There definitely seems something odd in Shanagarry. The accession of Queen Elizabeth II to the throne was on 6th February 1952. Thirty years previously, on 16th January, 1922, Michael Collins accepted control of Ireland at Dublin Castle. Last year, I learnt of the difference between ER and ER II on post boxes – ER II referring to Queen Elizabeth II of England & Wales. It now appears that this jurisdiction may extend to a part of East Cork – the former home of the 1st Cork Brigade of the I.R.A. in the War of Independence. I can understand, and fully welcome, the retention of the old post boxes bearing the insignia of Victoria, George and Edward VII – they stand as a record of a time past. However, I cannot come up with any logical reason for the existence of an ER II post box in Shanagarry. Think of the number of hands that must have touched it – from its original delivery from Scotland; its first, and many subsequent, coats of green paint; and, its opening every weekday. Did anyone pause to read what it said? – or maybe they thought it might be a good trick. I’m afraid that I have only questions – searching for answers has to go onto my To Do List. |