The Battle of Kinsale in 1601 proved a turning point in Irish history. With the defeat of the chieftains, the Gaelic way of life would vanish forever. Now, 400 years on, Kinsale Urban District Council is to remember the event in a year-long commemoration.
Local history societies have organised a spring seminar beginning on March 30th; in July, the Defence Forces will recreate O'Donnell's march to Kinsale and An Post will issue a commemorative stamp; next September, a flotilla of ships from the UK and Spain will arrive in the scenic port where the President, Mrs McAleese, will greet them, and in January, a monument will be unveiled at the Milewater battle site, coinciding with the opening of the Battle of Kinsale Winter School.
"The 400th anniversary of the battle will provide an opportunity to raise awareness among children and young people of a turning point in our history and the long-term effects on the country. The people of Kinsale are determined that the anniversary of such a significant event in our history will be observed in a fitting manner," said Cllr Dermot Collins, chairman of the commemoration committee.