Hello, my name is David Raftery and I was there the day the Jeanie Johnston finally pulled out from Fenit harbour. It was a memorable day. I am a member of the Fenit Sea Scouts. We had the honour of forming a guard of honour to see her off. As Sea Scouts we have a great interest in Marine radio we had a radio set with us on the day so we could listen to the Captain and crew make their preparations. Unfortunately for them the wind was high and in the wrong direction.

 There were many V.I.P’s there, e.g. John O’ Donoghue, Minister for Sport, and Tourism, Mayor of Kerry Michael Healy-Ray, and David Irvine leader of the P.U.P party were amongst the dignitaries. Mr Irvine grew up with ship building in Belfast, and I think he worked for Harland and Wolfe the company who built Titanic before he entered Politics. There were many many speeches, but as Sea Scouts we were concentrating on water safety keeping people on the right side of the barriers.

When the time came for Jeanie to pull away the Captain John Mc. Carthy  had to use the engine because the wind was still blowing into the harbour. The sails were hoisted not to disappoint the cheering crowd and what a beautiful sight it was. Weather conditions really worked against them on the day and they only got as far as Ballinscelligs before they had to drop anchor. During her time as a famine ship and later when she only carried lumber The Jeannie never lost a passenger or member of crew, lets hope it stays that way. February 16th. 2003 is a day I will always remember and my wish is to sail train on this beautiful ship when I’m older.

David Raftery © Mercy Mounthawk Tralee Co. Kerry. If you would like to find out more and keep up to date with her progress to and in America please use the LINK below.