Deep Roots, Lasting Friendships
Kerry’s connections with Western Massachusetts run deep. Many families from the Blasket Islands and Dingle Peninsula made the area their home during the 20th century, creating a foundation for friendship and collaboration that continues today. These historic links are now reflected in official Sister City relationships between the Dingle Peninsula and West Springfield, Tralee and Holyoke, and Tralee and Springfield.
The visit also celebrated the continuing friendship between Tralee and Holyoke. Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia, who served as Grand Marshal of the 2024 Tralee St Patrick’s Day Parade, joined the Kerry delegation for events during the week – a reminder of the close and personal bonds shared between the two communities.
Strengthening Educational and Cultural Links
Education was an important focus of the visit. The delegation met with staff and students at Sacred Heart University, which recently opened its redeveloped satellite campus in Dingle. The group was warmly welcomed and learned more about the university’s expanding academic and cultural connections with Kerry.
The delegation also visited the University of Massachusetts Amherst and West Springfield High School, where they discussed potential future exchanges and collaborative projects aimed at deepening understanding between communities and creating opportunities for young people in both regions.
These visits highlighted the role of education in maintaining Kerry’s global connections — helping new generations experience the rich heritage, landscape, and innovation that make the county unique.
Celebrating Heritage with Springfield Museums
The visit also reaffirmed the importance of the Memorandum of Understanding between Kerry County Council and Springfield Museums, which focuses on celebrating the heritage of the Blasket Islands. This partnership has already delivered meaningful outcomes, including a major exhibition in Springfield developed in collaboration with the Office of Public Works (OPW) and the Blasket Centre, honouring the legacy of those who left Kerry for a new life in Massachusetts.
Looking Ahead
As part of the programme at The Big E, the Kerry delegation took part in an Economic and Tourism Meeting which brought together regional business and tourism leaders to explore shared opportunities between Kerry and Western Massachusetts.
Hosted by Gene Cassidy, President of Eastern States Exposition, and attended by Sighle FitzGerald, Consul General of Ireland in Boston, the session included contributions from regional economic experts, tourism representatives, and educational partners.
During the meeting, Helen O’Connor Barry, representing Kerry County Council, delivered a presentation highlighting the economic and tourism potential of County Kerry, and the benefits of connecting and collaborating with the region. She outlined opportunities for partnership, investment, and cultural exchange, showcasing Kerry as a dynamic location for business growth and sustainable tourism.
Speaking following the visit, Mayor of Kerry, Cllr. Michael Foley, said:
“This visit to Western Massachusetts has shown once again the strength of the ties that connect Kerry and our diaspora. We have renewed old friendships, built new ones, and created fresh opportunities for collaboration. It’s clear that the spirit of Kerry is alive and well across the Atlantic.”
The trip also included “Mingle with Dingle” networking events with Irish cultural organisations from across New England, further strengthening Kerry’s profile as a vibrant, welcoming place to visit and invest in.
The Kerry County Council delegation returned home encouraged by the warm welcome they received and inspired by the shared heritage, pride, and partnership that continue to link Kerry with communities throughout Western Massachusetts and beyond.
