Historic Map Back On Display

The highly anticipated unveiling of the newly restored map of Ireland at the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh took place on Sunday, October 12, 2008.  The map which originally went on display at the 1964 New York World's Fair, as acquired by the Friendly Sons in 1985 and has been on display since its arrival and installation.  It had fallen into disrepair when Charlie Donnelly chaired a committee to have the map restored  and reinstalled in the main hall.  Many people were involved with the restoration and all were honored to see it unveiled to the public on Sunday Oct 12, 2008.
 
The ceremony started off with the FSOS Pipes and Drums kicking off the event with several tunes  It was then followed up by club members Chris Finnegan and Ron Keaveney singing the American and Irish national anthems.  
 
Guest speaker, Al Meredith, author and club member, gave a delightful talk on Irish history and his book, Inishannon.  The public was then invited to view the map and trace their Irish roots back to their respective counties and provinces.  Many people stepped up to take advantage of the opportunity.
 
The evening continued on with a seisiun of Traditional Irish music which was broadcast live on The Voice Of Ireland show on WRSU-FM.  A grand time was had by all.

Photos and Article courtsey of Mike Callaghan