The Brabazon Family Reunion 2003 was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended - more than seventy personalities from Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, UK and Ireland. Visitors lived in and about Dublin or were temporarily accommodated in or near Bray in County Wicklow just south of Dublin.
Our gracious and generous hosts were the Earl and Countess of Meath - Jack and Xenia Brabazon, ably supported by their family. They had arranged a splendid weekend programme; which on Saturday 13th September centered on their home Killruddery House and the Estate gardens and farm. Elizabeth, Lady Meath (Grannie Betty) seemed to be chatting happily to visitors all day and into the night. Also, who could ever forget little doll Bridget Brabazon, favourite with the seven other energetic girls, or Big little boy Barney Brabazon
Michael Brabazon's address on the History of the Family from 1066 was thoroughly researched and well received at the commencement of the day. Everyone was kept busy touring the House and the historic very extensive Gardens, enjoying an hilarious hay-ride courtesy of David Brabazon to see splendid views from sea to farm on the high slopes of Small Sugar Loaf Mountain, having fun assembling for the group photo, and enjoying ever ready refreshments. Most people even fitted in visits to Christ Church, Bray to see the many Brabazon memorials there, and to the Bray Town Hall, which was built in 1882 as a gift to the town by the 12th Earl of Meath. A small coach was available to transport us between venues both by day and night
On Sunday 14th September we joined a large coach and much enjoyed Finola Finlay's informative commentary about County Wicklow, and visits to Wicklow Historic Gaol and Glendalough Monastery - excellent tourist venues. Warm sun shone on us as we ate our provided picnic lunch on the lush lawns.
The Gala Dinner held on the Saturday night in the magnificent Killruddery Orangery was a very memorable occasion. A touch popular with young and old just before the conclusion was a small group of delightful children entertaining us with Irish dancing. Serena Brabazon also charmed us with her violin playing.
Jack took the opportunity to thank those whose recent contributions had been exceptional - Michael for his splendid History address and his work to develop the web site, Shauna for her tremendous effort to create the Ultimate Brabazon Family Tree, and Finola for her excellent commentary on the Wicklow coach tour.
For me [Ann Shevill] there was the surprise presentation of a handsome heirloom, an engraved silver salver.
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