Historical event in Lorrha

Lorrha & Dorrha Historical Society hosted Conchobhar Ó Súilleabháin and his living history group ‘The Last Prince – O'Sullivan Beare’ last weekend at Lorrha.

The group camped at Tua campsite at The Friar's Tavern, Lorrha, and talked to the many visitors of the historic arduous journey of Donal Cam O’Sullivan Beare to Breifne, Co Leitrim, after the Battle of Kinsale in 1603.

Visitors also learned of early 17th century society, weapons, clothing, food, the hardships and other fascinating facts.

On Saturday, Conchobhar and the group crossed the River Shannon at Ballymacegan in the ‘footsteps’ of O’Sullivan Beare and all those of the epic march.

Even though it was cold and wet on Saturday, it was nothing compared to the harsh January of 420 years ago, which those poor refugees of the great march felt and so courageously endured.

The re-enactment group made an offering of some flowers to the great Shannon and then laid a wreath on the Galway bank in honour of the memory of those of 1603.

Thanks to James Heenan for orchestrating the event, Denis and Lil Maher for the use of facilities and their hospitality; Diarmuid O’Crowley for ferrying people across the Shannon by boat, Noreen Ryan for parking at Ballymacegan and Mike Hogan for permission to cross his land to the River Shannon.

It was a hugely enjoyable weekend and we look forward to ‘The Last Prince - O’Sullivan Beare’ group, who promise to come back to Lorrha next year.