Killiney

Invitation
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As I know from my own research, the whole area of Killiney Bay is replete with history. From a 6th century female monastic settlement, through rebellion, plantation, hunting, a fruitlessly awaited French invasion, and, finally, residential development, the area has a rich and varied past.

But this is probably the first time that an attempt has been made to document Killiney village and its immediate environs and it has been undertaken by locals who know what they are about.

As soon as I saw the very professional looking invitation, I knew I was in for a treat, and treat it was.

Simone Walsh

The exhibition was the brainchild of Jimmy Kelly, who was so modest on the night that I didn't even get a photo.

It was held in the Druid's Chair, Killiney village's only pub, and one which has contributed significantly to local activities over the years.

The night's proceedings were kicked off by Simone Walsh who was intensively involved in the project herself.

P J Drudy

The guest speaker was P J Drudy, Emeritus Professor of Economics in TCD. He recalled discovering the sense of community in the village when he moved in many years ago and was full of praise for how that spirit had been maintained down the years. This is shown today by the huge involvement of the local people in providing material for, and supporting, the exhibition.

Imelda Kestell & Charlie Mason

The ribbon was cut and the exhibition formally opened by two longstanding locals, Imelda Kestell and Charlie Mason.

The exhibition panels, and the two monster loose leaf books, clearly showed the depth of the research undertaken. Their presentation was hugely professional and it was clear that those attending were completely captivated by, and absorbed in, the content.

Ger Garland & Emer Brady

I was floored by the professionalism of the panels produced by Ger Garland until, through nefarious contacts and otherwise, I found out that she is a well known and respected "high end graphics artist". No doubt about it.

Emer Brady was an important contributor to the exhibition with her research and editing and, of course, Alice Cullen, Killiney's local historian, made an enormous contribution to the content.

This is a marvellous exhibition and a great example to other local communities of what can be done.

Unfortunately you won't get to see this showing as it finishes today. However, I hope it will get many other well deserved airings, perhaps in DLR county hall and in Dalkey castle.

As far as the latter is concerned, it might remind the people of Dalkey that there is another leg to the greater Dublin Bay beyond the hill.