In Reply to: Australian Connection posted by Peter Reynolds on March 02, 2005 at 07:34:03:

To both Ould Stock and JDP thankyou very much for responnding so quickly. To JDP, yes I do remember the dance and believe I crashed and burned attempting to chat up one of the local girls. Apart from that, I had a wonderful time and still remember most of it clearly.

Ould Stock, I appreciate your comments on my Grandfather. He was, indeed, a wonderful gentleman and my Grandmother had a wicked sense of humour. They didn't have a lot in life, but they left very fond memories. I think that when you remember someone, even though they've passed on, if you end up smiling at the thought of them then they've left a legacy.

Ould Stock, you got all the names right. Unfortunately Ernie died a few years ago, but the others are all OK and living in various parts of the UK. My Dad and Mum (John and Una) are living in Adelaide, South Australia, and my wife myself and two sons reside in Canberra. Fortunately we get to see John and Una regularly. Dad's now 80, but he still talks about Castlebar, his Mum and Dad and the ties he had over there.

JDP, you are right. Nora passed away quite a while ago in Ireland. Ter came to Australia and lasted till she was nearly 100. I think she was shooting for the Queen's telegram. Unfortunately she didn't make it. She is buried back there as she made provision for going home after she died.

Once again, if anyone can dig up a copy of that parish magazine, or find a scanned picture, I'd really appreciate it.

I'll let Mum and Dad know that there are still people who remember the family. Hopefully, my sons will get the chance to visit one day. I'd like them to see where their Grandfather lived and went to school, so that the next generation knows and doesn't forget. The Irish heritage is impotant to us and knowing where the family came from is part of that.

Once again, thankyou both for responding. I wish you and yours all the best.

Kind Regards
Pete Reynolds