Born: 16 February 1902 (Ardroe, Claremorris, County Mayo, Ireland)
Died: 11 February 1971
Biography:
Delia Murphy Kiernan (16 February 1902 – 11 February 1971) was an Irish singer and collector of Irish ballads. She recorded several 78 rpm records in the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, and in 1962, she recorded her only LP, The Queen of Connemara, for Irish Prestige Records in New York. Delia Murphy’s passion for music and her contributions as a folk singer have made her a notable figure in Irish cultural history.
Delia Murphy was born in Ardroe, Claremorris, County Mayo, Ireland, to a well-off family. Her father, John Murphy, had made his fortune in the Klondike Gold Rush in America before returning to Ireland in 1901. The family purchased the large Mount Jennings Estate in Roundfort, where Delia spent her childhood. It was here that her father nurtured her interest in singing, allowing Irish travelers to camp on their estate. Delia often learned ballads from the campfire gatherings, igniting her love for Irish music and folklore.
After completing her education at Presentation Convent in Tuam, Dominican College in Dublin, and University College Galway (UCG), where she obtained a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Delia Murphy met Dr. Thomas J. Kiernan, whom she married on her 22nd birthday in 1924. The couple went on to have one son, Colm, and three daughters, Blon, Nuala, and Orla. Thomas Kiernan served in the Irish diplomatic service, and their first posting was in London. Delia Murphy quickly gained recognition as a singer, performing at various venues and events for Irish emigrants.
In 1939, Delia recorded popular songs such as The Blackbird, The Spinning Wheel, and Three Lovely Lassies for HMV, cementing her reputation as a talented Irish performer. However, her life took a dramatic turn during World War II when her husband was appointed Irish Minister Plenipotentiary to the Holy See in Rome. As the only English-speaking legation to remain open after the United States entered the war, the Irish legation played a crucial role in assisting escaped Allied soldiers and hiding Jews from the Nazis.
Delia Murphy became an integral part of this covert operation, working closely with Vatican official Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty, also known as the Vatican pimpernel. Together, they helped save the lives of approximately 6,500 individuals. Many escaped prisoners of war found refuge with the legation when Italy switched sides in 1943. Their tireless efforts to rescue and protect those in danger earned Delia Murphy recognition and admiration.
In 1946, Delia was awarded the rank of Dame Commander of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre in recognition of her remarkable contributions during the war. Kiernan continued to serve in the Irish diplomatic service, holding positions as Irish High Commissioner and Ambassador to Australia, West Germany, Canada, and the United States. Her dedication to public service and her humanitarian endeavors earned her great respect and admiration.
Delia Murphy’s life and career exemplify the power of music to connect people, convey meaningful stories, and create positive change. Her passion for Irish ballads contributed to the preservation and dissemination of Irish culture, while her bravery and selflessness during World War II leave an indelible mark on history. Through her music and her actions, Delia Murphy has become an enduring symbol of Ireland and its people.
Awards:
– Dame Commander of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre