It’s been a momentous week for publicans around Ireland, many of whom have reopened their doors to the public for the first time in over six months.
A particularly poignant week for those at Mellett’s Emporium in Swinford Co. Mayo, the family-run pub has celebrated another major milestone with the passing of the business from one family member to another.
Giving the licence over to his daughter Marie, it’s the first time in hundreds of years – 223 to be exact – that the licence has passed from father to daughter. Sharing a message from her father Joe, he described it as “a very momentous, very exciting day”.
“We were in Ballina this morning at a very emotional court but I can honestly say that I’m delighted that Marie will carry on the tradition of the Mellett family. It’s the seventh generation of the pub in Swinford.”
A historical day in our house today. Here’s a message from my dad… ❤️ #FamilyBusiness #localpubs pic.twitter.com/I9gg9sfWze
— Mellett’s Emporium (@melletts1797) September 22, 2020
Adding that he will “help her and guide her in being a seventh-generation publican”, it’s clearly a very exciting time for the family who are staying positive in spite of it all. Customers and fellow publicans have congratulated Marie on the news, wishing her well on the next chapter and saying that the pub is in “very safe hands” with her at the helm.
Header image via Instagram/Mellett’s Emporium
