IT WAS an evening to remember at Enniscorthy Athenaeum on Friday as, following a massive amount of work from a dedicated group, the historic building hosted its official re-opening ceremony and the last event on the official 1916 centenary calendar.

It’s been 124 years since the iconic building in the heart of the town first opened it’s doors and with this re-opening, it is hoped that it will remain open and become a central part of Enniscorthy life once again for many years to come.

The evening got underway with a full military display outside of the building, which was inspected by Minister of State with special responsibility for Defence, Paul Kehoe, who also had the honour of performing the opening. The display was also overseen by Brigadier General Philip Brennan who was there to represent the defence forces on the night.

Among the speakers on the night were Secretary of the Athenaeum Ms Helen Ashdown; Mr John Concannon of the 1916 Office; District Chairman Oliver Walsh; Athenaeum Chairman Tony McCleane and of course Minister Kehoe.

Speaking of the role that the Athenaeum plays in the heart of Enniscorthy, Minister Kehoe said: “The Athenaeum is about more than the Rising. It was always been a central part of life and culture here in Enniscorthy. Each and every person has their own memory or thoughts of this rich historical building; it might be thoughts of a relative who was here in 1916 or an involvement in the arts and cultural activities that took place here. For locals it was a place to come dancing and enjoy an evening out.”

“The building is a wonderful resource for locals and tourists keen to learn more about the Rising in Enniscorthy,” he continued. “And it will be an excellent facility for the arts in County Wexford.”

For more detail and photos of this historic night, pick up a copy of this week’s Echo.

Paul Kehoe TD inspecting a guard of honour by Enniscorthy Re-enactment Group at the official re-opening of The Athenaeum. Pic: John Walsh