A total of 190 descendants of the Peter Robinson settlers travelled from Canada and the United States to the Ballyhoura region from 15th–21st September for a historic homecoming that, for the first time on Irish soil, formally recognised the origins and communities behind the 1823 and 1825 Peter Robinson Emigration Scheme.
The week-long programme spanned heritage tours in the locality, community gatherings, nightly performances of ‘The Robinson Experiment,’ and two keystone moments: the Peter Robinson Settlers Emigration Scheme Conference at Saint George’s Arts & Heritage Centre, Mitchelstown, and the final Commemoration Ceremony held at Griston Bog and Woodland in Ballylanders, Co Limerick.
At the heart of the homecoming was the power of community. From community halls and heritage centres to churches, graveyards and rambling houses, Ballyhoura’s communities opened their doors and their hearts – offering music, stories, tea and time. The warmth of the welcome, the reconnection of families, and the memories made together across the week have created bonds that will endure long after the final event. This was a programme that brought everyone together – descendants, neighbours, volunteers and partners – united by place, history and hospitality.
Full story in this week’s Print & Digital Edition.
