As in previous gatherings, this year’s theme involved another famous O’Leary from the past  Jeremiah A. O’Leary (1881-1972) and we were very pleased to have his grandson Stephen Brendan Mischo, who flew in from the States, to give a well-received presentation. Jeremiah O’Leary was an American-born lawyer and activist of the early 20th Century who, against the prevalent views of the then American establishment, campaigned against the USA being drawn into WW1. As a publisher of an anti-British, anti-Wilson satirical journal and as a gifted orator to tens of thousands, Jeremiah O’Leary vigorously fought to keep America out of what he called “England’s War”.  

Stephen provided us with a very detailed analysis of his grandfather’s campaign and resulting trial, describing Jeremiah as the “voice of Ireland’s Spirit in the years leading up to and during WWI.” Stephen was also able to describe the sort of man his grandfather really was- a very determined character who never forgot his Irish roots and stuck firmly to his principles. Stephen also provided the gathering with a large collection of newspaper cuttings and articles contemporaneous with his grandfather, Jeremiah, as well as a very impressive and documented family tree. Thank you, Stephen for a most informative account of a great O’Leary!

On the previous Friday night, we again had the pleasure of Miriam O’Donovan. Her presentation on “The Manuscript Sources for the Flight of the Earls" was most timely as it was 400 years to the day that this famed and tragic Flight began. Her very detailed analysis of those who took part and the conditions of the long and very sad journey was well received by all present with Miriam fielding questions afterward. Thank you, Miriam!

On the Saturday afternoon, after Stephen’s talk, we had the traditional coach journey. Our first stop was to view the Famine pot on display by the bridge at Ballingeary. The irony of our next stop was not lost on those present! Due to the success of the previous year, we once again visited Manning’s Emporium at Ballylickey, Val. Manning did us proud with a mouth-watering spread of various cheeses, meats and breads in his “Taste of West Cork!” Thank you Val!

This was followed by a stop at Carriganass Castle in Kealkill were we were warmly received by Dan. Sullivan who gave us a very humorous account of the history of the castle. Thank you Dan!

On the way home to Inchigeelagh, we briefly stopped at the memorial in Keimaneigh Pass were Peter O’Leary gave us a short account of the “ battle “ that occurred there in 1822. Saturday evening saw the annual O’Leary Dinner at Creedon’s, which included a presentation by Joe Creedon to another Jeremiah O’Leary visiting West Cork.