Councillor in Boston for anniversary of crucial battle

AN elected member of Mayo County Council has visited the United States to mark the 241st anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill, a significant engagement in the early stages of the American War of Independence.

Councillor Gerry Murray, cathaoirleach of the Claremorris Municipal District, travelled at the invitation of the Battle of Bunker Hill Parade Committee.

The battle was fought in an area known as Charlestown, close to Boston, on Sunday, June 17, 1775.

Councillor Murray was invited as a representative of Charlestown, Co. Mayo, Charlestown Massachussett’s namesake town in Ireland.

The population of Charlestown, USA, is predominantly Irish American. Many of the present inhabitants are descendants of people who fled the Great Famine in Ireland.

The highlight of the annual commemoration is the annual parade, which Councillor Murray participated in.

Many Irish fought in the Battle for Bunker Hill. The hill was eventually taken by the British but at a significant cost in casualties. The battle provided then fledgling colonial forces with an important confidence for later engagements.

During the visit Councillor Murray presented a copy of Irish Proclamation to Mayor Martin Walsh of the City of Boston.

 

Photos: courtesy of Joseph Prezioso, Charlestown Patriot Bridge, Independent Newspaper Company.