JOE CONNOLLY – BALLYBAY TO DUNDALK VIA THE BRONX!

Joe Connolly who is originally from Ballybay is the latest person to appear in the “Humans of Dundalk” facebook page. The page was set up because the as the editor says, “Dundalk is full of amazing people – Let’s tell their stories”. Joe’s story is fascinating and is the 90th in the series. Joe currently owns the BARTENDER in Park Street, Dundalk. He learned his trade in the Riverdale Hotel, Ballybay. He and three friends decided to emigrate in 1972 and tossed between the USA and Australia. Shortly after the lads arrived in the Bronx. Joe remained in the USA until 1991. His move home was prompted by a robbery and being shot at. Joe tried working as a delivery man, but the bar trade was all he knew and he and his South Armagh wife, Shelia bought a bar in Dundalk. Joe’s story is told in three episodes and has attracted over 140 comments. Its well worth a read, you will not be disappointed.