Major events were held last week in the east of Donegal celebrating the would-be birthday of the legendary Irish figure Red Hugh O’Donnell.
The celebrations included many a deep-dive into the history of the man, and his activities in the east of the county.
The festivities began in the Diamond, Lifford, with an engaging talk by Mr. 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 town, being the “seat of power for the County of Donegal,” continues to hold great importance, with the headquarters of the County Council located there.
The celebrations then moved to Mongavlin Castle, situated on the banks of the River Foyle near St Johnstown. Mr. 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” then took place at Maggies Tavern in St Johnstown. The tavern’s proprietor, Alice Lynch, warmly welcomed the large crowd, and the Mayor of Donegal, Mr. Martin Harley, officially opened the event. In his address, the Mayor praised the group’s achievements and the day’s program of events. He pledged his continued support in their endeavors, 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.
The evening’s entertainment at Maggies Tavern featured traditional music, song, dance, and storytelling. Members of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann, led by Marcas O Murchu, and the Tyrone-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 Inion Dubh herself, portrayed by Maura Logue, director of Dark Daughter Promotions and Costume Hire. Her performance received a standing ovation from the captivated audience.
A “Hedge School” organized 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.
The group expressed their gratitude to the Mayor of Donegal, Mr. Martin Harley, and the Mayor of the City of Derry and Strabane, Patricia Logue, for their presence and support. Both mayors congratulated the group on their achievements and pledged to continue working closely with them and Donegal County Council to ensure that Red Hugh O’Donnell’s rightful place in Irish history as one of its greatest Chieftains is recognized.
