Shamrock Leaf entitled Protestant conflict. spective on the Irish Question. “The Nine Years War: Ireland’s It’s Canning’s hope that the Marie Curie fellowships are sixteenth century war of independ- research will lead to a new under- European research grants available ence”. standing of how this war helped the to researchers regardless of their Congratulations Ruth!
We have met too late. You are too old to be influenced by me. - James Joyce to W.B. Yeats after their one and only encounter
Never have I encountered so much pretension with so little to show for it. - W.B. Yeats’ alleged response December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 17
Capital Area Chapter News
By Bruce Driscoll
Our Chapter held its In July we took part in spring meeting on May the Irish Festival on the 29th and its fall meeting on Miramichi and had our Sept. 14th, and in between annual booth at the High- those dates it seems the land Games in Fredericton. activities kept right on hap- These events require the pening. We celebrated our work of a number of mem- 10th annual Bloomsday in bers but everyone pulls June, and because it fell on together to make them suc- Fathers’ Day we had a cesses. In August, for the brief gathering and just a second year, we were in- few readings, keeping the vited to take part in an spirit of the event alive for Irish Weekend at Kings the coming year. Landing. Past Chapter President Ricarda Bradley
Students of the Stanford School of Irish Dance entertain visitors during the Irish Weekend at Kings Landing (above) and Michelle Daigle, in period dress (below) joins other musicians to play and sing traditional arrangements.
has been instrumental in developing this weekend centred on the Killeen Cabin, and Kings Landing Asst. Manager, Michelle Daigle has been a strong supporter. Chapter mem- bers and guests turned out, and there were dancers, musicians and story-tellers, as well as home-cooked Lorraine Nolan, Donna Styant and Jim Whelan participat- food. (cont’d) ing in Bloomsday at Officer’s Square
Unexpected snow in Baltimore, West Co. Cork 2012 18 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Capital Area Chapter news — (cont’d)
October ushered in the first ested parties, either Irish set dancing evening, monthly or annually, but organized and taught by we also need to seek Marilyn Driscoll, as part of grants, and look at fund- the Chapter’s commitment raising ideas. to expanding our promo- One important item to tion of Irish culture and note; at the Irish Festival in heritage. The sessions will July, the Inishowen Fiddle take place every Wednes- was presented to Sidney day and are open to Chap- Murgatroyd of Fredericton. ter members and the gen- Sidney had the opportunity eral public, for a small fee. to play the fiddle in front Contact Marilyn at 506- of the citizens of Frederic- 357- 8 2 8 3 o r ton at Officers’ Square on [email protected] July 30th, where he re- for more information. An- ceived the official award Also in August, for the throughout the Village. other part of promoting our from Kathleen Gorey- first time, there was an September’s meeting heritage will be the long- McSorley and “Bid The event in the Village of was followed by a wonder- awaited opening of an Muse” from Ireland. Sid- Gagetown, called “The ful fall B-B-Q hosted by “Irish Room,” for our ney also played at the Gathering in Gagetown.” Chapter member Phil Wil- Chapter. We have ob- “Gathering in Gagetown,” Organized by Chapter liams, with about 30 mem- tained space in the old and then he played the fid- members Dona King and bers and friends attending. YMCA which is now the dle again on Oct. 16th, Marilyn Driscoll, and The following month the new “Fredericton Intercul- when he was presented Susan Shalala, Queens Chapter was fortunate to tural Centre,” on Saunders with a personal award for County Heritage, this day- welcome the Irish Ambas- Street. We have some fur- the fiddle from the Irish long event attracted over sador to Canada, Dr. Ray niture, but we need to raise Ambassador, Dr. Ray Bas- 100 people from across the Bassett and his wife funds to cover our monthly sett. county and beyond. They Patricia, as they visited the rent. One possible way to We now look forward to were treated to historical City of Fredericton on Oct. raise some money would Tellabration in November talks, story-telling and mu- 16th. be by pledges from Chap- and Christmas in Killarney sic, as Irish flags flew The 2nd Wednesday in ter members or other inter- in December. As this is my final report as President of our Chapter, I want to offer my sincere thanks to all the hard work from our members during my term. From those who took roles on the Executive to those that organized events, to those that turned out for whatever was planned or tried, this Chapter really is a special group of people, but more importantly a special group of friends that I may never have met were it not for the IC- CANB. The inaugural Gathering in Gagetown - more than 100 people turned up for lectures, dis- plays and music. December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 19
Do you have an Irish Christmas? Irish Christmas Traditions
Ireland, like many countries, has a number of Christmas traditions that are all of its own. Many of these customs have their root in the time when the Gaelic culture and religion of the country were being suppressed and it is perhaps be- cause of that they have survived into modern times.
THE CANDLE IN THE WINDOW The placing of a lighted candle in the window of a house on Christmas Eve is still practiced today. It has a num- ber of purposes but primarily it was a symbol of welcome to Mary and Joseph as they travelled looking for shelter. In Penal times, the candle also indicated a safe place for priests to perform mass, as masses, and indeed priests, were forbidden during this dark period of Irish history. A further element of the tradition is that the candle should be lit by the youngest member of the household and only be extinguished by a girl bearing the name 'Mary'.
THE LADEN TABLE After the evening meal on Christmas Eve, the kitchen table was again set and on it were placed a loaf of bread filled with caraway seeds and raisins, a pitcher of milk and a large lit candle. The door to the house was left unlatched so that Mary and Joseph, or any wandering traveler, would be welcomed.
DECORATIONS The placing of a ring of holly on doors originated in Ireland as holly was one of the main plants that flourished at Christmas time and which gave the poor ample means with which to decorate their dwellings. All decorations are traditionally taken down on Little Christmas (January 6th.) and it is considered to be bad luck to take them down beforehand.
THE WREN BOY PROCESSION During Penal Times there was once a plot in a village against the local soldiers. They were surrounded and were about to be ambushed when a group of wrens pecked on their drums and awakened the soldiers. The plot failed and the wren became known as 'The Devil's bird'. On St. Stephen’s day (Boxing Day), a procession takes place where a pole with a holly bush is carried from house to house and families dress up in old clothes and with blackened faces. In olden times an actual wren would be killed and placed on top of the pole. This custom has to a large degree disappeared but the tradition of visiting from house to house on St. Stephens Day has survived and is very much part of Christmas. The tradition continues today in Newfoundland where mum- mers have replaced the wren boys but perform a similar function.
TRADITIONAL GAELIC SALUTATION The Gaelic greeting for 'Merry Christmas' is 'Nollaig Shona Duit' - which is pronounced as 'null-ig hun-a dit' which means HAPPY CHRISTMAS!
This article is provided by ‘The Information about Ireland’ website with permission. © http://www.ireland-information.com.
Ed note: With Christmas fast approaching, why not incorporate some of these old traditions into your Christmas cele- brations? We have placed a candle in our window ever since our children were young and for some reason – I know not why – the candle must be red at our house. 20 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
12 Days of Christmas – Irish By Frank Kelly
Day One swimming is a most romantic idea but not in the bath of a pri- Dear Nualla, vate house. We cannot use the bathroom now because they’ve Thank you very much for your lovely present of a partridge in gone completely savage and rush the door every time we try to a pear-tree. We’re getting the hang of feeding the partridge enter. If things go on this way, mother and I will smell as bad now, although it was difficult at first to win his confidence. It as the livingroom carpet. Please lay off! It is not fair! Gob- bit mother rather badly on the hand, but they’re good friends nait now and we’re keeping the pear-tree indoors in a bucket. Day Eight Thank you again. Yours affectionately, Gobnait O’Lunasa Nuala, Day Two Who the hell do you think gave you the right to send eight, Dear Nualla hefty maids-a-milking here, to eat us out of house and home? I cannot tell you how surprised we were to hear from you so Their cattle are all over the front lawn and have trampled the soon again and to receive your lovely present of two turtle hell out of the mother’s flower beds. The swans invaded the doves. Your really are too kind. At first the partridge was living room in a sneak attack and the ensuing battle between very jealous and suspicious of the doves and they had a terri- them and the calling birds, turtle doves, French hens and par- ble row in the night the doves arrived. We had to send for the tridge make the Battle of the Somme seem like Wanderly vet but the birds are okay again and the stitches are due to Wagon. The mother is on a bottle of whiskey a day, as well as come out in a week or two. The vet’s bill was £8 but mother the sixty grains of Valium. I’m very annoyed with you. Gob- is over her annoyance now and the doves and the partridge are nait watching the telly from the pear-tree as I write. Yours ever, Day Nine Gobnait Listen you louser! Day Three There’s enough pandemonium in this place night and day Dear Nualla, without nine drummer’s drumming, while the eight flaming We must be foremost in your thoughts. I had only posted my maids-a-milking are beating my poor, old alcoholic mother out letter when the three French hens arrived. There was another of her own kitchen and gobbling everything in sight. I’m sort-out between the hens and the doves, who sided with the warning you, you’re making an enemy of me. Gobnait partridges, and the vet had to be sent for again. The mother Day Ten was raging because the bill was £16 this time but she’s almost Listen manure-face, cooled down. However, the fact that the birds’ droppings keep I hope you’ll be haunted by the strains of ten pipers piping falling down on her hair while she’s watching the telly, does- which you sent to torment us last night. They were aided in n’t help matters. Thanking you again for your kindness, I re- their evil work by those maniac drummers and it wasn’t a main, Your Gobnait. pleasant sight to look out the window and see eight hefty Day Four maids-a-milking pogo-ing around with the ensuing punk-rock Dear Nualla, uproar. My mother has just finished her third bottle of whis- You mustn’t have received my last letter when you were send- key, on top of a hundred and twenty-four grains of Valium. ing us the four calling birds. There was pandemonium in the You’ll get yours! Gobnait O’Lunasa pear-tree again and the vet’s bill was £32. The mother is on Day Eleven sedation as I write. I know you meant no harm and remain You have scandalized my mother, your dirty Jezebel. your close friend. Gobnait It was bad enough to have eight maids-a-milking dancing to Day Five punk music on the front lawn but they’ve now been joined by Nualla, your friends – the eleven Lords-a-leaping and the antics of the Your generosity knows no bounds. Five gold rings! When the whole lot of them would leave the most decadent days of the parcel arrived I was scared stiff that it might be more birds, Roman Empire looking like “Outlook”. I’ll get you yet you because the smell in the living-room is atrocious. However, I old bag! don’t want to seem ungrateful for the beautiful rings. Your Day Twelve affectionate friend, Gobnait Listen slurry head, Day Six, You have ruined our lives. The twelve maidens dancing turned Nuala, up last night and beat the living daylights out of the eight What are you trying to do to us? It isn’t that we don’t appreci- maids-a-milking, ‘cos they found them carrying on with the ate your generosity but the six geese have not alone nearly eleven Lords-a-leaping. Meanwhile the swans got out of the murdered the calling birds but they laid their eggs on top of living-room, where they’d been hiding since the big battle, and the vet’s head from the pear-tree and his bill was £68 in cash. savaged hell out of the Lords and all the Maids. There were My mother is munching 60 grains of Valium a day and talking eight ambulances here last night, and the local Civil Defence as to herself in a most alarming way. You must keep your feel- well. The mother is in a home for the bewildered and I’m sit- ings for me in check. Gobnait ting here, up to my neck in birds’ droppings, empty whiskey Day Seven and Valium bottles, birds’ blood and feathers, while the flam- Nuala, ing cows eat the leaves off the pear-tree. I’m a broken man. We are not amused by your little joke. Seven swans-a- Gonnait O’Lunasa December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 21 Bits and Pieces By Linda Evans
If there was an award for the most ‘St Patrick’s Week events in one community’ the City of Miramichi would win the award hands down. No less than 35 events were held throughout the Miramichi region in 2013 during St. Patrick’s week. Congratulations to all of the organizers of these various events for a job well-done! ♣♣♣
The Irish and Scottish associations of NB are still anxiously awaiting New Brunswick’s new Cultural Policy. Having canvassed the government through the Celtic Affairs Committee, Celtic New Brunswickers are hoping that the policy will be more inclusive and recognize the Irish and Scots who represent 44% of its residents. The policy, first written in 2002, and revised in 2007, is presently being reviewed at committee level and is expected to be made public in the months ahead. ♣♣♣
The Irish economy slipped out of its depression for the first time since the banking and property crisis began in 2008 with a 0.04% increase in the second quarter of this year. Consumer spending is up although consumer confidence still has a way to go – but it is a start and sets the country on a firmer economic foundation in the years to come. ♣♣♣
In October, voters in the Republic of Ireland took part in a referendum on whether to abolish or keep their Senate. The government stated that it was too costly to run and would save Irish taxpayers 20m Euros (28 million Cdn) a year. The Irish rejected abolishing the Seanad Éireann (as the upper house of the Irish parliament is known) by a narrow margin, with 48.3% voting in favour of abolition, and 51.7% against, and so their senate lives on. The voting public did have one caveat to their vote in favour of maintaining their senate however. It asked that it be reformed and ac- countable. Canada, are you listening? ♣♣♣
Anglicans in the UK and Ireland elected their first woman bishop in September. Although the Church of Ireland – which covers Ireland and Northern Ireland – voted in favour of female bishops as early as 1990, Rev. Pat Storey, a native of Belfast, and pastor of St Augustine’s in Derry, was the first to be appointed and is now in her new position as Bishop of Meath and Kildare. She is a bit overwhelmed with the fact that she has made the history books and says that she is ‘excited and daunted by the adventure’ ahead of her. ♣♣♣
Belfast has elected a new Lord Mayor, Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, a man with a strong commitment to unite the city’s myr- iad communities. (He is also known in New York, as the editor of The Irish Echo.) Máirtín is not the first Nationalist to serve as Belfast’s Lord Mayor, but he brings a broad vision and great determination, insisting that he is a mayor for all of Belfast. ♣♣♣
There are still 53 ‘peace walls’ separating Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods in Northern Ireland – 42 in Belfast, 5 in Derry, 5 in Portadown and 1 in Lurgan. Some say that it is time they are dismantled but others say it is still too early. Indeed, a new one is being constructed this winter in the church grounds of St Matthew’s RC Church in east Belfast. There is one change to the good however. It will not be made of concrete, but of chain link fence that will be retractable when needed. It’s a small step towards progress. ♣♣♣
Partridge Island was the largest quarantine station in NB during the Great Famine years. It sheltered the hungry and sick and many poor Irish immigrants died and are buried here - within sight of where they should have landed and started a new life in the New World. It has always seemed a dream that the island could become a national or provin- cial park with interpretive walks. Inaccessible at present, interest seems to be mustering at all government levels and there is renewed hope that this long awaited project may come to fruition. To find out more and lend your support, contact the Saint John Waterfront Development Project at [email protected]. 22 Shamrock Leaf December 2013 The way we said it By Máirín Lankford
With the kind permission of the author, we have taken a few of her articles on the influence of the Irish language on English that have appeared in the Journal of Skibbereen and District Historical Society, the Mizen Journal, and the Drimoleague Parish Journal and edited them into a four-part series for The Shamrock Leaf.
Part I and II of IV were presented in our December 2012 and June 2013 editions.
I was in town one afternoon self, as happened in the case of interpreted as anything but the during the past summer and, the umbrellas, I revert to the ver- prayer it was intended to be. In- forced to take shelter from a sud- nacular of my childhood. I have deed, I remember, as a child, us- den downpour, I went browsing often wondered why this is so. ing this latter version in preco- in a well-known store of the ‘pile ‘Aililiú, a lao, weren’t they cious imitation of an adult and um high and sell um cheap’ vari- the bad margadh’. One assumes being told to ‘stop swearing’. ety. Seeing umbrellas at a knock- that the ‘aililiú’ was an allelulia, These prayers gradually came to down price, I purchased, not one instinctively praising the Lord be used merely as expressions of but two of them and set off, like who featured strongly in every- surprise or wonderment or simply Mary Poppins, into the weather. day speech and who could be for emphasis in speech. They My inherited West Cork nose for called upon to witness and give are, however, interesting for a a good bargain hadn’t let me credence to the most unlikely variety of reasons, not least for down for, now, not only had I an things. Perhaps the most com- the fact that they are a manifesta- umbrella for the reality of today’s mon call He got from West Cork tion of a characteristic of the rain, but I also had one to put in was ‘Go bhfoire Dia orainn’ - spirituality of our people, namely, storage for the proverbial rainy God help us. Here we have a so- a deeply-held belief in the reality day to come. A wise woman in- phisticated grammatical structure and closeness of the powers of deed! Well, so I smugly thought in use within the common speech. both good and evil. until, no more than a stone’s Today, a teacher of Irish would Back again to ‘Aililiú, a lao’. throw down the street, my hands feel well satisfied if a Leaving ‘A lao’, or sometimes ‘a lao liom’ and clothes were smudged a gar- Certificate honours student could - my little calf, was a term of en- ish, bright red from the cheap col- render these forms correctly. Go dearment frequently used. How our that ran out of the umbrella. bhfóire Dia orainn, indeed! apt, in a rural community where ‘Aililiú, a lao’, I muttered to my- ‘A Thiarna’- O Lord, or ‘A the closeness of cow and calf self ‘weren’t they the bad mar- Thiarna na nocht’ - O Lord of the would be well understood. Other gadh’. naked or helpless, or, indeed, terms of endearment were ‘a This little episode set me even ‘A Thiarna, saor sinn’ - chuid’, or its diminutive, ‘a thinking how the language we Lord save us, were other forms of chuidín’ - my portion or, you who imbibe as children from our own communication with the Man on belong in a special way to me, people in our own place, persists high. They were cryptic and came usually used by an adult to a through all the vagaries of our from the heart and might still be child. Then there was the lovely, lives. ‘Tis many a year since I set succinctly dispatched as a text- poetic one, ‘a ghile’ or ‘a ghile out from the dialectical enclave message on a mobile ‘phone if bán’ - my little bright one, com- of West Cork to make my way in the I.T. generation were so in- ing over time to be pronounced ‘a a wider world and learn, among clined. Another, perhaps less fe- gilly’. many other questionable arts, that licitous example was ‘M’anam ón Now to ‘weren’t they the bad of fitting my speech to a more diabhal’ - may my soul escape margadh’. ‘Margadh’ - a bargain, sophisticated model than the one the devil. With usage over time, is straight from the Irish lexicon I had left behind. Yet at times this one became ‘hanam an diab- and anyone who grew up in when I feel like laughing at my- hal’, which could, of course, be (cont’d…) December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 23
The way we said it (cont’d)
West Cork before the advent, in simply where things in general got money, of course, could be the 60’s, of that homogenising out of hand. ‘Ruaille-buaille’ was ‘grigging’ him, from the Irish ‘ag monster, television, used hundreds another expression for helter- griogadh’, meaning tantalising or of such forms in everyday speech. skelter situations. These were attracting. Certain people could cause great words, that could conjure up These terms were sharp and ‘clampar’ wherever they went. pictures through their sounds. apt and gave no prisoners to politi- ‘Clampar’ was wrangling, confu- Or, how about ‘fotharaga’? cal correctness. Usually no great sion or noise. There could be The man who would leave in haste, harm was intended with their usage ‘clampar’ between neighbours in a state of high alert and great and perhaps they could even be whose animals were straying agitation was said to ‘go off in a seen as a kind of blood-letting for across the bounds-ditch or there fierce fotharaga’. Perhaps his cow the day to day emotions that we could be ‘clampar’ where there had decided to calf a bit early, or sometimes bottle up today until was a big, noisy household with maybe an animal had broken into a they have to be dealt with clini- various members vying with one field of root-crops and was in dan- cally by a therapist. What a pity to another for attention or superiority. ger of getting a gripe from gorging have lost them, for our exchanges Rí-rá, on the other hand, on the turnips. were more colourful and more was a more benign form of clam- There would be a ‘néall’ on pleasing to the ear when we used our. This was the kind of confu- the poor cow for the young turnips them. Alas and ‘faire go deo’ for sion that arose from recklessness - she’d be in a mad frenzy of desire the precious things we throw away or revelry. Rí-rá could break out at for them. ‘There’s a néall on him in the pursuit of sophistication. a wedding where there was too for money’ would be said of the much drink taken or anywhere fellow who was always trying to where high spirits took over, or make more and more money. The
Máirín Lankford grew up in rural West Cork and has had a life- long interest in the lore of her own place and people, especially in the Hiberno-English culture that was background to her childhood. Educated at Drinagh National School; Coláiste Muire, Crosshaven and University College Dublin, she became a teacher and worked for many years as a methodologist at the Education De- partment, University College Cork. Her work, both in Irish and in English, has been published in various journals and she is author of The Cloth-capped Men : The Story of a West Cork Slate Quarry 1841-1961, Cork, 2005 24 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
An Post celebrates and emphasizes Ireland’s past and present
Also in the last col- Three beautiful stamps umn, I told you that Ire- paid tribute to the Port of If you like animals, and land would mark the 50th Cork on July 17. Strategi- most people do, An Post anniversary of the visit of cally situated at the mouth issued eight new stamps in United States President of the River Lee, Cork its Irish Animals and Ma- John F. Kennedy with a Harbour is one of the larg- rine Life definitive series. series of two stamps on est natural harbours in the (Definitive stamps are the June 6. The An Post world as well as the sec- regularly used, everyday stamps have considerable ond busiest seaport in Ire- stamps, as opposed to significance to honour one land. The stamps depict commemoratives like the of the world’s most impor- the port’s three major ac- Kennedy and Port of Cork tant political figures in the tivities: freight, leisure, issues.) This is the fourth 1960s. An Post says “John and cruise. phase of this highly popu- Fitzgerald Kennedy is re- lar series. membered for a great By Michael O. Nowlan many accomplishments The marine life stamps Again it’s a warm wel- during his all-too-short in the new series feature: come and a pleasure to life.” the Cushion Star, a soft- have you journey with me bodied sea star sometimes through the latest offerings called the Slime Star; the from An Post, the Irish European Eel; the Red Post Office. It has been a Tube Worm which is quite usual year for the post of- To sit on the wharf common around the world fice in Dublin with the near the port’s welcome and well established on the celebration of many fea- centre, as I did a few years northwest coast of Ireland; tures of Irish life both past ago, was to reminisce and the Common Seal also and present. about my ancestors who known as the harbour seal probably sailed to New which is frequently spotted In my June column I Brunswick from the Port in Irish coastal waters. mentioned An Post’s 2013 Kennedy visited Ire- of Cork. Coming from the Europa series celebrat- land in June 1963. His southern counties of Cork, The animals/birds in ing “The Postman’s Van/ visit included addressing Kerry, and Carlow I have the new series are the Nat- Postal Vehicles” for which both Houses of the Irish no certainty of their point terjack Toad, Red Fox, I did not have an image by Oireachtas (parliament), of departure, but Cork may Great Spotted Wood- last issue’s publication laying a wreath at the well have been the place. pecker, and the Black- date. I am pleased to be graves of victims of the The scene there today is as legged Kittiwake - a gull able to present one below. Easter Rising, and paying beautiful as the three species. All these creatures a visit to the Kennedy an- stamps. “are a further celebration cestral home in Dun- of Ireland’s rich biodiver- ganstown, County Wex- The Port of Cork can sity.” ford. The two stamps were lay claim to Ireland’s only designed by Steve Simp- dedicated cruise berth in Major features of Ire- son and feature images of Cobh, and the stamps de- land’s history are often the state visit. fine this magnificent natu- ral harbour. (cont’d…) December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 25
(cont’d) depicted on the country’s 2011 Census revealed that literature, and writing stamps one of which was over 500,000 people in about philately for many the General Lockout of Ireland were non-Irish na- years, but this move to 1913 which An Post tionals - an increase of give migrants special status marked on August 22 with 30% on the previous Cen- on stamps appears to be a three stamps. The Lockout sus in 2006.” first for a stamp-issuing was staged 100 years ago nation. as a result of a clash be- An Post has two more tween the Irish Transport new issues before 2013 and General Workers Un- wraps up. On October 17, a ion (ITGWU) and the Dub- set of stamps will display lin United Tramway Com- Contemporary Public pany (DUTC). DUTC The Irish Defence Buildings, but there is no head William Martin Mur- Forces comprise the Army, advance information on phy and ITGWU leader Naval Service, Air Corps, which edifices will get the James Larkin were in a and Reserve Defence Such an “inward migra- call. On November 7, the bitter dispute re unions and Force. Their wide-ranging tion to Ireland” would have annual Christmas issue will non-unions. commitment includes de- been difficult to imagine be released which is al- fending the State against 50 years ago. Look at some Although it was a sadly ways worth the wait. armed aggression, assisting of the ongoing benefits this predictable event that left An Garda Siochana, sup- diversity of peoples from In the meantime, enjoy 20,000 workers and their porting the international around the world has cre- the coming season with families without a wage efforts of the United Na- ated in Ireland: a multicul- Christmas, New Year’s, and did not improve pay tions, and providing a fish- tural society that can be and snow and cold. Keep and conditions, An Post, ery protection service in successful in attracting warm! however, says “it meant accordance with the State’s foreign direct investment, I must again remark on employers could no longer obligations as a member of ethnic restaurants and the little quarterly publica- treat workers with the the European Union. The shops that add colour and tion from An Post, Irish same disregard as before.” Irish Defence Forces have spice to local Irish commu- Stamps: The Collector, The three stamps depict been involved in peace- nities, broadened horizons which is packed with great scenes of the General keeping duties since 1958. for Irish school children by information on Irish Lockout with facial images contact with school chil- stamps, and each issue usu- of three prominent figures dren from other countries, ally has a short essay of associated with it: James and a business sense non- interest, not only to stamp Connol l y, Count e s s nationals may use to en- collectors, but also the gen- Markiewicz, and Jim hance creativity, productiv- eral public. Larkin. ity, and decision making To learn more about through diverse ap- Another beautifully Irish stamps visit the user proaches. descriptive set of four friendly website at http:// stamps honours the Irish These are the argu- www.anpost.ie or write An Defence Forces. Like Can- ments that An Post accents Post, General Post Office, ada, Ireland recognizes the in its celebration of the O’Connell Street, Dublin importance of its defence influx of migrants, and, in 1, Ireland. forces, and this set of A rather moving set of doing so, transforms Ire- I apologize to all read- stamps “salutes the proud four stamps was released land from a monocultural ers for the omission of all history of the Irish Defence by An Post on September country into an inclusive the information in the Forces” by depicting the 26 which emphasizes Ire- multicultural nation. I have above last paragraph of the four branches of the forces land’s integrated society. been involved in collecting June 2013 The Shamrock in action. An Post states “despite the stamps, reading philatelic Leaf. economic downturn, the 26 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Saint John bids farewell to Eva Steele
ICCA member dubbed “Queen of the Irish”
Week in Saint John, Eva was always ticket on anything to anyone. She willing to dance a hornpipe or a jig once sold a ticket for a Ceili to at the tip of a hat. She even danced Vicki Gabereau of CBC who was the Charleston at the Gala Irish Din- back home in BC by the time of the ner one year. She loved being sur- event. rounded by children in her role as Eva was recognized for her ser- “Queen Aoife” at the annual Family vice with a Lifetime Membership of Festival at Market Square. A small the ICCA Saint John Chapter and a child was once heard to exclaim, “Is medal of appreciation. Eva also re- she really the Queen?” Eva was the ceived a National Achievement consummate actress and revelled in Award for her dedicated service to the opportunity to become a mem- Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann. Eva ber of ACTRA at the age of 82 to was resilient, resourceful and reli- play a part in Daniel’s McCarthy’s able devoting the final thirty years film, “When Irish Eyes are Crying.” of her life to the promotion of all The final version was renamed aspects of Irish culture. May Eva’s “Vendetta, No Conscience, No spirit and zest for life live on in all It was a sad day for the Saint Mercy.” who knew her. “Ni beidh a leitheid John Chapter of the Irish Canadian One of Eva’s dreams was to ann arís” There will never be the Cultural Association as well as for dance on the Imperial Theatre’s likes of her again. the Provincial Association when stage and this she accomplished Saint John founding member, Eva with style and grace. She recited the Steele was laid to rest at the age of Famine poem, “Ode to Dr. Collins” 98 and a half. Eva was born in En- and danced her Irish hornpipe to a nis, Co. Clare, Ireland in 1915 and full house at a variety concert there came to Canada as a war bride in in honour of the 150th Commemora- 1946. She was active in the Provin- tion of the Great Irish Famine in cial War Brides Association. After 1997. bringing up her family and follow- She had the bluest of eyes and ing a career in nursing, Eva turned for a person of such diminutive size her attention to her Irish culture. she exuded a huge energy. It was all Eva felt a real sense of connec- in the eyes. They talked, they tion to Partridge Island where thou- danced, they sparkled and on occa- sands of Irish immigrants were sion, when Eva was not pleased, quarantined during the Famine years those blue eyes could cut one to of the late 1840’s before being al- size. lowed to enter Saint John. She The kitchen was the place to sit worked diligently to have its impor- and share a cup of tea with Eva, tance recognized by obtaining over poured from her grandmother’s tea- 3,000 signatures on a petition pre- pot brought all the way from Ire- sented to our politicians to have Par- land. The kitchen was her ticket Eva Steele -- January 1915-July tridge Island protected as an historic sales “office.” She was a tireless 2013 R.I.P. site. worker and was dubbed “The Queen Never missing St. Patrick’s of ticket sales” as she could sell a December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 27
Logic puzzle—Irish style!
Seisún Time —a logic puzzle by Marilyn Driscoll
In many rural communities in Ireland, sessions are an integral part of community life where the conversation and camaraderie are an essential component. Four coworkers have found that, despite the difference in their ages, they share a love of traditional music acquired in their younger days. They have agreed to get together once a week for a traditional session to keep the tradition alive. Though all are Irish, each was born in a different city and each plays a different instrument. From the clues provided, determine which was born when, where, and what instrument each plays.
1. The one who was born in Galway was born after the one who plays the fiddle. 2. The one who was born in Cork is not Brianne. 3. Of Brianne and Declan, one plays the fiddle and the other was born in 1950. 4. The one who was born in Galway plays the uilleánn pipes. 5. Declan was born after the one who plays the tin whistle. 6. Either the person born in 1964 or the one born in 1945 was born in Galway. 7. The one who was born in Galway is Aidan. 8. The person born in 1950 doesn’t play the tin whistle. 9. The one born in Dublin is not Maeve. 10. The one who plays the fiddle is not Declan. 11. The one who was born in Waterford doesn’t play the fiddle or the bodhrán. 12. The person born in 1958 was born before the person who plays the uilleánn pipes.
Think you’ve got this one? Well, if you’re really patient, you can check your answers in our June 2014 issue of The Shamrock Leaf, or visit our website at http://www.newirelandnb.ca to find out now.
Answers to last issue’s logic puzzle: The Gathering—Ireland 2013
Four strangers meet in a bar at Heathrow airport and discover they are all headed to Ireland, enticed by the wonder- ful year-long events of Ireland’s Gathering 2013. They find they are each travelling by a different airline and each has one particular attraction on their agenda that they want to see.
From the clues given in the June 2013 issue — did you figure out what clan each is a member of, what time and on which airline they are arriving, and what attraction they are particularly interested in seeing? Check your answer here:
Arrival Clan Name Airline Attraction 06:10 Ford British Airways Walls of Derry 06:40 Murray Aer Lingus Giant’s Causeway 07:00 Ryan KLM Newgrange 07:20 Donovan Ryanair Blarney Castle
Political correctness came early to Ireland. In the 1890s, when the campaign for women’s suffrage was in its infancy, a Wexford shopkeeper put the following notice above his door: “Women, without distinction of sex, will be served”. - Sean Desmond, Irish American author 28 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Does Anyone Know...??? We regularly receive questions from readers of the SL or from visi- tors to our ICCANB website regarding historical or genealogical research. While we do not have the resources to assist with this type of research, we will provide limited space in each production run to post questions for others to respond to. Unfortunately we cannot post them all but will draw from those received.
To be included, requests MUST include a contact email address as the SL will not act as intermediary between parties. Please respond directly to the person requesting the information.
Oliver Crane/Crain/Craine family, York and Carleton counties : Looking for the parents of Oliver Crane who was born abt. 1803-4, perhaps at Nashwaak NB, died 1870 Beechwood, Carleton County NB. Oliver Crane married Elizabeth Brown on 27 Aug 1835 in Woodstock, NB. His father was pos- sibly in the military as an Irish fusilier, perhaps at Port Royal, Annapolis, Nova Scotia in 1780. Any help appreciated. Doug Crain Saint John NB [email protected]
John and Mary White, Moncton, NB: Two large stained glass windows in St Bernard’s Church in Moncton are dedicated to John and Mary (Quinn) White and their son James. John (b. 1811) and Mary White were from County Wexford (arr. 1847) and he was a tailor in Moncton. Their children were – James –b 1841, William – b 1842, John – b 1844 (d. Fort Lawrence NS, 1915), Mary – b 1849 and Sara -b. 1852. One, or more, of the children ended up in Kentucky and made good money to pay for these beautiful windows. Can only trace son John but would like to know more of the other children and their descen- dents. Linda Evans [email protected]
Fitzgerald family, Kent County: Looking for information on the descendents of Edward ‘Ned’ Fitzgerald and Ellen McGinty of Kent County, NB. They had one daughter, Catherine, who married Jeremiah Augustus Carroll. Are there other siblings in the family? Also looking for the resting place of Catherine Fitzgerald Carroll in Kent County – somewhere about St Charles? Gerald Gover Montréal, Québec [email protected]
Mary Amanda Doyle McLaughlin: Looking for information on the McLaughlin Family who were living at 826 Charlotte Street in Fredericton in the 1911 and 1920 census books. Mary Amanda Doyle was born in New Westminster BC on 7 Apr 1887, the daughter of Mi- chael Doyle of Doyleville and Ann Clancy of Petit Rocher/Beresford. She was married to Alexander McLaughlin and had two daughters: Mary Eva Gertrude McLaughlin born 23 May 1909 and Marjorie Anna born 17 Aug 1911. Carole Doyle Roberts [email protected] December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 29
The week of October 14th, fittingly enough perhaps, Thanksgiving, our province and in particular three of our Chap- ters, were visited by Dr. J. Raymond “Ray” Bassett, Irish Ambassador to Canada, and his wife, Patricia. The couple flew into Moncton on Monday evening, to be greeted by Brian Murphy, who became, during his time as an MP in Ot- tawa, a friend of the Ambassador’s, and was instrumental in coordinating this visit for which he deserves our thanks.
What follows, in words and pictures, is a report of that visit over 4 days; a story told by each Chapter in their own way.
We’ll let Paul McCloskey, President noted that the pending free-trade of the Moncton Chapter, start the deal between Canada and the Euro- story: pean Union (EU) should boost busi- ness opportunities for both parties, As you as all no doubt aware we and that local New Brunswick busi- had a visit from Dr. J. Raymond nesses can benefit from these broad- Bassett, Irish Ambassador to Canada based agreements. Also during his last week. The Moncton portion of visit, his Excellency was able to tour his visit went smoothly and many of a couple of Moncton businesses with our members turned out to meet him links to Ireland, met with members both at the Irish Monument on the of the Moncton Chamber of Com- banks of the Petitcodiac River and merce, and enjoyed a friendly, busi- the Old Triangle Ale House after- ness oriented chat with the Mayor of wards. Dr. Bassett was moved by Moncton, His Worship George the respect of the Irish of Moncton LeBlanc. for the depth of heritage that exists between New Brunswick and Ire- And now, from Bruce Driscoll, in land, something that shone through Fredericton: clearly at the Irish Monument. We His Excellency, Dr. Raymond Bassett were pleased to welcome John Pat- On, Wednesday, October 16th, Irish Ambassador to Canada terson, President of the Greater Ambassador Bassett and his wife Moncton Scottish Association, to Patricia travelled from Moncton to our celebration of being Irish. Fredericton, on the second leg of Leaving St. Thomas they trav- their New Brunswick trip. Their elled down the hill to meet with This was the first time an Irish first visit was to St. Thomas Univer- Denis Noel at the Hermitage Ceme- Ambassador visited Moncton and we sity, where they met with a group of tery on the Woodstock Road. Denis, were all appreciative of being able to staff and students, including Vice - with his wealth of knowledge of the spend some time with him. The Presidents Dr. Barry Craig, Dr. Irish in N.B., explained in detail how Moncton Chapter presented Dr. Bas- Gayle MacDonald, Jeff Wright; Dr. the Celtic Memorial came into being sett with a watercolour painting of Stewart Donovan, Coordinator of in September of 2000, to honour the an Irish scene, painted by none other Irish Studies, Dr. Trevor Sawler, memory of the Irish of St. Dunstan’s than our own member Joyce Mur- Irish Studies, Professor Emer Church in the 1800s. As a sign of phy. The painting was a beautiful O'Flaherty, visiting ICUF language good luck, a large eagle kept watch piece of art and admired by the Am- instructor and Irish Language Sum- on the small group from high in the bassador, his wife Patricia, and all mer School students, Chance White pines right over the grounds. present. and Anna Scheildler. Following this brief reception, they met with Dawn (cont’d…) Earlier in the day, the Ambassador Russell, President of STU. 30 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Irish Ambassador visits New Brunswick. — (cont’d)
The next stop was a tour of City His Excellency, the Irish Ambas- role on the national and international Hall, where the couple was escorted sador to Canada, Dr. Raymond Bas- scenes. by a guide to the main chambers. sett and his wife Patricia kicked off Here the guide explained the signifi- their visit to Saint John with a wel- We enjoyed a stop at St. Pat- cance of the tapestries that encircle come from His Worship, Mayor Mel rick’s Square where Ray and Patricia the room. These hand woven works Norton in the Red Room of City were shown the Celtic cross , a rep- depict the history of the city over its Hall. The Mayor and Ambassador lica of the one on Partridge Island first 200 years. The Ambassador then discussed areas of mutual inter- and heard about the significance of and his wife then enjoyed a leisurely est. This was followed by a well “The 3 Sisters” Lamp. Next stop stroll back to the Crowne Plaza/Lord attended and delicious reception at was St. Mary’s Cemetery, where the Beaverbrook Hotel, giving them an the Bishop’s Palace. Ray, as he pre- Ambassador and Marijke Blok, opportunity to see the historical fers to be addressed, chatted infor- Chapter President, laid a wreath in buildings and the business areas of mally with approx 50-60 people. memory of the approx 14,000 people the downtown core. who have been buried there since it’s The afternoon was taken up with opening in 1852 . Wednesday evening, the Capital a city tour escorted by Terry Mullin Patricia especially enjoyed Can- Area Chapter hosted their visitors at and accompanied by local ICCA ada’s oldest City Market where she the James Joyce Pub. Over 50 mem- members, and representatives from scouted for gifts for wee grandchil- bers and guests turned out, and were the Port authority, business and dren while Ray chatted with the charmed by these two very wonder- travel industry. The tour included a owner of Baleman’s and signed the ful people. Ambassador Bassett stop at Fort Howe where they had a original 1895 guest book at Slocum spoke briefly and warmly about his great panoramic view of the city and and Ferris. role and his visit to the Province. harbour from its highest point and a A quick look at the fantastic ar- Following this Sidney Murgatroyd, stop at Reversing Falls. chitecture at Chubb’s corner and holder of the Inishowen Fiddle, was then it was time to tuck in for a presented with his personal Fiddle The Ambassador was delighted quick pint to quench the thirst at trophy by the Ambassador, and Sid- with the opportunity to see Partridge O’Leary’s Pub. We were joined by ney then played a few tunes for the Island, from BayShore, where he another large group of people hoping group. Beth McDermott, Irish Per- learned of the Island’s importance in to meet the Ambassador and to hear son of the Year for 2013, then came local and national history. ICCA a tune or two. Attendees were not forward and presented his Excel- members shared their information disappointed at the Ceilidh in pro- lency with a book about the history about efforts to gain access to this gress, as Comholtas entertained us and the people of Fredericton by Ted National Historic Site; the island’s for over 2 hours. They were joined and Anita Jones. Keith Facey, importance to so many citizens of by two of our ICCA members, Ei- Chapter member and musician, took the greater Saint John area; and the leen Costigan and Helena Hook, the stage, and played music while wishes of the many locals who demonstrating their talented dancing Marilyn Driscoll’s Irish set dancing would love to have access to the is- skills. class showed off their talents. Keith land. In addition, many, many visi- We finished off a very busy, in- then provided songs and music for tors to the city ask about getting over formative and exciting day with din- the group well into the evening. The to the island to research their ances- ner at the York Bistro Pub, Hilton crowd didn’t thin out for quite a tors and revisit such an important Hotel, where Marijke Blok, pre- while, evidence of a good time and time and place in the history of sented His Excellency and Patricia of the graciousness of these very North America. with a small gift of local products as special guests. a token of our appreciation from the As we travelled across Harbour ICCA Saint John Branch. We bid And in closing, from Terry Mullin, Bridge, Captain John McCann, Vice Slán go foil (good bye) and Slán ab- Saint John Chapter member, the President, Operations, Infrastruc- haile (safe home) to our Irish guests rest of the tale: ture, & Harbour Master filled the as we saw them off at the airport group in on the port activities and its early Friday morning. December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 31
Irish Ambassador’s visit in pictures
Ambassador Bassett addresses the crowd at Moncton’s Celtic cross memorial then poses with dignitaries in attendance. L to R: Paul McCloskey, ICCANB Westmorland, Albert Kent Chapter President; Brian Murphy, former Moncton area MP; Ambassador Bassett; George LeBlanc, Mayor of Moncton; John Patterson, President , Greater Moncton Scottish Association; and Bruce Driscoll, outgoing provincial President, Irish Canadian Cultural Association of New Brunswick
After visiting the memorial Ambassador Bassett chats with guests and ICCA members at Moncton’s Old Triangle Pub. The fol- lowing day he and his lovely wife, Patricia, meet with historian Denis Noel at a memorial to St. Dunstan’s Irish at Fredericton’s Old Hermitage cemetery.
The Ambassador met with officials of St. Thomas University: Jeff Wright, VP Advancement & Alumni, and Dr. Barry Craig, VP, Academic. Later His Excellency speaks to the crowd at the James Joyce Pub and receives a gift presented on behalf of the IC- CANB Capital Area Chapter by Irish Person of the Year, Beth McDermott. Bruce Driscoll looks on. 32 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Irish Ambassador’s visit in pictures—cont’d
For his Saint John visit His Excellency met with Mayor Mel Norton, viewed the “Three Sisters” navigational lamp and the monu- ment commemorating those buried on Partridge Island, was assisted by ICCANB Saint John president Marijke Blok to in the lay- ing of a wreath at the Celtic cross at St. Mary’s cemetery, and joined a group of people interested in establishing access to Par- tridge Island where famine ships were quarantined in the id 19th century. With the island visible behind them the group included (L to R) Terry Mullin, Helena Hook, Ambassador Basset and his wife Patricia, Eileen Costigan, Captain John McCann, Bob Kane, Mary O’Leary May, and Marijke Blok. He and Patricia also visited the Saint John City Market where he took time to speak with the owner of Baleman’s, then viewed, and signed the original 1895 guest book at Slocum and Ferris. Later that evening eve- ryone was entertained by members of the Saint John Comhaltas Ceolti Eirann group. December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 33
Miramichi Chapter Report
By Maureen English
In mid-June members attended a three day event entitled “The Gathering” held at the Miramichi Curling Club. Arranged by the Heritage group on the Miramichi, this mar- Killarney” gathering held velous event brought to- at the Seaman’s hospital gether all local groups in Miramichi on Sunday, who are interested in pre- November 24th. It is al- serving our past. A large ways a great afternoon of collection of old pictures Irish and Christmas songs were displayed as well as topped with warm bowls artifacts, representing the of chili or corn chowder instruments of the trades to keep us warm. - shipbuilding, fishing and Tea/coffee and small Jimmy Lawlor (above) and Stephen Allison, Lynn lumbering to name a few cakes were served. It was Doyle, and Donna & Ty- – were on view. As a an enjoyable afternoon rone Hubbard (below) en- group we presented Irish and everyone was well- tertain at the Barnaby River immigration to the area pleased with the event. event and encouraged people to We survived another explore their roots. It was very well attended Irish a very enjoyable weekend. Festival on the weekend On June 23 we hosted of July 18, 19, 20 and 21. a well attended “Spring The Miramichi chapter into Summer” social after- sponsored Father Leon noon at the Most Pure Creamer’s presentation on Heart of Mary Church the lives of Father Ben Hall in Barnaby River. Murdock and Father Mor- We had many local enter- ricey. tainers who shared their Our final event for musical talents with us. 2013 is our “Christmas in
I remember a time when the curtain never went up on time in a Dublin theatre because, as the theory went, the Irish were all so busy being witty and won- derful and entertaining in bars, they couldn’t do any- thing as prosaic as coming in and being seated before eight o’clock. - Maeve Binchy Irish novelist, playwright, short story writer and columnist 34 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Mold responsible for Irish potato famine may be gone for good
By John Upton Scientists used modern genetic Kew Royal Botanical Gardens, UK, strains that now cause US$6 billion sequencing and rotten old museum and Botanische Staatssammlung in crop damage per year. Perhaps the samples to peer back in time to find Munchen, Germany. more susceptible in the middle of the the cause of the potato blight that led High-tech DNA sequencing tech- 19th century. to more than 1 million deaths in Ire- niques allowed them to decode an- OK, all very interesting. But given land in the 1840s. cient DNA from the pathogen in that the mold strain responsible for The fungus-like water mold that samples stored as early as 1845. the Irish famine appears to have ravaged the country’s potato crop These were compared with gone extinct, we have some advice sent hungry Irish survivors fleeing modern-day genetic types from for the scientists who are done ana- for far-flung new countries — which Europe, Africa and the Americas, lyzing the infected old potato leaves: is why so many people now justify giving an insight into the evolution Burn them. getting wasted every St. Patrick’s of the pathogen. Day, saying they’re sure they have This strain was different from all an Irish ancestor somewhere in their the modern strains that were ana- family tree. lysed most likely it has gone extinct. What the scientists found was a Yet scientists still can’t figure out strain of Phytophthora infestans that what made the water mold so devas- is different from similar water molds tating. In fact, the famine strains that are still ravaging the world’s lack a gene found in modern strains crops. of P. infestans that overcomes the Researchers in the UK, Germany plant’s resistance genes. And, sur- and the US analysed dried leaves prisingly, the famine strain seems kept in collections in museums at less lethal than the P. infestans
The Irish Association needs regular support
The Irish have always been a generous people. Unfor- collection of Membership Dues for 2014. The cost of tunately, our memory is not always as reliable as our membership for the ICCANB is a very reasonable, generosity. Each year the ICCANB faces a challenge $20.00 per person ($25.00 for a family), a cost that has when it comes to the timeliness of membership renewals. not changed since the mid-1980s making it affordable Although membership is based on a calendar year, more for everyone, even though each year the costs involved and more of us are forgetting to pay until March, April, in managing the organization continue to rise. So please, May or even later in the year. take a moment while you are preparing your Christmas cards this year or recovering from the hustle and bustle Annual, timely payment of membership fees allows of this busy season, to write that cheque and drop it in the organization to properly plan and deliver programs the mail. It will indeed be very welcome. and services as well as produce this newsletter twice a year. While out-of-province membership fees are re- Cheques should be written to ICCANB and sent to tained entirely by the ICCA provincial body, fees paid to your local chapter address—found on the back page of local chapters are split 50/50 between the chapter and the this issue. For members who reside outside the province provincial body so that funding is available on a regional or in an area without an active ICCANB chapter, basis for programs within specific areas of the province. cheques should be sent to the provincial membership The money collected by the provincial body is used for chair: Marilyn Driscoll, 360 Route 102, Burton, N.B., strategic initiatives that serve the Irish of the province as E2V 3C6. a whole and pave the way for future opportunities to Thank you all for your continued support. Without strengthen our position and forge beneficial partnerships. you we would have no reason to exist! So—yes, it is that time again. We are beginning our December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 35
Moderation in all things A review of Thomas D’Arcy McGee, vol. II: The extreme moderate, 1857-1868i By Brian F.P. Murphy
The maturation of a political figure over time is not a makes the case that McGee was first and foremost, a new or unique phenomenon. My own father hopefully fighter for minority rights. His “moderation” was borne repeated the following phrase to me many times in hope of his relative position in the power matrix he found of a conversion when I was reading too much left- himself in at any given time, I would argue. In the Ire- leaning material: “If you are not a socialist when you are land of his youth, the power outlet for a young Catholic twenty, you have no heart; if you are not a capitalist was only in the republican stream. Business, law and when you are thirty, you have no brain.” I continued politics were barren routes in a country still suffering the on reading “Small is Beautiful” and “How the Other effects of the Penal laws. The Church was conservative Half Dies” and studying John Kenneth Galbraith any- and not a leader on political emancipation issues, so the way. I suppose all thinking persons in public life with only outlet was Young Ireland. decades of experience end up at their via media, and so In the United States, particularly Boston and Phila- did D’Arcy McGee, Canada’s most famous Irish-born delphia, McGee was amongst a very vocal, rebel, in- politician. The tragedy, aside from his mortal death, is creasingly affluent and concentrated Irish population, that the full maturation of his views will never be monolithically Catholic and so his vector was rambunc- known. Having grown (some may say deteriorated) from tious. Finally, landing in Montreal, even though there Young Ireland to oaths to Queen Victoria as a Canadian was a strong catholic presence, the Irish part, though Parliamentarian, it would have been interesting to hear concentrated was a minority. In the Canadian context it McGee’s views on Home Rule championed by Charles was a minority within a minority. Thus he came to see Stewart Parnell. Ensconced in a series of John A. Mac- power for his kind, and himself, he was not without ego, donald governments (and perhaps scandals) would he as part of Macdonald’s government from 1863 on. That have softened and sided with Disraeli’s Conservatives? epiphany came to him as the inaptly named Reformers The Irish in Canada would have hoped not, neither and George Brown were intransigent to separate schools. would I, and neither would David Wilson in the above- McGee’s insertion into the debates of separate noted second volume of his biography. schools and representation by population were moves I met Professor Wilson when the Canada-Ireland Par- not just of a moderate, but more of a minority rights’ liamentary Association, of which I was chair, invited advocate. Wilson gives McGee the highest of accolades him to Parliament Hill upon the launch of his first vol- in this regard: “The process of bargaining, brokerage, ume. He is a most gracious and interesting man. His accommodation and compromise in which McGee par- first book thoroughly de-romanticized McGee’s early ticipated was essential to the construction of Canada.” infatuation with the Young Ireland movement and In New Brunswick, our struggles with the school Fenianism. McGee was a pragmatist in process, the first question ended up in a compromise as well. The conces- volume concludes that McGee was destined from 1857 sion to Irish Catholics at the time was one far less grand on to come to the practical centre: “In Ireland, McGee than that granted to those in Ontario. Despite good, but had been an extreme Republican; in the United States he often divided, leadership from Timothy Warren Anglin had been an extreme Catholic; in Canada he would be- and John Costigan, one of whom was allied to Mac- come an extreme moderate.” donald, one of whom was not, I cannot help but wonder Wilson’s second volume begins with this thesis and that if McGee had lived beyond his young 42 years, ends with a lengthy detailed review of Canada’s most whether Irish minority rights might have been more pro- famous (that is, really, the only) political assassination tected. and the follow up trial of Patrick James Whelan. That Perhaps it is fitting that the lasting eponymous lega- part of the book is interesting but, of course, sheds little cies for this great bon vivant and symbol of vigilance for light on the change going on inside the mind of McGee the minority in the face of a majority are the famous Pub and the large, increasingly vocal, Irish minority he repre- in Ottawa and the riding named for him in Montreal sented. Easy as it might be to conclude that his drinking which has the only majority Jewish population (another buddy, Macdonald offered him two important and coa- minority, historically in need of advocacy) in the whole lescing welcomes: the love of the drink and current po- Province of Quebec. In conclusion, David Wilson has litical power, that is not the reason they landed together, done a great service not only to Canadian history, but Wilson argues. also to Irish-Canadians in laying out McGee’s true na- Despite the thesis in the title, Wilson’s book actually ture both as moderate and minority-rights advocate. i. Published by McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2011; ISBN 9780773539037 36 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
The Irish Room By Linda Evans
New Brunswick’s Irish history has, for many reasons, been largely ignored in this province, and yet our rich and colorful past deserves a place within New Brunswick’s story. While gathering research on NB Irish families, I often come across small snippets of information that are of interest. For this issue, we explore the life of a mid-19th century New Brunswick businessman.
William Crane— merchant, judge, politician...gombeen man?
Sometimes while researching The firm of Crane and Allison To pay their debts, new immi- local history, a passing phrase at- was a typical enterprise of its day, grants were obliged to work on tracts attention. Sometimes it’s just exchanging local staples for a vari- Crane and Allison’s farmlands, build a word about a community, or a per- ety of goods imported from Britain, dykes to dry up the marshes, and did son… Halifax, the United States, and back-breaking road construction – And so it was with William Lower Canada. Trade, especially in especially on the much needed post Crane. timber, enjoyed a strong market. So road across the Tantramar to Am- His official biography describes strong, that they opened a branch herst. Many felt like – and I’ll use him as a merchant, justice of the house in the Miramichi region to the polite word here – indentured peace, judge and politician. Indeed, engage in the important transatlantic servants to Crane’s self-serving ven- he was all of these, but he was also trade in timber from that port, and to tures. described in more scathing tones - as supply the lumbermen of northern Crane also provided mortgage a ‘gombeen man’ and ruthless task- New Brunswick with agricultural financing for settlers from Moncton master. surpluses from Westmorland to Shediac and across the entire Tor- These two descriptions are miles County. Crane and Allison ran their mentine peninsula. apart. The truth probably lies some- own ships – built in Sackville – and Important politically as justice of where in the middle. also owned large tracts of farmland the peace, justice of the quorum and William Crane was born in along the Tantramar marshes. judge of the Inferior Court of Com- Grand Pré, Nova Scotia, the son of Crane was described as the more mon Pleas for Westmorland County, Colonel Jonathon Crane and Re- ruthless businessman of the two. Crane not only held the new immi- becca Allison. His father was a New Allison was quiet and more ‘careful’ grants’ debts – but also was their ‘go England planter from Lebanon, Con- with his business sense. When Alli- -between’ between the immigrant necticut and his mother, an Ulster son converted to Methodism in the settlements and the colonial govern- Scot, born in Londonderry, Ireland. late 1830’s, he was no longer inter- ment when it came to acquiring land Crane came to New Brunswick ested in the ruthless business prac- grants, road construction and/or to make his mark and first settled in tices of Crane and Allison. He left pleas for assistance. Westcock, and then Middle Sack- the business in 1839 and donated In effect, he controlled their very ville. He went into business soon most of his wealth to the construc- lives. after with his younger cousin, tion of a new Methodist college – It prompted this comment from Charles Frederick Allison. At the which we know today as Mount Al- Monsignor Edward Savage in his time, Middle Sackville (near Silver lison University. booklet, The Story of Melrose: Lake) was a fairly large community, The Crane and Allison business “The grants of land came through but after their business burned, they was typical of the day and bartering the County representative, William moved their operation to nearby was common. Credit at the Crane Crane. Just by what selection Crane Sackville. The company of Crane and Allison store allowed many an became the representative of the and Allison set up their business at individual to acquire everyday ne- County is a mystery. But this was the corner of Bridge and Main cessities which might be paid for before the days of responsible gov- Streets where the Town Hall is lo- with timber in the spring, butter or ernment, and at once the new settler cated today. Still known as Crane stock in the fall, or periods of work found himself under a landlord al- Corner, Crane’s home, ‘Cranewood’, when necessary. most as exacting as some he had left stands nearby. in Ireland. Under one pretext or (cont’d…) December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 37
William Crane— merchant, judge, politician...gombeen man? (cont’d) another, Crane would oblige the new Ruth Dixon had passed away in settler to work in and around Sack- 1830. ville on his own marsh lands and While away, construction on his those of his friends, the Allisons. new home - Cranewood – was un- The grants may have been nominally derway. Obsessed with ‘all things free, but by the time they reached the British’, he wanted it ready for his new settler, payment of application, new wife when they returned. It was registration fees, etc., kept him busy styled after a typical English Geor- building dykes to keep the restless gian country estate of the day. Until Fundy tides from the marsh lands of recently, the house was home to the Sackville. Though no actual charge President of Mount Allison Univer- was certainly disliked. Crane’s hold of extortion was ever made against sity for many years. over the new Melrose immigrants Crane, he was always looked upon William Crane died in 1853 was well remembered – even two as a hard task-master – sympathetic while in Fredericton. The extent of generations after his passing. But he indeed with the people after the his control over the entire region’s was probably a necessary evil in the manner of a good-natured Southern people is seen through the estate he day. He had the funds and the politi- planter with his slaves.”i left behind. Only 10 percent of his cal power to control the lives of the One Irish contemporary used the worth at the time was in cash or less fortunate and he took advantage term ‘gombeen man’ to describe stocks. Most of his money was tied of that. But without him, the new him. From the Irish ‘gaimbin’, it is a up in scattered real estate holdings Irish immigrants, who were trying to derogatory term for a money-lender throughout Westmorland County – find their way along the Emigrant who is always looking to make a farms and lands he had acquired Road (Melrose), maybe would have profit or a shopkeeper or merchant through foreclosure and mortgages. had even a more difficult time of it. who exploits the needy by selling But, according to his official biogra- Bartering and money lending food and necessities to them on phy, ‘ the greatest part of his wealth were actually very common prac- credit with high interest rates. lay in debts owing, a reflection of tices throughout the 19th century. Crane had high aspirations and the extent to which Crane’s credit Crane would have not been the only served in the legislative assembly underpinned the cash-scarce, and ‘gombeen’ man in New Brunswick. and as Speaker of the House in the essentially subsistent, local econ- There were several. What may have Fredericton over the years. He trav- omy.” been different was that he was, as elled to England in 1836 as a repre- Soon after his death, his second justice of the peace and politician, sentative of the Colonial Office and wife quickly returned to London the same man the settlers would there met his second wife, Eliza with their five young children. She have had to visit if they had a com- Wood, who he married in London in remarried and lived out her days in plaint as well. 1838, just a few months after he at- fashionable west end Marlebone. William Crane quite frankly had tended Queen Victoria’s coronation. Colonial New Brunswick was not the new settlers between ‘a rock and His first wife, Susannah Dixon for her. a hard place’. Admired? Yes. Roach,ii the daughter of a County So, was Crane a ‘gombeen Gombeen man? Yes, as well. Cork immigrant, Thomas Roach and man’? From Savage’s comments, he i. Savage, Rev. Edward, The Story of Melrose, p. 13 ii. It is interesting that Susanna is often listed only as Susannah Dixon in some biographies. Her mother was a Dixon but her father was an Irishman.
Ireland’s Minister of Finance, Michael Noonan, said funding has been set aside to demolish ghost estates with the taxpayers, rather than developers, likely to foot the bill. Since many of the developers have gone “bust” and don’t have the money to com- plete the housing estates, they are unlikely to have the money to demolish the half– finished construction. "They have a lack of access to finance… they can't go to the bank looking for money to finish these off. It will probably be the State and the local authority that steps in and will pay for the cost of demolition." said Professor Rob Kitchin, of NUI Maynooth, an expert in regional and spatial analysis. 38 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
The Cassidy family of Cassidy Lake
By Brian Cassidy
Our story begins in The Port, sex, Kings County, NB, where they farming that included the usual crops County Donegal, Ireland with Wil- resided until 1825 when they moved and livestock, there was also a grist liam Cassidy who would one day to a 150 acre (61 ha) parcel of land mill, a saw mill, a cheese factory, a become the patriarch of the Cassidys on the north side of the lake. At this maple sugar camp, a church, and a of Cassidy Lake. time, the lake was known as DeFor- cemetery. It was a family home and The oldest of ten children, Wil- est Lake having been settled around working farm until 1954 when Wil- liam Cassidy was born there on 1815 by Sam DeForest. It was this liam’s grandson Robert Allen, re- March 4, 1797. His wife, Jane same Sam DeForest who witnessed tired. A fire, set by vandals, de- Milligan, was also born in The Port the purchase agreement of William’s stroyed the house in 1972. on June 22, 1798. The story goes original tract of land. The lake was that they eloped on May 20, 1818 to officially renamed to Cassidy Lake Gretna Green, Scotland. The village sometime after 1860, although the blacksmith performed the wedding precise date is unknown. ceremony over an anvil. The prob- William acquired this farm by lem with this story is that Mike selling his land in Saint John. He had Cassidy, great-great grandson of to walk a distance of 100 miles (160 William and Jane, found the Church km) to Fredericton, the capital of the of Ireland records for the Parish of province, to acquire the land. He did Inver showing their marriage on this in the winter when the rivers and May 25, 1818. Mike speculates that lakes were frozen so he could cross perhaps William and Jane did elope them. With only a primitive compass Homestead with car c. 1940 to Gretna Green, but returned home to guide him and a flint-lock, muzzle to be legally married in the church. -loading gun to protect him, he un- The house was situated on a hill Family folklore has it that Jane was dertook the journey through the for- with a grand view overlooking the disowned by her family who were ests. lake. It was a two story structure upper class landowners. After settling on the north side with four bedrooms upstairs and a William and Jane went to Derry, of Cassidy Lake, Jane would paddle kitchen, dining room, living room, Ireland where they took a ship to across the lake to the site of their and parlor downstairs. Originally, Canada. On September 1, 1819 they former home where there was a pas- there was a big fireplace. It was a landed in Saint John, New Bruns- ture for the family’s only cow. Once room almost by itself and there were wick where they purchased a piece while crossing the lake in October benches along the walls to sit on. of land which is now at the head of 1825, she became lost in a dense Matthew Cassidy, brother to Robert King Street where the Woolworth smoke which had drifted over the Allen, used to tell how he and his store was located in 1970s. lake from a large forest fire along siblings would sit on these benches While in Saint John, William the Miramichi River - some 125 air- and study their lessons by the light was engaged in ship building. After line miles (200 km) north. Her hus- of the fire. By the mid-1930s it had being given a grant of land at She- band guided her safely to shore by long been out of use, replaced by a pody, New Brunswick of which we blowing a seashell horn. This same large wood stove. know nothing except that it was un- shell horn was later used as a dinner Each winter, the wood stove satisfactory, he moved there and horn by Stan Cassidy, a great- was moved from the kitchen into the lived alone in a log hut while his grandson of William and Jane. dining room to provide much family remained in Saint John. In the early years, the home- needed heat. The basement In 1823 the family moved to the stead at Cassidy Lake was almost a served as a dark, cool, dry place south side of a small lake, near Sus- community in itself. Besides mixed (cont’d…) December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 39
The Cassidy family of Cassidy Lake — cont’d to store vegetables from the fall har- Brunswick at this time were poor to vest. By the 1940s there was a wood non-existent. They would travel to furnace that let heat rise through a the city by horseback along a path large metal grate in the floor of the cut in the dense forest. On the return front hall to heat the first floor. The journey, the load would be packed heat would continue to rise on up the on the horse’s back while the rider stairway to the second story. walked. An idea of the hazards faced The life style of William and Jane by these people may be obtained is typical of a farm family of the mid from the story of William defending -1800s. Candles made of tallow, sal- himself with a heavy cross-cut saw vaged and remolded continually, when he accidentally surprised a Cassidy Lake 1953 supplied light for their home. A fire- mother bear and her cubs. place built of field stone served as William continued to expand his his wife who had died on January 7, the only heating device. Cast iron property by purchasing adjacent 1875. Both are buried in the ceme- pots hooked on iron cranes were properties until 1850 when it tery on the Cassidy farm at used for cooking over the fire. For reached a maximum size of approxi- Cassidy Lake. bread, they grew and ground the mately 600 acres. In 1868, William wheat and baked the bread in a cast deeded the primary homestead prop- Portions of this article are ex- iron dish buried in the bed of coals at erty (250 acres) to his seventh son, cerpted from The Cassidy Story from the bottom of the fireplace. The fam- Francis Edward for the sum of Ireland to Cassidy Lake and Beyond ily’s clothing was made from home- $2000. The Clover Hill Methodist by Peter and Brian Cassidy, 2007, spun cloth woven on hand looms. Church was built on the Cassidy William was a master craftsman in property by Francis Edward in 1883 ISBN 978-0-9692351-4-9. Part II of the making of these hand looms. with assistance from William and this article will appear in the June Although it was some 30 miles other family and community mem- 2014 edition. (48 km) away, Saint John was their bers. William Cassidy died on center of supply. Roads in New March 26, 1886, eleven years after
ICCA sends a big “thank you” to retiring Provincial membership chair
lan very well. and important task. She naire to Marilyn Driscoll, For more years than has also been on the Pro- our treasurer. most of us can remember, vincial Executive, along But don’t think Patricia has corresponded with her dear Hilarion Patricia is retiring…. it with members within NB, Coughlan, since almost isn’t in her nature. She across Canada, the US, the very beginning of the will not be clacking knit- and indeed the world. association. She has ting needles or setting up She was our beloved served as editor of the a quilting frame. She will ‘away’ membership chair- Shamrock Leaf, acted as continue to maintain the person. She loved every provincial treasurer for provincial bursary file as minute of her role and many years, and main- well as participate in the over the years developed tained our provincial bur- Capital Region Chapter a dear relationship, sary file. and inspire us with her through her letters, with However, in October, ‘common sense’ attitude All members from many of you who are with heavy heart, Patricia at our provincial doings. ‘away’ – those not tied to ‘away’ – her own words. has decided to pass on the And so the ICCA of our chapters – know Over the years she has job of our ‘away’ mem- NB here sends a special Patricia O’Leary Cough- not only done this vital bership person extraordi- and loud THANK YOU! 40 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Hi Ho, Hi Ho, to the Emerald Isle we go (with apologies to Walt Disney)
On Tuesday, Septem- ated by a trip to The Shrine the area, right on the bor- ber 17th, a group of 26 New of the Lady of Knock, der line, and we attended a Brunswickers and 1 Hali- County Mayo, where Pope local theatre production of gonian, gathered in Freder- John Paul II said mass to “Calendar Girls.” We also icton Airport on the first nearly ½ million people, renewed friendships with leg of a 15 day, thirteen lunch in Sligo Town and a Willie McKenna, the unof- night, trip to Ireland, and visit to W. B. Yeats’ final ficial but very real, Ambas- back of course. resting place in Drumcliffe. sador of Monaghan. On The tour followed a Once in Monaghan, our our final night there was a route designed by Marven transportation was taken Kitchen Party, but I won’t McCarthy, Miramichi, an In Skibbereen, we vis- over by Rice tours, owned spoil the story, which you old hand at this, organized ited the Heritage Centre, by Brian Rice. Our stay in can read on the next page. through Maritime Travel, where Terri Kearney, the Monaghan Town gave us We left Monaghan and Miramichi. Our thanks to Director, gave a passionate time to make side trips to travelled down to Dublin both. We spent 2 nights in talk about the famine and Northern Ireland, and we for our final two nights. Carrigaline, County Cork; its effects on the Irish peo- visited the new Belfast Ti- Here, we visited a number 2 nights in Killarney, ple and society. We also tanic Experience, the Gi- of sites, including St. Pat- County Kerry; 2 nights in visited the Famine graves ant’s Causeway and the rick’s Cathedral, and had a Galway, County Galway; 5 at Abbeystrowry Cemetery, walls of Derry. In Derry fine bus tour of the city, nights in Monaghan Town, just outside the town. we were met by Michael including Phoenix Park. County Monaghan; and 2 In Killarney, although “Mickey” McGuinness, a Our first evening, we en- nights in Dublin. In effect, the Ring of Kerry was fog- long-time acquaintance of joyed a Dinner and Cabaret we circled the Republic. bound when we toured it, many members of the IC- Show. As often happens when we stayed at a wonderful CANB. Our second evening we you live in the Maritimes, hotel on the Killarney While in Monaghan we celebrated with a farewell we flew West to go East, Lakes, and were entranced were treated to a great eve- dinner, and then planned first to Toronto and then by a jaunting car ride of the ning meal at the Sliagh for a very early departure overnight to Dublin. Early National Park, while being Beagh (Mountain of Birch) to the airport on Oct. 1. in the morning of the 16th, entertained by drivers who Hotel and Tourism Centre This time we began by fly- we arrived, bleary-eyed mixed history and hyper- in Knockatallon, compli- ing east to London, to go and sleep-deprived, unfold- bole in equal measures. ments of Maritime Travel. west to Toronto, to go east ing ourselves from Galway was beautiful, We visited St. Patrick’s to Fredericton. Home for cramped quarters, to be with sunshine and breezes Chair and Well, in a se- everyone, safe and sound. greeted by Sean for an afternoon boat cruise cluded grove in the hills of McSweeney, our driver on Lake Corrib, complete with Galvin Tours, Dun- with Irish coffees. This manway, West Cork. was followed by a great Now, it would take too musical show “Trad on the many pages to recount the Prom” on our second eve- next two weeks, but per- ning, which had toes tap- haps a summary of some ping and heads swaying to high points will give an songs and some wonderful idea of the roads we trav- dancers. elled and the history we The drive from Galway relived. to Monaghan was punctu- December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 41
A kitchen party to remember by Joan Meade
In September, an each other, for it seemed amazing group of indi- as though the very playing viduals chose to take a satisfied themselves as tour of Ireland, sponsored well as their enthusiastic by the Irish Canadian Cul- listeners. In the course of tural Association of New the evening, I was honored Brunswick and led by by a request from the Bruce and Marilyn Dris- Host, Eddie Makem, to coll. I call us amazing for share with the audience, we synced so well and one of my stories. Story- enjoyed one another’s tellers love to share their company thoroughly… stories and I am no excep- which, in a random tour, tion. can be extremely rare. We I thought this was the had many highlights, but perfect evening to share. the best night of all was Storytellers always have a the evening we spent at story to tell. I will go (fiddle), Gerry Makem doorstep laden down with Tommy Makem’s Home- home and write about this (guitar & vocals), Joe the worries of the world on stead. You read it right… inspiring evening. The Cosgrove ( guitar and vo- my weary shoulders, only THE Tommy Makem who good times need to be pre- cals) and 'Australian' to depart a magi- sang with the Clancy served. Gerry (guitar and vocals). cal few hours later feel- Brothers! So, I emailed Emma An Irish music session ing uplifted, trans- The event is burned Makem, Tommy’s great is held in Tossey's (the formed by the healing into our happy memory niece, and asked for some Homestead of Tommy powers of music and com- folders… a small cozy details; I was determined Makem) on the first Satur- fort derived from being in cottage in the back of no- to share our experience day of every month, where the presence of oth- where; a turf fire (with an with those who are of musicians, storytellers, ers. Food for the soul, impressive flue which did- Celtic decent and with poets and folk gather that’s for sure!” n’t affect my allergies in other storytellers across round the hearth of an It was the perfect at- the least!) some chairs and Canada. open turf fire, striving to mosphere for such an eve- a fabulous group of musi- Emma responded with preserve the tradition ning. The setting idyllic, cians. They sat in a circle the following quote: of ceoil agus craic in this the warmth, atmosphere, before us and enter- “The musicians were old dwelling house. There harmony and joy of an tained…not only us, but Robert Mc Gleenan is something very special, evening suspended in almost sacred, in the res- time; an evening which pite this special haven pro- could have taken place in vides for those longing to the 1800’s, the 1500’s, step off the treadmill hopefully the future. Time and escape their troubles was irrelevant….ambiance for an hour or two. It is, it prevailed and a bonded, would seem, the reassur- enchanted group of Cana- ing ritual in this coming dians, responding to the together, surrounded by heartbeat of the moment, the residing spirits of enjoyed a truly special Tossey's who also once evening which will linger congregated in years gone in our hearts forever. by seeking similar solace. Indeed, many times I my- self have arrived on her 42 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Porthumna Workhouse open to the public
The Irish Famine was such a hor- death” – because many died right Margaret O’Farrell, of nearby rendous chapter of Irish history that there when they were forbidden ad- Nenagh, County Tipperary visited it couldn’t even be talked about af- mittance. Once inside, death was and found the experience moving. terwards – in families, communities, never far away. Already hungry and She noted, “We were taught the his- and other than the shame of it, in ill, disease spread quickly in such tory of the workhouse but there is history books as well. overcrowded living conditions. something eerily disturbing about The 100th anniversary of the Corpses were carried on special carts standing in the inner yard. At either event passed quietly with little men- day after day to be thrown into mass end are the accommodation blocks – tion, but with the 150th anniversary graves or pits in the workhouse one for girls, one for women – and and commemorations held world- grounds and covered in lime. on either side are 10 or 12 feet high wide, the Irish recognized that it was Families were also separated stone walls which were to keep the time to heal the wounds. within the walls. There were sepa- occupants out of sight of outsiders Since the 1997 commemoration, rate wings or dormitories for men, and the men in the workhouse.” and often with millennium funding, women and even boys and girls – monuments have sprung up world- only children under 2 could remain wide and in many communities in with their mothers. Ireland as well – from the poignant Life in the workhouse was highly Dublin Famine Memorial on Custom regulated and disciplined and break- House Quay to the many memorials ing the rigid rules brought about now fronting famine mass gravesites harsh punishment, or worse, dis- and abandoned workhouses. The missal from the workhouse all to- Porthumna workhouse is a project in gether. itself. Inmates, as they were often called, were also expected to work despite their poor health. Women cleaned, or worked in the kitchens and laundries. Young girls were trained for service. Men and boys did manual labour, ground corn, or worked on the workhouse lands. Straw mattresses at Porthumna Porthumna Workhouse is located Workhouse on St. Brigit’s Road in the market town of the same name in south-east “The slightest misdemeanor Many of us have read about County Galway. It was opened in meant you spent some time in the workhouses and how the Irish de- 1852 and operated as a workhouse refractory cell – a stone shed with no tested them. One had to be at their until the first part of the twentieth windows. Your misdemeanor could wits end, hungry and ill, to knock on century. It could house 600 people possibly have been standing on a their door. It was the final shame. but having come into operation in chair to look out a window in the Often families went in, but rarely did the 1850’s, no more than about 250 hope of seeing your child in the they come out again. They are still were ever kept there at one time. yard.” about – abandoned, covered in Largely forgotten and abandoned, Is it worth a visit? Yes, most shrubs, ivies and weeds – which the Porthumna Workhouse is the definitely – it is full of history and a symbolically hide the shame within. flagship project of the SE Galway reminder of how lucky we are now – There were 163 workhouses built IRD, a non-profit company formed no matter how bad we think things in Ireland between 1840 and 1853, in 1997 by local residents. It is are.” and with the famine, people began to slowly but surely coming back to life The Porthumna Workhouse has flood in to them. In most, only fami- for all to see. Although not com- its own website at http:// lies would be admitted – singles pleted, it is open to the public from irishworkhousecentre.ie. It also in- were not allowed. The pathway to May to October. cludes a video which is very infor- the workhouse became known as Recently, the workhouse was mative. casan na marbh or “pathway of opened for local residents to visit. December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 43
Irish blogs—give them a try!!
I’m coming out of the closet life aboard the ferry to Skye (his real to out-of-the way historical ruins here…. I’m a blog follower. job so that he can live where he around Ireland that you won’t al- Blog’, a shortened form of ‘web does). His photos of the Isles of ways find in the travel guides. The log’ are little gems that often follow Raasay and Skye are magnificent. photos are stunning. Or try timet- the personal life of an individual on With the gift of the gab, it stands ravelireland.blogspot.ie. It opens to the internet – sometimes on one sub- to reason that there are numerous photos of historical places to visit in ject of interest or on many varied Irish blogs about and on all sorts of Ireland and if you click on the im- topics. They are like a personal topics. I encourage you to delve ages, details are given on the sites journal of sorts and many put up into the world of Irish blogs - try out themselves. There is even an inter- entries on a daily basis or fairly fre- a few. active map to show where the sites quently. Not all are personal jour- Every fall, Ireland has an annual are in Ireland so you can plan a trip nals. Many focus on particular top- award ceremony for the “Best of to include as many as you wish. ics like photography, travel, food, Irish Blogs”. Bloggers compete in Dublin visitors should visit politics etc. different categories on all sorts of www.builtdublin.com which is de- I never understood the need to topics. Some are self-serving – try- voted to Dublin architecture, past read about someone else’s life or ing to promote their business or and present. Another great Dublin comments on current affairs until I product – avoid those - but dive into blog is picturethisdublin.com. accidentally fell on a blog from the some others that you may find of There is something for everyone Isle of Raasay while reading about interest. in the blog world! Visit ‘Best blog the unbelievable determination of Here are a few of them: of Ireland 2013” for a good selec- one man, Calum MacLeod. In the For those interested in current tion. 1960’s he was forced to send his Irish politics, give Jason Mahoney’s Last year eight-year-old Martha daughter across to the Isle of Skye blog a look at http:// Payne of Argyle, Scotland, as part of for schooling. She could only come jasonomahony.ie. Another political a school project, had a running blog home at Christmas because there blog - http://politicalreform.ie is ac- about her school lunches. She was was no road to his home at the north tually put together by a consortium also trying to raise £7,000 to help end of the island. He had canvassed of the Irish political science depart- provide lunches to a school in Ma- government for ages for a road - but ments of various Irish universities lawi. However, the school board to no avail – indeed they made fun under the auspices of the Political felt her descriptions of her school of the little farmer who travelled all Studies Association of Ireland, giv- lunches were too negative and they the way to Edinburgh in his rubber ing one a variety of viewpoints on told her she couldn’t do it anymore. boots to beg for a road. For his various political topics. There is When she wrote on her blog that she daughter’s sake, he built the road also Liberal Ireland at could no longer write about her himself. It took him years with pick www.liberals.ie which calls for less lunches, a newspaper picked it up, and axe and a wheelbarrow – government, personal freedom and and then the BBC. Soon after, the through mountain passes, bogs and free enterprise for a totally different message went viral. The school whatever else impeded his path. slant on the political scene in Ire- board backed down because people The road today is called Calum’s land. from around the world crashed the Road and his story is told in story If you are keen to learn Irish visit school board website with com- and song. www.aransongs.blogspot.ie. The plaints. Within a very short time, The blog that came out of the posts are done in Irish but are fol- world donations to her charity above story is entitled “Life at the lowed by English and the topics topped £100,000 and she received End of the Road” – the road being cover all aspects of Aran Isle life, support from British food chefs in- Calum’s Road. It follows Paul past and present. It is a good read cluding Jamie Oliver. She got to go Camilli’s life living self-sufficiently even if you don’t read Irish and is to Malawi to meet the children and in Calum’s brother’s croft – because also a great spot to learn a few see one of the schools she sup- it may have a road today -which is words along the way. ported. While she was away, guest more of a track –but his part of the There are too many travel blogs children bloggers from around the Isle is still without any means of to count. Looking for places to world wrote about their school electricity. It is a simple life, full of visit? Check out irelandinru- lunches. Visit her blog at never- Tamworth pigs and exotic hens, and ins.blogspot.co.nz which takes you seconds.blogspot.co.uk. 44 Shamrock Leaf December 2013 From the Book Shelf
To understand the heart and soul of a country you must know its history, language, folklore and culture. Now is the time to begin a small Irish library in your home. In doing so, you will pass on to your children the richness of the culture of their ancestors. Here we provide a selection of books that have been brought to our attention . Hopefully you can find one that speaks to your own interests.
Tracing your Limerick Ances- Annie’s Letter—a Search for tors (2nd Edition) the Burke Family By Margaret Franklin By Robert Burke 160 pages 184 Pages ISBN: 978-1-907990-06-9 ISBN-13: 978-0-9539974-6-6
This revised edition by Flyleaf Press Also brought to us by Flyleaf is greatly expanded and updated. It is Press.ie, Annie’s Letter is the true a comprehensive guide of all the re- story of a search for Burke and cords available for tracing families in Collingwood ancestors based on a this county. family letter. It is extraordinary for several reasons, not least of which is the wonderful vari- The new edition is filled with infor- ety of family members uncovered. Admirals, farmers, mation on what the records contain, and how and where surgeons and priests; widows and émigrés; rebels and they can be accessed. It is well illustrated with maps of the conservatives; Irish, English, New Zealander and Ameri- various administrative divisions; with examples of the can are all part of the rich Burke tapestry which is un- types of records to be found; and with other relevant mate- folded. It is also extraordinary in its disclosure of the rial. wealth of records that are available to the family histo- This book joins the rest in the series as an excellent re- rian, and the value of persistence and imagination in their search tool any serious genealogist would be pleased to use. Ireland of the Welcomes, the largest subscription- have in their toolkit. Other guides in this series include based Irish magazine in the world, says of Annie’s Letter: Sligo, Galway, Dublin, Clare, Westmeath, Cork, Kerry, “Written in a light but careful style the book is an inter- Roscommon, Mayo and Donegal. esting read in itself, and a template for anyone who is researching family history.”
Parnell—a novel By Brian Cregan 320 Pages ISBN: 9781845887773
This book plunges the reader into the life of Parnell, and brilliantly dramatizes his importance in Irish history. It is a dramatization of the key events in the legend of Parnell, from entering Parliament as a nervous speaker, to becoming the ‘uncrowned king of Ireland’.
The struggles of the Land League are played out in cinematic fashion, and the courtroom scenes are powerful and utterly compelling.
This book manages to be highly detailed in terms of historical accuracy, yet still retain the pace and momentum needed to engage the reader.
This book has all the potential to become a long-running classic of Irish historical fiction. December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 45 From the Book Shelf (cont’d)
Irish Nationalism in Canada The Political Standing of Edited by David A. Wilson Irish Catholics in Canada: 244 pages ISBN: 978-0773536364 A Critical Analysis of its Causes, With Suggestions Part of McGill-Queen’s Studies for its Amelioration... in Ethnic History series, this By J.L.P. O’Hanly book is “An exploration of the 72 pages revolutionary Irish-Canadian ISBN-10: 1276491654 underground and constitutional ISBN-13: 9781276491655 nationalist efforts to make Can- ada a model for Irish freedom.” John Lawrence Power O’Hanly Originally written in 1872, this According to conventional analytical publication was mi- historical wisdom, Irish nation- crofilmed from the original document held by the Library alism in Canada was a marginal phenomenon - overshad- of the Public Archives of Canada. For those who wish to owed by the more powerful movement in the United own a copy, it was republished by Nabu Press in March States and eclipsed in Canada by the Orange Order. of 2012 as a Trade Paperback but is also available to read The nine contributors in this book argue otherwise - freely online at: and in doing so make a major and original contribution to our understanding of the Irish experience in Canada and https://archive.org/details/politicalstandin00ohan the place of Irish-Canadian nationalism within an interna- tional context. Focusing on the period 1820 to 1920, they O’Hanly’s analysis of the state of affairs in Upper Canada examine political, religious, and cultural expressions of in the late 19th century, as it relates to Catholic versus Irish-Canadian nationalism as it responded to Irish events Protestant representation in publicly-held offices, is an and Canadian politics. interesting snapshot of the challenges faced by Catholics Contributors include Donald Harman Akenson (Queen's Univer- in Canada—whether they be Irish or French—in the sity, Kingston), Sean Farrell (Northern Illinois University), Mark G. struggle for equality on a Protestant-dominated political McGowan (St Michael's College, University of Toronto), Frederick J. McEvoy (Independent Scholar), Michael Peterman (Trent University), stage. Garth Stevenson (Brock University), Peter M. Toner (University of New Brunswick), Rosalyn Trigger (University of Aberdeen), and David A. Wilson (University of Toronto).
The Legendary Casey Brothers By Jim Hudson 200 Pages ISBN: 9781848891838
In 1982 the seven Casey brothers were inducted into the Irish Sports Hall of Fame, the only family ever to receive that honor. The brothers, from Sneem in County Kerry, starred as Olympic-class oarsmen, Tug-O’-War champions, professional wrestlers and boxers and won fame throughout the sporting world. Jim, Steve and Tom went to the United States in the 1930s and made names for themselves in rowing, wrestling and boxing. In 1935, Tom and Mick, Steve and Paddy entered and won the All-England Rowing Championships, a natural springboard to the 1936 Berlin Olympics. They were confident of winning all six rowing events but, because they had wrestled profession- ally, they were disqualified. Steve, known as “Crusher” Casey, became the supreme wrestler in the world and for a decade no one could match him. Then he turned to box- ing and the great Joe Louis refused to go into the ring with him. In 1983 at a family reunion in Sneem, five brothers, all in their 70s, climbed into the four-oar boat they used to win championships in the thirties. Although they had not rowed together in 50 years, they still moved with natural unity and grace. Sports people from Kerry have achieved fame in many fields but the success of the Caseys surely outshines all. 46 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
www.heritagecertificate.com
In a previous issue we mentioned the recent availability of a certificate of Irish heritage that is being promoted to persons of Irish descent throughout the world. We requested further in- formation about the certificate and offer it here for interested readers.
About the Certificate of Irish Heritage The Certificate is an official Irish Government initiative to recognise the continuing emotional attachment of the de- scendants of those who left our shores to the land of their ancestors. The Certificate recognises the enduring emotional ties and sense of identity bestowed by Irish ancestry.
Anyone with an Irish ancestor, born outside of Ireland is eligible for a Certificate of Irish Heritage. The Certificate provides an opportunity for people to engage with Ireland and discover more about their history, their heritage and the country of their Ancestors. The Certificate is a beautiful document which can be framed and dis- played in the home or in the workplace to express the pride felt by many people of Irish Descent and can be handed down from generation to genera- tion.
The Certificates are available to 70 million people of Irish descent worldwide. Anyone can give one of these beautiful certificates to their relatives or friends, as a permanent reminder of the deep emo- tional ties which link Irish families and communi- ties together.
Certificate Details Each Certificate is unique and personalised and shows the name of the recipient and the names, place of origin of their ancestors and year of birth if available. It is the personal story of your family History. There are four beautiful designs to choose from including a limited edition Gathering design for 2013. The designs include typical West of Ire- land landscapes, sailing ships that evoke the waves of emigration from these shores and the intricacy of Celtic knots. ICCANB member, Denis Noel, proudly displays his Certificate of Irish Heritage
Positive Reaction There has been a very emotional reaction from all who have received the Certificate around the world to date. Recipi- ents and their families have commented on how proud they were to be honoring their Irish roots. They speak of how it is the perfect gift for family members to honor any occasion. Something they will cherish and display with pride and pass down through the generations. December 2013 Shamrock Leaf 47
The Official Certificate - A Must-Have For Anyone With Irish Roots
Official Irish Government confirmation of your Irish roots Collectors’ piece for Irish people everywhere Quality product will take pride of place in any home or office An heirloom for the family to treasure The perfect gift for anyone with Irish heritage
Pricing: Please remember that all prices are subject to the exchange rate on the day you order, and rates can vary.
The price of an unframed Certificate is €45 which in- cludes postage and €120 (Euros) for a framed Certifi- cate plus 10 Euro shipping to Canada.
This is approx. $58.20 (Canadian dollars) for an un- framed and $174.60 (Canadian dollars) for a framed one. If you order before Christmas using the follow- ing Promotional code:
CUU6B
Enter this code at the online checkout and you will re- ceive a 20% discount on your purchase.
In a manner of speaking...
The Irish have always been well known for their wit and humour. When it comes to signage, their sense of clarity may still leave a lot to your imagination. 48 Shamrock Leaf December 2013
Membership Form
The Irish Canadian Cultural Association of NB
Provincial President Miramichi Chapter Keith Vickers Frances Connell 507 Old King George Hwy. 106-55 Old Ferry Road Miramichi, NB E1V 1J8 Miramichi, NB E1N 0C2 [email protected] [email protected] Tel: 625-8705 Tel. 352-0466
Capital Area Chapter Bathurst Chapter Mary Beth Gorey Pat Murphy 9 Spruce Terrace 495 Varrily Street Fredericton, NB E3B 2S6 Bathurst, NB E2A 2P2 [email protected] [email protected] Tel: 454-3486 Tel: 546-9986
Saint John Chapter Marijke Blok 1351 Manawagonish Road *Please make your cheque payable to Saint John, NB E2M 3X8 ICCANB and send to the Membership [email protected] Chair nearest you (above) or to:
Tel: 672-0294 Marilyn Driscoll 360 Route 102 Westmorland Albert Kent Chapter Burton, NB E2V 3C6 Paul McCloskey [email protected] PO Box 26022 Tel.: 506-357-8283 Moncton, NB E1E 4H9 [email protected] Tel: 386-2791
NAME:______ADDRESS:______POSTAL CODE:______TELEPHONE:______Email: ______Please check the boxes which pertain to your membership: □ Individual ($20) □ Family $25 □ New Membership
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