5th April 2010 A Chara,
It has been brought to the attention of the National Graves Association that the large Celtic cross erected over the grave of Castlerea Fenian John Lavin and unveiled by Maud Gonne in 1901 has fallen into a poor state of disrepair. Sometime back the cross fell during harsh weather conditions and broke into several pieces and has remained this way, we believe for approximately ten years.
John Lavin was a very well known and respected man, he was a member of the Young Ireland Society, a nationalist literary society whose president was veteran Fenian John O’Leary, and he was also leader of the I.R.B. in Co. Roscommon. He attended the funeral of Charles Stewart Parnell in 1891 representing the Castlerea Gaelic Athletic Club of which he was president. Professionally he was president of the West of Ireland Egg Shippers Association. Lavin, born in Co. Mayo lived most of his life in Castlerea and was just 43 years old when he died. He was survived by his wife, his three sons John, Michael and Patrick and also his father, John senior.
The National Graves Association has made a commitment to ensure this monument is returned to its original condition and we aim to have this project completed by September 2010. We have been in contact with some descendants and would appreciate other family members or interested parties getting in contact with our association.
The Association is not affiliated to any political party and is not in receipt of state funding, therefore we depend entirely on donations from nationally minded people at home and abroad. If anyone would like to make a donation towards the John Lavin project we can be contacted at the above address or log on to www.nga.ie. All donations will be gratefully received and acknowledged.
Is Mise Aidan Lambert
Tel: 087-6202680 E-mail: donations@nga.ie |
