Kilmuckridge opens its Garden of Remembrance

By Dan Walsh in Kilmuckridge

The unwanted summer rain failed to dampen the pride of community spirit as a large attendance gathered at Greenwood Avenue in Kilmuckridge village where local Cllr Mary Farrell officially launched the impressive new environmentally friendly Kilmuckridge 1916-1922 Garden of Remembrance this afternoon (Sunday).

Cllr Farrell was brief in her speech but acknowledged her delight at being chosen to perform the official opening; she had an almost endless list of ‘thank yous’ and wondered why such dreadful weather conditions prevailed in July! and, of course, she also acted as master of ceremonies.

John Hearne, Vice-Chair of Kilmuckridge Tidy Towns thanked WLD (Wexford Local Development) for grant-aid, the sponsors of the trees, rose bushes and beeches, local businesses, the residents at Greenwood Avenue, and everybody who contributed in any way for progressing and bringing the project into existence.

John Dempsey, Chair of Kilmuckridge Tidy Towns complimented the volunteers for their contribution to the village and outlined their determination and enthusiasm for the existence of the Garden of Remembrance.

Local historian, Pat Rath, spoke passionately about the history behind the Garden and outlined the symbolism of the layout, the planting of the various trees, the memorials and time capsule space.

The ceremony commenced with a Colour Party from the IUNVA (Irish United Nations Veteran’s Association) Post 3, Gorey and Post 31 Enniscorthy providing a guard of honour at the raising of the tricolour. Maeve Townsend sang Amhrán na bFiann. Fr. Frank Murphy, P.P., Kilmuckridge-Monamolin blessed the garden.

A wreath was laid by Tommy and Pamela Mallon, grand-nephew, and grand-niece of Michael Mallon (1874-1916), who was executed for his part in the 1916 Easter Rising, beside the portraits of the executed leaders. Cllr Mary Farrell sang Grace, which was appropriate to this part of the ceremony.

Items destined for the Time Capsule, which will remain unopened for 50 years, were organised by John and Orry Murphy and presented by Joe Hammel, Sonny Harney, Josie Murphy and representatives of the local primary and secondary schools.

Music was provided by the Monamolin Kilmuckridge Comhaltas Group. Refreshments were provided to all afterwards in the Kilmuckridge Memorial Hall (KMH).

The event was organised by a sub-committee of Kilmuckridge Tidy Towns’ and Kilmuckridge Development Group that included John Hearne, Shane Forsey, Pat Rath, Cllr Mary Farrell, Johnny Dempsey, Angela Kelly and Ger McCormick.