We haven’t forgotten Tom Crean in Annascaul

Regarding Paul Doran’s letter (Jul 5), about his visit to Tom Crean’s grave in Annascaul.

He obviously did not visit the Tom Crean memorial garden in the village. This garden contains a life-size bronze statue of Tom Crean and marble seats dedicated to Tom Crean, Teddy Evans, Edward Wilson, and Ernest Shackleton.

The garden is located opposite the pub, called the South Pole Inn, which was built by Tom Crean and contains many photographs of his exploits.

An international festival celebrating Tom Crean’s life was held in Annascaul from Jun 21 to 23. This festival was opened by Jimmy Deenihan, minister for arts, heritage, and the gaeltacht. Leo Varadkar, minister for transport, tourism, and sport, visited Annascaul on Jul 5 to open a new section of roadway which incorporates a stone built replica of the Endurance.

In Annascaul we consider it a privilege to be able to visit the family tomb built by Tom himself in the ancient cemetery of Ballinacourty, which is now closed to the public.

Eileen Percival

South Pole Inn

Annascaul

Co Kerry