Dromcollogher Commemorates Victims of 1926 Cinema Fire Disaster

On March 15, 2024, the community of Dromcollogher gathered to commemorate the 48 victims of the 1926 Cinema Disaster. An anniversary mass celebrated by Fr Carey marked the observance, which included a decade of the rosary and a wreath-laying ceremony at the communal grave. This event is part of an ongoing effort led by the Dromcollogher26 group to ensure that the victims are honored during the upcoming 100th anniversary next year.

Community and Official Attendance

The mass attracted a significant number of attendees, including notable politicians such as Minister for Culture Patrick O’Donovan, Minister Niall Collins, and Deputy Richard O’Donoghue. Local representatives also joined the solemn occasion, with Cllr Jerome Scanlan attending on behalf of Mayor John Moran, alongside Cllr Tom Ruddle, Cllr Liam Galvin, and Cllr Francis Foley.

The evening was enriched by a moving performance from Amhlaoibh McSweeney, who delivered a poignant tribute to those lost in the tragedy. This gathering not only served as a remembrance but also as a reminder of the strength and unity within the Dromcollogher community.

A Legacy of Remembrance

The tragic incident in 1926, which claimed the lives of 48 individuals, has deeply impacted the local community. The Dromcollogher26 group is dedicated to ensuring that the memories of the victims endure, particularly as the centenary approaches. Their efforts include organizing events and educational initiatives that focus on the significance of this disaster in the town’s history.

As the community comes together to reflect on this tragedy, the commitment to remembrance highlights the importance of honoring the past while fostering a sense of resilience and solidarity among residents. The anniversary mass served not only as a somber reflection but also as a celebration of community spirit and shared history.

Future plans by the Dromcollogher26 group will include additional commemorative events leading up to the 100th anniversary, aiming to engage both local residents and visitors in remembering the lives lost in the 1926 disaster.

In the words of Gerry Keyes, chairman of Dromcollogher26, “We must ensure that these memories live on, not just for the victims but for future generations who need to understand the resilience of our community.”