Don't forget to read my book, "Belfast Born Bred and Buttered" elsewhere on this site, and please feel free to use any material on the site, although a wee mention of Rushlight The Belfast Magazine would be appreciated in your work. Thank You!.

the World

 

Robert Brennan writes from Australia, Hi Joe,  Just a short note to say thanks for the magazine. It’s brilliant and certainly brings back many memories as I sit here in Adelaide, Australia where I’ve lived for 44 years. I’ve only been home once (2002) but hope to come back again soon. I was born at 48/50 Beechmount Avenue and we moved to Australia in 1963.

Whilst I’m writing I wonder if an old friend of mine might read these pages. His name is Jackie Rooney. He used to live in Divis St and the last I heard was going to marry a girl from Dunstan St (Eileen Beresford I think) off the Springfield Rd. We lost touch many years ago and I’d love to contact him again. So if anyone’s out there who can help I’d be really grateful.

Hugh McGarry Writes.  Hi Joe,    I have just found your website and I've been totally engrossed in the articles and pictures all night long.

The topic on Micky McLaverty, who was my headmaster at St Thomas's too, reminded me of my last year there. I was head prefect and many a time I ran errands for him to the shops or to St Malachys College. Every 2 weeks he would send me to the bank opposite the Falls Road baths to pay in his royalty cheques which he would say "Another little brick for my retirement", and without fail, every two weeks he would give me half a crown for helping him with the teachers period roster and printing off his bulletins etc. on an old Gestetaner (not sure how that is spelt) that was really mucky due to having to smear on the ink over the printing plates that had to be etched with whatever data he requested. I have manage to buy some of his books over the years and enjoy them over and over again. This year my sister was over from the USA and I have loaned her a couple with the threat that if she lost or damaged them she should never return.

 

I also enjoyed the small piece of writting on Silver McKee, who was my cousin, and the photograph of him and my aunt Maggie. Maggie was my dads sister. I remember as a kid of about 12 in the late 1950's when Silver would come to visit us in St James's Road I was always aware of his reputation but was never afraid of him unlike some I know. Take care & good luck with your writings. Best regards Hugh McGarry

 

Hi Joe, I have just come across your site and felt I had to contact  you and congratulate on fantastic work. I live in England but I am originally from Massereene Street in the Pound Loney.
Your family history of the Graham's is not unlike that of my own families history Armstrong who were also planters from the lowlands of Scotland. Our family Armstrong are from Glenavy, my grandfather David leaving there around late 1899 for Belfast where he ended up in the Short Strand area of the city. My father John was born in 1903 at 18 Clyde Street.
The Glenavy branch of the family go back to the early 1600's where there is mention of them in the Hearth Roll Tax list of 1648.In that period of history to the present the family crossed both sides of the religious spectrum of Presbyterians, C.of.I and Catholics.
It is interesting how many of Catholics living in Belfast and elsewhere come from those Scottish Planters and in Massereene Street they could be found in the names of the residents as;
 Beatty, Burns, Girvan,Forsyth,Drummond,Pollock,Armstrong,Carmichael,Wilson. These names came from just one side of the street and there were also English names as well.
A distant relative of mine was Kevin Armstrong who played for Antrim.
Joe ,I could go on forever with stories and details of Loney life but I am sure you will have a sackful from all other admirers of your site so i won't go on unless if you are interested but before I close I will relate a story from my school days in Milford St. (St. Brendan's).
One time there, the headmaster Mr.O'Neill(John Pious) brought an American visitor into our classroom to introduce him to the class. We were told that the American visitor had been a past pupil of the school and emigrated to the U.S.A and was living now in San Francisco.
Mr O'Neill got a boy from the class to sing for the visitor. The boy went to the front of the room and in Al Jolson impression gave out a belting 'California here I come'.
That boy was Bobby Devlin who went on to write stories of his own for the Andersontown News. Best regards to you Joe and thanks again for the memories.         Bernard ( Bernie) Armstrong

Jim Pauley Writes From England.

Hello Joe I’ve just finished reading your fascinating article on Buck Alec Robinson on The Rushlight website.  To say it was an eye opener would be an understatement. I’m a Belfast ex-pat who has lived in England for the past 27 years.  As a child I remember hearing tales of Buck Alec and his Lion from my maternal grandparents and my parents.  Despite my mother and maternal grandparents being Catholics, the tales of Buck Alec were always humorous and in the nature of warm reminiscences, and to this day I have always had this impression of a loveable Belfast eccentric, parading around Belfast City centre with a toothless lion on a leash.  There was no mention whatsoever –not even a hint- as to his dark past. Tonight I was speaking to a friend in Leeds who was talking about legendary local “characters” and for the first time in years Buck Alec and his lion sprang to mind.  I decided to do a Google search to try and find out the precise details about this guy with the lion and found your article, which came as quite a shock.  I am amazed that my mother’s and grandparents’ stories about him were never anything other than good natured and humorous.  I’m intrigued as to why this would have been so, especially as these tales were being recounted by Catholics, particularly my grandparents who would have been young adults during the murderous spree described in your article.  Were the details of his murderous past completely unknown to his contemporaries?  Has this been hushed-up until relatively recently. I’m going to explore further on the ‘net, but would be grateful if you could possibly suggest any more in-depth reading on the subject. Thanks again for an eye opening article.

Joe Answers... Search as you will Jim, but sadly Rushlight is the only publication that has ever dared touch the whole of the subject.

Ann Murphy Wagner  writes from Canada.

Joe: did you ever put any pics of McMillans Place in any of your Rushlight magazines?? I have quite a few ( magazines) and not one shows or mentions my wee street, It ran from Durham St  to Mill with Pound St beside it.  I could email you a few old photos of the street and neighbour kids if you would find it in your heart to put them in your magazine,   
I often take the old issues out and reread them and more than often end up getting depressed and homesick for Belfast, I live in Canada ( 33yrs).  The best thing you could have done for those of us far away from home was publish that wee magazine. Thankyou Joe  a million time over.

Pat Sutton writes from England.

Hello - for the first time I looked for you on the internet and what a lovely surprise - Hannahstown in detail.  Many years ago I lived there with my grandparents Paddy and Hannah Gordon and my Uncle John, before that we lived at Tornaroy.Have you thought of having a 'Friends Reunited' column?

 

 

Gabe McAreavey former Beechmount Man ditches the Sydney Opera House for a read of Rushlight The Belfast Magazine.

 

Teresa From Australia Writes....Dear Joe I have just found this wonderfull site through my brother. My family all live in Australia, we imigrated in 1970. My mothers family were O'Kanes from Ton street and my father name was Lewsley from around Lough Neigh. As children we grew up in Cyprus st. opposite the Long Bar and I went to Slate st.school before my family moved to Turf Lodge were my dad was the night watchman on the new estate. I have been home a few times in the last 6 years as I feel my roots are stilll in Belfast. I still remember the names of the streets and I also remember John Caldwell the boxer. I would love to be able to buy your book BELFAST BORN BRED AND BUTTERED if you could let me know how I can purchase it. I would really appreciate it. Many thanks for your wonderful website. Regards Teresa Lofthouse

Maria , former Half Bap Girl Writes..

Hi Joe just been reading your thing about Little Italy   my name was Forgione we lived in Nelson St till 1960 when our house burnt down my grandad had the ice cream parlour in Cromac St called "Joes Ices "do you remember it ? We moved to Ballmurpy then from there to preston england my mams name was Gough she came from Sailortown, North Tomas  St, Earl St   I have some pics of our house when the fire engines were there I will send them to you soon also a photo of us girls taken in the Newsboys Club we are the W.S Armour girls I'm sure that was what we were called  thankin u Joe for ur time an effort u put into all of this   God Bless,  Maria   ps would love the dvd about Halfbap is it a new 1 cos ive got old 1   how do i pay ??

 

Former Shankill Girl Writes...  

Hi Joe I have realy enjoyed your stories and pictures of Belfast.

I live in Australia, But came from the Shankill not far from the Falls.

When I saw the photos of the Falls they brought a tear to my eyes.

I have been searching for old pictures of Belfast mostly of the Falls , and

Shankill for awhile now and thanks to you I can get your website up, and all

the memories come rushing back. Keep up the good job your doing. Hope mybeyou will be able to have a few more pictures of the Shankill. I came from ArgyleStreet. My granmother lived Curry Street just of Albert Street. Thanks again.  All the best,     Emma

 

Former Andytown man writes.'.. or is he shouting ha ha..

HI JOE, MY NAME IS GERARD MCCORRY. ORIGINALLY FROM ANDERSONSTOWN I'VE BEEN LIVING IN NEW YORK FOR THE PAST TWENTY YEARS AND  MY MOTHER SENDS ME THE ODD RUSHLIGHT EVERY SO OFTEN. ITS GREAT TO PUT FACES TO THE NAMES OF PEOPLE I'VE HEARD OF THROUGH THE YEARS SUCH AS PIG MINELLY.

   MY MOTHER SEEMS TO REMEMBER A GERMAN SUBMARINE IN DUNCRUE ST EITHER DURING THE WAR OR RIGHT AFTER IT.SHE AND MY GRANDMOTHER WERE ABLE TO GO ABOARD IT AND SHE REMEMBERS SIGNS ASKING PEOPLE NOT TO TOUCH ANYTHING AS IT WAS THE SAILORS BELONGINGS.APPARENTLY IT WAS GOING TO BE TORPEDOED OR SCUTTLED AFTER IT LEFT BELFAST. WOULD YOU OR ANY OF YOUR READERS REMEMBER ANYTHING ABOUT THIS? MY MOTHER WOULD REALLY LOVE TO GET SOME INFORMATION ON THIS BECAUSE SHE IS BEGINNING TO THINK THAT MAYBE SHE DREAMT IT!!!!

     THANKS JOE AND KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.                

A New Lodge Query ...Dear Joe I wonder if any of your readers would have information on John (aka bigJack) McBride of Artillery St off North Queen St. I think he worked in the docks.
He was my grandfather and I'm interested in any info on his background.  If possible I'm also looking for info on James Johnston of Kingston St in the ardoyne/bone area. He is also my grandfather. I dont have access to rushlight down here in Co.Clare so if it's not possible to get thos info I will understand 
Gratefully   Mary mcDonald

Rory McAllister Writes From England  

Hi Joe, I've had the pleasure of reading quite a few of your magazines over the years. I moved to England in the early 70's and my father has sent me the odd Rushlight from time to time. Unfortunately he died a few months ago so I wont be having any more sent to me. As an aside, my name is Rory McAllister, born and bred in Sailortown 1953. I have just been reading an article of yours on the internet on the infamous Buck Alec. He, as you rightly say, used to walk his lions past our front door in Garmoyle St but mores to the point; he was a friend (but respected enemy) of my grandfather Pat McAllister the Irish Welterweight Champion 1923 / 6. Not only did Buck do a bit of wrestling he was also know to throw the odd punch in the ring. During 1 of his wrestling bouts ( not sure on the venue) my father was "seconds" in his corner. Once again you are true to the fact that he was handy with a gun but casting my mind back to stories from my Granda he also said the the Buck went to America during prohibition and as usual got up to no good, apparently he was deported. Anyway, I'm blathering on a wee bit now. If you have a back issue of the "buck" story I'd love to have it, if its for sale. Looking forward to a favourable reply Rory McAllister

Gusty McCurdy Writes From Rathlin Island.

Hello Joe Thanks for the DVDs, I have been watching them the past few nights, Ardoyne has changed a bit since I was there, the houses look better. When I lived in Herbert Street, there was the billiard hall, it was called 'The Hut', was that where you did some of the filming? I can remember the big confraternity processions at Clonard. "There used to be a few people around the Springfield Road with Rathlin connections. Angela Feeney the singer's grandmother was a McCurdy from Rathlin.  Regards Gusty McCurdy, Rathlin Island.

Jim Mullan Writes From England

Hi Joe, I've just discovered the Rushlight Magazine Site. It's been great reading about stuff, most of which I'd forgotten about. We lived in Rock Grove. My father was the one who sold the bundles of sticks round the streets. Everyday when I came home from school I had to go over to the pit head and collect wood. When we brought it back, we then chopped it up and took it round the streets to sell. Penny a bundle, or if things weren't going well,7 for sixpence. My father built a big cart from wood we got from the pit head. We could get 40 dozen in that cart. My father also had this great idea of collecting old inner tubes and cutting them up to use as elastic bands. The best area for selling was St. James's About the pit head, Jimmy McKenna used to run that, and he used to watch you like a hawk in case you nicked the ali. My father used to grow every vegetable you could think of in our back garden. People used to sneak in at night and nick stuff. They didn't have to, as we gave most of it away. Before that, my father was also a rag and bone man. I used to go down the hills, right down to Ballymurphy Rd. on my guider. It frightened the life out of me. Remember marbles in the street, bow and arrows, bike wheels with the fence wire for guiding them, and the street party's. Lovely man at the end of Rock Grove, (Whiterock Rd. end) used to organise everything. I think his name was Sammy Glanders. It was nice to see old Charlie the milkman mentioned on your Ballymurphy page. That place was dead creepy at night though. I don't think Charlie had any electric.If he had he certainly never used it. He used to come to the door carrying a torch. Then there was the little farm near Corrigan Park, (O’Hare’s) where we used to buy buttermilk. Fried herrings and buttermilk, lovely. I can't remember where we got the herrings from. Nora's bakery, Jim's cafe, Flanagan's Bookies. It's all coming back. I better stop now, or I'll be here all night. Cheers Joe. You are doing a valuable job, Jim Mullan

Shining a light on Belfast’s past

This following very complimentary article by an Andersonstown News Columnist was emailed from Brian Cummings in Wales 

Brimming trips down memory lane, fascinating tales and ghost stories, Belfast’s oldest historical magazine, Rushlight, continues to celebrate the characters and events of the past.
The brainchild of Andersonstown seanachie Joe Graham, the magazine is ever popular, attracting readers of all ages to its fascinating articles.
Reading the magazine you become immersed in bygone days, getting to know the characters from the community and areas, many of which are no longer there, or have changed greatly.
A fiery street orator Arthur Trew, who is regarded as a forerunner to Ian Paisley, is covered in great detail in January’s edition. The controversial figure, who died in the 1940s, became the best known of the speakers who gathered to give speeches at the steps of Custom House, Belfast’s Speakers’ Corner.
Such was his popularity amongst unionists that when he lived in Dublin for a period a collection was made to pay for his train fare north to continue to give Custom House speeches.
He flirted with more than just vitriolic speeches, when in 1901 he ended up in court charged with disorderly behaviour. He had obstructed a Corpus Christi march making its way to St Malachy’s College on the Antrim Road from St Patrick’s Church on Donegall Street which led to disturbances in the area. He received a 12 month prison sentence.
Other Rushlight stories include the sad death of a mill worker crushed by machinery, and a daring escape from the Crumlin Road Jail in 1927.
There is, as always, a great selection of photographs showing parts of Belfast at the turn of the century and some interesting pictures of the opening of St Kevin’s School on the Falls Road.
The people in the magazine are always very interesting but it is for the little gems along the way that many buy it.
For instance we learn in the article about Arthur Trew that the deeds of Joe Graham’s own house in Elswick Street contained a clause to the effect of, “This property may never fall into papist hands”.
The secret of Joe’s successful approach to history is his reluctance to rely solely on desk-based research.
Joe is a people person and often uncovers fascinating details from speaking to elderly people and obtaining oral accounts passed down through generations.
Joe’s love for West Belfast shines through the magazine and makes it a must buy for anyone in the community who enjoys a lively read.  By Journalist:: Damien McCarney

Thanks For the Belfast Memories, From Marg in England

 Hiya Joe. I have just one hour ago discovered your wonderful Rushlight and I have not stopped laughing through tears , how well I remember all of the folk you write of . Me, well I was a wee Crumlin Road girl now living in England over 50 yrs ,my dad was also someone who would take the cart and look for a bit of pruck [ie handcart] and he would do the Antrim /Cavehill Road and I can tell you many a good coat he brought home for me .I have so enjoyed Rushlight .I have only read a bit so far and I know I’m in for a another good laugh and fond memories .one question was Jimmy Duff the same one who used to said “I’m Jimmy Duff I have hairs on my chest” . As I lived in the lower Crumlin Road I really enjoyed reading of the Savoy and the good old ranch i worked in Ewarts mill and Gallaghers as a girl and I recall all the girls I worked with where ever they came from as great girls and truly the salt of working class women thanks you for the memories. Marg.

From Canada. Hello, Joe, I have much enjoyed rummaging about in your website in the past day or two, over here on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. Originally I'm from Co. Derry, later Belfast, and now have close family in Co. Down. I fly over the pond to revisit the old places from time to time, so I will lookout for your publications next time I'm over, a bit later this year.

Now, I read this in your fascinating Belfast history "time line"....for 1819:

....and I wonder if this might be a son of the Francis Falloon of Donaghadee, tavern keeper, who was much involved in the June 1798 "turnout" in those parts? (Francis Falloon's name appears in Harry Allen's "Men of the Ards" at pgs. 105-6, 112,154. Harry doesn't mention what became of Francis after the collapse of the rebellion, but I notice that your website's 1806 Directory of Belfast Residents lists a Francis Falloon, grocer & spirit dealer, at 23 Church Lane (maybe the same bloke?), as well as a James Falloon, spirit dealer & tavern-keeper, at 2 Hanover Quay. Very spiritual folk, those Falloons! :-) ..)Best Wishes, Joe Simpson

Australian reader Writes.. Hi Joe, I need some help from you. please could you give me any info regarding the house/school that stood were upper Springhill is today. I think the caretaker was called huskinson or something like that, we used to call it huskies field, any help whatever would be appreciated. Billy Smyth ...Sydney Oz. 23rd April 2006

A Scottish Reader writes, Thank you Joe for the two copies of your Book, "Belfast Born, Bred and Buttered" which I recieved today, 22nd April 2006. and so quickly too, I look forward to your next Book, "Myths Legends and Facts On Old Belfast" Please reserve me two copies, thank you, Bo. (Glasgow)

Hello Joe, I borrowed from a friend a copy of the DVD Title you produced, "Ghostly Tales Of Old Belfast", and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it and then one night I was browsing through E-Bay and I noticed on sale there was your video "Ghostly Tales Of Old Belfast" and the seller, apparently from Carrickfergus, was asking £6.99, almost £2 more than my friend paid to Rushlight, so that has to say something as to the fairness of Rushlight. Alan Wright, Glasgow, Scotland.

Joe Replies; ...All I can say is BEWARE OF EXPENSIVE IMITATIONS. or "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery". No, all joking aside, I don’t mind at all, sure they are selling copies of the Rushlight Films on DVD down round Castle Street ,and if some one is making a few Bob, fair play to them. I did not make these films with a view of making money but to record our history, folklore and the ways of the past, so really such people are helping me get these out to be appreciated by even more people. I would only hope they would start copying and selling my other titles, particularly, "The Risen People", and "Ardoyne-The North Of Ireland’s Selma, Alabama " , now there are messages I would like help to get across.

Australian reader writes ..."Hi Joe, Great Site, I come from Albert Street, Belfast now living in Perth Australia for thirty five years .Can you tell me where Buck Alex lived in Belfast All the places that he lived in. Keep up the good work" Thanks, Kind Regards, John & Olive Gray. (Reply sent)

Paul Daly Writes From England .. Joe, I am just writing to thank you for sending me your book, "Belfast Born, Bred And Buttered", which I read before Christmas. I would just like to tell you that I enjoyed it immensely and thought the way you used your own experiences along with history and facts made someone like me understand the complexities and problems in Northern Ireland. When I was growing up all you understood about Catholics in the U.K was that they were violent terrorists who had no desire in reaching a political and peaceful solution. Your book has highlighted the reasons for this - history, mistrust and self preservation. I wonder how you felt when you were arrested.? It must have been a terrifying thought - even though you typically joke about it.!! I particularly found it interesting reading about Carson and the historical problems he caused.I don't know wheter my mum said but I was in the middle of Bob Dylan's book and I grudgingly put it down to read yours. Let me just say I haven't picked it up again!! (And it was book of the year !), Thank you again for the book and a Happy New year to you, Kind regards Paul Daly.

A County Antrim reader writes...Dear Joe, I came upon your history of Belfast by accident almost at the weekend and enjoyed it so much. Any time I'd strayed into local history before it was always dull little facts about the 'great and the good' with nothing about the living and working conditions of the mass of the people. I learnt so much I never knew before and will look at the town with new eyes. I am looking into my family history and all your facts and dates help supply the background for the times of the people I've discovered, particularly the population growth and the flooding into Belfast of people from the countryside. Well done on all that scholarship and thanks very much. Liz Ayre Carrickfergus

A County Down Reader writes... I was in Belfast yesterday and in a secondhand book shop. I picked up the Rushlight booklet and in the middle was a map from 1907 for Cavendish Street. I have been trying to trace my husband's grandmother to the street and the map was a great find. I read the rest of the booklet on the way home on the bus and can say I will keep your site as a favourite. More local historians should take a leaf out of your book. Pat.

Australian Reader writes.. g,day Joe, I just found your site by accident and it is fantastic,my name is f r Nolan ( rod ) and I lived in Cawnpore Street, Clonard, went to St. Galls then St. Thomas, Whiterock Road. Your site hit me like a ton of bricks, stirred up a lot of memories and made me think about where I came from in a different way. I now live in Brisbane Australia ,I never in my dreams could have foreseen the charmed life that I have had but your site has highlighted the values and up bringing that allowed me make the most of my life .thank you . Rod Nolan.*

Margaret Murray Writes Many people will be indebted to you for your recordings of the old days for later generations to come. I know my husband was thrilled with his DVD at Christmas. We live in what used to be a mining community (sadly all the pits are closed now), but we have a local historian like yourself who records precious memories on DVD and so many people are grateful to him. Vince only has to switch on his DVD and is transported to Belfast for a while - and it is all due to you -Thank You. Margaret Murray(Mrs). Co. Durham. England. (Vince originated from Kings Court Off Lancaster Street)

Belfast reader writes.. Hi Joe, I am a great fan of the Rushlight. I usually get it in the wee shop in Clifton street, Thanks Joe for the web address great stuff sorry to tell you old Terry O’Neill past away before Christmas, I am his nephew, thanks again. Terry O’Neill.

Canadian reader Writes... Hello Joe, My husband , myself, my sister and her husband (they are from Savannah Georgia U.S.A.) all met you at 2002 Belfast Reunion Dance. I also talked with you at our Brampron Irish Club and in talking to you mentioned you had done an article in Rushlight on my grand aunt Annie Gallagher 62 Baker Street, Belfast. Do you have any records there that you might tell you what year and month you published it ? Wee Mickey Gilmore here in Brampton says if I can find out when it was he will look in his stack of treasured Rushlight magazines and let me BORROW ONE.I would appreciate it very much Just want to mention in reading your guest book I came across a lady by the name Marie Conlon who lived on Baker Street I contacted her by e-mail and lo and behold she knew my Aunt Annie and her daughters Lily and Enna small world isn't it????? Just found your web a couple of weeks ago just fabulous Thank you and hoping you can help me , Pat Magee

David And Rebecca Treadwell write from Arizona. Just found your site Joe, and enjoying it greatly,  Good Luck

An American reader Writes...Joe, I'd be interested in seeing any photos you have of the Shankill area between Crumlin Road and Shankill Road from Denmark Street and Antrim Road out to Mill Pond and Orkney Street, particularly from the period 1900 - 1950. I have relatives that lived on Snugville Street, Paris, Brussels, Agnes Street, Matchett Street and others in that area. I like your web site, very interesting. -- Craig Campbell

 Thanks Joe   for getting back to me, if I get lucky and find some some photo's of the area I'll share them with you. I enjoyed viewing your site. I'm from the U.S, my grandparents passed through Shankill around the turn of the century and moved on to Brooklyn in the early 1900's. I think they were just looking for work and I'm not sure exactly where they came from. Craig Campbell

Vince Morrison writes   Dear Joe, Just today I went into your website. Really well done, congratulations. Certainly brought back memories of my life in Belfast. From 1946 until 1957 I lived in Beechmount Bungalows. Number 99 (still being built when we went in) I spent a great deal of time in the Y.C.W hut on Beechmount Ave. I was president of the youngest group. Over the past few years, I have managed to read a few of your wonderful magazines, believe it, sent by a friend I knew in the Bungalows all those years ago. I still keep in touch with a number of of lads from those times. I have lived in Australia since 1962 but have great memories of my time in Beechmount then later at Andersonstown Park south. I went to St Finians School, leaving in 1950. All the very best to you and anyone I may have known away back. Vince Morrison

Patrick McDade writes   Joe, I received a bunch of your magazines for Kieran Cunningham who live in Ajax Ontario. In Vol 24 #10 there was an article about the Matadors Showband but Kieran has no idea what year/month the article appeared. I was wondering if you received any feedback about the members of the band, as I have a faint recollection that if the band was originally managed by Tommy Jones in the early sixties, then I was the guy who used to drive them, usually in a van that invariably broke down, as none of the original band members had a license. When one of them did get their license, my chauffeuring days were over as I was an expense they really didn't need. In the early days there was a young lady singer who also had a brother in the band  If you did have a follow up, please let me know in what edition I might find it. Thanks and I really enjoy your magazine . Patrick Seamus McDade.

 My name is Seanna Whelan, Hey oem  I live in England with my parents Breidge and Sean Whelan. my parents were born in Belfast my mother is from Ballymurphy and my father from the Whiterock . My fathers two older brothers still live there Billy and Fra Whelan. my mother has quite a few remaining relatives there her maiden name was Benson. I have read your magazine since I was a teenager as my father's brother sends them to him when he can. I think your Rushlight Magazine is fantastic and I really enjoy reading it. your magazine has helped us understand why our parents loved living in Belfast all those years. could you please put a mention in your magazine from my parents to say how much they miss there friends and family in Belfast especially my fathers brothers as he has not seen them in years I myself haven’t seen them in 15 years. Thank you and God Bless You.

A Belfast reader Writes...Hi there Joe, I found your website today for Rushlight Magazine in my local library computer(Suffolk). Iam doing a project on the history of cinemas in west Belfast as part of a course. I have to do a presentation. Can you give me any info? Where could I get copies of photos to illustrate my presentation? You used to live next door to me some years ago. Thanking you and hoping that this is no trouble. Marianne.

Gazza O'Brien Writes from England    Hello Joe Thanks for talking to me today on the phone, the discovery of your Rushlight publication has opened my eyes to many aspects of Belfast history and perhaps to my own family history. Hopefully I will be back in touch in the near future on that score. Thank you, Gazza O'Brien,

An Australian reader writes...Joe, love your site. Just wanted to let you know that I was there the night McGurks was bombed. My 'then' boyfriend and I were walking back from confessions at St Pat's - as you did in those days! Martin Loughran is his name and I wonder if he was the person who you can't remember(In your mention in "Belfast Born, Bred And Buttered"). It was a horrendous night - we were about 17 at the time. I left Belfast a couple of years later and have never been back to live, tho I've made many visits. I was also in the Abercorn when it went up. Worked at the 'Mint' Imperial as well, so have been involved in a few. Keep up the good work, Berni.

Letter from Patrick McDade   Joe, I received a bunch of your magazines for Kieran Cunningham who live in Ajax Ontario.In Vol 24 #10 there was an article about the Matadors Showband but Kieran has no idea what year/month the article appeared. I was wondering if you received any feedback about the members of the band, as I have a faint recollection that if the band was originally managed by Tommy Jones in the early sixties, then I was the guy who used to drive them, usually in a van that invariably broke down, as none of the original band members had a license. When one of them did get their license, my chauffering days were over as I was an expense they really didn't need. In the early days there was a young lady singer who also had a brother in the band If you did have a follow up, please let me know in what edition I might find it. Thanks and I really enjoy your magazine Patrick Seamus McDade. PS My Uncle John was 'Cecil the Breadman' in the McCooey's Radio Show

Letter from Noel McLaughlin   Hi Joe My name is Noel Mclaughlin and I live in Melbourne Australia and have done since 1968. I've read many of your magazines and have a video about old Ross Street and the old dance clubs around Belfast which you put together for me at the request of my brother Seamus who sadly passed away about seven years ago I read on the website that you run an annual ghost tour of old Belfast and wonder if you could possibly put this years tour to video and if you could forward a copy on to me. If in the meantime you could contact me and let me know the price I'd be most grateful. I lived in 152 Ross Street at the corner of Ross and Balaclava Street. Our gable faced Frank Mc Curry,s old shop better known to the whole district as MURRA,S

Letter from Geraldine Kelly   Hi there, have just been going thru some things of my mums and found a copy of the rushlight magazine, did a search on the net and found your wonderful site. My Mum (Josephine Madine) was from California st and Dad (David Patterson) from Ardoyne most of my relatives are still in Belfast but a bit slack at sending your mag to us so I would like to subscribe and get it sent out to me in Australia. It has been a long time since I have been home (1975) but as my ma use to say ""Belfast will always be home no matter where you live"". Keep up the good work have sent a link to the rest of my family here so they too can enjoy your site Looking forward to hearing from you as to how I go about subscribing take care Geraldine Kelly (Patterson) Australia

A letter from Conor Boyd In Canada   Hello Joe, just to say thanks once again for "Rushlight" which we all enjoy here in Canada, and to take the opportunity to send you this photo of my self and my wife, Mary, and her cousin Margaret Kelly, from Ladybrook, who were over here on vacation. The three of us are pictured at Niagra Falls, note the "Rushlight" I am holding, ha ha, it gets everywhere. Margaret, whose maiden name was Doherty, originally came from Beechmount Bungalows, as apparently your wife Ann also originated from, its a small world. You will recall you met my wife Mary at the big Belfast Bash over here in Canada in May past, and we must say we enjoyed your visit ..and the video. Congratulations on your wonderful website , good luck. Conor Boyd

Janet McDonnell Writes, from U.S.A     Dear Joe, Many thanks for your kind and generous hospitality. I very much enjoyed meeting you, seeing your beautiful country and learning your history.   I'm thrilled that after years of seeing pictures I was finally able to see the Giant's Causeway along with so many other beautiful areas.  I found it extremely interesting to hear your country's history. Your struggles have a place in my heart and I wish all the Irish people a future of equality, peace and prosperity. Please tell your wife and sons that I enjoyed meeting them also.   Again, thank you, you were a charming host and a great educator. If you ever visit in my area, I would be very happy to return the hospitality.

Bridie Mearns writes about the man who had two funerals;    Dear Joe, congratulations on a wonderful website. My father collected all the Rushlight magazines you printed since 1972, since his death I have continued the collection. You have given many hours of pleasure to all my family and for this I must thank you.My father was an amateur historian and had many rare books and photographs in his collection. My father was born in the Bone and lived for most of his married life in Ligoniel. He settled many arguments on the subject of the history of Belfastmarried life in Ligoniel. He settled many arguments on the subject of the history of Belfast and Ireland. Among his many friends one event has never been recorded is the man who had 2 funerals , namely my father James Cavanagh from Ardilea Court in the Bone He was "buried ",twice, on the 13th October 1998. When the family , and mourners arrived at the City cemetery they quickly realised that the wrong grave had been opened, it was in fact the grave of his brother Big Barney. Every night before he returned to my Mother he called in to speak with Barney, we felt that even in death Dad had called to see Barney before going to his final rest with my Mother. After discussions with the undertaker it was felt the best course of action was to open the correct grave and everyone return that afternoon for " another " burial. My father had a fantastic sense of humour and we all felt he was having a grand laugh at the turn of events. This occurrence did in fact help to ease the grief of the family, and added another chapter to the legend that was my Father. Jimmy is still fondly remembered in the Bone, as the man who had 2 funerals. ..Good Luck Bridie Mearns.

Joe Donnelly writes from Austria;    Hi Joe, I've been readin yer wee Rushlight on internet an' also had a few more copys from me nephew Andy in Belfast, an' I notice that ye maybe could use a poem I wrote some time ago. At any rate Joe, yer doin' a mighty good job fer us ol' exiles. Thanks a million... Joe Donnelly...... Austria

An Old Man’s Dream

I trudged along with heavy gait, tired, weary an' sore,

The dust whirled up 'neath my feet, tauntin' me thirst to the core.

My heavy heart pulled me down, me shoulders ached with pain,

Deep in me soul I asked meself, has me whole life been in vain.

Is this the life I worked for Lord, all the years since I was young,

Has it all passed by so quickly, like a song that was never sung,

May I expect a better life, as you promised us, one and all,

Will I be deemed as worthy, when I answer your last call.

Just then as if in answer, a car pulled to the side,

A gentle voice then asked me , if I wished with her to ride.

In disbelief I looked at her, blonde hair an' Angel face,

A work of art from God alone, a measure o' the human race.

She smiled an' opened the door fer me, an' beckoned to be seated,

An' bendin' low, I took the seat, fer me tired limbs were defeated.

She looked at me with tenderness, in her steady, silent gaze,

An, till I die, I knew just then, me soul she did amaze.

She asked me where I was bound, with a voice so sweet an' mellow,

That let me hear the birds an' bees, ferget I'm a poor ol' fellow.

But I shook meself an' told her, I had neither kin nor home,

That I was born a tinker, this beautiful land to roam.

I said I'm not the only one commited to a life o' pain,

That knowledge has accompanied me, time an' time again,

But I've lived me life in decency, bourne it as a man,

Knowin' all too well, its all a part o' Gods Own Devine Plan.

The poor who I have worked fer, mendin' pots, sharpenin' knives,

Gave their strength fer little pay, an' shortened so their lives,

So that their landlords could enjoy, the days with unholy pleasure,

Ne'er thinkin' o' the wounds an' pain, inflicted beyond measure

I tried, aye, God knows I tried, to help them from despair,

Fer they had none to show compassion, nor love, nor hope nor care.

Till Famine raised his ugly head, above the flur an' village,

An' soon began the task of hate, the poor an' harmed to pillage.

An' God stood by an' watched it happen, He didn't raise a hand,

He saw the Strangers movin' in to plunder old Ireland,

I stood there as if turned to ston