In glorious autumn sunshine, the parish of Castlemagner celebrated the unveiling of new Commemorative Information Signs dedicated to Lohort Castle in Cecilstown Village on Saturday, 30th October.
This project was spearheaded by Castlemagner Community Development Association (CCDA), to highlight the importance of this historical site and remember the attack that took place at the Castle in 1921 during the War of Independence.
Castlemagner Parish has a rich historical heritage which features the remains of physical structures including castles, early medieval churches built by the Knights Templar, and grand Georgian country houses. The locality is also steeped in rich folklore and historically inspired poetry. The new commemorative information boards tell the fascinating story of Lohort Castle from its origins in the closing years of the 15th century and charts its involvement in political intrigue, royal inquisitions, battles, and the evolution of the site as it underwent development and architectural change as the centuries passed. The boards also detail the attack the Castle endured in 1921 during the War of Independence, when a local branch of the IRA attacked and set the Castle alight which resulted in the upper roof collapsing.
The plaque was unveiled by guests of honour Cllr. Gillian Coughlan, Mayor of the County of Cork and local man Mr. Anthony Cronin. Cllr. Coughlan, who has a keen interest in history, commended the community on the sharing of part of their rich local heritage with visitors and future generations. Anthony Cronin, who is a native of Cecilstown and resides in the townland of Lohort shared memories of his youth growing up near Lohort Castle and his immense pride in his village and locality. He thanked everyone for coming to celebrate and hopes that Lohort Castle will continue to dominate the skyline over Cecilstown for many centuries to come. The Commemorative Information sign and parish was blessed by the Very Reverend Canon Toby Bluitt and The Reverend Meurig Williams.
After the unveiling, refreshments and music were provided from a marquee on the village green. It is the first public event held in the community since restrictions were lifted and neighbours and friends enjoyed chatting over a cup of tea and listening to songs sung by Eileen Tobin and Sheila Fitzgerald. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making the day a sucess.
This project was supported by Cork County Council under the 2021 County Cork Commemorations Grant Scheme. This scheme received significant support from The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.