Two Peterborough residents took part in a powerful commemoration in Cobh, Ireland last week, marking 200 years since hundreds of Irish families set sail for Canada, including many who would go on to settle in the Peterborough area.
Brendan Moher, Chair of Nine Ships 1825, and Paul Hickey, a descendant of one of the original emigrant families, represented the city during the May 9 event at Cobh Harbour. The ceremony honoured the departure of over 500 families from the Ballyhoura region and beyond who boarded 11 ships bound for Upper Canada in 1823 and 1825 under the Peter Robinson Emigration Scheme.
Hickey laid a wreath into the water in memory of his ancestors from Doneraile, who travelled on the ship Star and were among the many families that later settled in what is now Peterborough County. Moher delivered remarks on behalf of the Nine Ships 1825 group and the Peterborough region, and presented a commemorative plaque to Ballyhoura Development, the Irish organization that helped lead the event.
The day also featured speeches from Irish and Canadian officials, including the Irish Ambassador to Canada and representatives from Cork and Limerick councils. A new exhibit on the Peter Robinson settlers was officially opened at the Cobh Heritage Centre following the outdoor ceremony, with volunteers in period costume helping bring the story to life.
The Peterborough group was part of a broader delegation of descendants from Canada and the U.S. who made the journey to Ireland for the bicentennial. Nine Ships 1825 will continue the anniversary commemorations with a major event in Peterborough from August 1 to 10, featuring historical tours, museum visits, and community gatherings. Another celebration is planned in Ireland this September.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
