Remembering Seán Langan, an eminent Mayo scholar

by Auld Stock

I RECENTLY came across the death in the US of Seán Langan Junior whose family lived at St. Joseph’s Terrace, Castlebar, many years ago.

There were several boys and girls in the Langan family, one of whom, Maeve, married Pat Duane, who was in the insurance business.

Older Castlebar people may remember Seán Langan Senior, a teacher of the Irish language who cycled for many years around Mayo promoting our native culture.

Seán was a close friend of Micheál Ó Flanagáin and Marcus Ó Flaitheartaigh, both renowned teachers in the old Vocational School, Newtown, Castlebar.

I remember Seán Langan and often enjoyed his company over a pint in Rattigan’s pub, Spencer Street.

Seán was a fine conversationalist, an eminent Irish scholar who was always on hand to give sound advice to members of the younger generation.

He was a noble man who had a great love of the Irish language and culture

Seán Langan was a close friend of Michael Dolan, Darby Mullen, Paddy Horkan, Jim Barrett, Pato and Tossie Kelly, all of whom lived in Spencer Street.

As a matter of interest, there is a custom in the US where the relatives of the deceased plant a tree to mark the passing of a family member.

It is a nice idea which perhaps might be followed by people in this country.

The custom was observed at Seán Langan’s burial in the US.