Gallaghers go Gaelic in Gortahork – Gathering of the Gallaghers in Gortahork
A very large crowd gathered on Friday night in Óstán Loch Altan Hotel, Gortahork, for a memorable evening celebrating the Gallaghers of North West Donegal. A dedicated local committee (see photograph) worked hard to organise an outstanding programme of cultural and historical events.
West Donegal Gaeltacht Committee
Noel Johnny Sheáin Ó Gallchóir, Master of Ceremonies for the evening, opened proceedings by introducing Gearóid Ó Maonaigh, Séamus Ó Cuireáín, and Treasa Ní Chaomhanaigh, who gave a wonderful exhibition of traditional music.
Later in the evening, the audience was treated to performances by singers Connie Mhary Mhicí Ó Gallchóir from Rann na Feirste and Anna Ní Ghallchóir from Arranmore Island.
The Gallagher Clan Organisation
Fr. Seán Ó Gallchóir, Chairperson of the Gallagher Clan, addressed the gathering and outlined the aims and work of the organisation. He explained that the Clan’s purpose was to collect, conserve, and celebrate Gallagher heritage and culture.
Founded in 2005, the Clan had already held an event in Letterkenny in February 2006 and was preparing for a worldwide gathering in September 2007. While the Gathering would be based in Letterkenny, it would involve all areas of County Donegal.
Fr. Seán encouraged those present to assist by promoting the Clan’s aims within their own families and by volunteering to support the committee in any way they could. The evening, he said, was intended as an introduction to the rich Gallagher heritage, which includes strong representation in church life and sport worldwide.
Poetry, Dance, and Performance
Collette Ní Ghallchóir and Annie John Ní Ghallchóir recited a number of their own compositions, while Síle B. Ní Ghallchóir recited a piece composed by Seán Mac Cumhaill about the famous Fr. McFadden of Gweedore.
A local dance troupe brought the house down with a powerful performance worthy of Riverdance or Lord of the Dance. Two younger members of the community also performed, demonstrating that the tradition of dance is in safe hands for the future.
Gallagher Roots in Cloughaneely
The history and roots of the Gallaghers in Cloughaneely were explored by Barnaí Ó Gallchóir, who discussed their earliest appearances, references in historical sources, and concluded with a series of fascinating statistical comparisons.
Gallaghers of Gweedore – DVD Screening
The audience was treated to the first screening of a DVD on the Gallaghers of Gweedore, produced by Dónal Ó Gallchóir and Máire Ní Chnáimhsí, with assistance from Acadamh na hOllscoile.
The film illustrated how Gallaghers are closely intertwined with nearly all the notable families of the Gweedore area.
Paddy the Cope – A Life and Legacy
The formal programme concluded with a talk by Patrick Boner from Ailt an Chorráin, entitled “Paddy the Cope – His Life and Influence.”
He described how Paddy the Cope Gallagher, starting from modest beginnings, transformed the economy of North West Donegal, at one point employing over 300 people. His business methods, Patrick noted, have been studied worldwide.
Closing and Acknowledgements
Formal proceedings gave way to lively discussion and debate late into the night, as attendees explored their own Gallagher heritage and that of others present.
The organising committee expressed sincere thanks to all who helped make the evening such a success, especially Joe Gallagher, proprietor of Óstán Loch Altan Hotel.