Memories, Folklore, Customs and Sayings from Gerry O’Keefe, Branch, Newfoundland

Here’s a 90 minute chat I had with Gerry O’Keefe in his home in Branch, Newfoundland back in May 2019. This is part of larger collection I recorded there in April/May 2019 and I’ve left this interview deliberately unedited. Amazing material here from folklore, customs and tradition which are identical to so many of ours here in the South East of Ireland - the place where most of their ancestors left from in the late 18th and early 19th century. I could break any piece of the chat down and examine in greater detail but there is something lovely about the real time here and our chat and my questions. I have taken a notes of topics/content and will post them in a comment below however if you the time, have a listen as Gerry literally walks me around his yard and his shed on a crisp Saturday May morning. I'll be honest, I was really conscious of him being out in the cold and wanted to finish up but he was opposite. He was in his element in his yard pointing out bits and pieces and wanting to chat more. We only decided to go in when his wife calls us in for lunch which if I remember correctly was moose stew. Anyway if you have the time - stick this on and have a listen. Sound and video quality isn't the best at times, but its the content and atmosphere that is key here. Text: Michael Fortune