A special cargo of bronze famine shoes left Galway, Ireland last night aboard the Marine Institute’s RV Celtic Explorer to cross the Atlantic to Newfoundland.
The shoe sculptures, which pay tribute to the millions affected by the devastating famine of 1845-1852, will travel across the Atlantic Ocean to be placed in Canada following the launch of the Global Irish Famine Way. The aim is to raise awareness about this significant historical event and its enduring impact on Irish communities worldwide.
The story of the famine shoes began with a pair found hidden in the thatched roof of a 19th century cottage.
Bronze replicas were cast and placed along the National Famine Way where almost 1,500 tenants walked from Strokestown in Roscommon to Dublin and set sail for Canada.
The Strokestown tenants were part of almost 100,000 people who fled the famine to Canada with over 8,000 perishing on coffin ships.
The event in the Galway harbour was attended by Professor Becky Whay, VP International at University of Galway, the Canadian Ambassador to Ireland Nancy Smyth and Dr. Rick Officer, CEO of the Marine Institute.
Dr. Officer said, “This journey represents a powerful symbol of solidarity and remembrance, highlighting the enduring legacy of the Great Irish Famine and its impact on Irish communities around the world.”
An RTÉ article indicates the shoes will be “placed at key memorial sites in Canada.”
