Fortifications of Québec National Historic Site
Natural Wonders & Cultural Treasures
The Celtic Cross at the Artillery Park: A gift from the people of Ireland to the people of Québec
Celtic Cross at the Artillery Park
© Jonathan Houle
In 1997, when James Gallery, the founder of
Strokestown Park Famine Museum, in County Roscommon, Ireland, heard of efforts being made in Québec
to obtain a Celtic Cross, he generously donated the cross. More than sixty children from the Mahon estates of
Strokestown were adopted in the city of Québec and area in 1847-1848. James Callery wished to honour the Québec
families that cared for them.
The cross, sculpted by Aileen Brannigan from blue limestone in the Feelystone
quarries, incorporates elements sacred and profane; mythological and scriptural; historical and legendary,
themes taken from High Crosses of Ireland. In addition, the year 2000 is marked, and famine ship is in evidence.