The Athlone Town Pipe Band - County Westmeath.
The History of Pipe Bands in Athlone: From Clan Uisneach to Athlone Town Pipe Band
Athlone, a vibrant town in County Westmeath, has a rich history of pipe bands that stretches back well over a century. The earliest known pipe band in the area, the Clan Uisneach Pipe Band, emerged in the 1800s and quickly became a cultural fixture in the town. This legacy of piping continues today, with the Athlone Town Pipe Band proudly carrying on the tradition. Here, we’ll dive into the history, notable figures, and the ongoing influence of pipe bands in Athlone.
Athlone was famous for music and particularly for a fine piping tradition. One of the famous local bands was the Athlone Clan Uisneach Pipers' Band, Back row: Timmy Curley, Gilbert Hughes, Joe Scally, Jack Scally: Tom Keating, Jack Preston and Paddy Kearney. Front Row: Pat Doran, Bobby Gallagher. Tommy Hunt, Dan Sullivan. The banner was presented to the band be antiquarian and historian Francis Joseph Bigger.
The Clan Uisneach Pipe Band: Early Beginnings and Notable Figures
The Clan Uisneach Pipe Band holds the distinction of being the earliest documented pipe band in Athlone, active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The band was more than a group of musicians; it was a cultural beacon in Athlone, representing the spirit and heritage of the town. Over the years, it included a roster of dedicated pipers and drummers, many of whom left a lasting legacy. Some of the prominent members included Eugene Daly, John Kearney, Tom Dillon, Leo Hughes, Tom Keating, Jack Scally, Joe Scally, Gilbert Hughes, Timmy Curley, Jack Preston, Patrick Kearney, Pat Doran, Bobby Gallagher, Tommy Hunt, Dan Sullivan, Jack Sullivan, C. Miley, Tom Sullivan, and Paddy Sullivan.
One of the band’s most notable figures was Eugene Daly, who went on to become famously known as the “Titanic Bagpiper.” Daly survived the tragic sinking of the Titanic in 1912 and carried with him the memory of his band and Irish heritage. Sadly, his pipes didn’t survive the tragedy. His legacy is a reminder of the resilience and spirit of the Clan Uisneach Pipe Band.
Píobairí Cloinne Uisnigh - Áth Luain (Clan Uisneach Pipe Band - Athlone, Westmeath - 1910). Note Eugene Patrick Daly (Titanic Bagpiper) in the back left (3rd in).
Honours and Recognition
The Clan Uisneach Pipe Band was held in high regard in Athlone, both for its music and its community contributions. One of the highlights of the band’s history was when Irish historian and antiquarian Francis Joseph Bigger presented them with a ceremonial banner, a gesture that underscored their cultural importance. This banner symbolised the band’s role in preserving Irish heritage and brought them further recognition within the community.
John Kearney, Piper with Clan Uisneach Pipe Band, Athlone.
Transition and Possible Renaming to St. Mary’s Pioneer Pipe Band
While it’s unclear exactly when the Clan Uisneach Pipe Band ceased to exist, there is some evidence to suggest that they may have been renamed as the St. Mary’s Pioneer Pipe Band. Many former members of Clan Uisneach, including some of its well-known figures, appear in later photographs of St. Mary’s Pipe Band. This continuity suggests that the spirit of Clan Uisneach may have lived on through the St. Mary’s Pioneer Pipe Band, allowing the legacy to continue in a new form.
St. Mary’s Pioneer Pipe Band, Athlone, Co. Westmeath.
A Modern Revival: The Athlone Town Pipe Band
After decades without an official pipe band, there was a resurgence of interest in forming a pipe band in Athlone in 2009. This renewed enthusiasm led to the formation of the Athlone Town Pipe Band, reviving the town’s proud piping tradition. The band quickly became a regular feature in local events, bringing the sound of traditional Irish pipes and drums back to the streets of Athlone.
The Athlone Town Pipe Band has performed in a variety of settings, showcasing their talent at the annual Samaritans Christmas Concert in the Franciscan Friary in Athlone and marching in St. Patrick’s Day parades across towns in the Midlands, including Athlone itself. They have also taken part in the All Ireland Drama Fringe Festival in 2019 and have even competed in a few pipe band competitions, demonstrating their growth and commitment to musical excellence. In 2019, the band celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of revitalising Athlone’s pipe band legacy.
The band practicing in Athlone.
Continuing the Legacy
Today, the Athlone Town Pipe Band stands as a proud custodian of Athlone’s piping history. With each performance, they honour the memory of the Clan Uisneach Pipe Band and other past bands that have contributed to the town’s cultural fabric. The band continues to play at events, parades, and celebrations, fostering a sense of community and pride among Athlone’s residents.
The journey from Clan Uisneach to Athlone Town Pipe Band is a testament to the enduring love for Irish music and heritage in Athlone. Through generations, the town has maintained its connection to this unique tradition, and the current band is a vibrant continuation of this legacy, inspiring new generations to appreciate and carry forward the town’s rich musical heritage.
Female members of the Clan Uisneach Pipe Band in Athlone.
Piper Paddy Sullivan who played with the St. Mary’s Pioneer pipe band.
The Athlone Town Pipe Band that currently play for engagements, festivals and parades in the region.
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