Large number ofIrish Kennedy Clan gather in North Tipperary

KENNEDYS from home and abroad descended on North Tipperary in early July to retrace the footsteps of their ancestors.

From Laura in her early 20’s to Mary in her early 90’s, they came from all over Ireland and mingled happily with visitors from Australia, UK, USA and Canada. All had one thing in common – an interest in their Irish Kennedy heritage, which in most cases could be traced back to Upper and Lower Ormond in North Tipperary.

So, their first port of call on Saturday was the historic village of Lorrha, where local guide, James Heenan, enlightened them on the important role played by Kennedys there throughout the centuries.

Having been well fortified with a refreshment break in the Scéal Community Shop in Lorrha, it was then on to Lackeen Castle to be met by historian David Broderick who shared his knowledge and research of the Kennedy chiefs who lived there for over 200 years.

Coorevin Farm was next on their travels. Padraig Moran recounted the developments of both Coorevin House and the adjoining farm since his family first came to farm there in the pre-famine 1840’s right up to the present day.

The first day concluded with a chance for all to chat, connect and trace relations in the convivial atmosphere of the Fairgreen Cafe in Borrisokane.

On Sunday they all repaired to Kennedy’s Bar in Rearcross. Here, visitors were treated to an overview of Irish Kennedy DNA project being conducted by Professor Mark Kennedy. Brian Patrick Kennedy and his son Terrence launched their most recent publication “Our Irish Kennedy DNA Roots – Hidden in Plain Sight”.

An entertaining insight on relocating back to Ireland was delivered by two Kennedy couples – Bryan and Lucinda, and Eamon and Kathryn, who have now settled in Tipperary and Sligo respectively having visited here from Victoria, Australia and Seattle, USA. Music and song was provided by a local musician, but long after the music finished, the chat continued as visitors continued to connect to their Irish roots and their Irish Kennedy cousins.

Covid may have hampered holding such gatherings over the past three years, but judging by the huge attendance at their 2023 gathering, interest among the Irish Kennedy Diaspora in researching their ancestral roots in North Tipperary and surrounding counties remains as strong as ever.

For any further information, check out their website irishkennedyheritagegroup.ie

The Irish Kennedys facebook page or contact Tom at (087) 6545646.