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Moll Goggin's Lament: A Poetic Tribute to Youghal's Famed Figure

The remarkable response to the story of the St. Anne’s Nuns in Youghal as the first female lighthouse keepers sparked an incredible flurry of comments. Among them, Denis Twohig shared a poem about another iconic figure in Youghal: Moll Goggin. 

This heartfelt poem beautifully encapsulates the spirit of Moll and her poignant tale of love lost at sea. It's heartening to see both the nuns of St. Anne’s Convent and another prominent Youghal figure receiving well-deserved recognition.

Additionally, we've created a drawing to accompany the poem, depicting Moll herself gazing out to sea on a moonlit night, capturing the essence of her enduring vigil and longing for her lost sailor lover.

MOLL GOGGINS CORNER
(A story of love lost to the sea in Youghal, County Cork in days of yore)

Dark was the night when her sailor set sail.
Standing on the quay so Moll Goggin did wail.
As his ship it sailed out ,did the waves roll and churn.
But they would be wed upon his return

But on rolled the days, the weeks and the years.
Moll Goggin distraught,like sea spray flowed her tears.
Each day she would go to the headland to stand.
A praying her sailor would soon come to land.

There in all weathers she longed for his ship.
To round Easter Point oh to see the sail tip.
But her waiting proved fruitless, he never returned.
The sorrow and loss in her poor heart it burned.

Alas a sad tale of love lost to the sea.
Moll Goggins long vigil became history.
But still around Youghal, they tell ghostly tales.
Of Moll Goggin at her corner, and her sad lonely wails.

Wild blow the winds in Youghal by the sea.
But still Moll keeps her vigil, oh alone so stands she.
So if you pass by, on a clear cloudless night.
You might still see her ghost, neath the silver moonlight
© Denis Twohig
Unveiling History: The Remarkable Legacy of Ireland's First Female Lighthouse Keepers

IN THE ANNALS OF MARITIME HISTORY, amidst tales of brave seafarers and treacherous waters, one remarkable chapter remains often overlooked: the legacy of the world's first female lighthouse keepers. Surprisingly, these pioneering figures weren't ordinary guardians of the light, but rather Irish nuns hailing from the venerable St. Anne's Convent in Youghal, County Cork. Their story, shrouded in the mists of time, is a testament to the indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication of women in an era when their roles were sharply defined.

Nestled on the rugged southern coast of Ireland, Youghal boasts a rich maritime heritage that stretches back centuries. In the year 1190, against the backdrop of swirling Atlantic currents and towering cliffs, a beacon of hope emerged: the Youghal lighthouse. This beacon, perched atop the cliffs at the entrance to Youghal Bay, served as a guiding light for countless seafarers navigating the treacherous waters.

The origins of this historic lighthouse are intertwined with the noble Geraldine family, who erected the first tower on the site in 1202. Recognising the crucial need for its maintenance, they made a visionary decision to entrust its care to the nuns of St. Anne's Convent. Under this arrangement, the intrepid sisters took on the solemn duty of tending to the light, ensuring its steady glow pierced through the darkness to guide ships safely into the harbour.

For over three and a half centuries, from 1190 to 1542, the women of St. Anne's Convent faithfully upheld their charge, wielding torches with a grace and diligence that belied the harshness of their surroundings. Their commitment to duty knew no bounds, as they braved storms and solitude to keep the flame burning bright, a silent beacon of hope amidst the tempestuous seas.

Francis Ross Holland, a renowned authority on lighthouses, speculated that the world's first female lighthouse keeper likely served in Ireland. His words find resonance in the historical records that affirm the pivotal role played by the nuns of St. Anne's in safeguarding the Youghal lighthouse. Through their selfless service, these pioneering women shattered gender norms and blazed a trail for future generations of lighthouse keepers.

The legacy of the Youghal lighthouse endures to this day, a testament to the resilience and fortitude of those who tend to the lights. Though the original tower was demolished in 1848 to make way for a modern structure, its spirit lives on in the granite edifice that now stands sentinel over the bay. Automated yet still imbued with the essence of its storied past, the Youghal lighthouse continues to guide mariners with its steady beacon, a silent tribute to the indelible mark left by the women of St. Anne's.

As we reflect on the remarkable journey of Ireland's first female lighthouse keepers, let us celebrate their courage, their perseverance, and their enduring legacy. In a world often defined by darkness and uncertainty, they remind us that even the smallest light can pierce the gloom and illuminate the path to a brighter tomorrow.

Researched and archived by Michael Hussey

Drawing: The original Youghal lighthouse, likely built in 1190 or 1202 and managed by St. Anne's nuns, guided ships until 1542. William Willes' drawing, the only known depiction, shows its decay after 300 years. The tower, 24 feet tall and 10 feet in diameter, had a narrow Gothic doorway and a spiral staircase leading to two circular windows. Willes' drawing reveals the lighthouse's former position at St. Anne's Rise, providing a strategic view of the bay, though time took its toll, leaving only its memory in Willes' art.
Youghal Shines Bright on Daffodil Day: A Beacon of Hope Against Cancer

In the seaside town of Youghal, a beacon of hope shines brightly every year on Daffodil Day. This special day, organised by the Youghal branch of the Irish Cancer Society, is a testament to the unwavering spirit of community and solidarity in the face of cancer. As the sun rises on March 22nd, 2024, Youghal transforms into a hub of fundraising activities, all aimed at fueling groundbreaking research and support for those affected by cancer.

The heart and soul behind this remarkable initiative is Mai Motherway and her dedicated team of volunteers. With meticulous planning and boundless enthusiasm, they orchestrate a series of fundraising events that bring the entire town together in the fight against cancer. From the streets of North Main St. to the tranquil shores of Youghal's Front Strand, the spirit of unity and compassion is palpable.

One cannot help but be inspired by the sheer scale of the fundraising efforts in Youghal. The Le Gourmet’s ‘The Red Butler’ mobile unit stationed on North Main St. serves as a rallying point for supporters, where daffodil-adorned merchandise flies off the shelves, each purchase symbolising a step towards a cancer-free future. Meanwhile, in the hall of Youghal Credit Union and the Rivergate Mall, volunteers man additional collection stations, their smiles lighting up the faces of passersby.

But the dedication of the Youghal community doesn't stop there. Throughout the week leading up to Daffodil Day, a flurry of events fills the calendar, each one a testament to the town's unwavering commitment to the cause. From the Ladies 3-ball Open Competition at Youghal Golf Club to the invigorating sea swim organised by The Youghal Sea Swimmers Group, every activity serves as a reminder that together, we are stronger.

Mai Motherway, the driving force behind these initiatives, radiates optimism and determination. Her words, "We really want the people of Youghal to go all out this year," echo throughout the town, inspiring individuals to dig deep and contribute whatever they can to this worthy cause. And her efforts are not in vain, as Patrick Heaphy, Manager of Youghal Credit Union, attests: "Mai and her team knock it out of the park every year."

The generosity of the people of Youghal knows no bounds, with funds pouring in to support the vital work of the Irish Cancer Society. Each donation, whether big or small, represents a beacon of hope for those affected by cancer, a tangible symbol of solidarity in the face of adversity.
Together, we stand united against cancer, shining bright like the daffodils that adorn our streets, our hearts, and our hopes for a brighter tomorrow.

Photo: The vibrant hues of yellow paint a vivid picture as Youghal embraces Daffodil Day 2024. In a snapshot taken during the recent launch event, the fundraising team proudly brandishes bunches of daffodils, symbolising hope and resilience in the face of cancer. Among them stand the Ordinary Heroes Against Cancer, Valerie Mannix, Eileen Donoghue, Marian Murphy, and Mai Motherway, each embodying the spirit of unwavering determination.

Shoulder to shoulder with these champions of the cause are Kieran Quinn and Patrick Heaphy from Youghal Credit Union, their presence serving as a testament to the power of collaboration in the fight against cancer. Together, they form a united front, channeling their collective efforts into fueling the battle against this formidable adversary.

This image encapsulates the essence of Daffodil Day – a day of unity, solidarity, and collective action against cancer. It serves as a poignant reminder of the strength that lies in community and the impact that can be made when individuals come together for a common purpose. - Photo: Michael Hussey
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Youghal Credit Union
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