Cloughjordan celebrates Thomas MacDonagh

The annual ‘Cloughjordan Celebrates MacDonagh’ Weekend takes place in Cloughjordan over the May Bank Holiday weekend.

Thomas MacDonagh, a signatory of the 1916 Proclamation, was born in Cloughjordan and was executed after the Rising in May 1916. His brother, Joseph MacDonagh, who was also born in Cloughjordan, was elected TD for North Tipperary to the first Dáil in 1919.

The weekend opens on Thursday evening, May 2nd, with a wreath-laying at the Thomas MacDonagh statue. On Friday 3rd there is a showing of the 1926 film 'Irish Destiny'. On Saturday 4th the Thomas MacDonagh Summer School takes place with speakers Dr Pat McCarthy, on ‘The Prelude to the War of Independence’; Liz Gillis on ‘The Fight for Women’s Rights and National Freedom’; and Sean Hogan on ‘The Escalation of the War of Independence, 1919-21’. After lunch, the annual field trip this year goes to several sites in Ardcroney.

That evening the always-popular Rambling House Music Night showcases local talent and surprise guests, hosted by the irrepressible Bawney Hayes.
On Sunday afternoon, May 5th, writer Tracey Culleton holds a Creative Writing Workshop. Later the same afternoon, Tráthnóna le Gaeilge, a Heritage Walk as Gaeilge, takes place in Cloughjordan.

The annual Sunday Talk that evening is by Dr Joe MacDonagh, grandson of Joseph MacDonagh, TD, who will speak on ‘The Legacy of the Irish War of Independence for 21st Century Ireland’. After the talk and refreshments, the Oíche Ghaelach takes place in Grace’s Bar.

The weekend rounds off with a gentle guided walk in Loughisle Wood, Sopwell, led by members of Cloughjordan’s Field Naturalists’ Group.

This annual Celebration of the life and legacy of Thomas MacDonagh is enjoying its 11th year and each year it grows in popularity with local people and visitors. The Cloughjordan Heritage Group, which hosts the event, is looking forward to a very full and interesting weekend. Most events are free, or ask for a donation, except for the Summer School, which is €10, and for which booking is required. Please phone 087 3946862 or email macdonaghweekend@gmail.com
For the full programme and other details, see www.macdonaghheritage.ie