When Disney Came to Quin
On Friday , March 31st, Quin Heritage group held a novel event that looked back over 50 years to the shooting of a Walt Disney film originally named Guns in the Heather, and later adapted and renamed for the European market to The Secret of Boyne Castle. Many scenes were shot around the locality, from Quin Abbey to many approach roads to the village along with scenes in Sixmilebridge, Dromoland Castle, St. Flannans college in Ennis and parts of Corofin and North Clare.
Some locals were also used as extras in the filming which starred a very young Kurt Russell, who later went on to become a huge Hollywood star and also started a family with the equally famous Goldie Hawn. The couple have been together for 40 years. Many locals were in attendance on the evening to recount their experiences and memories of the filming which also saw a number of the film crew living locally for the duration of their work in the area. The event took place in Quin Community centre at 8pm with the intent to bring a bit of Hollywood to Quin
The Quin Heritage Group would like to thank everyone who supported our successful screening of ‘Guns in the Heather.’ Mary Halpin an extra in the film was presented with flowers and both she and Pat Henchy received an ‘Oscar’ on the night for their screen debut. We also learned that local man John Skeehan (Bridgetown) and Dessie Mulcaire (Crusheen) were also extras in the film and also recounted their memories. ? Enzos daughter, now living in Quin, told stories of her father’s lovely recall of the time. Enzo had been involved in a number of Disney films and came to Ireland for the ‘Guns’ – he fell in love in Paddy Cons Hall – and the rest is history.
Malachy Hassett, John Skehan, Eamon Murphy, Pat Hannon & Mary Halping at Guns In The Heather Event 31.3.23
Malachy Hassett, Brian Clune & Mary Halpin at Guns In The Heather Event 31.3.23
Lianda do Auria & Mary Halpin at Guns In The Heather Event 31.3.23
Pat Henchy, Pat Hannon & Mary Halping at Guns In The Heather Event 31.3.23