In September 2025, we will mark the 200th anniversary of the Peter Robinson Settlers Assisted Emigration Scheme, many of these families left from communities across the Ballyhoura region including  Mitchelstown, Doneraile, Kildorrery, Churchtown, Liscarroll, Charleville, Croom, Kilfinane, Kilbehenny, and Colmanswell. They left in search of a better life, leaving on 11 ships from the “Port of Cove” in 1823 and 1825 bound for the Ottawa and Ontario Regions of Canada.

Between 150 and 500 descendants of these Irish pioneers will return to Ballyhoura to commemorate, reflect, and reconnect with the people and places their ancestors once called home.

With unprecedented interest from across Canada and the United States, eager descendants of the Peter Robinson Settlers are already booking their travel and accommodation, excited to explore their ancestral roots and connect with the communities of their forebears.

The Event Details:

The Homecoming will begin on Monday, 15th September 2025, with a week of celebrations, culminating in a Commemorative Event at Griston Bog on Sunday, 21st September.

Across the event week, we will host a special opportunity for the descendants to meet and connect with the people of Ballyhoura, explore the communities of their ancestors, and share their stories.

How You Can Help?

We are reaching out to you, our community members, to help host and welcome the descendants of the Peter Robinson Settlers. This is a unique opportunity to share the rich culture, history, and heritage of Ballyhoura. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Share Your Story – If you have family connections to the Peter Robinson Scheme, or if you’re part of a heritage or historical group, your insights are invaluable.
• Help Host the Homecoming – Whether you’re a community council member, local business, or simply passionate about welcoming visitors, we need your support to make this event special.
• Support with Hospitality & Accommodation – Local hotels, B&Bs, and guesthouses can play a key role in making our visitors feel at home. Restaurants, bars, and cafes are also invited to get involved by providing food and drink for attendees.
• Join in the Festivities – We’re looking for local artists, musicians, and craft makers to help showcase the rich cultural heritage of Ballyhoura. Whether you’re a traditional music performer, visual artist, or craftsperson, your contribution will bring this celebration to life.
• Lead Tours & Activities – If you’re a tour guide, historian, or have knowledge of local heritage sites, consider leading a tour or providing insights during the event.
• Contribute in Any Way – Whether you want to share your culture, offer volunteer support, or contribute in other ways, your involvement will make a huge difference!

Community Information Session

We invite you to attend the Community Information Session on January 15th at the Old Creamery, Kildorrery, to learn more about this exciting event, how you can get involved, and how we can work together to create a Homecoming to remember.

If you have family connections to the scheme, are part of a heritage group, a community council, a tour guide, a local artist, business owner, or simply want to share your story and culture, we would love to talk to you! 

Please register your details below to get involved and help make this Homecoming an unforgettable celebration.

Register for Community Info Session

 Find Out More About The Peter Robinson Settlers Emigration Programme.