Kinsale's Iconic Mast Returns

(Staff Reporter)

A familiar friend has made a welcome return to its home on Pier Road on Tuesday last, as the Galleon mast has been reinstated.

Something of an iconic symbol of the town, it makes a welcome return just in time to mark the 425th anniversary of the Battle of Kinsale in December.

Initially installed in 2001 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Siege and Battle of Kinsale in 1601, the mast was designed by the late Robert Jacob of Scilly, Kinsale.

Chairperson of Kinsale Cultural and Heritage Society, JJ Hurley, expressed his delight at its return.

“I am thrilled that the piece is back, particularly for what is such an important year marking the 425th anniversary of the Siege and Battle of Kinsale,” he said.

“Having marked the 425th anniversary in September, with two major events, including the highly successful visit of the Spanish Galleon, the Nao Santa María, which I think proved to be a huge success, the mast is pivotal in reminding us of the events of 425 years ago that had a profound effect not just on Irish history but European history too.”

He paid tribute to local man Sam Kingston from Kingston Boat Yard, based at Middle Cove.

“Sam is a master craftsman and, more importantly, it’s great that such important conservation work can be carried out locally and that the tradition of maritime shipbuilding and repairs is still alive and well in our town.

“Kinsale has always had a tradition of boatbuilding, from the naval docks to the Thuiliers, and most recently, people like the late Rob Jacob. Long may it continue.”