Landmark trip to Argentina to celebrate Mayo-born naval hero Admiral Brown

MAYO and Argentina will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of Admiral William Brown in style over the coming year.

Admiral Brown, who was born in Foxford in 1777, was the founder of the Argentine Navy, and people from his homeland will have a special opportunity to follow in his footsteps next year.

The Admiral Brown Society, with Paul Claffey Tours and JWT Travel, have announced a once in a lifetime trip to Buenos Aires in March 2027 to celebrate the 250-year anniversary.

It is an opportunity to travel in the footsteps of one of Mayo's most revered sons, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Argentine people and to participate in commemorations on March 3 with the Argentine Navy and Irish Embassy in Buenos Aires.

The trip is open to the Irish and Mayo diaspora around the world and anyone with an interest in South American and Irish history and culture. Among the programme's cultural experiences and historical connections are a visit to Admiral Brown's home, an excursion to Uruguay, and a visit to an Argentinian farm to see the gauchos and experience a traditional Argentine Asado barbecue.

Closer to home, the celebrations kick off on November 6 when Ireland face Argentina at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin in the Nations Championship, where the victors will be presented with the Copa Almirante Brown (Admiral Brown Cup).

Mayo County Council's chief executive, Kevin Kelly, Councillor John Caulfield, cathaoirleach, and Councillor Neil Cruise will also make a presentation to the Argentine rugby president to launch the 2027 commemorations.

An Irish delegation will visit Argentina in March where the itinerary includes commemorations in Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires and the naval base.

May Day 2027 will see the Mayo flag hoisted on the Libertad and the naval training ship will be paying a visit to Dublin and also Mayo on May 17.

A special Argentina Day commemoration will take place in Foxford on June 27.