Wexford in 2015 – Saturday
The 26th Annual Rally of the Irish Model T Ford Club was held this year in the sunny south east of Ireland. We were based in the Brandon House Hotel on the outskirts of New Ross. Most of the group travelled on Friday for the early start on Saturday morning.
Drivers Briefing
Whilst David led the convoy of 29 Model Ts first off was our President Michael & Rita Loughran, followed by our members, with their cars looking splendid and running as they should. Enjoy viewing an image of each one as they departed our Hotel base.
Kennedy Arboretum
After our driver’s briefing, we set off in the direction of Hook Head, taking in the newly built Kennedy Homestead Historical Centre followed by the short journey to the Kennedy Arboretum which is dedicated to the memory of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 35th President of the United States of America who was assassinated on 22nd November 1963. JFK had paid a historical visit to Ireland in June of that year during which he called to the home of his ancestors in Dunganstown.
Unfortunately our Secretary was engaged in roadside assistance at this time and thus far photographs are awaited from members who might read this and send on whatever images they possess.
Commemorative Stone
We then proceeded to the village of Campile to see the beautiful commemorative stone marking the German bombing which took place during World War II.
Unfortunately our Secretary was still engaged in roadside assistance at this time and thus far photographs are awaited from members who might read this and send on whatever images they possess.
Morning Coffee
Resuming our journey, we drove to Duncannon and were provided with a welcome cuppa and goodies. By this time the rain had arrived and hoods were hurriedly pulled up.
Hook Head
This weather stayed with us all the way to Hook Head where we parked up and very gratefully took refuge in the restaurant for lunch!! It was a bit disappointing to have the bad weather while there as it would have been spectacular on a clear day. However skies cleared a bit and the tour of the oldest lighthouse in Europe was enjoyed by our members. it is interesting to note that the 800 year old Hook Head has been voted No 1 Lighthouse in the world by Lonely Planet and is so deserving of the title.
Loftus Hall
We resumed our journey, passing by Loftus Hall which is being totally refurbished at the moment. Legend has it that the devil once went through the roof and so it has a reputation for being a highly spooky place to visit and not for the faint hearted!
Tintern Abbey
Our next stop, Tintern Abbey, is a replica of the abbey of the same name in Wales. The rare surviving example of a 16th century can be found here in Co Wexford located over a small, tidal river. The bridge is situated just a short distance from the 13th century abbey. It has three plank-centred arches and is defended by a crenulated parapet, made from locally sourced stone.
Back To Base
We then made or way back to New Ross,through very pleasant countryside.
Banquet
We enjoyed a sumptuous meal followed by a short speech by our President, Michael Loughrane.
- The Rosslare Cup was presented to Bernard and Anne Duffy.
- The Silver Salver, a gift of The Model T Ford Registry of Great Britain was presented to Stinson & Son – James and Thomas Stinson.
The remainder of the evening was passed with the usual conviviality and some music before retiring in the early hours!
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