Apr
19
2009
The first ever Cabra Reunion took place in the Addison Lodge in Glasnevin, Dublin on the 17th April 2009. People travelled from Australia, New Zealand, America, England, South Africa, various parts of Ireland and of course Dublin to be there for this great historic occasion. The evening got off to a great start as family and friends arrived at the venue. Shrieks of laughter, joy and surprise were very audible throughout the night as each new guest arrived. The athmosphere was electric. Martin Coffey welcomed everyone out and thanked them for their attendance and support. He then read out several email telegrams that had been received over the past few days from those who were unable to attend and wished to send their regards. Shouts of good cheer and applause arose as each telegram was read out, especially from the O’Neill Clan when the name of their sister Jo was mentioned. Jimmy Rogers was introduced and began to recite one of his epic poems about the Rock n’ Roll years of his youth. Then most people settled down to the more serious business of catching up with old friends, neighbours and family. The chat was almighty and the buzz was electric. Photographs were introduced at one table, a school certificate at another and stories galore circulated throughout the function room. Some people purchased the latest copy of Martin’s new book, ‘A Time to remember’. A big ‘Thank You’ to Ambrose O’Shea who managed to get the Cabra Reunion night a mention in the Evening Herald. A reporter from the Irish Times arrived on the scene and promised a great write up on the night. As the evening moved on a sing song arose to the delight of most people. It was great to see people circulating around, chatting and laughing with each other. Everyone worked together to ensure a great time was had by all. A big thank you to each and every person that attended, to those who sent emails of congratulation and encouragement and especially to the team of young ladies that helped out with the badges, books and photography.
Apr
18
2009
Cabra History Book Launch
(Click on photo to enlarge)
The launching of the book took place in the Addison Lodge, Glasnevin on Thursday 16th April 2009. There was over 80 people in attendance. The evening was opened by John Hannon who welcomed everyone to the launch and thanked the management and staff of the Addison Lodge for their assistance and co-operation in helping to arrange the venue. The author Martin Coffey then spoke on the original concept of the book and the great source of strength and encouragement he had received from all those who had submitted photographs and stories to the original project. Mr. Gerry Walsh K.S.G. officially launched the book. He spoke of his long association with the Coffey family and his many visit to Cabra West. His wife’s family originally lived in Old Cabra. Gerry complimented those people who are now the guardians of their family photographs and stories for keeping them safe and for sharing them with a greater audience through the Cabra History.Com website and the book ‘A Time to Remember’. Family and friends from far and near turned out to support the author and to purchase a signed copy of the book. Countries represented were Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, England, America and Ireland. Thank you to everyone at home and abroad for their great support and encouragement for the auther Martin Coffey. Without your photographs and stories this book would not have been possible. Treasure this book as a family heirloom and one that you can be proud to pass on to future generations of your family…MC
Apr
07
2009
Danny O’Callaghan
Death Notice
It is with the saddest of regrets that I pass on the following information. Danny O’ Callaghan who was a regular follower of the Cabra History.Com website has sadly passed away. Danny recently donated a large collection of his family photographs to the website. Many people will have known Danny not only through his input to the site but also personally from over the years. My first impression on meeting Danny was one of a very humble and sincere man who had a great love for his family and his connection with Cabra West. He spoke proudly of the active role he played as a young lad in ambushing the peas and strawberries being towed by tractor on their way to Bachelors factory. He spoke fondly of his parents and how they brought up their children through hard times. When I last spoke with Danny he was so excited at the prospect of attending my upcoming book launch and Cabra reunion nights. He had volunteered to be my main usher on both nights. I have no doubt but Danny will be with us on both occasions in spirit. Danny O’Callaghan was one of Cabra’s gentle giants and he will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. On behalf of the people of the Cabra History.Com website I would like to take this opportunity to extend our condolences to his family.
The first ever Cabra Reunion took place in the Addison Lodge in Glasnevin, Dublin on the 17th April 2009. People travelled from Australia, New Zealand, America, England, South Africa, various parts of Ireland and of course Dublin to be there for this great historic occasion. The evening got off to a great start as family and friends arrived at the venue. Shrieks of laughter, joy and surprise were very audible throughout the night as each new guest arrived. The athmosphere was electric. Martin Coffey welcomed everyone out and thanked them for their attendance and support. He then read out several email telegrams that had been received over the past few days from those who were unable to attend and wished to send their regards. Shouts of good cheer and applause arose as each telegram was read out, especially from the O’Neill Clan when the name of their sister Jo was mentioned. Jimmy Rogers was introduced and began to recite one of his epic poems about the Rock n’ Roll years of his youth. Then most people settled down to the more serious business of catching up with old friends, neighbours and family. The chat was almighty and the buzz was electric. Photographs were introduced at one table, a school certificate at another and stories galore circulated throughout the function room. Some people purchased the latest copy of Martin’s new book, ‘A Time to remember’. A big ‘Thank You’ to Ambrose O’Shea who managed to get the Cabra Reunion night a mention in the Evening Herald. A reporter from the Irish Times arrived on the scene and promised a great write up on the night. As the evening moved on a sing song arose to the delight of most people. It was great to see people circulating around, chatting and laughing with each other. Everyone worked together to ensure a great time was had by all. A big thank you to each and every person that attended, to those who sent emails of congratulation and encouragement and especially to the team of young ladies that helped out with the badges, books and photography.
Dublin
13°