The county of Kerry is steeped in heritage and history and has produced some of the most defining figures in Irish history. One such figure is “The Great Emancipator”, “The Liberator”, the one and only Daniel O’Connell who’s life and legacy is celebrated the world over.
And it is with this purpose that the Daniel O’Connell Summer School is organised on an annual basis in his homeland of Derrynane, Caherdaniel and Cahersiveen in South Kerry. A mix of academics, Irish history enthusiasts and the general public now flock to this most picturesque part of the world to partake in both exploration and celebration of O’Connell’s life.
The overall purpose of the school is to examine aspects of the historical career of Daniel O’ Connell as well as to consider the challenges which they pose for the direction of modern Ireland.
Date: 28 August 2015 To 29 August 2015
Location: Derrynane House, Caherdaniel and Cahersiveen Library, Cahersiveen, Co. Kerry
This event is well worth attending as it combines all elements of the historical significance of O’Connell’s life but also takes place in two very important locations that remained core to his heritage and indeed his inspiration.
Cahersiveen is the birthplace of the great man and it is here in the town’s library that the proceedings for the event get under way on Friday 28th August, 2015 at 09.30am with events then running through the day.
Derrynane House, home of Daniel O’Connell featured on RTE TV:
On Saturday 29th August, 2015 all participants will make their way to the historic and stunningly beautiful grounds of Derrynane House just outside the equally picturesque village of Caherdaniel – it was in Derrynane House that O’Connell lived having inherited it from his uncle.
A whole host of events and talks will take place throughout the day and further information on the entire programme festival can be found at: http://oconnellsummerschool.com
Derrynane, Caherdaniel and Cahersiveen are located west/south-west of Kenmare and are well worth visiting in their own right. The drive from Kenmare to Caherdaniel along the N70 route is one of the most scenic drives in all of Ireland which has numerous viewing spots, attractions , pubs and restaurants on Kerry’s famous Ring of Kerry touring route.
