Memories Rekindled at Mein School Reunion

John Curtin (front pictured with: Siobhán Curtin, Seán Curtin, Eileen Murphy, Lil Kerins, Moss Curtin, Sr. Kathleen Curtin and Mary Doogan at the Mein National School Reunion at Ó Riada’s Bar and Restaurant, Ballymacelligott. ©Photograph: John Reidy
At the Mein National School Reunion at Ó Riada’s Bar and Restaurant, Ballymacelligott were: Cáit Curtin, Tim O’Connell, Donie Reidy and Brendan Curtin. ©Photograph: John Reidy

“They came from the U.S., the U.K. and from many parts of Ireland to Ó Riada’s Bar recently for the Mein School Reunion,” according to event spokesperson Cáit Curtin.

“As they arrived the Ballymacelligott establishment rang out with exclamations of surprise and joy. Old photos were checked out and the roll books brought by Máire Hickey-Collins were the piece de resistance.

Old School – Last Day

“And there was a photograph of the teachers and pupils on the last day at the old Knocknagoshel area school when Mrs. Hickey, RIP turned the key in the door for the final time nigh on fifty years ago,” said Cáit.

“The oldest to attend the reunion were: Tim O’Connell, a native of Tooreenmore, who came from America for the occasion.

Met Last in 1940s

John Vincent Curtin, a retired member of An Gárda Siochána of East Mein and James Hickey, Ballinattin. They last met at Mein School in the 1940s

“The joy of seeing the handshakes and the hugs and the clasp of the hand on a shoulder made it all worthwhile for the organisers, Mary B. O’Sullivan and Donie Reidy,” Cáit continued.

The Pattern in 2019

“To each and everyone who made the night such a success we say ‘Thank You’ for creating such a beautiful tapestry of memories that will stay with us into the future.

“God bless you all and maybe we’ll meet at ‘The Pattern’ in The Mall next year P.G.

Slán agus go néirí an bóthair libh go léir,” said Cáit in conclusion.

Condolences to the Curtin Family

As a footnote: Condolences to the Curtin family, many of whom attended the reunion, on the death of their sister Noreen Buckley (née Curtin) of Lucan, Dublin and Knocknagoshel. Mrs. Buckley is being laid to rest in Dublin this morning.

Click on the link here: https://www.rip.ie/death-notice/noreen-buckley-knocknagoshel-kerry/362593

 

 

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