I need to return a memorial stone to the Camino - Looking for the "Tools from Belfast" (Mike Fitzhugh)
Hi everyone,
A few years ago (around 2022-2023), my younger brother walked the Camino de Santiago. He found this stone and, completely misunderstanding the heavy tradition behind it, thought it was just a cool abandoned souvenir and brought it all the way home.
It recently reappeared at our house, and to be honest, it really hit me. I’ve walked the Camino twice myself years before he did, so I know exactly what the trail means. I know the weight of the traditions, the effort it takes, and the emotions people leave behind on the route. This isn't a souvenir; it's a piece of someone's heart. It’s a beautiful memorial stone for "Mike Fitzhugh" left by his mates, the "Tools" from Belfast, in May 2022.
I want to make things right. I am planning to walk the Camino again next year, and I'll be going for many days. I live right on the Camino Primitivo route in Oviedo, so I can literally start walking from my front door with Mike's stone in my backpack to return it to the trail.
I'm posting this hoping it reaches the original group. If anyone from Belfast knows them, please pass this along!
I’d love to ask them: where would you like me to place it? Should I leave it somewhere along the Asturias route, try to find the exact original spot, or take it to a traditional place like Cruz de Ferro?
Also, I’m genuinely curious about Mike's story. I tried looking him up online but couldn't find anything. It’s clear he was very loved by his friends, and I'd be honored to know a bit about the history of the guy whose stone I'll be carrying.
Any help finding the "Tools" is much appreciated!