Joe Murphy Meeting - Future Plans

On Monday Afternoon 22nd April 2019 the Togher Historical Association paid a visit to the home of Shirley Kelleher and family to discuss future plans to celebrate the life of one of Togher's forgotten heroes - Joe Murphy. Following the official awarding of the War of Independence Medal to the Kelleher family on behalf of the Delaney and Murphy families and indeed all descendants of Joe Murphy in May 2019 , it is hoped to organize a parade from Joe Murphy House along Pouladuff Road and down Tramore Road ( formally Hangdog Road ) and over Togher Overpass to Togher Community Centre , once Joe's school. This would have been the route the young Joe would have taken to his school and so it is felt appropriate to recreate his journey over a Century ago to honour his memory.

Louise Kelleher & Shirley Kelleher

Great Grand Niece & Grand Niece of Joe Murphy

Shirley Kelleher and her daughter Louise were presented with a beautiful portrait of Joe Murphy by the Ballyphehane 1916 Committee showcasing the road named in his honour many years ago. A similar naming ceremony is proposed for the Togher district. It is hoped that funding can be secured for the Centenary celebrations and a combination of Ballyphehane and Togher input considered to highlight the various events planned. Indeed it is also suggested that Togher itself will put forward projects of their own accord.

The Boy From Pouladuff

It is also hoped that local residents in Togher would become involved in the setting up of a Committee to assist in further projects next year to celebrate the Centenary of Joe Murphy's death. A leaflet drop is also proposed to garner interest and galvanize the Togher community at large into recognizing one of its Heroes. Other side projects include the erection of a plaque on the wall of the Community Centre ( old Togher School ) heralding one of its most famous students. Above are shown the lyrics to The Boy From Pouladuff written by John Murphy and sung by Louise Kelleher outside Joe Murphy house during Easter Weekend.