May 2005

World War II Memories in Moville

In McNamara's Hotel, Wednesday 11th May, nearly 100 adults and children participated in a historical journey through the years 1939 -1945 as part of World War II reminiscence. This unique cross-generational event was organised by the Inspiring Readers Project - supported by Peace and Reconciliation in collaboration with Derry Central Library and Moville Branch Library.

Children from Scoil Eoghain, Moville had an unique opportunity to meet and learn from the experiences of those who lived through the Second World War and what social impact this had on the local community.

The morning session was led by renowned historian and broadcaster, Mr Roy Hamilton, who provided a slide 'show' presentation concerning the events surrounding the Second World War and how ordinary people went about their daily life in both the city and country side.

It was evident during the morning session many people had personal stories to tell of air raid bombings, evacuations, plane crashes in Inishowen, food rationing, smuggling, amongst other themes. Although the event was to encourage a memorable and nostalgic journey through the Second World War years, it also acknowledged the grief, suffering and hardship that had been, and is still being, experienced by men, women and children to this present day as a direct result of conflicts around the world.

The event also included many wartime artifacts, photographs and books. On an additional note, if any member of the public wish to have their wartime story documented as part of the 'BBC People's War' archive, Moville library can provide this facility. World War II People's War is a site dedicated to recording and preserving the personal stories of World War II in a lasting archive. Whether military or civilian, at home or abroad - every story is vital.

For more information contact Gerard Duddy, Moville Branch Librarian, The Square, Moville. Tel: 074 9385110 or email: movillelib@donegalcoco.ie

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