DERRYBEG CHAPEL
From Atlas and Cyclopedia of Ireland (1900)
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DERRYBEG CHAPEL, GWEEDORE.—The structure herewith shown cannot be said to have any special claim on the tourist's attention as an ecclesiastical edifice. It is neither imposing nor pretentious, but like pastor and people is "racy of the soil," and typical of Irish faith, and unflinching devotion to fatherland. Its pastor, whose portrait is presented in the foreground, came into prominence during the Land League agitation, for his attitude and labors in behalf of his people, especially during the famine of 1879 and 1880, in that locality. The parish is situated in a bleak corner of the northwest Donegal coast, and is somewhat barren, and under the old rack-renting system suffered severely. During the famine and agitation mentioned, Father McFadden, by his appeals for charity, saved many of his people from death by starvation, and kept them in line in support of the national cause. Police Inspector Martin, who attempted to arrest him during holy mass, with the malicious design of outraging the religious feelings of the congregation, was killed by the infuriated people. Father McFadden was arrested, but could not be held amenable for the result, though he suffered much persecution at the hands of his enemies.
Derrybeg Chapel
Description of County Donegal | Donegal Castle | Derrybeg Chapel | Moville | Bundoran | Ballyshannon Bridge | Donegal Map