A special commemorative plaque will be unveiled in Clogherhead on Thursday, October 30th at 2pm to honour the victims of the Miami Showband Massacre, one of the most tragic events of the Troubles.
The plaque will be located at Walshes MACE shop, just metres from the site of the former Ashling Ballroom, where the Miami Showband were due to perform on August 2nd, 1975 — only days after the horrific attack that claimed the lives of Tony Geraghty, Fran O’Toole, and Brian McCoy.
The unveiling will be led by survivors Stephen Travers and Des Lee, who have spent decades promoting peace, truth, and reconciliation through the enduring legacy of the Miami Showband.
Following the ceremony, the public are invited to a community remembrance event at Clogherhead Community Hall, featuring live local music, guest speakers, and refreshments, with reflections from the band’s survivors and those connected to the Ashling Ballroom’s history.
Glenn Gorman, Chairperson of the Clogherhead Development Group, described the event as “a proud and heartfelt day for Clogherhead”, adding that the Ashling Ballroom was once “the heartbeat of music and dance along this coastline.” He noted that the tragedy touched the entire island and said it was “deeply fitting that their memory is now honoured in a place that symbolised joy and unity.”
Eoghan McEvoy, whose late father Noel McEvoy co-owned the Ashling Ballroom, reflected that “to unveil this plaque so close to where those joyful nights unfolded is a powerful tribute. The Ashling was a place where people left their troubles behind.”
Mona Carroll, wife of the late Michael Carroll, also recalled her husband’s lifelong dedication to the Ashling and his wish that “the lives lost in the Miami tragedy would not be in vain, and that peace and reconciliation might result one day.”
Local councillor Declan Power praised the initiative as “more than a memorial — it’s a powerful symbol of how far we’ve come.” He added that Clogherhead has “long been a place of peace and welcome, especially during difficult times,” and said it was “especially poignant that this commemoration coincides with the 400th anniversary of the birth of St. Oliver Plunkett — a man who embodied peace, faith, and forgiveness.”
The Miami Showband Massacre, which took place on July 31st, 1975, remains one of the darkest chapters in Irish history, but its legacy continues to inspire efforts toward peace, unity, and remembrance.
Thursday, October 30th, 2pm — Plaque unveiling at Walshes MACE, Clogherhead. 2.30pm — Community gathering at Clogherhead Community Hall with music, refreshments, and guest speakers. All are welcome.
