Cookstown Irish National Foresters set to celebrate 125 years of history

I.N.F William Orr Branch No.189- Cookstown 1930

The History of the INF in Cookstown can rightly be described as a rich tapestry of individuals and events interwoven to provide us with a picture of what life was like in Cookstown during the past 125 years.

It is moreover, the story of the ordinary man or woman and the trials and tribulations which they faced, the personality conflicts, the struggle for the Branch to survive and the loyalty of many which ensured that it did.

It is the story of poverty, friendship and benevolence underpinned by a strong sense of local and national pride.

To celebrate this historic event the INF are having an Exhibition in the Burnavon Arts Centre from the 8th to 20th December 14. The Launch Night of this Exhibition is on Wednesday 10th December 2014 and already there is keen interest in this event necessitating a Ticket Only invite.

Amongst the artifacts the Branch possesses, is a picture of the members of the INF in the 1930’s.

The Branch does not have details on all the members portrayed in this photo and is now asking the people of Cookstown to assist them in identifying the people present.

A special web page will be up and running shortly so that people can contribute towards this task.

In essence we are asking the people of Cookstown to check their ancestorial chart and to quote a very popular Television programme, “Who do you think you are?” If you know anyone in the photo please contact a INF member or contact the Mail on 028 867 62288.