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As the 100 year anniversary of the Cinema Disaster in Dromcollogher approaches, a local group is planning to organise for a commemoration to take place in September 2026. This group, called “Dromcollogher26”, intends to honour and preserve the memory of the 48 victims who died. In addition, the group have started to research the impact of “The Burning” on the families of the victims and survivors, and on the wider community and society of Dromcollogher.

The commemoration of the centenary of the Cinema Disaster will mark a very significant event that happened very soon after the foundation of the Irish state. The tragedy in Dromcollogher shocked the nation. The leaders of the fledgling Irish state came here to be with the people at the time. The sheer scale of the calamity meant that it echoed around the world. Condolences and messages of support were received from far and wide. The 2026 programme of commemorative events will look to remember this, one of the greatest tragedies in our country’s history, and also to honour the memory of the 48 people who died.

The facts and details of the events leading up to the Cinema Fire in Dromcollogher, or “The Burning” as it has always been referred to locally, are quite well documented. Dromcollogher26 want to ensure that the actual verified history of what happened forms the basis of any public discussions, as we approach the centenary.

A very fine public Library was later built on what was the site of the disaster and stands as a memorial to all those who lost their lives here. Nearby, 46 of the 48 victims are buried in a communal grave at St Bartholomew’s Church. It is marked by a tall elegant Celtic cross. The names of all of the 48 deceased are inscribed on its base. The Dromcollogher26 group will look to mark the passing of one hundred years with some additional memorial proposals in the town to honour the victims and help to preserve the memory of this terribly tragic event.