Columban historian pivotal in retelling the story of heroic priests of Manila
Mairead O'Brien
Located three miles south of Navan, Dalgan Park is the home of the Missionary Society of St. Columban in Ireland.
The Society established its first seminary in 1918 at Dalgan House in Shrule, Co. Mayo. However, following a few years of successful recruitment drives, the Columban Fathers recognized the need for a larger site, ideally one closer to Dublin. In 1927, they purchased Dowdstown House, Navan, and renamed it Dalgan in keeping with their first college in Mayo.
The headquarters and administration of the Society moved from Shrule to Dowdstown. However, due to a shortage of funds, the construction of a new seminary did not begin until 1938, and the college welcomed its first students in 1941. Today, Dalgan serves multiple functions and is home to actively retired Columbans who spent most of their adult lives overseas, many on challenging missions.
Dalgan Park, with its five acres of parklands, woodland and pathways, is a popular walking destination for many people. One man who particularly enjoyed his walks and loved chatting with fellow walkers was the late Fr. Neil Collins. He was a great talker and an even better listener. Most people who walk around Dalgan Park would have chatted with him at some stage.
I came across Fr. Neil in April 2022 in his capacity as the Columban historian when I began researching some of the Columban missionaries. When I first emailed him, he was “up home” in his beloved Swatragh in Co. Derry. I soon learned that, despite his extensive travels, for Fr. Neil, there truly was no place like home.
During my last visit with him in July, we discussed three upcoming anniversaries where Columbans, like the Malate Martyrs, played a role in notable world events. Fr. Neil was uncertain if the Columbans had planned any commemorations but I assured him that I would do something to mark the occasions. On that note, thank you to the Meath Chronicle for marking this particular occasion by bringing this incredible story of courage and dedication to Dalgan Park, Fr. Neil's second home.
It was with the greatest of sadness that I learned of Fr. Neil's death last October. I will be forever grateful for his support, encouragement and willingness to share his resources.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.