Past pupils share fond memories of former Clare convent school before its demolition
Scoil Mhuire Ennistymon was closed last year following its amalgamation with Ennistymon CBS and Ennistymon Vocational School
Past pupils from Scoil Mhuire in Ennistymon have shared fond and loving memories of their time there ahead of its demolition.
The former convent school was closed last year following the amalgamation of three existing schools in North Clare to create Ennistymon Community School.
Over 700 pupils, including those from Scoil Mhuire Ennistymon, Ennistymon CBS and Ennistymon Vocational School, began attending the new school in September 2023.
Scoil Mhuire Ennistymon posted a farewell Facebook status on Thursday, March 21, describing their "poignant and emotional day" as the school building was emptied out.
"While the final hours ticked away, a solemn procession unfolded as the last remnants of a once vibrant school were carefully catalogued, boxed and carried away," it read.
Former principal Seosaimhín Uí Dhomhnalláin walked out the school door for the last time, flanked by a guard of honour and "a profound sense of gratitude and nostalgia".
"Memories hold sway over the heartstrings today, the echoes of laughter and camaraderie, the sounds of sweet choral singing, the sunlight streaming through the central area, the voices of those we have lost, all linger like ghosts as the echoes of history fade into dust."
Many former pupils and staff shared their memories of their time in the school, which had served the girls and young women of North Clare for almost 91 years, in the comments under the heartfelt goodbye.
"What a wonderful tribute. Hard not to shed a little tear remembering moving from the old convent to the new building and now the end of Scoil Mhuire as an independent entity," one former scholar posted.
"End of an era for sure! Great memories from my time there and in more recent times also. Best wishes in particular to Ms Donnellan but to all the teachers and staff as they move on to the new school," another wrote.
"The best years of my life were attending Scoil Mhuire, so many great memories that I will treasure, many friendships I developed and still have to this day. Here's to a new era," said another former pupil.
Many also wished good luck to all the staff and to the new school.
"As we say goodbye to Scoil Mhuire, we express our deepest gratitude to the Principals and teachers past and present and to the parents and the community who have dedicated themselves to creating an environment of growth, empowerment and excellence," the post ended.
"In the coming days this building will be demolished but the Scoil Mhuire spirit will remain and will continue to resonate in the lives of all those who have been fortunate enough to be part of its journey."