In a momentous occasion held during a special meeting convened by the Limerick Young Ireland Society, Hugh O’Neill, a renowned step-dancer and the driving force behind the Limerick Eight dancers, was bestowed with a striking gold medal. The medal, a creation of Mr Cooke hailing from Wexford, was a tangible symbol of recognition and appreciation for O’Neill’s exceptional talents as a dancer and his invaluable contributions to the world of Gaelic entertainments, which were diligently fostered under the auspices of the society.
The inscription on the medal, thoughtfully penned in the Gaelic language, served as a testament to O’Neill’s outstanding skills and his unwavering dedication to the cause of promoting traditional Irish dancing and entertainment. The event bore witness to the presence of esteemed members hailing from various societies, including the Daughters of Erin, Limerick, and the Gaelic Leagues, further emphasising the significance of the gathering.
The Limerick Young Ireland Society, on this occasion, seized the opportunity to express their profound admiration and gratitude for O’Neill’s numerous contributions and his remarkable talents that have significantly enriched the cultural landscape of the region. O’Neill’s dedication to the preservation and promotion of Gaelic entertainments, particularly traditional dancing, did not go unnoticed, and this event was a poignant testament to his achievements.
Graciously, O’Neill took the floor to extend warm and heartfelt thanks to everyone in attendance. He acknowledged, with sincere appreciation, the pivotal role played by the four ladies from the Daughters of Erin in rejuvenating the cherished four and eight hand reels within the vibrant cultural milieu of Limerick. O’Neill’s humility and gratitude shone through as he paid homage to these dedicated individuals, whose collabourative efforts had breathed fresh life into these traditional dance forms.
The presentation culminated on an upbeat note, marked by O’Neill’s palpable satisfaction with the success that had followed his unwavering commitment to the promotion of Irish traditional dancing. His words resonated with a sense of accomplishment, affirming the enduring vitality and relevance of these cherished art forms. The event encapsulated not only the celebration of O’Neill’s individual achievements but also the collective recognition of the rich cultural heritage and traditions that are an integral part of Limerick’s cultural tapestry.
In summary, the special gathering convened by the Limerick Young Ireland Society was a poignant occasion to honour the indomitable Hugh O’Neill, a luminary in the realm of traditional Irish dance. The presentation of the gold medal crafted by Mr Cooke of Wexford, with its Gaelic inscription, underscored the significance of O’Neill’s talents and his dedicated service to Gaelic entertainments, as fostered under the society’s auspices. O’Neill’s expressions of gratitude and acknowledgment served as a fitting tribute to the collabourative efforts of individuals who have helped rekindle the spirit of traditional dance in Limerick. The event, filled with admiration and joy, concluded with a sense of satisfaction regarding the successes that have blossomed from O’Neill’s devotion to Irish dance and cultural preservation.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 14 October 1902
