Doolough Tragedy facts for kids
The Doolough Tragedy was a very sad event that happened in County Mayo, Ireland, during the terrible time known as the Great Irish Famine. Many people were starving and struggling to survive. This tragedy took place near a lake called Doo Lough. At least seven people, and possibly many more, died after they had to walk a long distance in very bad weather. They were trying to get help from officials who decided if they would still receive food aid.
What Happened
On Friday, March 30, 1849, two officials from the Westport area arrived in Louisburgh. Their job was to check on people who were receiving "outdoor relief." This was a type of help, like food, given to very poor people outside of workhouses. The officials needed to make sure these people still qualified for the help.
For some reason, the check-up didn't happen in Louisburgh. The two officials then traveled to Delphi Lodge, which was a hunting lodge about 19 kilometres (12 miles) south of Louisburgh. They planned to stay there for the night.
Hundreds of people who were waiting for the check-up were told they had to go to Delphi Lodge. They had to be there by 7 AM the next morning if they wanted to keep getting their relief. This meant many starving and weak people had to walk a very long way. They walked through the night and day in terrible weather.
Soon after, a newspaper called The Mayo Constitution reported on the event. It said that the bodies of seven people, including women and children, were found by the road. They were near the shores of Doolough lake, between Delphi and Louisburgh. The newspaper also said that nine or ten more people never made it home. Some reports suggest that around 20 people died in total. However, people who lived in the area believed the number of deaths was much higher.
Remembering the Tragedy
Today, a cross stands in the Doolough valley to remember this event. Every year, people take part in an annual 'Famine Walk.' This walk goes between Louisburgh and Doolough. It helps people remember the difficult journey the victims had to make.
The monument in Doolough valley has a special message from Mahatma Gandhi. It says: "How can men feel themselves honoured by the humiliation of their fellow beings?" This quote reminds us to treat everyone with respect and kindness.
