Another development ensuring that Con Houlihan’s enormous legacy will never die was unveiled on Friday morning at Crag Cave, when the Con Houlihan Trail was brought into the digital age while still retaining a very human local touch.
By Michael John Kearney
A digitalised voice-over by Tommy Martin was launched which uses Quick Response (QR) Code to allow access via mobile phone to the many local stories about the famed journalist and writer.
The application of the advanced technology was very much a local project, led by Gina McElligott, Doreen O’Sullivan and Tommy Martin with input from Kerry College’s Seamus Slemon and Brian Nolan, and financial support from Castleisland Chamber Alliance.
Frank and Joe from Dublin
The event itself was very enjoyable with many relations and friends of Con’s in attendance from far and near.
Frank Greally and Joe Daly travelled from Dublin to be there and the pupils of Scoil Íde Curranes with their Principal Emer Nelligan and SNA James O’Connell added greatly to the singing and post launch celebrations.
The school’s pupils were recently successful in a national competition – the focus of their project being very appropriately, the Life and Times of Con Houlihan.
Also in attendance were the members of the Castleisland District Heritage who have recently taken possession of many artifacts and written articles penned by Con in his own unique style.
Curran’s native, Joe Daly, handed over some original manuscripts of Con’s in his own shorthand which were subsequently transcribed by a friend of his, for printing in the Evening Press.
Songs from Gary and Tony
A very pleasant morning was rounded off by some fitting renditions by Gary McCarthy of Castleisland My Hometown with a chorus provided by the Curranes National School pupils.
Tony O’Brien sang the Old Dromulton Road and the celebrations were rounded off by Frank Greally with a song jointly penned by himself – As long as I’m remembered I will never die – so apt in the context of Con Houlihan and the day that was in it.
Con never forgot his native place and will always live on in the memory of his worldwide legion of readers.
Thanks to the Geaney family for the use of their Crag Cave reception area and facilities and for the hospitality which was enjoyed by all.
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