Tipperary Studies presents our short documentary, “I hope all my friends come out safe”
Tipperary Studies proudly presents our short documentary, “I hope all my friends come out safe: Ballypatrick, an Irish rural community in the 1920s.”
Watch now and journey through time with us! https://youtu.be/-dGJEGc2Jmg
The film is a visual journey through the lens of John Quinn a talented local photographer from the early 20th century. It’s a fascinating look at life in this small corner of South Tipperary during a time of incredible change. It tells the story of the daily lives of the people in Ballypatrick and the surrounding villages of Kilcash and Kilsheelan.
John Quinn’s images give us a rare glimpse into a world that was rapidly evolving, with the looming spectre of war and revolution always present in the background. Life in Ballypatrick revolved around the simple rhythms of farming, school, church, and creamery. The community was tight-knit, with landmarks like Kilcash castle and Slievenamon standing watch over the people as they went about their daily routines. Gibbs forge and the Ballypatrick creamery and post office were also integral parts of the community, providing essential services to the locals.
But the area was not immune to the hardships of the time. The Dillon family lost two children in tragic circumstances, and four men drowned in the River Suir on Christmas 1922 as a direct result of damage to the Kilsheelan bridge. It was a stark reminder of the human cost of the conflict that was tearing the country apart. Despite the challenges, life went on, and many changes came to Ballypatrick over the decades. This film is more than just a story of Ballypatrick/Kilcash; it’s a window into the lives of many other rural areas in Ireland during that time.
We are grateful to the local community for their support through sharing family records and stories and giving access to local buildings. This project wouldn not have been possible without their help and the funding from the Tipperary commemorations programme, in conjunction with the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.
