Christy Roche has been announced as the grand marshal for the St Patrick’s Day parade in Peterborough, Canada, a city which became the home of many descendants of settlers from the Peter Robinson Emigration Scheme.
The historical geographer and author has long been involved in documenting the shared history and connections between the two regions, connections which have seen a revived interest in recent years surrounding the 200th anniversary of the settlers’ departure in 1825. Many who emigrated to Canada between 1823 and 1825 were from local areas including Mitchelstown, Fermoy, Kilworth, Rathcormac, Ballyhooly, Kilbehenny, Doneraile, Ballyporeen and elsewhere.
“I’ve been dealing with that part of the world for nearly 40 years, with descendants of the Peter Robinson Settlers. I’d know quite a few there, I’ve been over there a few times. It’s a great honour to be asked to be grand marshal in their parade,” a delighted Mr Roche said.
Full story in this week’s Print & Digital Edition.
