Rathangan twinning cements Springsteen link
Unveiling of the plaque - Mayor of Kildare-Newbridge MD, Cllr Peggy O’Dwyer and Mayor of Freehold, New Jersey, Kevin A. Kane (Photographer Credit: John O’Byrne
A GREAT deal of work locally has resulted in an historic twinning charter between Rathangan, and Freehold, New Jersey – the town to which the great-great grandmother of Bruce Springsteen Ann Garrity emigrated to in 1853.
Kildare County Council has announced the signing with the event, organised by the Rathangan Freehold Twinning Association, on Friday 27 June in Rathangan and a plaque to commemorate this was erected in front of the copper beech tree planted by Bruce’s cousin Glen Cashion last year.
The charter was signed by Mayor of the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District, cllr Peggy O’Dwyer and Mayor of Freehold, New Jersey, Kevin A. Kane, and marks the beginning of a meaningful and long-lasting partnership between the two communities.
The charter formalises the commitment of both communities to promote, develop and strengthen a bond of friendship through communication and exchange, particularly among the youth and adult organisations in education, the arts, sport, enterprise, tourism and the equine industry.
Cllr O’Dwyer said: “This is a proud day for Rathangan as the signing of the charter not only symbolises the beginning of a new friendship but the start of exploring new opportunities to connect Rathangan and Freehold across borders and cultures”.
Marian Higgins, director of services, Kildare County Council said she “was looking forward to seeing the development of the twinning between Rathangan and Freehold and the possibilities for the future which will strengthen Rathangan as a tourist destination for Springsteen fans and the economic benefits for the town”.
Mark Stafford, chairperson of the Rathangan Freehold Twinning Association, added: “This is a special day for Rathangan, the culmination of a lot of hard work."
