Once every three years Crowleys from around the world converge on Ireland for a clan gathering to celebrate their shared heritage and affinity for Ireland. Participants experienced Ireland far beyond the ordindary holiday. The weary found no rest, as both days and nights were packed with activities: castle and archeological tours, historical lectures, a formal banquet, mass at the local mass rock, road bowling, and of course plenty of music, dance, and craic, with sing songs lasting well into the wee hours.

This was one of the most successful gatherings to date, with over 120 people participating in daily events and 200 plus attending the banquet. Images in this gallery are a sampling of the edited compilation of more than 300 available. Prints can be ordered individually or the entire collection can be purchased on photo CD for $30 including shipping. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Crowley castle fund.

I came to photograph this event by way of our family friend Tom Crowley, (aka "Taoiseach"). This being my second clan rally, I've been named an honorary Crowley and welcomed into the clan as if I was one of their own. Numerous friendships have been formed on account of these experiences, not to mention a huge affinity for West Cork.

Tentative plans have the Crowleys reconvening somewhere in West Cork during the early autumn of 2007. For more information on the Crowley clan, visit crowleyclan.com Hope to see everyone again in 2007!