Argentina Day celebrations to take place in Mayo this weekend

A unique and historic occasion celebrating the bonds between Foxford and Argentina, and honouring the legacy of Admiral William Brown, will take place in Foxford this Saturday, June 22. 

The event commemorates the two hundred and forty seventh anniversary of Admiral Brown's birth, and everyone from Foxford, the Argentine community living in Ireland, and people from all around Mayo and Ireland are warmly invited to join the festivities.

William Brown, born in Foxford on 22 June 1777, is celebrated in Argentina as the founding father of the Argentine Navy. The event commemorates the deep ties and friendships established over the years between Ireland and Argentina through the Admiral Brown Society.

_{Admiral William Brown Statue in Foxford (Photo: Mayo North Tourism)}

Margaret Reilly, chairperson of the Admiral Brown Society, encourages everyone to join this special occasion. 

"This is a day for the local community to come together and celebrate our cherished links with William Brown’s adopted country. Please come along and join us for what promises to be a great occasion. We look forward to seeing everyone out in their blue and white colours, turning Foxford into a colourful spectacle for the day," she said.

Event Highlights and Schedule 

The Argentine Navy has a long history of visiting Foxford, fostering warm relations with the local community. 

In 1957, to commemorate the centenary of Admiral William Brown’s death, Argentina gifted a bronze bust of the admiral to Foxford. This tradition of camaraderie continued in 2022 when the Argentine Ambassador welcomed the crew of the ARA Libertad to Foxford. 

The ARA Libertad, one of the largest sailing ships in the world at 103 meters long, graced the waters of Killala Bay.

Adding to these celebrations, the Admiral William Brown Society in Foxford launched the innovative ‘Admiral Brown Heritage Trail.’ This initiative was soon followed by an Argentinian club, Guillermo Brown de Puerto Madryn, making headlines with a distinctive jersey honouring Admiral Brown, Foxford’s maritime legend.

Mairéad Melody Carr, Manager of Mayo North Tourism, praised the Admiral Brown Society for their efforts in strengthening ties between Foxford and Argentina. 

She noted:"These bonds place Foxford on a global stage, making it a must-visit destination.”

In March of this year, Minister of State Dara Calleary laid a wreath at Admiral William Brown’s grave in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as part of the Government’s St Patrick's Day missions. He was joined by Argentinian municipal leaders from the region. 

The minister also distributed specially commissioned pins featuring the Irish and Argentinian flags alongside an image of Admiral Brown, further symbolizing the enduring connection between the two communities.

_{Argentina day 2024 flyer}

Community Efforts and Supports 

Margaret Reilly also highlighted the community's efforts in preparing for the event. 

"The local Rural Social Scheme and Foxford Town Enhancement Scheme have been busy getting the town ready, with painting, strimming, and cleaning. The community appreciates their hard work and dedication. We are grateful for the support of Cllr. Neil Cruise, O'Hara's Bakery, The Moy Hotel, Mayo Education & Support Centre (The Art Blast Programme), and Foxford National School," she said.

The Admiral Brown Society, Mayo County Council, and the Argentine Embassy warmly invite all to join in and celebrate this special day on Saturday.

For more details, please visit the Admiral Brown website.