Irish Kennedy Clan Gathering meeting in Midlands this weekend

CALLING All Kennedys!

The annual Gathering of the Irish Kennedys is taking place this year on July 11^th and 12^th.

If you want to join them and catch up with old and new friends, they are meeting in the Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh on Friday July 11^th from 6.30pm.

After informal introductions and greetings, they have arranged a number of addresses and presentations. In the Garden Room, on the ground floor of the hotel, the main focus on Friday night will be on exploring the role of DNA in researching the various branches of the Irish Kennedys and how those who have already had their DNA tested can best use those results to advance their family histories. This discussion will be facilitated by Professor Mark Kennedy, who has devoted a huge amount of time and energy in researching and recording the DNA of Irish Kennedys.

Members and visitors will be able to recount their own DNA investigations and hopefully guide those starting out on their DNA journey.

Those who have followed paper records to discover their Kennedy family history will also be able to share their findings and perhaps discover some previously unknown family connections.

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Tea and light refreshments will be served, while , of course, stronger beverages to accompany relaxed conversation, will be available in the Abbott’s Bar.

On Saturday morning, they will meet at the Heritage Centre, Nenagh at 10.30am. Ger has kindly agreed to facilitate their visitors to view the Irish Kennedy Display, where Phyllis and Pat Kennedy have curated over a thousand years of Kennedy history.

Having had the opportunity to delve into the culture and activities of the Kennedys of Ormond in North Tipperary, they then move across the Shannon from whence they came to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.

Visitors will be able to get a glimpse of life in olden times in Ireland as they stroll around the Folk Park, before they gather in the castle Banqueting Hall at 5.30pm for a medieval feast and lively entertainment.

If you still have reserves of energy on Sunday, and following days, they will provide a menu of places of Kennedy interest that you might like to explore in your own time.

Any or all of these events are open to all comers – you don’t have to be a member of The Irish Kennedy Heritage Group, so, if you’re interested come along or feel free to contact Tom at (087) 6545646 or tom.irishkennedy heritage group@gmail.com .

For more details look up The Irish Kennedys on Facebook or on their website www.Irishkennedyheritagegroup.ie .

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