BREAK UP OF THE FAMILY

As the average farm was small, only one member of the family remained on the old homestead. Emigration was the only outlet in those days. Often five or more of one family would leave in turn for New York,Boston or some other part of the United States.

The break-up of the family had a more serious emotional effect in those days, when America seemed so distant and so few returned. The parents felt the separation keenly. The farewell party earned in some areas the doleful title of "Irish wake"

CONCLUSION

As already pointed out, the pace of change in the forty years which have elapsed since 1930 has been very rapid. The Second World War directed the minds of the people outwards. Better communications have made them much more aware of the world in general, and by means of radio and television people are kept fully informed of national and international affairs.

The horse has given way to the tractor. The motor-car has drastically reduced distances. A new and more sophisticated society has evolved. Old customs are despised and the trend is to imitate what is seen abroad. The standard of living has vastly improved but the charm, dignity and simplicity of the older order are disappearing. Much that was distinctive of Inis Eoghain is passing and the community is much the poorer by the change.

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