This story is about a jolly man named Frank Egan. Born in Ireland in 1945, Frank grew up on a farm with seven other siblings.
In 1963, at just seventeen and a half, Frank left the rolling fields of County Roscommon, and set out for a new life in the bustling town of Watford, England. Like many of his generation, Frank came in search of work, opportunity, and a future. What he found was not only a career, but a life rich in love, family and beauty.
He began his journey as a carpenter working across London, Baldock and Luton. He met Bridie McGuire, a beautiful young woman from County Leitrim who had arrived in England in 1965. Their paths first crossed in the Market Hall in St Albans. Their love blossomed quickly and in 1968, they got married in St Albans, at the very same place they met. They eventually settled in Northampton, joining a then growing Irish community in the town.
In 1971, they bought their first home, which was soon filled with much love and laughter. They were blessed with three children, and later three grandchildren too. The family today are all extremely proud of the grandchildren, with Frank and Bridie’s grandson now pursuing a career in medicine, and their two granddaughters currently studying at universities in Glasgow and Gloucester.
In 1974, Frank and his partners started their own business as building contractors, which later grew large enough to employ 300 people. He was involved in major projects such as the Northampton Courts, the Weston Favell Shopping Centre, and the Derngate Theatre.
Meanwhile in his free time, golf had always been one of Frank’s passions, and Bridie often accompanied him on his golfing trips. The couple also shared a love of travel, exploring visiting far-flung, sun-drenched destinations such as Australia, Mexico, and Spain, as well as cooler places like Scotland and Frank’s homeland, Ireland. Bridie sadly passed away on 24th of June 2011 at the age of 70, leaving Frank and their children devastated. However, Frank still cherishes their many happy memories together, and is grateful for the time they had.
Frank’s story reflects the experience of many Irish families who moved to England during the twentieth century, bringing with them their values and culture and keeping their heritage alive. It is a story of love, perseverance, and the enduring bonds of family. A tribute to Frank and Bridie, to the generations before them, and to those yet to come who will carry their legacy forward.
Read more of our Intergenerational Stories
