The Black & Tans in Kerry

Track 1: Stories are told of Caherciveen during its occupation by the Black and Tans and Mike Christopher O’Shea recalls his uncle who fought in the trenches of Flanders in World War I and was presumed dead until he returned to Caherciveen. Track 2: The buildings, the people and their occupations in the town of Caherciveen in earlier days are recalled, as is his father who had a tailoring business. Track 3: Memories of 1938, when he led the local pipe band to greet Steve Casey, a local sporting hero, and later Alfie Byrne, Lord Mayor of Dublin, who officially opened the church at Chapeltown, Valentia. Also recalled are the journeymen tailors, who would regularly stay in the family home. Track 4: 1933 is mentioned, when Valentia Harbour was considered as a suitable stop-off point for seaplanes, though subsequently the port of Foynes was selected. Track 5: Memories are recalled of social life in Caherciveen during the Emergency and some of the local ‘characters’, including ‘Parnell’. The recording concluded with a recitation of a poem which he wrote in honour of his hero, Michael Collins.