AS THE 100 year anniversary of the cinema disaster in Dromcollogher approaches, a local group is planning to organise a commemorative event in September 2026.
This group, 'Dromcollogher26', intends to honour and preserve the memory of the 48 victims who died. The group have also started to research the impact of 'The Burning' on the families of the victims and survivors.
The commemoration of the centenary of the cinema disaster will mark a very significant event that happened soon after the foundation of the Irish State. The tragedy in Dromcollogher shocked the nation. The leaders of the Irish State came to be with the people at the time.
The 2026 programme of commemorative events will look to remember this, one of the greatest tragedies in our country’s history. The details of the events leading up to the cinema fire are quite well documented.
Dromcollogher26 want to ensure that the actual verified history of what happened forms the basis of any public discussions, as we approach the centenary.
A public library was later built on what was the site of the disaster and stands as a memorial to all those who lost their lives there.
Nearby, 46 of the 48 victims are buried in a communal grave at St Bartholomew’s Church. The group will consider if the passing of one hundred years warrants additional memorial in the town to honour the victims and help to preserve the memory of this terribly tragic event.
Dromcollogher26 have begun to make a study of this aspect of The Burning. The group will be researching media and official records as well as conducting an extensive programme of conversations with those who have lived longest in Dromcollogher. The research work will continue for the next two years.
The Dromcollogher26 group will be undertaking local fundraising events in the future. Families and friends of Dromcollogher, wherever in the world, will be able to play their part in ensuring that the event in 2026 is a meaningful commemoration.
All are invited to contact the group and to contribute to their research programme and also to consider using their online donation facility at idonate.ie.
Call 087 2416767 or email Dromcollogher26@ gmail.com for more information.
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