Past pupils reunite at Errew Monastery Boys’ School
A memorable evening saw past pupils of Errew Monastery Boys’ School reunited last Wednesday to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the school’s closure in 1975.
Located just outside Castlebar, the Franciscan Brothers school opened in 1842 and educated hundreds of boys from the wide local area over a span of nearly 140 years.
More than 100 attendees followed in their footsteps as they walked up the leafy avenue to the monastery on a glorious sunny evening. For many it was the first time returning to the school surrounded by mature beech trees, thus ensuring it remains as Errew’s hidden gem.
The large gathering of past pupils reminisced together with their families, friends and neighbours, retracing their steps around the monastery grounds.
Memories were exchanged in the old school classrooms and upstairs Monastery chapel. Exploring rooms and corridors previously unseen and out of bounds as schoolboys was of particular interest.
A short prayer service to remember the deceased members of the community was led by Errew native, Brother Conal Thomas. Music in the adjoining cemetery, provided by past Errew NS student and harpist Isobel Hoban, was most fitting for the nostalgic occasion.
Professor Tom Mitchell, former Provost of Trinity College Dublin, sent his good wishes for the commemoration with words including, ‘All my good fortune was founded on my years in the care of Errew Monastery Boys’ School (1945-53). The older I get the more I treasure the memories of my years there.’
Sincere thanks was expressed by Brother Conal and Errew Community Committee members Janine Hoban and Eadaoin Earley for such a wonderful turnout of appreciative people, the beautiful weather and great participation by all.
Deepest thanks were also extended to Michael Veale and his family for their generous welcome to the community and to all the Errew and Clooncundra families who helped on the night.
The event was a joyous occasion and worthy celebration of this historic building and rich history of education in Errew. This history lives on in the vibrant, recently upgraded Errew NS just a stone’s throw away from Errew Monastery.
* More on the history of Errew Boys' NS and photos from the celebration in our print edition