by Kate Heaney
HUNDREDS of people turned out to mark the 451st birthday of Donegal’s last great chieftain, Red Hugh O’Donnell at the weekend.
Visiting his former home in Mongalvin Castle and enjoying craic agus ceol, those in attendance also heard lectures on the historic importance of the O’Donnell family through time.
Organiser Eddie Crawford described the weekend’s events as “a resounding success”.
The importance of the events in Lifford and at the castle ruins was marked by the attendance of Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Martin Harley, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane, Patricia Logue, the CEO of Donegal County Council, John McLaughlin, national and local politicians and prominent historians.
Festivities kicked off in the Diamond in Lifford with an engaging talk by Tomas O’Brogan on the town’s history.
He delved into the development of the town around the castle built by Red Hugh’s great grandfather, Manus O’Donnell, who was the Chief of Tyrconnell at the time. Mr O’Brogan also highlighted how Manus O’Donnell wrote the Life Of Colmcille while residing in Lifford.
The celebrations then moved to Mongavlin Castle, situated on the banks of the river Foyle near St Johnstown. Eddie Crawford, the Irish representative for the international voluntary group RHOD, provided a fascinating account of the castle’s history.
He discussed its strategic significance in various battles involving the O’Donnell clan, the castle’s occupation during the Plantation of Ulster, and even King James II’s visit to the castle on his way to the Siege of Derry in 1690.
The official opening of “Seomra Aoidh Ruaidh” took place at Maggie’s Tavern in St Johnstown where Mayor Harley officiated praising the group’s achievements and the day’s program of events.
He pledged his continued support in their endeavours, which include twinning the towns of Simancas and Lifford, where Red Hugh was born and died, and erecting a statue of Red Hugh O’Donnell in both locations simultaneously.
Other entertainment included traditional music, song, dance, and storytelling. Members of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, led by Marcas O Murchu, and the Strabane-based group CRAIC provided captivating performances.
Local Irish dancers and the Donegal Dancers also showcased their talent.
The highlight of the evening was a surprise visit by Iníon Dubh herself, portrayed by Maura Logue. Her performance received a standing ovation from the captivated audience.
A Hedge School organised by History Ireland brought together a panel of local and national historians to discuss and record Red Hugh’s life and his association with Chieftain Hugh O’Neill of Tyrone during the Nine Years War against the English.
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