The Southern Cross Monument: A flight of history. Let me tell you about this monumental structure, a testament to a pivotal moment in aviation history. This powerful memorial sits here as the perfect spot to recall the moment Sir Charles Kingsford Smith embarked on his first successful East-West transatlantic flight. It took place on June 24, 1930, and it changed the world. The Southern Cross Monument, it’s a globe of limestone. It’s eight tons and two meters in diameter. This sculpture, designed by Remco Defouw and Rachael Joynt, depicts all the continents and showcases the historical flight path from Portmarnock to America. Imagine, a bronze needle sits on top, pointing directly at the North Star, a vital tool used by sailors and aviators for centuries. You can even see the exact spot where the plane took off from the beach.
Irish Mercantile Marine Memorial Stone
In a time of global conflict, Ireland stood apart, a small island nation clinging to neutrality. Yet, the Irish Mercantile