By Dan Walsh at Killanne
Legendary writer PJ McCall immortalised ‘John Kelly, the Boy from Killanne’ in his writings, and at the 225th anniversary of the 1798 Rebellion commemorations in Killanne today (Sunday) Willie Moore, with the support of local children, gave a precious rendition of the special ballad as wreaths were laid at a ceremony in Killanne graveyard and at the iconic 7’s monument at Killanne Cross.
Thoughtfully organised by Killanne Development Group the commemorations began with the unveiling of a new commemorative stone at the site of Johnson’s Blacksmith’s Forge at Rathduff where the pikes were made for the rebels.
A Colour Party lead the pike bearing marchers and Very Rev. Brian Broaders, P.P., Rathnure, recited prayers. Bishop Emeritus Denis Brennan, a native of the district also attended.
Gloria Binions gave a Roll Call of those who died locally in 1798 and are interred in Killanne Graveyard where pride of place goes to the Celtic Cross dating from 1898 above the grave of John Kelly.
Sean Óg Doyle spoke of the Barony of Bantry Memories andrenowned local folklorist,Michael Fortune recalled the 1798 Rebellion in ballad and verse. Rory O’Connor told the large gathering about John Kelly and the 1798 Rebellion and Barry Lacey gave a case study Ballycarney in 1798.
Martin Codd was excellent as master of ceremonies.
But, perhaps, keeping the best till last; for many the highlight of a fitting commemoration of a most historic district of Co. Wexford was the performance of ‘The Boys of Wexford’ by internationally acclaimed Irish tenor Anthony Kearns.
The official commemoration had barely ended when dark clouds gathered over the Blackstairs and the county was plunged into a violent thunderstorm with heavy falls of hail in Enniscorthy town.
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