We met at the Heritage Centre. As we drank our coffee we were made welcome. The vibe was good and all were up for a special day. For a foundation, Pat Naughton supplied us with a general “line of development” outline of the sod on which we trod. Alas a gentle pointer as to what might come up in the exam if the hard questions were put was not given. To introduce us to his native place Pat had two trump cards- he knew Adare and he knew us. The place seemed chock-full of places of interest. It was as if the village was laid out for a history lesson. Trealamh on a giant scale- an abbey, friary, Manor House, monuments etc all at hand to make Pat’s job easier. We noted the spots he chose to give us info. His brief words, well chosen and delivered, ensured we did not tire.
In knowing us he knew that Seán O Riada, Bishop Casey, Mercy Sisters would ring bells with our lived experience. Limerick poet and Christian Brother, Gerald Griffin (1803- 1840), allowed mention of Cork’s North Mon. For any who had laboured under severe taskmasters the generous Lords and Ladies Dunraven seemed almost saint like. This robbed Pat’s narrative of pantomime cruel landlords and suffering poor semi-slaves. Well done to the people of Adare for remembering good deeds of the past.
While Pat failed to get us a group invitation to the posh wedding in the Abbey, our visit to the old primary school at the restored Augustinian Friary more than compensated. Our welcome from Eileen and her “duaiseanna” was a special highlight. Our short walk by the Maigue was a welcome surprise. It brought our memorable outing to a close. So enthused were we in unguarded moments, we were just about able to contemplate
“Up Adare!” “Up Limerick!” JP McManus agus Noreen abu!
All in all it was an-sásuil gan aon Ach! Collins Pub rose to our menu selections with distinction.
Much thanks to Pat and all who had a hand in making a very happy visit to Adare possible.
Seán O Callanáin
Go raibh míle maith ag Martin Conroy for the many griangraffanna!
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