AN APPEAL has been launched this week seeking information that could unearth some of the secrets of the old Catholic graveyard in Stranorlar.
The Graveyard Committee of Stranorlar Parish is calling on those with knowledge of any unmarked graves in the old burial ground at Chapel Street, to contact them urgently.
Committee member, Jonathan Kelly, told the Donegal News that the old graveyard is part of the heritage of the area with some graves dating as far back as the early 19th century.
“Basically, we want to spark interest in people who know the whereabouts of their own family, friends or neighbours who may be interred in plots with no headstone, cross or name plaque, and want them to contact any of the priests or any member of the committee immediately,” Mr Kelly said.
He added the committee also hope to carefully restore any old headstones or markers that have been damaged over the centuries.
“The Church of Ireland graveyard nearby is like a history museum in itself and is so neat and tidy. Each headstone tells its own story and now, we feel, it is time to restore and preserve our own graveyard too.”
A deadline of April 30 has been set to enable parishioners to make contact with anyone abroad or living in other parts of the country who may know of any unmarked graves.
Following this date, any spare burial space or unmarked graves may be allocated to new burials.
If you, or someone you know, has any knowledge of who is buried in the unmarked graves, please contact any of the priests on 074 9131135 or 074 9131157.
Alternatively, the Graveyard Committee can be contacted by email at jonathanekelly@hotmail.com, gyconnolly@yahoo.com or on any of the following numbers 086 8048948, 086250550 or 0876701682.
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