Keeping Louisburgh Streets Clean
John McDonnell with Mariéad Staunton outside Sweeneys Grocers circa 1970
Mariéad Staunton
Submitted by Mariéad Staunton
By Mary O'Malley
John McDonnell was a familiar sight in Louisburgh for many years, pushing his cart loaded with brushes and bins. He took great pride in keeping the streets and drains neat and clean.
He used his pocket watch as a conversation starter, always checking to make sure it was keeping the right time.
He helped Basil Morahan at Christmas to bring Santa from the North Pole to stand on a table outside Louisburgh Town hall and throw parcels of toys to the excited children.
A popular Character.
Ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís.