Contact Details
Molly Gallivan's Visitor Centre Bonane,Kenmare, County Kerry - Ireland Located on the N71, Glengarriff Rd. Phone +353 (0) 64 40714 / 41455 E-mail : mollygallivan@eircom.net  "An American wake" was a unique event that took place in Irish homes the night before a member or members of the family emigrated to a foreign land usually America, forced to leave their native shore by economical or political circumstances. Friends and neighbours came to the emigrants house to say their last goodbye's, to wish them luck, and console their grieving parents who would most likely never see their loved ones again. The American wake was a sad yet festive occasion. Food and drink was distributed, people sang and danced until morning and then came the last goodbye's…..a sobering time when the emigrants finally left their homestead on the long journey to the boat usually by horse and trap, accompanied by some family members. At Molly Gallivan's we invite you to step back in time in a full evenings entertainment which concludes with a local drama groups re-enactment of "An American Wake." The evening begins with a guided tour through Molly’s cottage and traditional farm. The tour includes a 12 minute audio visual presentation. You will then sit down to enjoy a feast of our lovely Irish stew followed by home made apple tart and tea. Then the climax of the evening….While relaxing by the turf fire in Molly’s kitchen, you will be joined by local actors, musicians, singers and dancers in "An American Wake". You will be treated as one of the neighbours, offered drink and even invited to sing or dance, before witnessing the sad departure of the emigrants as they leave to follow their dreams. Advanced booking is necessary for this show Contact +353 (0) 64 40714 / 41455 E-mail : mollygallivan@eircom.net |
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