The Irish Snug Podcast
Pull up a stool and settle in. The Irish Snug Podcast is your dedicated corner for the stories, history, and characters that make Irish pub culture legendary. From the storied wood of Manhattan’s iconic bars to the hidden gems of the Irish countryside, we sit down with the people who keep the tradition alive. Whether it’s a deep dive into family legacies or a chat with a local regular, we’re capturing the spirit of Ireland, one pint and one story at a time. (Formerly the Pubs & Pints Podcast).
Rooted in the Irish tradition of
great storytelling, each episode invites listeners to pull
up a stool and enjoy tales that range from laugh-out-
loud funny to deeply moving.
The Irish Snug Podcast
Donna Abraldes
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In this episode of the "Pubs & Pints Podcast," [00:02] host Tim Grant interviews Donna Abraldes, whose family's Irish dance journey led to a remarkable discovery of her roots and a famous great-grandfather.
Key discussion points include:
- Irish Dance Connection: Donna explains how her daughters' participation in Irish dance led to connecting with long-lost relatives in Ireland [00:15].
- Family History: Her great-grandfather, Bartley Ferguson, immigrated to America at 25 through Ellis Island and was a sparring partner for famous boxer Jack Johnson [02:26]. He was also a celebrated Irish footballer, winning the Croagh Patrick Cup three times with the Stephanites team in the early 1900s [06:46].
- Discovering Relatives in Ireland: A letter sent by her cousin to the family's original home in Ballina, County Mayo, led to reconnecting with Bartley's youngest brother Charlie's daughters [04:42].
- Emotional Reunion: Donna describes an emotional first meeting with her Irish cousins at an Irish dance competition in Dublin [05:46].
- Visiting Family Landmarks: She recounts visiting Mo Claire's pub in Ballina, where a picture of her great-grandfather's championship team is still displayed [06:31], and the small, two-bedroom cottage where he grew up with his siblings [08:26]. She also mentions visiting the Merry Monk, a lively pub in Ballina, where her daughters performed Irish dances [11:37].
- NYPD Heritage: Donna's paternal grandfather, Walter Ferguson, was a decorated NYPD detective who guarded Elvis and the Beatles and died in the line of duty [22:50]. Her father was also a New York City firefighter [24:58].
- Irish Dance Impact: Donna reflects on how Irish dance provided her daughters with discipline, lasting friendships, and a strong connection to their Irish heritage, including opportunities to travel the world [29:11].
You can watch to the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q7DnglZe-0
