A lecture on transport in Ireland was held in St. Bronagh’s GAA Clubrooms on Monday 19th Nov. 2007. The large turnout of people were enthralled by Roy Meakim  who gave an interesting and wide ranging talk that was enhanced by lots of illuminating and informative slides.  The absorbing lecture covered all manner and modes of transport, including canals, coaches and railways, and the historic importance of Newry Canal as the first man-made inland waterway in the UK. Those present also learned that in 1885 Bessbrook became the site of the first hyro-barrel tram in the world.

The historical society are grateful to Roy and his daughter Debbie for an outstanding presentation. The proceeds of the evening will be donated to the local charity Duchenne Muscular Dystropry in due course.

Roy has his own very interesting website www.oracleireland.com

On St. Stephan’s morning a few members had a “cobweb walk” to the Mass Rock, the planned time for everyone to be there was 11.30 a.m.  The signifiance of the walk was to remember all our deceased ancestors who would have made their way to the same spot during Penal Times to celebrate Christmas Mass. Those present said the Rosary and laid a holly wreath. It is hoped to repeat this every St. Stephan’s morning.

The commemorative Mass at Ballintur Mass Rock on Sunday 12th Aug.2007 was blessed with beautiful weather and was attended by a huge crowd. The Mass was concelebrated by Fr. Charles O’Rourke, Fr. Michael Hackett, Dean Anthony Davies and Fr. Nicky Hennity. (more…)

The monthly meetings are now changed to the first Monday of each month, starting Monday 4th Feb. 2008 at 8.30pm.