Doolough Tragedy

Doolough

Doolough Tragedy

The Doolough Tragedy refers to a harrowing event that occurred during the Great Famine in Ireland on the night of March 30, 1849. The tragedy took place in the Doolough Valley, located in County Mayo, in the west of Ireland.

Background

During the Great Famine, also known as the Irish Potato Famine, millions of Irish people suffered from extreme hunger and poverty due to the failure of the potato crop, which was a staple food. The British government's response to the famine was widely criticized for being inadequate and, in many cases, exacerbating the suffering of the Irish population.

The Tragedy

In March 1849, a group of destitute people from the Louisburgh area were instructed to appear before officials in the town of Delphi to have their eligibility for relief assistance assessed. The journey from Louisburgh to Delphi was approximately 12 miles, and the route took them through the Doolough Valley.

The group, which included men, women, and children, set out on foot in harsh weather conditions, including cold and rain. After being turned away without receiving any aid, they were forced to make the return journey to Louisburgh. Many of the travelers, weakened by hunger and exposure, succumbed to the elements. The exact number of deaths is unknown, but it is believed that dozens perished along the route.

Memorial

In 1994, a memorial cross was erected in the Doolough Valley to commemorate the victims of the tragedy. The inscription on the cross reads: "Doolough Tragedy 1849. How can men feel themselves honoured by the humiliation of their fellow beings?"

Annual Walk

Each year, a commemorative walk is held in memory of those who died during the Doolough Tragedy. The walk retraces the route taken by the victims from Louisburgh to Delphi and serves as a reminder of the suffering endured during the Great Famine.

See Also

• Great Famine (Ireland)
• Irish Potato Famine
• County Mayo
• Louisburgh, County Mayo
• Delphi, County Mayo