YoughalOnline.com - Discovering Youghal: A Guide to Ireland's Hidden Gem
By YoughalOnline.com
Nestled within the rolling hills lies the quaint and captivating seaside town of Youghal in Co. Cork, Ireland. A hidden gem, rich in history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, Youghal offers an experience unlike any other.
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YoughalOnline.com - Discovering Youghal: A Guide to Ireland's Hidden GemNov 15, 2022
The Lighthouse Shop: Youghal's Seaside Memories
The legacy of Pop Donovan's Shop by the Youghal Lighthouse, as told by Eilish, Tom Donovan's Daughter, and her friend Kay Donnelly. In the seaside town of Youghal, nestled beside the iconic lighthouse, memories of Pop Donovan's shop linger like the gentle sea breeze. For Kay Donnelly and Eilish Donovan, childhood friends whose roots run deep in this coastal community, the mere mention of the shop opens a floodgate of nostalgia, transporting them to a bygone era when life seemed simpler and the world was painted in vibrant hues. The story begins in 1949 when Eilish's father, Tom Donovan, an industrious civil engineer, undertook the ambitious task of constructing a small shop perched on the cliff face. The architectural marvel stood on sturdy steel girders, giving it an almost ethereal quality as if it were floating on air. Tom Donovan's vision extended beyond a mere shop; he envisioned a space that would become an integral part of the community's fabric. As time passed by, Tom Donovan added extensions to the shop, transforming it into more than just a convenience store. Flats were integrated to accommodate locals, creating a sense of community within the confines of the charming structure. The unheard-of petrol pumps that adorned the front of the shop further solidified its status as a hub for the townsfolk. For Kay and Eilish, the memories are vivid, like a reel of cherished moments captured in time. The sandy beach of the front strand, or the “49 steps” just steps away from the shop, provided the backdrop for carefree strolls and laughter. Pop Donovan's shop was a treasure trove for youngsters eager to embark on sandy adventures, offering colourful buckets and spades that would become essential tools in the creation of countless sandcastles. The shop, a modest yet vibrant emporium, catered to the whims of the locals and tourists alike. Orange drinks and ice cream pops beckoned on warm summer days, providing sweet relief from the sun's rays. In a poignant reflection on a bygone era, Kay and Eilish collaborated on a short film that serves as a tribute to the cherished memories encapsulated within the walls of Pop Donovan's shop. The film captures their animated recollections, weaving a narrative that transcends time. As they share anecdotes and laughter, the vibrant colors of the shop and the joy it once brought to the community come alive on screen. Regrettably, the passage of time has cast its shadow, and Pop Donovan's shop, with all its colour and nostalgia, is no more. The once-bustling hub has yielded to the march of progress, leaving behind only the echoes of laughter and the footprints of those who once wandered in to buy something on their way to the front strand. Yet, through the heartfelt recollections of Kay and Eilish, the spirit of the shop lives on, a testament to the enduring power of shared memories and the indelible mark left by a small, floating shop by the Youghal Lighthouse. Researched and recorded by Michael Hussey in 2023
View on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bq1MB6Hi_tY
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A Historic Night in Conna: Meatloaf Rocks the Castle with Bat Out of Hell
Michael Hussey talks to Tom Finn, one of the organisers of the famous night when Meatloaf played live at Conna Castle, County Cork, Ireland on Saturday 2nd June 1990.
The following is a summary of the Meatloaf concert:
Conna Castle was the venue for a night of rock ‘n’ roll history, as the legendary Meatloaf performed his iconic songs for a thrilled crowd. The concert was a long-awaited event that attracted fans from far and wide to the village.
The organisers did a great job of ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees, providing ample parking space and a strong presence of Gardai. The excitement started early, as Cork band “Thief of Hearts” warmed up the audience with a power-packed show and mesmerising lighting.
At around 12:30 am, the main attraction arrived, as Meatloaf and his band, The Neverland Express, took the stage. The crowd went wild, moving closer to get the best view possible. Some even climbed trees to get a higher vantage point. However, the stage’s height made it hard for those at the very front to see clearly, so it was better to be at least 20 feet back.
The night was a musical feast, featuring Meatloaf’s classic hits, such as the fiery “Bat Out of Hell,” which sent the crowd into a frenzy. Other chart-toppers like “Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad” and “Dead Ringer For Love” had the audience on their feet, singing along and dancing. Meatloaf also showed his versatility by covering the rock ‘n’ roll standard “Johnny B. Goode,” charming the crowd with his charisma.
The concert lasted until 2:00 am on Sunday morning, leaving an unforgettable mark on the hearts of all those who were there. The event was a milestone in Conna’s history, with an estimated attendance of between 3,500 and 4,000 people.
Meatloaf, whose real name is Marvin Lee, became famous in 1975 with his album “Bat Out of Hell.” and continued to achieve massive chart success with Cher on “Dead Ringer For Love.”
Conna Castle hosted various events over the years, becoming a symbol of cultural significance and a gathering place for music lovers.
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Behind the scenes of the making of Moby Dick in Youghal 1954
Behind the scenes of the making of Moby Dick in Youghal, Co Cork, back in 1954. The late projectionist Mikey Roche talks about the filming of 'Moby Dick' and the excitement of Hollywood stars like Gregory Peck, John Huston coming to town. With archive photographs courtesy of The Burke Collection.
Read more: https://www.youghalonline.com/podcast/
Singer-songwriter, poet and storyteller Donovan discusses his early years and why his father named him Donovan
Singer-songwriter, poet and storyteller Donovan discusses his early years growing up in Glasgow, Scotland, and at the tender age of ten moved to England where he took with him and the Irish and Scottish ballads he had learned as a child. He talks of receiving the ‘Honorary Cork People’ award with his wife Linda. The funny story of how he was christened with the name ‘Donovan’ (from an old western movie!)
Donovan said, “There was a revolution going on in the sixties but the main thing was Transcendental Meditation was reintroduced to the world and how he and The Beatles brought that to millions of people. He added “It’s a lifetime responsibility to introduce the gaelic tradition of poetry, music and theatre and radical thought”
Donovan’s repertoire included such classics as Catch the Wind, Sunshine Superman, Jennifer Juniper, Colours, The Hurdy Gurdy Man, Mellow Yellow to name but a few.
Recorded at the Sea Church, Music Venue, Ballycotton, County Cork, on Sunday 1st May 2022.
Listen to more at: https://www.youghalonline.com/podcast/
St Brigid's Day - Customs, Beliefs and Traditions in Youghal, Co. Cork, Ireland.
To celebrate Saint Brigid's Day - Frank Keane, who wrote the book, "St. Raphael's Centre, Youghal - 1904 - 2004" and Michael Hussey talk about the traditions and customs and Beliefs associated with St. Brigid celebrated on the 1st February.
Some topics mentioned in the interview:
- St. Brigid in East Cork
- On the eve of St. Brigid's Day people used to hang the “Brath Bride” or “St Brigid’s Cloak” (a piece of cloth) over the front door of their house, preserve it and use it to aid sick family members and animals during the year
- The Blessing of the Boats: The blessing of the boats at Market Dock on St. Brigid's day - February 1st
- The annual salmon season in Youghal started on St. Brigid’s Day…Fishing families mentioned: Buttimers, Hennessys, Hickeys, Murphy’s, The Nunns, The Roches, The Spuraways.
Hear more at: https://www.youghalonline.com/podcast/
Mike Brooks, Chairman of the Youghal Kathleen and May committee talks with Noel Cronin on Community Radio Youghal about the idea to bring the Kathleen and May schooner back to Youghal harbour.
Mike Brooks, Chairman of the Youghal Kathleen and May committee talks with Noel Cronin on Community Radio Youghal about the idea to bring the Kathleen and May schooner back to Youghal harbour.
We hope you enjoy this show and thanks to Community Radio Youghal for the audio.
Do you agree with what Mike Brooks has to say and is it a good idea to bring the #kathleenandmay ship back home to Youghal?
Hear more at: https://www.youghalonline.com/podcast/
Youghal Business Alliance - Proposals for the future of Youghal
Michael Hussey chat with Ger Flanagan, Chairman of the Youghal Business Alliance (YBA) talking about exciting new ideas and proposals for the town. Some of the proposals discussed are: To bring back the Kathleen and May ship and for her to be permanently based at the Youghal quayside. Ger says “We propose to buy the Kathleen and May and have it permanently moored at a location in Youghal. The ship would be used as a permanent museum and act as a tourist attraction for both outsiders as well as locals.”
Members of the YBA had a meeting with senior figures from Cork County Council at The Regal cinema last Tuesday 13th December 2022 to pitch these ideas.
Other proposals discussed include: The Youghal Marina Project. An Outdoor Activities Hub including a Motorhome and Campervan park located near Aura Swimming Pool. Ashton Court (Loreto Convent) Business Opportunity in Youghal and a Youghal Film and Photo Archive.
Hear more at: https://www.youghalonline.com/podcast/
Youghal Business Alliance launch new promo video of our town with the theme “Shop Local”
The launch took place in the luxurious surroundings of The Regal Cinema at South Main Street on Tuesday evening, 22nd November 2022.
Speaking at the launch, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley said “The promotional video is unbelievable. It’s one of those promotional videos that hits home and reminds people to shop local and to stay local as much as you can. Now more than ever we need to support our own and support the Youghal Business Alliance (YBA) and all the businesses involved. I think it's one of the best promotions to shop locally I have ever seen”
“At Cork County Council level we are inundated with local businesses to promote their businesses. Youghal certainly has a lot to offer. Again this year we will have two Christmas markets in town to encourage people to come to Youghal, stop to have a bite to eat, and enjoy the ambience of the Christmas spirit. The Christmas light switch on is this Saturday 26th November. The Christmas tree lights in the Market square, the reindeers will be lit up at the strand and Greencloyne. Everything will be switched on this Saturday. There is great credit due to the YBA. I attend the meetings regularly and keep the members updated with Cork County Council information such as news about grants and funding available.
Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley continued; “I’m on the main street everyday talking to different business owners and they’ve told me that they are very worried about the New Year. We are all rolling in and trying to stay positive and keep the bright side out come Christmas time - but come January and February, which are lonely months, they are worried about the bills and how they are going to pay their bills coming into 2023. I will have to lobby in my job to make sure that all these business are looked after”
Ger Flanagan, Chairman of the Youghal Business Alliance speaking on the production of the video said; “The promo video was filmed and produced by MacFly Media who did an excellent job. We would like to say thanks to Dara Murphy of the “Youghal Gift Gallery” and “Read and Write'' who put a lot of work behind the scenes in coordinating the people for the film. We felt that this was the right time to do something to promote “Shop Local” for Christmas. We encourage more people to support local businesses. This is the time to support local. We have a lot coming up.”
He said “Cork County Council are doing a big promotion supporting local around the county asking people to support their local towns. Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley has been beating the drum for Youghal over many years. We have the Christmas lights “Switch On'' this Saturday and that will be the start of the Christmas shopping period. Well done to everyone involved and putting Youghal to the forefront and trying to promote the town as best we can”.
This is not the first time the pro-active Youghal Business Alliance have been involved in using new ways to showcase the town. In 2019 they produced a local film called “Recollections” with proceeds of sales going to the local “Youghal Meals on Wheels'' group.
The promo video will be screened at The Regal Cinema before each film and also during the interval. It will also be on all social media platforms including: The Youghal Business Alliance website, Facebook page; the Cork and local radio stations; Community Radio Youghal - CRY104fm; Youtube; the local press, Youghal and Midleton News.
Pictured at the launch are Chris Long, Chris Long Financial Services; Ger Motherway, C.G. Motherway Accountants; Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley; Ger Flanagan, Flanagan Print/ Boardwalk Coffee; Killain Daly, Manager of The Regal Cinema, Youghal and Deirdre O’Sullivan, Carlton Wharf Pre-School, Youghal.
Hear more at: https://www.youghalonline.com/podcast/
Walking the Munster Blackwater - "From Source To Sea - A seven-day journey"
Walking the Munster Blackwater - "From Source To Sea - A seven-day journey"
Bernadette Phillips from Community Radio Youghal, CRY 104FM, interviews author and long-distance walker, Jim O'Malley, at the Immrama Lismore Festival of Travel Writing, in Lismore, Co. Waterford, on Saturday, 18th June 2016.
Jim O'Malley, an environmentalist and long-distance walker, is a native of the Youghal area though domiciled in Kerry since 1980. Jim taught English and Irish in Killorglin, 1980-2007. Since his retirement in 2007 he has fulfilled a longstanding ambition in following the Blackwater from source to sea in 2010.
A seven-day journey, hardly an epic walk, but a memorable experience that has been recorded in his recent book – Walking the Munster Blackwater, Ashfield Press, Nov 2015. While emphasising the historic events that occurred along the course of the river, O'Malley presents the reader with a varied snapshot of the Irish countryside.
Encounters with farmers, B&B personnel, publicans, anglers and others are blended with his love of nature and a deeply-felt concern for the future of the Blackwater.
Interview Content:
0:00 Introduction
0:40 Walking the Blackwater
2:55 Preserving the Landscape
4:45 The Environment
5:40 John Moriarty
6:45 The Blackwater
7:45 John Muir
8:45 Conclusion
Hear more at: https://www.youghalonline.com/podcast/
Ann Neville talks about the amazing life and times, and death, of Youghal man Blessed Dominic Collins.
Ann Neville talk about the amazing life and times, and death, of Youghal man Blessed Dominic Collins, who was executed and martyred at the North Gate, Youghal, on Halloween, 31st, October, 1602.
Every year Ann and local townspeople lay a floral wreath beside the plaque (near Wm. Neville's shop, North Main Street) The commemorative plaque reads the following inscription: "Blessed Dominic Collins, Jesuit Brother, was martyred here at the North Gate on October 31st, 1602"
The month of November is traditionally a time in which the Catholic community remembers those who have died. Ann said she feels the presence of Dominic Collins at this location.
On the 400th anniversary of his martyrdom back in 2002 and since his beatification by Saint John Paul 2 back in 1992 more and more people have recognised the spot as a place to say a prayer or bless themselves as they pass by.
Each year more flowers appear at the spot in the lead up to the 31st October. Ann happily takes care of the flowers by putting them in vases and water.
Hear more at: https://www.youghalonline.com/podcast/
Funeral customs and traditions in Youghal, Co. Cork, Ireland and countryside.
Local historian and author Frankie Keane and Church Sacristan, Liam Ryan, talk with Mick Hussey about the old traditions and customs that went with funerals in times past.
All funerals had to go through the mortuary which is located at the back of St. Mary’s Parish Church. The mortuary was donated by James O Malley, Lieutenant Col in the Bengal Army back in 1909. The corpse remained in the mortuary overnight and mass was said in the morning. The funeral itself would take place in the afternoon. It was the recognised thing that you attend the funeral… and even more important “to be seen” by the relatives at the funeral. The saying was not who attended the funeral but WHO DIDN’T ATTEND!
A time when men had a diamond stitched on the outer sleeve of their jacket and the women would black for 12 months to signify that there was a death in the family.
Well known local names like undertakers Egans, Wallace’s, O’Brien’s, and Guinens - who had the last of the horse drawn carriages. Where Brown habits were worn by the men and Blue for women when laid out.
Visit: https://www.facebook.com/Ireland-Past-and-Present-1696057807275512/