The Kirkintilloch Fire Tragedy of 1937

Of the various disasters that have occurred in Scotland over the years, few have left such a haunting legacy as the Kirkintilloch tragedy of 1937.

The circumstances of the fatal fire, including the apparent helplessness of the Irish victims, their youthfulness, and the anguish of the young women who witnessed the terrible fate of brothers and other relatives, all gave it special poignancy.

When all this is set against a background of seasonal migration to find work enforced by economic necessity, harsh working conditions, and communities in conflict, it is not difficult to appreciate why the memory of the event has endured for so long. In fact, it is now firmly embedded in the culture of both Kirkintilloch and Achill in County Mayo, and even in the wider historical culture of Scotland and Ireland.

The Dublin based Irish labour historian Michael Halpenny will deliver a presentation about the disaster. This is a free event. All welcome!