Mayo pub celebrates reopening after five years
AFTER five years of darkness and closed doors, Knock's famous watering hole, Carty's Bar, has opened once again for business, writes Mike Byrne.
The once thriving Knock premises was owned and operated with great success for many years by former Mayo County Council representative, the late Michael Carty. The outbreak of Covid, like many pubs and businesses around the country, brought an end to trading.
However, the good news for Knock residents - and I suspect for many other pub-goers from around the east Mayo region - is that Carty's Bar is back in business after a most successful grand opening last Friday night.
Michael Carty Jnr, son of Mary (née Prendergast) and the late Michael, has taken over the reins and is delighted to see the venture back on track after a substantial overhaul and refurbishment in recent weeks.
Kieran Jennings will manage the pub, ensuring a warm welcome for visitors.
Carty’s Bar has been part of life in Knock over many decades. Michael Jnr’s grandmother, Eileen, ran the pub for several years after the death of her husband Jim at the age of 42 back in 1962. Their family of four, John (who later became a Fianna Fail TD for Mayo), Anne, Michael and Joan, all took their turns at helping out in the bar.
In 1979, Michael took over the running of the pub and remained in charge until it closed during Covid. Sadly, Michael died in September 2022.
There was plenty of excitement when Michael presided at the opening of the new lounge attached to the bar on Friday, August 24, 1979. It was just five weeks before the visit of Pope John Paul II to Knock, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Knock apparition, and the place was buzzing ahead of the historic occasion.
Carty's has been among the most favourite hostelries in Mayo and beyond for many years; it was always a favoured stopping off point after Mayo matches in MacHale Park down through the years where every 'pint' of the game was discussed and dissected by so many loyal Mayo fans.
Many are eager to experience the hospitality at Carty’s Bar and lounge once again. Michael Jnr aims to maintain the family tradition and provide a social outlet for the community. The pub will feature regular music nights and card games, continuing the local traditions.
We wish Michael and Kieran every success in their new venture.