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Tullylish Historical Society
“Remembering Ballylough”
The Historical Society would like to thank everyone who helped with their latest project on Ballylough School and the Phoenix connection with our parish. The Den became the ‘Phoenix’ Den for one night only! Thank you to Dr. Éamon Phoenix and his very large extended family who came along, the Ballylough neighbours and friends and everyone who attended. We know there were some who were disappointed they couldn't get tickets, but, as always, Dr. Éamon Phoenix draws a crowd!!
It certainly was a night to remember - watch this space for more events!
Members of the Historical Society with Ballylough neighbours and the Phoenix family attended the unveiling of the plaque
Plunkett Campbell, chairperson of the Historical Society welcomed the Phoenix family
Éamon Phoenix is extremely proud of his Tullylish connections
It was a most beautiful evening in Ballylough
Éamon shows a photo of Ballylough School in the 1890's.
Unveiling the plaque, made by Ian Nesbitt
Minister of Education and neighbour, John O'Dowd, Maria McCartan (committee), Fr. Gerry Powell (President), Mairead Magee (committee)
Dr. Éamon Phoenix and Plunkett Campbell (Chairperson)
The Phoenix Family
Éamon with his mother Mrs. Phoenix
Damien and Mairead Weir
Damien's great grandfather, John Magee was one of the last pupils to attend Ballylough National School
Supper was provided in the Den
James English provided a lot of information from old ledgers
Mrs. Noreen Hendron and Mrs. Phoenix renewing an old friendship.
They were neighbours and friends in Cromwell Road, Belfast over 50 years ago.
Éamon greets Mrs. Noreen Hendron.
Nothing like a cuppa to help reminisce!
George Phoenix's family bible, written in Irish.
George Phoenix 4th February 1817
Anne Phoenix 5th January 1859
John Phoenix born 25th August 1860
Robert born 14th February 1862 - died July 1866
The man himself, George Phoenix
William Phoenix's bible returned from the war
Éamon holds his grandfather's 'Death Penny' which was sent to William's widow, Lucy.
After the 'Great War', almost 50,000 Irish mothers and widows recevied the 'Death Penny'
The details of the death of William Phoenix
Mrs. Phoenix met up with her bridesmaid Rosaleen Feeney.
They hadn't met for over 50 years.
Éamon and his wife, Alice
Lucy Conlon Phoenix and her children.
Éamon's father Jim sits on his mother's knee.
This photo would have been taken around 1915/1916.
Dear Catherine and Plunkett,
Just a line to thank you both again for the marvellous cultural historical evening at the unveiling of the plaque and later in Laurencetown.
It was an occasion which will echo down the years with my extended family and myself thanks to your generous initiative and meticulous planning. Many thanks for all your efforts to unravel the history of the Phoenix family in the annals of West Down and your kind hospitality. The plaque is beautiful and the unveiling in such resplendent summer sunshine was the stuff of golden memories.
In addition my mother (in her 91st year) was delighted to meet up with Rosie Feeney- her bridesmaid of 1952- and her old friend, Noreen Hendron from Co Kerry.
I think I forgot thank Gilberry Fayre and the local ladies for the lovely supper and hope you will pass this on.
We are still recovering from the brilliance of last night's proceedings. If I can even give the Society a lecture on any aspect of Irish History just let me know.
With renewed thanks to you both. Have a great summer.
Le meas moir lagus mór buíochas.
Éamon
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