Doolough Pass

John Mee : In March 1849, during the great Irish famine officials of the Westport Poor Law Union arrived in Louisburgh to inspect those people in receipt of outdoor relief to verify that they should continue to receive it.
For some reason the inspection did not take place and the officials went on to overnight at Delphi Lodge, 12 miles south of Louisburgh.
The people who had gathered for the... inspection were instructed to appear at Delphi Lodge at 7am the following morning if they wished to continue receiving relief.
For much of the night and the day that followed, hundreds of destitute and starving people huddled in these very fields during very bad weather.
Days later the bodies of seven people, including women and children were subsequently discovered on this road overlooking the shores of this lake. Nine more never reached their homes. 
Local folklore maintains the total number that perished was far higher.
Edel Doherty ...while cattle and grain was exported to spain and feed lay piled in stores, in Mayo south and round about the people they perished is scores. Crowds were gathered in Louisburgh hoping for some relief. Twas said that the poor Lord Guardians could end there pityless need, These gentlemen fine were meeting to dine in delphi 12 miles away, Children, Women and men 600 strong set out on that faithfull day.
Remember Doolough