Balladeer Percy French Statue in Ballyjamesduff

When Balladeer Percy French (1 May 1854 - 24 January 1920 ) wrote 'come back Paddy Reilly to Ballyjamesduff he literally put the town of Ballyjamesduff on the map. Anyone with a love for French's songs will want to visit the town he immortalised in song.
"Come back Paddy Reilly to Ballyjamesduff", which was written about a man from the area who acted as Jarvy (coach driver) for French and decided to emigrate to Scotland. It is said that he drove his horse and cart to Carrick-on-Shannon, parked the horse and cart outside the railway station and took the train to Dublin. Legend has it that the horse ran all across Ireland looking for Paddy, until Paddy Reilly was said to have returned. Paddy Reilly is now supposedly buried in St Joseph's graveyard, in the town of Ballyjamesduff.
Ballyjamesduff (Irish: Baile Shéamais Dhuibh, meaning "Town of Black James") is a small town with a population of 2,240 in County Cavan in Ireland.
The first mention of Ballyjamesduff is found in The Registry of Deeds, Kings Inns, Henrietta Street, Dublin, Deed No.12-294-5122, drawn up on 12/5/1714.
People of Ballyjamesduff
Percy French poet, songwriter and noted Board of Works Inspector of Drains with Cavan County Council.
John Wesley preacher, theologian and founder of the worldwide Methodist Church, preached in Ballyjamesduff and built a church here during the 18th century.
Pete Briquette of the Boomtown Rats came from Ballyjamesduff. His real name is Patrick Cusack.

[@eltonpolna3279]

Thank you so much for your uploading this lovely video. I love his song "The Mountains of Mourne" so much. I strongly believe that this song's a masterpiece and will be loved throughout the ages.

[@TomMcClean]

Hi Elton, Thanks so much for dropping into my wee channel with this very welcome encouragement. I thrive on encouragement.
Percy French was a musical/lyricist genius who has brought lasting pleasure through his wonderful songs to so many folks both near and far. Best wishes from Belfast Northern Ireland

[@Paul.in.Ireland]

You fairly get around Tom! County Cavan.... hope you are having a great weekend mate.

[@TomMcClean]

Ahh the wife needed a wee break. Her head's nearly turned with school mismanagement passing for normality and good practice!
There is so much to see in Cavan and Monaghan. It's a wonderful spot. The people are so obliging too. As usual I fell on my feet and discovered a whole lot of unexpected hidden treasures. lol
Tanya puts up with it all 'cause she came home with a new pair of shoes and we both like pottering about in museums etc
We are back now and had a super time. I thoroughly recommend Farnham Radisson.- Luxurious but does not hit you hard in the pocket. The place was coming down with Northerners! We know a good deal! lol

[@andybrown223]

1st! the pigeon is taking a knap lol

[@TomMcClean]

Excellent comment lol i expect he is knackered!
Pigeon has flown to coop. Pigeon posted me at 2 30 this morn!