Louth tribute to Miami Showband with memorial plaque to be unveiled in Clogherhead

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

A special commemorative plaque will be unveiled in Clogherhead this Thursday, October 30 to honour the victims of the Miami Showband Massacre, one of the most harrowing tragedies of the Troubles.

The plaque will be placed at Walshes Mace shop in Clogherhead, just metres from the site of the legendary Ashling Ballroom, where the Miami Showband were scheduled to perform on August 2, 1975, only days after the horrific attack that claimed the lives of three band members.

The unveiling ceremony will be led by survivors Stephen Travers and Des Lee, who have devoted decades to promoting peace, truth, and reconciliation through the legacy of the Miami Showband.

Following the ceremony, everyone is invited to the Clogherhead Community Hall for an afternoon of remembrance with refreshments, live music by local artists, and shared stories from guests — including reflections from the band’s survivors.

Glenn Gorman, Chairperson of the Clogherhead Development Group, spoke of the event’s deep significance for the local community:

“This is a proud and heartfelt day for Clogherhead. The Ashling Ballroom was once the heartbeat of music and dance along this coastline — a place where people came together, regardless of background. The Miami Showband tragedy touched the entire island, and it’s deeply fitting that their memory is now honoured in a place that symbolised joy and unity. A similar plaque was unveiled at the former Adelphi Ballroom in Dundalk on the 50th anniversary of the massacre on July 31 and we are proud to continue that remembrance here. We extend our sincere thanks to former musicians Eddie Marmion and Patsy Rogers, who supported this tribute and opened for the Miami many times.”

Eoghan McEvoy, whose late father Noel McEvoy co-owner of the Ashling Ballroom for many years, reflected on the personal resonance of the event:

“My father had the privilege of welcoming the Miami Showband and countless Irish musical legends to the Ashling. It wasn’t just a venue — it was a place where people left their troubles behind. To unveil this plaque so close to where those joyful nights unfolded is a powerful tribute. I know that when people hear the name ‘Ashling Ballroom' it will stir fond memories and many stories.”

Mona Carroll wife of the late Michael Carroll co-owner of the Ashling recalls: "Michael's heart was in the Ashling Project from start to finish. And the Miami tragedy left a scar on the otherwise wonderful set of memories of the Ashling.

Michael's deepest prayers was that their lives should not be lost in vain and that peace and reconciliation might result one day.

Louth Councillor, Declan Power, who is a local representative for the area, also welcomed the initiative and its broader message: “This plaque is more than a memorial — it’s a powerful symbol of how far we’ve come. Clogherhead has long been a place of peace and welcome, especially during difficult times when many from the north found refuge here in the summer months in our mobile home parks — a tradition that continues today. As we remember those we lost, we also commit to building a future rooted in respect, understanding and reconciliation. It is especially poignant that this commemoration coincides with the 400th anniversary of the birth of St. Oliver Plunkett — a man who embodied peace, faith, and forgiveness.”

The Miami Showband Massacre took place on July 31, 1975, when three members of the band — Tony Geraghty, Fran O’Toole, and Brian McCoy — were murdered in a brutal attack following a performance in Banbridge. Their deaths remain one of the darkest moments in Irish history, but their legacy endures in the continued efforts toward peace and unity.

This ceremony in Clogherhead seeks to honour their memory, celebrate the resilience of survivors, and reaffirm a shared commitment to peace and reconciliation.

The Miami Showband plaque unveiling will take place at Walshes MACE Clogherhead at 2pm on Thursday, October 30.

Entertainment, special guests, shared stories, and refreshments afterwards in the Clogherhead Community Hall at 2.30pm - All are welcome.