A West Cork Outing

Outing to West Cork Heritage Centre (Bandon), Béal na Bláth and Keimaneigh

The members and supporters of BHAS had a most enjoyable and informative day out on Thursday, starting with a visit to the West Cork Heritage Centre in Bandon where they were welcomed by John Hurley and his team of volunteers. First on the agenda was the history of the building itself, Christchurch, which is one of the earliest protestant churches built in Ireland c.1610. A well-informed resumé of the history of Ireland by John, linking in the various displays of Irish heritage and culture which are included in this extensive collection of artefacts and installations. Some members revelled at the display of local hand-made lace, while another was thrilled to see the cream separator which brought back fond memories of her young days at home on the farm; while another member was excited coming home with three butter spades that she bought from their sales table.

All were high in their praise of the delicious lunch in Copper Grove. Then it was off to the refurbished monument at Béal na Bláth where the group admired Michael Collins’ final journey etched in stone – which was crafted by our local stone-carver, Victor Daly. Stories about Collins and his extended family were recalled as we enjoyed some brilliant afternoon sunshine.

The final leg of the outing brought us over the hills to Keimaneigh near Gougane where we met Seán Ó Súilleabhán of Cumann Staire Uibh Laoghaire who gave a brilliant talk on the events leading up to the Battle of Keimaneigh (Cath Céim an Fhia). and a detailed account of the battle on this its bicentenary year. A brief stop at the nearby monument commemorating those who lost their lives in this battle, after which it was home time and all were high in their praise of a great day out.