Colaiste Connacht Back to www.tourmakeady.com
A century ago something new in the revival of Irish started with the setting up of Coláiste Chonnacht in Tourmakeady. The Gaelic League, under the direction of Dr Douglas Hyde and with the assistance of clergy, teachers, businesses and professional people from the west of Ireland, had been looking for a suitable location to set up an Irish Summer college. The then Archbishop of Tuam, Dr John Healy gave permission to the parish priest Father James Corbett to lease the old presbytery at Mount Partry (Tourmakeady), the parish priest having changed his residence to Partry. The Gaelic League wished to buy the premises, but the bishop, wishing to maintain control, would not sell so the site and buildings were given rent free on the condition that a poor student would be taken rent free each year.
Micheál Breathnach from Cois Fharraige was the first Ard Ollamh. He was a distinguished scholar and a leader with new ideas, ideas that were shared by many others. He saw the preservation of our language and culture as being essential to our emergence as a nation. His opinions were shared by Patrick Pearse, who was very much involved in setting up teaching standards and was in charge of examinations. In an address to the earlier students he said, "Is féidir leis an tíoránach sglábhaidhe a dhéanadh d'ár gcuirp, ach ní féidir leis sclábhaidhe a dhéanamh d'ár dtoil. Sin é, muna nghéillimíd ár dtoil a thabhaiort do. Agus más é toil mhuinntir na hÉireann a bheadh saor gaedhealach, ní féidir le náimhde ar bith gcoinneál gallda nó í ngéibhinn." (A tyrant can enslave our bodies but he cannot enslave our minds unless we allow him to do so. If the people of Ireland have a will to be Gaelic and free, they can never be enslaved. )
Coláiste Chonnacht was recognised by the British board of education as a training College for teachers and others to qualify to teach Irish in the certificate course and to teach through the medium of Irish in the bilingual course. As far as teaching methods and standards were concerned Tourmakeady college were way beyond their time and brought language teachers and scholars from England, Europe and America. Coláiste Chonnacht was a working holiday camp. Conditions were somewhat primitive, but morale was high. Much of the teaching was out of doors, on the shores of Lough Mask and the slopes of the Partry Mountains. The Seilig became a new word; it meant a working picnic at the waterfall. Most of the local people in Tourmakeady were delighted at the new arrivals.
Heretofore any employment or source of income was mostly reserved for people brought in by the landlords and their successors. Now there was a demand for Irish speaking households to keep the students. As one student in an article in The Catholic Bulletin wrote "All the farmers in the neighbourhood open their hospitable doors to the students. The whole district becomes a kind of residential university." The directors of the college had great praise for the Mná Tíghe, all fluent in Irish, who took part in céiles, concerts and dances in their houses. It was obvious that the Irish language was all round them and according to Archbishop Healy's biographer, "The industrious peasantry are wells of Irish Undefiled." Everyone was a teacher and the students taught each other. That was how things were in Tourmakeady at the start of the twentieth century.
Christened "Clíabhán Chonnradh na Gaéilge" by Dr Douglas Hyde, later to be first President of Ireland. Coláiste Chonnacht was disowned by the Gaelic League after a dispute arose with Archbishop Healy over the appointment of a successor to Micheál Breathnach who died during the 1908 course. Padhraig Ó Domhnallain the then assistant principal carried on for the remainder of the year. Mícheál and Pádhraig had been lifelong friends and it was Mícheál's wish that Padhraig would succeed him. However, the Gaelic League in Dublin appointed Dr Mc Enri to the position. Archbishop Healy would not accept this and insisted that Padhraig Ó Domhnallain be appointed and so the schism began.
In 1909 Coláiste Chonnacht was opened in Spiddal, with Dr Mc Enri as director. Tourmakeady, as far as the Connradh was concerned, had ceased to exist. Tourmakeady College flourished however and perhaps, because of the dispute, the British board of education gave more status to Tourmakeady graduates and until l921 the numbers of students continued to grow. Gradually however the pattern of student changed from that of qualified teachers to younger pupils. Coláiste Chonnacht was administered first by Mayo Co. Council and later by Vocational Committees. The student's enthusiasm to learn Irish was more than matched by the eagerness of the younger local people to learn English and it became noticeable that the houses who kept students were the best English speakers.
What in 1905 was a vibrant Irish speaking community had gradually changed. Many of the people who fought the landlords and were evicted to the mountains would have been the cultural leaders, they had already gone, there was nothing to keep them here. With very little local employment and holdings too small to support families emigration became widespread. The young people went off to England and America. Whole families followed and many houses were closed up.
As might be expected Irish speaking families were the first to go. In the opinion of the authorities, the level of Irish in Tourmakeady did not merit an Irish college. Eventually it was decided to close down the college and establish a knitwear factory in its place. In commemorating the centenary of Coláiste Chonnacht we are asking families and friends of those people who attended Coláiste Chonnacht to contact Oidhreacht Thuar Mhic Éadaigh to join in remembering and celebrating those golden years in our history. A website will be opened shortly on www.tourmakeady.com to make available all the information that we have acquired up to now, and we invite people who have letters, writings and other memorabilia to contact us at eolas@tourmakeady.com
Mayo News, Saturday January 7th 1905
LANGAUGE REVIVAL
CONNACHT IRISH SCHOOL
MEETING OF THE COMMITTEE
A meeting of the Committee of the above School was held at the residence of His Grace the Archbishop of Tuam on Friday, the Most Rev Dr Healy in the chair. Members present - Mrs Costello, Father Corbett, P.P. Partry, Father Crehan, C.C. Riverstown, Father Macken, Ballymote and Mr J A Glynn, Hon Sec. Letters of apology were read from Dr Hyde, Monsignor O'Hara and Mr Edward Martyn. Dr Hyde wrote that Professor Kuno Meyer had asked that the proposed name "Connacht School of Irish Learning" be changed as it might be confounded with the School of Irish learning in Dublin. It was decided to call the school "Sliabh Páirtr Irish School". His Grace the Archbishop undertook to lend the £150 necessary to purchase the house at Mount Partry and the meeting of delegates of the Connaught Branches of the Gaelic League held in Claremorris on September 12th decided on it as the most suitable site for the school. Father Corbett stated that everyone, children included, in the district spoke Irish fluently. After some discussion the following preliminary programme was adopted -
1 The school to open from June 15th to Sept 15th in each year
2 Two courses of six weeks' duration to be given - one beginning on June 15th and the 2nd on August 1st.
3 The School to be under the charge of one principal teacher and assistants whose number and remuneration is to be fixed later on.
4 The programme of instruction to consist of
a) A course of instruction in the best methods of teaching Irish
b) A course of instruction in the Irish Language and Literature
Both courses to run concurrently, but at such hours as will enable any pupil so wishing to attend all the classes and lectures.
5 The fees for the six weeks' course to be £2.2s payable in advance; but any pupil so wishing to be allowed without further payment to take the full three month tuition. Gaelic League branches subscribing at least £1.1s to the funds of the school to have the right to nominate for each £1.1s so subscribed a pupil on payment by the branch or nominated pupil of £1.1s,
6 Details of the course and conditions on which certificates of efficiency will be granted to be settled when the principal teacher shall have been appointed.
7 An advertisement to be issued for principal teacher, at a salary of £20 a month for three months.
Father Corbett undertook to prepare a list of houses in the district where suitable accommodation could be obtained on most reasonable terms. No houses to be put in the list save those where all the inmates spoke Irish as the home language. All subscriptions towards the funds of the School, to establish which at least £300 will be required, should be sent to any member of the Committee, or to Mr J A Glynn, Hon. Secretary and Treasurer, Branch House, Tuam. The Committee will also be glad to receive gifts of suitable books to form the nucleus of a library for the School.
Mayo News, Saturday May 6th 1905
CONNACHT IRISH SCHOOL AT MOUNT PARTRY, CO. MAYO. We have been favoured with a copy of the Prospectus of the Connacht School of Irish Learning:- The College is beautifully situate at the foot of Mount Partry, a distance of about ten miles from Ballinrobe Railway Station. The place is renowned for its scenery and presents a magnificent panorama of mountain, lake and woodland. From the very door of the College may be obtained an admirable view of the scenic views of Lough Mask along whose wooded shores and islands may be seen many ancient castles and monasteries and even the Royal residence of King Roderic O'Connor. No more
delightful spot could be chosen for a summer holiday.
It offers special facilities for teaching Irish and also the best means of teaching the language.
Mr Walsh is an admirable teacher and has been for many years an earnest worker in the Language Movement in London. He is acquainted with the Berlitz and Gourin methods of teaching languages and he is most anxious to devote his energies to the task.
The College will be open for ladies and gentlemen. A number of spacious residences have been recently erected in the locality and suitable lodgings can be obtained by applying to the Rev James Corbett P.P. Partry, Co. Mayo.
The Archbishop, the other members of the Committee, as well as many other warm supporters will spare no pains to make the Irish College a complete success and they earnestly hope the project will place the Language Movement in the West on solid and enduring foundations.
Funds will be necessary to carry out this noble work and they beg to appeal for subscriptions to all who love their native country and their native language
Mayo News, June 24th 1905
The Connacht Irish Training College. To The Editor Mayo News Tuam 18th June 1905 Dear Sir:- The Committee of the above College would feel obliged if you would publish the subjoined list of subscriptions to their funds. The College was opened on the 15th inst under most favourable circumstances and we expect to have a large attendance of students for both courses of instruction. Although the response to our appeal was generous, still the committee expected more support from Connacht abd we trust that the well wishers of the western Irish Training College will help us. The expenses are very heavy and as much depends on a successful first year, we have expended a large sun in fittings and general improvements, besides making ourselves responsible for still larger sums for salaries &c. A prompt and generous response to our appeal will ensure the success for which we are striving. Yours faithfully
Joseph A. Glynn,
Hon.Sec. and Treasurer.
List of Subscriptions.
£ s d
Mr. O'Heneghan, Seattle, Washington 5 0 0
W.J.Bigger 5 0 0
Roger Casement, Esq. 5 0 0
Castlebar Branch 3 3 0
Tuam Branch 3 3 0
Premium on "Life of St. Patrick per
Redemptorist Fathers, Esker. 3 7 6
Rev James Corbett, P.P. Partry 3 0 0
Major Berry, per Rodger Casement 3 0 0
Dr. Kuno Meyer 2 0 0
Mac Hale branch 2 2 0
J.P.Henry, M.D. London 2 2 0
Dr Tuohy, Dublin 2 2 0
Dr. Cox, Dublin. 2 2 0
John Gore, Solicitor, Dublin. 2 2 0
Kiltimagh Branch, per M.J.O'Doherty 2 2 0
Dr. Donnellan, Castlerea 2 0 0
Wm O'Brien, M.P. 2 0 0
J.A.Glynn, Tuam 1 1 0
Headford Branch 1 1 0
M.T. Quigley, Ballymote, 1 1 0
Ballymote Branch 1 1 0
W.F.D.Ward, Rathmines 1 1 1
M.O'Finn Rathmines 1 1 1
T.B.Costello M.D. Tuam 1 1 0
C.O'L Maguire M.D. Tuam 1 1 0
Claremorris Branch 1 1 0
J. Delaney, Sundays Ave. Cork 1 1 0
Miss A. O'Farrelly, Dublin 1 1 0
Arigna Coal Mine Employees 1 12 6
Rev. P Griffith C.S.S.R Dundalk 1 0 0
M. Deacon, Belfast, 1 1 0
P.O'Malley, G.L. Organiser 1 0 0
P.H.Pearse, Dublin 1 0 0
A.J. Crichton Carrogarry 1 0 0
Rev. B.J. Crehan C.C. Riverstown 1 0 0
Sligo Branch 1 0 0
Major Mc Bride Westport 1 0 0
Rev. P. McGirr C.C. Ballindine 1 0 0
Rev. M. Healy, C.C. Ballinrobe 1 0 0
Owen McDermott J.P. 1 0 0
Dr King Joyce 1 0 0
Rev. H.J. White, C.M. Philadelphia 1 0 0
Rev.- Morrin, C.C. Partry 1 0 0
Rev. A.J. Considine C.C. Galway 1 0 0
Gort National Teachers Association 12 0
Rev J. Mc Dermott Castlerea 10 0
T. Mc Hugh Tuam 10 0
Father Hynes, Sligo 10 0
P. Healy, Templebar 10 0
P. Disken, Derrew N.S. 10 0
M. O'Boyle, Dublin 10 0
P O'Daly Gaelic League, Dublin 10 0
S.J. Barrett, Gaelic League, Dublin 10 0
Miss K. Murphy, Merrion, Dublin 10 0
Rev F. MacInerney, C.C. Dublin. 10 0
Very Rev. Fr Nevin C.P. Dublin 10 0
Michael Delaney, Ballyhaunis 10 0
Una Tolan, Aran 10 0
W. Mc Dermatt, Dublin 7 6
Mayo News, July 22nd 1905
CONNACHT IRISH SCHOOL From the " Irish Independent"
A great work has been accomplished in the West. Within the kindly embraces of the Sliabh Pairtri Mountains an Irish school and training college has been established. And indeed the place is in every way worthy of the noble achievement. On the heights of these mountains and among their smiling slopes, the spirit of Gaeldom is still of the lustiness of youth. The devastating fires of the stranger have been swept back. These mountains have guarded their precious treasure with the jealousy of a fond mother and now Gaels will flock from all parts to drink deeply of the pure, sweet fountain within their breasts. POSITION OF THE COLLEGE The college stands on a proud eminence overlooking Lough Mask. The wavelets almost kiss its very portals. From the windows of the college the eye wanders far and wideover a scene of bewildering beauty. There in front is Carraig Meadhon Loch. Here on the right is the wooded island of Devenish.
Out beyond, Castle Hag rears its hoary head from among a mass of foliage. Further on, the saintly island of Inishmaine and the kingly island of Inishowen. There is the mound where King Eochaidh has slept his sleep ov 3,000 years. The Battle of Moytura has passed away; but Carn Eochaidh, nor its silent sleeper shall not pass away. Far away to the right is the well-preserved ruin of Lough Mask Castle. It, too, has had its storied past And beyond this varied scene of wood and lake and ancient pile, the spire of the Catholic Church of Ballinrobe stands out clear against the blue heavens.
GOING TO COLLEGE Travelling by road from Ballinrobe Railway Station to the college is about a distance of ten miles. The scenery is pleasing. You spin along - presuming you cycle - past verdant woodlands, with the songs of birds in your ears (woodlands are never without choristers), and the sparks of laughing waters in your eyes.; through bleak brown moorlands. You drive down steep inclines and rush past avenues of shady trees. All along, the eternal hills are beconing you on. IN A BOAT But the trip is dry, dull, uninteresring, uninviting compared with a haul in a boat across Lough Mask.
From Cushlough Bay the distance across is less than a league. The kindly, hospitable dwellers by the lake never refuse a boat and a pair of oars. In fact, boats always lie in readiness in the bay. They are there as an earnest of the hospitality of the natives, whose "dwellings are open as day and the hearts of the owners.) So in we step and off we pull, leaving the storied past behind us. On and on we steer our little craft with scarce a ripple on the blue waters. A long, long pull, and a strong ,strong pull and now
-steady, back water, as we guide our steady craft into a quiet little nook. Off we step, within a few hundred yards of the Connacht Irish School.
HISTORIC RUINS In our little boat we have swept past scenes which carry the mind back to the dim, misty ages of early tradition - ground which has been consecrated by the blood of warriors and by footprints of saints.
Off to the south lie the mounds and pillar - stones which point out the battle ground of South Moytura.
There, the mystic De Danaan exulted in his victory ere he betook himself to fort and liss to hold his midnight revels, and play his pranks on belated travellers. Beneath that ancient monument rest the bones of the Firbolg King, Eochaidh, who fell on the third day of the battle. Besise it is Dún Eoghan, where lived Eoghan,the King of Connacht, during the early part of the sixth century. This Eoghan was great grandson of Dathi, who was stricken by elements. He himself fell in battle against the men of the North. There is Lough Mask Castle, the silent sentinel of the battle plain.
RELIGIOUS REMAINS But the echoes have awakened to thher than the clash of steel and the din of the battle axe. The toll of the matin and the subdued hum of prayer have often winged their way over the waste of waters. Close at hand is the Abbey of Inishmaine, an example of Irish - Romanesque style of building. One cannot but admire the delicate tracery and the beautiful ornamentation displayed in this grand specimen of our early Irish architecture.
PLAN OF WORK But in our contemplation of the past we must not lose sight of the vital importance of utilising the present to the best advantage. Glancing at the prospectus, we learn that the Connacht Irish School has been established for "the training of teachers and the teaching of Irish". The programme of studies im the College should be graduated to meet the requirements of all grades of students. A special time shall be devoted to lessons illustrative of the best methods of teaching Irish, at which all grades of students may be present. These lessons shall be conducted chiefly on Modh Direach lines. So that the greatest possible facilities are afforded to all.
AN ARCHBISHOP'S BLESSING Speaking at the Mayo Feis, which was held early in June, his Grace the Archbishop of Tuam made more that a passing reference to the Connacht Irish School. Its establishment was an epoch - marking event in Irish education. He paid a worthy tribute to the efforts of the Gaelic League. He expressed the earnest desire that all teachers of the Archdiocese who have not already qualified to teach Irish, would now avail themselves of the excellent opportunity afforded them. He remarked, moreover, that he should in future give preference to teachers so qualified. Teachers who attent the coming session -which opens on 1st August- with even a very meagre knowledge of the language, will, by the end of six weeks, have laid a very substantial foundation. The very atmosphere is saturated with the language.
MICHAEL BREATHNACH The selection of teacher speaks eloquently of the judgment of the College Committee. As a writer of modern Irish, Micheal Breathnach tokes a foremost place. As "Cois Fharraige" he has made the acquaintance of hosts of Irish readers. He is at present engaged on a translation of Kickhams " Knocknagow". During his connection with the London Gaelic League he has had several facilities for observing the different methods of language teaching. He is aquainted with the Berlitz and Gouin methods as applied to modern languages. Moreover ha has had the advantage of seeing these methods put into actual practice on the Continent, where bi-lingual teaching is carried out in schools. He bribgs to his task the wisdom of experience combined with a mastery of his subject. Nor does he lack in energy and enthusiasm. He has all the traits and all the gifts of a successful teacher.
ACCOMMODATION FOR STUDENTS From the prospectus we learn that a number of spacious residences have been recently erected in the vicinity of the College. All particulars respecting this and other matters may be obtained from the local manager the Rev James Corbett, P P, Partry, Co. Mayo.
Mayo News, September 16th 1905
CONNACHT IRISH SCHOOL.
INTERESTING LECTURE BY MRS A. S. GREEN
Last week Mrs A. Stopford Green, wife of the famous English historian, delivered a lecture at the Connacht Irish School on "Irish Civilisation in the 16th Century." She gave an interesting description of the industrial and commercial life of Ireland before the destructive Elizabethan wars. The fifteenth and sixteenth centuries are amongst the most interesting as far as Irish literature are concerned, not only for the original poets of the time. But for the valuable work done in the schools of Ireland in copying the laws, history and tribal boundaries of the Irish People. As the pressure of the English invaders was felt the Irish sought more diligently to preserve the records of their own civilisation. In the Tudor wars Ireland may be said to be roughly marked into three divisions - the Pale, then narrowed to Dublin and the counties around it for about thirty miles; the Borderland of constant war, which stretched over Meath, South Wexford and Wicklow, and the Irish country beyond the Pale.
The Pale was English to be sure and its capital was called Irish or Young London. The borderland was torn with disputes and quarrels. - a state of things not to be wondered at, for the people would not give up their land to the stranger without a struggle. The Irish country people preserved ancient civilisation and were thriving and prosperous. The people were skilled in commerce and seamanship, in agriculture, in handicrafts, in science, in the manufacture of wool, leather and linen, in joinery, in gold and silver ornaments, as well as in war. The strong cloth sent to the Low Countries was cheaper and more durable than any to be bought elsewhere and the fine serge of Ireland was used in the court of Naples, while fashionable English courtiers gave to one another as valuable gifts, the cloaks of Limerick and Galway The Shannon was covered with ships and the harbours of the West and South now left desolate were in the days of Irish supremacy filled with busy fleets. Let us learn a lesson even late Let us put our country over and above any other consideration except our creator.
Let us understand the past that we may be encouraged to restore Irish industries and commerce. Let us labour to become what our forefathers were, and renew their great fame for learning and enterprise.
Mayo News, November 4th 1905
MOUNT PARTRY IRISH TRAINING COLLEGE. The election of teachers representative on the committee of Mount Partry Irish Training College, came off on the 28th October. Notwithstanding the uninviting appearance of the morning, the meeting, which was held at Ryans Hotel, Claremorris, was well attended and it cannot be denied the character uf being representative of the Province, as the list of deligates shown below will go to show. On the motion of Mr T.J. Cassidy, seconded by Mr P. Egan, Mr Heneghan, principal of Claremorris N.S. was moved to the chair. Mr Mc Hugh said he supposed it was understood that the undersighed was expected to continue to discharge the duty of Secretary to which he was appointer on the 15th August, and no one gainsaid. The delegates present evinced a lively interest in the election.
Micheál Breathnach from Cois Fharraige was the first Ard Ollamh. He was a distinguished scholar and a leader with new ideas, ideas that were shared by many others. He saw the preservation of our language and culture as being essential to our emergence as a nation. His opinions were shared by Patrick Pearse, who was very much involved in setting up teaching standards and was in charge of examinations. In an address to the earlier students he said, "Is féidir leis an tíoránach sglábhaidhe a dhéanadh d'ár gcuirp, ach ní féidir leis sclábhaidhe a dhéanamh d'ár dtoil. Sin é, muna nghéillimíd ár dtoil a thabhaiort do. Agus más é toil mhuinntir na hÉireann a bheadh saor gaedhealach, ní féidir le náimhde ar bith gcoinneál gallda nó í ngéibhinn." (A tyrant can enslave our bodies but he cannot enslave our minds unless we allow him to do so. If the people of Ireland have a will to be Gaelic and free, they can never be enslaved. )
Coláiste Chonnacht was recognised by the British board of education as a training College for teachers and others to qualify to teach Irish in the certificate course and to teach through the medium of Irish in the bilingual course. As far as teaching methods and standards were concerned Tourmakeady college were way beyond their time and brought language teachers and scholars from England, Europe and America. Coláiste Chonnacht was a working holiday camp. Conditions were somewhat primitive, but morale was high. Much of the teaching was out of doors, on the shores of Lough Mask and the slopes of the Partry Mountains. The Seilig became a new word; it meant a working picnic at the waterfall. Most of the local people in Tourmakeady were delighted at the new arrivals.
Heretofore any employment or source of income was mostly reserved for people brought in by the landlords and their successors. Now there was a demand for Irish speaking households to keep the students. As one student in an article in The Catholic Bulletin wrote "All the farmers in the neighbourhood open their hospitable doors to the students. The whole district becomes a kind of residential university." The directors of the college had great praise for the Mná Tíghe, all fluent in Irish, who took part in céiles, concerts and dances in their houses. It was obvious that the Irish language was all round them and according to Archbishop Healy's biographer, "The industrious peasantry are wells of Irish Undefiled." Everyone was a teacher and the students taught each other. That was how things were in Tourmakeady at the start of the twentieth century.
Christened "Clíabhán Chonnradh na Gaéilge" by Dr Douglas Hyde, later to be first President of Ireland. Coláiste Chonnacht was disowned by the Gaelic League after a dispute arose with Archbishop Healy over the appointment of a successor to Micheál Breathnach who died during the 1908 course. Padhraig Ó Domhnallain the then assistant principal carried on for the remainder of the year. Mícheál and Pádhraig had been lifelong friends and it was Mícheál's wish that Padhraig would succeed him. However, the Gaelic League in Dublin appointed Dr Mc Enri to the position. Archbishop Healy would not accept this and insisted that Padhraig Ó Domhnallain be appointed and so the schism began.
In 1909 Coláiste Chonnacht was opened in Spiddal, with Dr Mc Enri as director. Tourmakeady, as far as the Connradh was concerned, had ceased to exist. Tourmakeady College flourished however and perhaps, because of the dispute, the British board of education gave more status to Tourmakeady graduates and until l921 the numbers of students continued to grow. Gradually however the pattern of student changed from that of qualified teachers to younger pupils. Coláiste Chonnacht was administered first by Mayo Co. Council and later by Vocational Committees. The student's enthusiasm to learn Irish was more than matched by the eagerness of the younger local people to learn English and it became noticeable that the houses who kept students were the best English speakers.
What in 1905 was a vibrant Irish speaking community had gradually changed. Many of the people who fought the landlords and were evicted to the mountains would have been the cultural leaders, they had already gone, there was nothing to keep them here. With very little local employment and holdings too small to support families emigration became widespread. The young people went off to England and America. Whole families followed and many houses were closed up.
As might be expected Irish speaking families were the first to go. In the opinion of the authorities, the level of Irish in Tourmakeady did not merit an Irish college. Eventually it was decided to close down the college and establish a knitwear factory in its place. In commemorating the centenary of Coláiste Chonnacht we are asking families and friends of those people who attended Coláiste Chonnacht to contact Oidhreacht Thuar Mhic Éadaigh to join in remembering and celebrating those golden years in our history. A website will be opened shortly on www.tourmakeady.com to make available all the information that we have acquired up to now, and we invite people who have letters, writings and other memorabilia to contact us at eolas@tourmakeady.com
Mayo News, Saturday January 7th 1905
LANGAUGE REVIVAL
CONNACHT IRISH SCHOOL
MEETING OF THE COMMITTEE
A meeting of the Committee of the above School was held at the residence of His Grace the Archbishop of Tuam on Friday, the Most Rev Dr Healy in the chair. Members present - Mrs Costello, Father Corbett, P.P. Partry, Father Crehan, C.C. Riverstown, Father Macken, Ballymote and Mr J A Glynn, Hon Sec. Letters of apology were read from Dr Hyde, Monsignor O'Hara and Mr Edward Martyn. Dr Hyde wrote that Professor Kuno Meyer had asked that the proposed name "Connacht School of Irish Learning" be changed as it might be confounded with the School of Irish learning in Dublin. It was decided to call the school "Sliabh Páirtr Irish School". His Grace the Archbishop undertook to lend the £150 necessary to purchase the house at Mount Partry and the meeting of delegates of the Connaught Branches of the Gaelic League held in Claremorris on September 12th decided on it as the most suitable site for the school. Father Corbett stated that everyone, children included, in the district spoke Irish fluently. After some discussion the following preliminary programme was adopted -
1 The school to open from June 15th to Sept 15th in each year
2 Two courses of six weeks' duration to be given - one beginning on June 15th and the 2nd on August 1st.
3 The School to be under the charge of one principal teacher and assistants whose number and remuneration is to be fixed later on.
4 The programme of instruction to consist of
a) A course of instruction in the best methods of teaching Irish
b) A course of instruction in the Irish Language and Literature
Both courses to run concurrently, but at such hours as will enable any pupil so wishing to attend all the classes and lectures.
5 The fees for the six weeks' course to be £2.2s payable in advance; but any pupil so wishing to be allowed without further payment to take the full three month tuition. Gaelic League branches subscribing at least £1.1s to the funds of the school to have the right to nominate for each £1.1s so subscribed a pupil on payment by the branch or nominated pupil of £1.1s,
6 Details of the course and conditions on which certificates of efficiency will be granted to be settled when the principal teacher shall have been appointed.
7 An advertisement to be issued for principal teacher, at a salary of £20 a month for three months.
Father Corbett undertook to prepare a list of houses in the district where suitable accommodation could be obtained on most reasonable terms. No houses to be put in the list save those where all the inmates spoke Irish as the home language. All subscriptions towards the funds of the School, to establish which at least £300 will be required, should be sent to any member of the Committee, or to Mr J A Glynn, Hon. Secretary and Treasurer, Branch House, Tuam. The Committee will also be glad to receive gifts of suitable books to form the nucleus of a library for the School.
Mayo News, Saturday May 6th 1905
CONNACHT IRISH SCHOOL AT MOUNT PARTRY, CO. MAYO. We have been favoured with a copy of the Prospectus of the Connacht School of Irish Learning:- The College is beautifully situate at the foot of Mount Partry, a distance of about ten miles from Ballinrobe Railway Station. The place is renowned for its scenery and presents a magnificent panorama of mountain, lake and woodland. From the very door of the College may be obtained an admirable view of the scenic views of Lough Mask along whose wooded shores and islands may be seen many ancient castles and monasteries and even the Royal residence of King Roderic O'Connor. No more
delightful spot could be chosen for a summer holiday.
It offers special facilities for teaching Irish and also the best means of teaching the language.
Mr Walsh is an admirable teacher and has been for many years an earnest worker in the Language Movement in London. He is acquainted with the Berlitz and Gourin methods of teaching languages and he is most anxious to devote his energies to the task.
The College will be open for ladies and gentlemen. A number of spacious residences have been recently erected in the locality and suitable lodgings can be obtained by applying to the Rev James Corbett P.P. Partry, Co. Mayo.
The Archbishop, the other members of the Committee, as well as many other warm supporters will spare no pains to make the Irish College a complete success and they earnestly hope the project will place the Language Movement in the West on solid and enduring foundations.
Funds will be necessary to carry out this noble work and they beg to appeal for subscriptions to all who love their native country and their native language
Mayo News, June 24th 1905
The Connacht Irish Training College. To The Editor Mayo News Tuam 18th June 1905 Dear Sir:- The Committee of the above College would feel obliged if you would publish the subjoined list of subscriptions to their funds. The College was opened on the 15th inst under most favourable circumstances and we expect to have a large attendance of students for both courses of instruction. Although the response to our appeal was generous, still the committee expected more support from Connacht abd we trust that the well wishers of the western Irish Training College will help us. The expenses are very heavy and as much depends on a successful first year, we have expended a large sun in fittings and general improvements, besides making ourselves responsible for still larger sums for salaries &c. A prompt and generous response to our appeal will ensure the success for which we are striving. Yours faithfully
Joseph A. Glynn,
Hon.Sec. and Treasurer.
List of Subscriptions.
£ s d
Mr. O'Heneghan, Seattle, Washington 5 0 0
W.J.Bigger 5 0 0
Roger Casement, Esq. 5 0 0
Castlebar Branch 3 3 0
Tuam Branch 3 3 0
Premium on "Life of St. Patrick per
Redemptorist Fathers, Esker. 3 7 6
Rev James Corbett, P.P. Partry 3 0 0
Major Berry, per Rodger Casement 3 0 0
Dr. Kuno Meyer 2 0 0
Mac Hale branch 2 2 0
J.P.Henry, M.D. London 2 2 0
Dr Tuohy, Dublin 2 2 0
Dr. Cox, Dublin. 2 2 0
John Gore, Solicitor, Dublin. 2 2 0
Kiltimagh Branch, per M.J.O'Doherty 2 2 0
Dr. Donnellan, Castlerea 2 0 0
Wm O'Brien, M.P. 2 0 0
J.A.Glynn, Tuam 1 1 0
Headford Branch 1 1 0
M.T. Quigley, Ballymote, 1 1 0
Ballymote Branch 1 1 0
W.F.D.Ward, Rathmines 1 1 1
M.O'Finn Rathmines 1 1 1
T.B.Costello M.D. Tuam 1 1 0
C.O'L Maguire M.D. Tuam 1 1 0
Claremorris Branch 1 1 0
J. Delaney, Sundays Ave. Cork 1 1 0
Miss A. O'Farrelly, Dublin 1 1 0
Arigna Coal Mine Employees 1 12 6
Rev. P Griffith C.S.S.R Dundalk 1 0 0
M. Deacon, Belfast, 1 1 0
P.O'Malley, G.L. Organiser 1 0 0
P.H.Pearse, Dublin 1 0 0
A.J. Crichton Carrogarry 1 0 0
Rev. B.J. Crehan C.C. Riverstown 1 0 0
Sligo Branch 1 0 0
Major Mc Bride Westport 1 0 0
Rev. P. McGirr C.C. Ballindine 1 0 0
Rev. M. Healy, C.C. Ballinrobe 1 0 0
Owen McDermott J.P. 1 0 0
Dr King Joyce 1 0 0
Rev. H.J. White, C.M. Philadelphia 1 0 0
Rev.- Morrin, C.C. Partry 1 0 0
Rev. A.J. Considine C.C. Galway 1 0 0
Gort National Teachers Association 12 0
Rev J. Mc Dermott Castlerea 10 0
T. Mc Hugh Tuam 10 0
Father Hynes, Sligo 10 0
P. Healy, Templebar 10 0
P. Disken, Derrew N.S. 10 0
M. O'Boyle, Dublin 10 0
P O'Daly Gaelic League, Dublin 10 0
S.J. Barrett, Gaelic League, Dublin 10 0
Miss K. Murphy, Merrion, Dublin 10 0
Rev F. MacInerney, C.C. Dublin. 10 0
Very Rev. Fr Nevin C.P. Dublin 10 0
Michael Delaney, Ballyhaunis 10 0
Una Tolan, Aran 10 0
W. Mc Dermatt, Dublin 7 6
Mayo News, July 22nd 1905
CONNACHT IRISH SCHOOL From the " Irish Independent"
A great work has been accomplished in the West. Within the kindly embraces of the Sliabh Pairtri Mountains an Irish school and training college has been established. And indeed the place is in every way worthy of the noble achievement. On the heights of these mountains and among their smiling slopes, the spirit of Gaeldom is still of the lustiness of youth. The devastating fires of the stranger have been swept back. These mountains have guarded their precious treasure with the jealousy of a fond mother and now Gaels will flock from all parts to drink deeply of the pure, sweet fountain within their breasts. POSITION OF THE COLLEGE The college stands on a proud eminence overlooking Lough Mask. The wavelets almost kiss its very portals. From the windows of the college the eye wanders far and wideover a scene of bewildering beauty. There in front is Carraig Meadhon Loch. Here on the right is the wooded island of Devenish.
Out beyond, Castle Hag rears its hoary head from among a mass of foliage. Further on, the saintly island of Inishmaine and the kingly island of Inishowen. There is the mound where King Eochaidh has slept his sleep ov 3,000 years. The Battle of Moytura has passed away; but Carn Eochaidh, nor its silent sleeper shall not pass away. Far away to the right is the well-preserved ruin of Lough Mask Castle. It, too, has had its storied past And beyond this varied scene of wood and lake and ancient pile, the spire of the Catholic Church of Ballinrobe stands out clear against the blue heavens.
GOING TO COLLEGE Travelling by road from Ballinrobe Railway Station to the college is about a distance of ten miles. The scenery is pleasing. You spin along - presuming you cycle - past verdant woodlands, with the songs of birds in your ears (woodlands are never without choristers), and the sparks of laughing waters in your eyes.; through bleak brown moorlands. You drive down steep inclines and rush past avenues of shady trees. All along, the eternal hills are beconing you on. IN A BOAT But the trip is dry, dull, uninteresring, uninviting compared with a haul in a boat across Lough Mask.
From Cushlough Bay the distance across is less than a league. The kindly, hospitable dwellers by the lake never refuse a boat and a pair of oars. In fact, boats always lie in readiness in the bay. They are there as an earnest of the hospitality of the natives, whose "dwellings are open as day and the hearts of the owners.) So in we step and off we pull, leaving the storied past behind us. On and on we steer our little craft with scarce a ripple on the blue waters. A long, long pull, and a strong ,strong pull and now
-steady, back water, as we guide our steady craft into a quiet little nook. Off we step, within a few hundred yards of the Connacht Irish School.
HISTORIC RUINS In our little boat we have swept past scenes which carry the mind back to the dim, misty ages of early tradition - ground which has been consecrated by the blood of warriors and by footprints of saints.
Off to the south lie the mounds and pillar - stones which point out the battle ground of South Moytura.
There, the mystic De Danaan exulted in his victory ere he betook himself to fort and liss to hold his midnight revels, and play his pranks on belated travellers. Beneath that ancient monument rest the bones of the Firbolg King, Eochaidh, who fell on the third day of the battle. Besise it is Dún Eoghan, where lived Eoghan,the King of Connacht, during the early part of the sixth century. This Eoghan was great grandson of Dathi, who was stricken by elements. He himself fell in battle against the men of the North. There is Lough Mask Castle, the silent sentinel of the battle plain.
RELIGIOUS REMAINS But the echoes have awakened to thher than the clash of steel and the din of the battle axe. The toll of the matin and the subdued hum of prayer have often winged their way over the waste of waters. Close at hand is the Abbey of Inishmaine, an example of Irish - Romanesque style of building. One cannot but admire the delicate tracery and the beautiful ornamentation displayed in this grand specimen of our early Irish architecture.
PLAN OF WORK But in our contemplation of the past we must not lose sight of the vital importance of utilising the present to the best advantage. Glancing at the prospectus, we learn that the Connacht Irish School has been established for "the training of teachers and the teaching of Irish". The programme of studies im the College should be graduated to meet the requirements of all grades of students. A special time shall be devoted to lessons illustrative of the best methods of teaching Irish, at which all grades of students may be present. These lessons shall be conducted chiefly on Modh Direach lines. So that the greatest possible facilities are afforded to all.
AN ARCHBISHOP'S BLESSING Speaking at the Mayo Feis, which was held early in June, his Grace the Archbishop of Tuam made more that a passing reference to the Connacht Irish School. Its establishment was an epoch - marking event in Irish education. He paid a worthy tribute to the efforts of the Gaelic League. He expressed the earnest desire that all teachers of the Archdiocese who have not already qualified to teach Irish, would now avail themselves of the excellent opportunity afforded them. He remarked, moreover, that he should in future give preference to teachers so qualified. Teachers who attent the coming session -which opens on 1st August- with even a very meagre knowledge of the language, will, by the end of six weeks, have laid a very substantial foundation. The very atmosphere is saturated with the language.
MICHAEL BREATHNACH The selection of teacher speaks eloquently of the judgment of the College Committee. As a writer of modern Irish, Micheal Breathnach tokes a foremost place. As "Cois Fharraige" he has made the acquaintance of hosts of Irish readers. He is at present engaged on a translation of Kickhams " Knocknagow". During his connection with the London Gaelic League he has had several facilities for observing the different methods of language teaching. He is aquainted with the Berlitz and Gouin methods as applied to modern languages. Moreover ha has had the advantage of seeing these methods put into actual practice on the Continent, where bi-lingual teaching is carried out in schools. He bribgs to his task the wisdom of experience combined with a mastery of his subject. Nor does he lack in energy and enthusiasm. He has all the traits and all the gifts of a successful teacher.
ACCOMMODATION FOR STUDENTS From the prospectus we learn that a number of spacious residences have been recently erected in the vicinity of the College. All particulars respecting this and other matters may be obtained from the local manager the Rev James Corbett, P P, Partry, Co. Mayo.
Mayo News, September 16th 1905
CONNACHT IRISH SCHOOL.
INTERESTING LECTURE BY MRS A. S. GREEN
Last week Mrs A. Stopford Green, wife of the famous English historian, delivered a lecture at the Connacht Irish School on "Irish Civilisation in the 16th Century." She gave an interesting description of the industrial and commercial life of Ireland before the destructive Elizabethan wars. The fifteenth and sixteenth centuries are amongst the most interesting as far as Irish literature are concerned, not only for the original poets of the time. But for the valuable work done in the schools of Ireland in copying the laws, history and tribal boundaries of the Irish People. As the pressure of the English invaders was felt the Irish sought more diligently to preserve the records of their own civilisation. In the Tudor wars Ireland may be said to be roughly marked into three divisions - the Pale, then narrowed to Dublin and the counties around it for about thirty miles; the Borderland of constant war, which stretched over Meath, South Wexford and Wicklow, and the Irish country beyond the Pale.
The Pale was English to be sure and its capital was called Irish or Young London. The borderland was torn with disputes and quarrels. - a state of things not to be wondered at, for the people would not give up their land to the stranger without a struggle. The Irish country people preserved ancient civilisation and were thriving and prosperous. The people were skilled in commerce and seamanship, in agriculture, in handicrafts, in science, in the manufacture of wool, leather and linen, in joinery, in gold and silver ornaments, as well as in war. The strong cloth sent to the Low Countries was cheaper and more durable than any to be bought elsewhere and the fine serge of Ireland was used in the court of Naples, while fashionable English courtiers gave to one another as valuable gifts, the cloaks of Limerick and Galway The Shannon was covered with ships and the harbours of the West and South now left desolate were in the days of Irish supremacy filled with busy fleets. Let us learn a lesson even late Let us put our country over and above any other consideration except our creator.
Let us understand the past that we may be encouraged to restore Irish industries and commerce. Let us labour to become what our forefathers were, and renew their great fame for learning and enterprise.
Mayo News, November 4th 1905
MOUNT PARTRY IRISH TRAINING COLLEGE. The election of teachers representative on the committee of Mount Partry Irish Training College, came off on the 28th October. Notwithstanding the uninviting appearance of the morning, the meeting, which was held at Ryans Hotel, Claremorris, was well attended and it cannot be denied the character uf being representative of the Province, as the list of deligates shown below will go to show. On the motion of Mr T.J. Cassidy, seconded by Mr P. Egan, Mr Heneghan, principal of Claremorris N.S. was moved to the chair. Mr Mc Hugh said he supposed it was understood that the undersighed was expected to continue to discharge the duty of Secretary to which he was appointer on the 15th August, and no one gainsaid. The delegates present evinced a lively interest in the election.
