Emigrated from Ireland at 17, dead at 35 in a church alcove

A New York Times article throws a sobering spotlight on one young Irish woman’s tragic end.

WITH EMIGRATION ONCE again an issue casting a cold shadow on young Irish people and their families, the fate of those who leave is an emotive subject.

The New York Times yesterday carried a chilling tale of one young Irish woman who left Ireland for New York at 17. Grace Farrell, 35, who once showed promise as an artist, was found dead at the weekend in the alcove of St Brigid’s Church in Manhattan. It is feared that she froze to death.

Thanks to Helen O’Rahilly (@TellyDubby) who noted: “This should be picked up by the Irish media… not all emigrants go on to brighter lives. RIP Ms Farrell.”

Read Jim Dwyer’s story about Grace Farrell in The New York Times here>

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