Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance

Beyond the fire engine red gates in a remote area of Kinsale, lies a beautiful garden of 343 trees set in a breathtaking view of the Irish countryside.  

The garden is dedicated to the firefighters and Chaplain that died on September 11, 2001.  As you walk down the neatly planted rows, you will be touched by each and every tree, each one adorned with a firefighter’s name and personal memorabilia left behind by family, friends, and complete strangers.   

Even more unique to this story is how the memorial came to be. It’s the story of Kathleen Cait Murphy. Murphy, originally from Kinsale, moved to New York City and worked as a nurse for over 30 years. During that time, she became friends with many of the FDNY firefighters, including their Chaplain Father Mychal Judge and was devastated by their loss.  

After her retirement, she returned home to Kinsale where she knew she wanted to honor those that had died. She used her own land, and with the help of family and friends, planted 343 trees in their honor. Sadly, Murphy died in 2011 after a courageous battle with cancer.  The garden has evolved into a powerful memorial to Murphy and those who died.