Features
From Barrack Street in Kilkenny, James Frederick Plunkett saw action in some bitter battles
This week, The Kilkenny Observer looks at the life Of Lieutenant Colonel James Frederick Plunkett, born into a Kilkenny military family, and who was to see war at first hand in many parts of the world. This is part one of a two part series A soldier, man and boy James Plunkett was born into …
In the heart of the community with the Kilkenny Observer
The annual Fr. McGrath ‘Fáilte Isteach’ English Awards, were presented on Wednesday May 25th. This year’s presentation was made by Mayor Andrew McGuinness. The event was attended by an eclectic mix from around the globe – diverse cultures from Africa, Asia, South America and Europe all gathered together, each with their own story to tell. …
Free access to secondary education courtesy of Callan CBS
Coláiste Éamann Rís have just launched a book to celebrate 154 years in Callan County Kilkenny. It is a book chockablock with information, stories and photos that is a must for any former student or indeed those with an interest in the history of Callan. Many former students were asked to contribute an article to …
A passion for Irish Country music sees Johnny Barry receive award from mayor as family and friends celebrate
Irish country music is big news in Ireland. Since the 1960’s , dance halls, marquees and country halls packed out to the sound of such artists as Big Tom, Larry Cunningham, Margo, Susan McCann and Philomena Begley. In more recent years names such as Daniel O Donnell, Foster and Allen Trudi Lawlor and Hugo Duncan …
The seeds of friendship and welcome sown ten years ago continues to grow and bear fruit at the Fr Mc Grath Centre
The Fr McGrath Centre in Kilkenny has come a long way. The one time school in the Butts area of Kilkenny city is now a thriving centre catering for a multitude of needs. St. Canice’s Community Action Ltd (SCCA) is a not for profit registered charity that was originally formed in 1991. It was created …
Bishop Nulty is chief celebrant as altar is consecrated at St Mary’s cathedral
“Ours is but a small contribution to its long history; ours are but some of many prayers that have been, and will continue to be, placed before the Lord in this magnificent place. We shall pass, and generations of people will pass after us, and still these stones and timber will be standing here, an …
Prestigious conducting award is cherry on top as Council Award Civic reception to Violinist Patrick Rafter
The Kilkenny Observer caught up with the multi-talented Patrick Rafter this week and spoke to him of his recent achievements. Patrick Rafter, international award winning violinist is no stranger to accolades and momentous occasions. However, for the Threecastles man and former St Lachtain’s hurler, there have been some recent exciting moments. Patrick was honoured by …
Unmarked pauper graves in Colorado traced to emigrants from Castlecomer and surrounding areas
The story of the Leadville Irish Memorial Leadville, Colorado, at 10,200 Feet in Elevation, is the highest town in North America. It’s also the site of the largest and most politically important Irish immigrant community in the Rocky Mountain West, consisting of approximately 20% of the population during the early 1880s. This working class immigrant …
Main entrance to castle door breached as crowds gather on Parade
In early May 1922, nearly two months prior to the official beginning of the Civil War, Kilkenny anti-Treaty IRA units took over 15 buildings in Kilkenny City, most notably St Canice’s Cathedral and Kilkenny Castle. In this, the final week The Kilkenny Observer in conjunction with Cois Céim take a look at the taking of …
The Woodgate sculpture and its amazing background story
Possibly one of the sculptures that attracts most attention in Kilkenny city is that of Thomas Woodgate, which is situated outside The Kilkenny Courthouse at the Market Yard. Constructed by Kilkenny Company Stapleton Engineering, the story behind the monument is intriguing. The following is a synopsis of the story of Thomas Woodgate. A boy of …
