Famine victims remembered in Kilnaboy

“THEY will rejoice with you” (Tob 13:4.) is the inscription on the commemorative stone unveiled by Minister for Defence, Tony Killeen at Coad Cemetery, Kilnaboy last Sunday.

A large crowd turned out for the ceremony, which was hosted by Kilnaboy Community Development Association and remembered those who died before and during the Great Famine, as well as those who died in the Corofin Workhouse. Minister Killeen complimented the group on the work they had achieved in bringing about the event. The stone bearing the inscription was sourced locally and Tom Keating, a member of the development association, did the engraving.
Local historian Michael McMahon wrote a piece for the day. In it, he said, “The effects of the famine on almost all aspects of Irish life were profound. It has been described as the period when the laughter went out of Irish life. And even on the physical landscape, traces of those dismal times still remain in the shape of old ruins and deserted villages or old potato ridges overgrown with grass on bleak mountain slopes.”
Councillor Michael Kelly, who was representing the Mayor of Clare Christy Curtin, said Kilnaboy is a place rich in history and community. He too complimented the development association for the pride they have shown and the work they have undertaken in maintaining both Kilnaboy and Coad cemeteries.
Fr Damien Nolan blessed the stone and prayed for all those lost to the Great Famine across the parish and beyond and reminded all to appreciate the great gift of life.
Louise and Rebecca Collins of Coad provided the music for the occasion. Aisling Keane of Kilnaboy National School laid a bunch of flowers to remember the children who also perished during An Gorta Mór.