Kilkenny Community Unites to Save Beloved Pub for Future Generations

The community of Coon in North Kilkenny is rallying to save the Ranchers Return, a cherished local pub, as its future hangs in the balance. Known affectionately as the Village Well, the establishment has served as a vital social hub since its inception in the mid-1850s. With the previous proprietors deciding to sell, local residents are stepping up to secure the pub’s legacy for future generations.

The Ranchers Return has long been more than just a public house; it has been a gathering place for neighbors, a venue for music, and a setting for countless stories. Its doors were closed for two years in the mid-2000s, but it reopened to reclaim its place at the heart of the community. Now, local parishioners are leading an initiative to purchase the pub and ensure its continued operation.

In a concerted effort to raise funds, the community aims to gather €350,000 through the sale of shares. Each share is priced at €2,500, with families and groups encouraged to donate any amount they can. Contributions will be structured so that €2,499 is classified as a 0% loan, and €1 will be a purchased share. This innovative financing approach allows the community to invest in a beloved institution while ensuring its sustainability.

Community Spirit Drives Initiative

Barman Joe Fenlon has been instrumental in fostering a welcoming atmosphere as the community discusses plans for the pub’s future. Many members of the initiative, including lifelong resident Phil Shore, passionately advocate for preserving the pub. Shore reminisces about the strong sense of community in Coon during the 1950s, stating, “There’s something different about this place.” He acknowledges the challenges facing rural pubs but expresses confidence in the local effort.

Gerald Flynn, who has lived in Coon for over two decades, echoes this sentiment. He describes the pub as the “hub of the community,” hosting celebrations, tournaments, and gatherings. “We have a million and one ideas as a committee,” Flynn said, emphasizing the inclusive vision for the pub that welcomes both drinkers and non-drinkers alike. He believes that without the pub, the community would lose a vital connection.

Brendan Healy, another member of the initiative, highlights the importance of social spaces in combating isolation, particularly after the pandemic. “Places like this brought people back to the community,” Healy remarked. He notes that the pub serves as a venue for those seeking connection, whether they are enjoying a drink or simply spending time with friends.

Local Officials Support Community Efforts

The initiative has garnered support from local officials, including Councillor Pat Fitzpatrick, who commended the group’s efforts. He stressed the importance of preserving the pub as a community resource, stating, “It’s critical we hold on to this resource.” The Ranchers Return represents not just a business but a cornerstone of Coon’s social fabric.

As the community works to secure the future of the Ranchers Return, the outcome will depend on the level of local engagement and investment. The call for contributions has resonated deeply, with many residents recognizing the significance of this initiative. The movement embodies a collective commitment to maintaining a space that has nurtured relationships and memories for generations.

With the goal of raising €350,000 within reach, the community’s determination shines through. The Ranchers Return stands as a testament to the resilience of Coon, where the spirit of togetherness could very well write a new chapter in the pub’s storied history.