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| WEST PASSAGE, CO. CORK. -The place shown in the above sketch is situated on the west shore of the estuary of the river Lee, six miles from the City of Cork, and is a seaport town of some importance. It is generally called West Passage, to distinguish it from the other town of Passage, near the mouth of the river Suir in the county of Waterford. Of late years West Passage has attained prominence as an agreeable watering place, and is much frequented by invalids in search of quiet sea-bathing. Many foreign tourists also visit it in the summer months. It is now recognized as an indispensable marine station and shipping point for Cork city. Ship building is one of the local industires. No boats of over 500 tons burden can pass up the river beyond Passage, and vessels of heavier tonnage are compelled to discharge their cargoes there for reshipment. Therefore, there is a lively business in "lighters" and this circumstance adds to the prosperity of the place. Carroll Mahone's ballad of the "Croppy Boy" had reference to old Geneva Barracks and East Passage on the Suir- "Upon yon river three tender float; At Geneva Barracks that young man died, The Priest's in one, if he isn't shot! And at Passage they have his body laid. We hold this house for our Lord, the King Good people, who live in peace and joy, And Amen, say I, may all traitors swing!" Breathe a prayer, drop a tear for the Croppy Boy. |
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