- Captain Michael Hoy from Daingean. American Civil War Hero & Pioneer lawman. By Danny Leavy
Michael Hoy was born in Daingean county Offaly in the year 1834 to William Hoy and Rosanna Concasey. His father died when he was a young boy. In 1853 he emigrated with his mother, brother William, and two sisters Rosanna and Elizabeth, settling in Brooklyn. His older brothers Joseph and John, along with another sister … Continue reading Captain Michael Hoy from Daingean. American Civil War Hero & Pioneer lawman. By Danny Leavy
- 33 The Grand Canal reached Philipstown (Daingean) in 1797 and contributed to economic development. No. 33 in the Grand Canal Offaly series....
The Grand Canal was constructed as far as Philipstown/ Daingean in 1797 providing the town with an opportunity to import goods at lower transport costs and to export turf and agricultural products to the city of Dublin. Some immediate benefits came with the canal such as the large house (formerly Scully’s) on the western side … Continue reading 33 The Grand Canal reached Philipstown (Daingean) in 1797 and contributed to economic development. No. 33 in the Grand Canal Offaly series. […]
- Tullamore and the Irish National Foresters 1899-2024. By Aidan Doyle, Part 2, concluded. [We are marking the 100th anniversary of the re-opening the...
In March 1914 the Foresters Hall played host to meeting called organise the Irish Volunteers in the district. Following the outbreak of the Great War and the resulting divisions within nationalism, the Tullamore Corps of the National Volunteers gathered at the Foresters Hall to reaffirm their support for John Redmond. The Foresters branch secretary James … Continue reading Tullamore and the Irish National Foresters 1899-2024. By Aidan Doyle, Part 2, concluded. [We are marking the 100th […]
- ‘Unity, Nationality and Benevolence’ Tullamore and the Irish National Foresters 1899-2024. By Aidan Doyle [We are marking the 100th...
The weather was bad when Joseph Hutchinson arrived in Tullamore. For 22 years Hutchinson had dedicated himself to the Irish National Foresters and as a result a small mutual aid society founded by 18 men in Dublin, had spread across the globe and recruited over 20,000 members in Ireland. On Sunday 9 April 1899, Hutchinson … Continue reading ‘Unity, Nationality and Benevolence’ Tullamore and the Irish National Foresters 1899-2024. By Aidan Doyle [We are marking the 100th anniversary of […]
- 31-32 Grand Canal Townlands East to West: Along the way via Down to Gorteen, Cavemount and Castlebarnagh , Co Offaly. Numbers 31-32 in the Grand...
Killaderry civil parish, is part of the ancient territory of Clann Colgain which was made up of three tuaths. The parish lies in an area which splits Kilclonfert civil parish into two parts and has the town of Daingean at its Centre. Down is in the Electoral Division of Mountbriscoe, in Civil Parish of Killaderry, in the … Continue reading 31-32 Grand Canal Townlands East to West: Along the way via Down to Gorteen, Cavemount and Castlebarnagh , Co Offaly. Numbers 31-32 in the Grand Canal […]
- 30, Grand Canal Townlands Offaly, East to West: Toberdaly to Coole, No 30 in the Grand Canal Offaly Series. By Philomena Bracken, Offaly History
Today with the canal being a popular walking destination, you can see along the canals places associated with the townlands . Just outside Rhode, on the way to Edenderry, are the ruins of old windmills of the eighteenth century. These once had a wind shaft mounted in the cap (one is preserved at the Guinness … Continue reading 30, Grand Canal Townlands Offaly, East to West: Toberdaly to Coole, No 30 in the Grand Canal Offaly Series. By Philomena Bracken, Offaly History
- 28-29, Grand Canal Townlands East to West: Rogerstown, Ballybrittan, Rathcobican. Nos 28-29 in the Grand Canal Offaly Series. By Philomena Bracken,...
Along our Grand Canal Journey from Edenderry to Shannon Harbour we come to Rogerstown, a small townland, in the Electoral Division of Monasteroris, in the Civil Parish of Monasteroris, in the Barony of Coolestown, in the County of Offaly. The Irish name for Rogerstown is Baile Risteird meaning Richard’s/land. (01.Monasteroris civil parish from the Index … Continue reading 28-29, Grand Canal Townlands East to West: Rogerstown, Ballybrittan, Rathcobican. Nos 28-29 in the Grand Canal […]
- 26-27 Vallancey’s account of the north Offaly towns in 1771 and the improvements that were expected to follow canal navigation. No 26-27 in the...
This article looks at the north Offaly towns featured in Major (later general) Vallancey’s report carried out in 1771 and designed to support the construction of the new Grand Canal line to Tullamore and the Shannon. Vallancey was then a young engineer, employed to report to the Commissioners of Inland Navigation and his findings were … Continue reading 26-27 Vallancey’s account of the north Offaly towns in 1771 and the improvements that were expected to follow canal navigation. No […]
- 25 The Canal breach at Edenderry, January 1916: no. 25 in the Grand Canal Offaly Series. By Ciarán Reilly
Nineteenth-century Edenderry experienced a prolonged building programme, spearheaded by successive members of the Hill family, marquess’ of Downshire. Chief amongst these was the building of a branch line of the Grand Canal to Edenderry in 1802, furthering the line which had passed within two kilometres of the town in 1796. This line brought extensive investment … Continue reading 25 The Canal breach at Edenderry, January 1916: no. 25 in the Grand Canal Offaly Series. By Ciarán Reilly
- 24 Some old photographs of the Grand Canal: the Shackleton photographs of Tullamore and West Offaly in the 1890s. No 24 in the Grand Canal Offaly...
Jane W. Shackleton’s Ireland compiled by Christiaan Corlett (Cork, 2012) is an attractive large format publication was issued by Collins Press and consists of 180 well produced photographs by Jane Shackleton. These pictures are important for the photographic record in County Offaly and mostly date to 1894. Not surprisingly there are many pictures of mills … Continue reading 24 Some old photographs of the Grand Canal: the Shackleton photographs of Tullamore and West Offaly in the 1890s. No […]
- 22-23 Grand Canal Townlands East to West: Rathmore to Ballycolgan, Edenderry. No 22-23 in the Offaly Grand Canal Series. By Philomena Bracken
Along our Grand Canal Journey from Edenderry to Shannon Harbour we come to Rathmore, a small townlands, on the south side of the canal. Rathmore is in the Electoral Division of Edenderry Rural, in Civil Parish of Monasteroris, in the Barony of Coolestown, in the County of Offaly. The Irish name for Rathmore is An Ráth Mór meaning great, … Continue reading 22-23 Grand Canal Townlands East to West: Rathmore to Ballycolgan, Edenderry. No 22-23 in the Offaly Grand Canal Series. By […]
- 21 Edenderry, the Grand Canal and local development, 1786-1845. No. 21 in the Grand Canal Offaly series. By J.J. Reilly
At the opening of the nineteenth century Edenderry was said by one observer to soon ‘be a heap of ruins.’[i] The new Grand Canal was expected to bring relief to Edenderry and the surrounding hinterland. In the aftermath of the 1760s economic downturn in the woollen industry Edenderry suffered greatly having once employed 1,000 workers … Continue reading 21 Edenderry, the Grand Canal and local development, 1786-1845. No. 21 in the Grand Canal Offaly series. By J.J. Reilly
- Richard Biggs (1847–1904) MA, LLB, LLD, tutor to the Rosse children, driver of the ill-fated Birr steam engine in 1869 that killed Mary Ward,...
From the online The Atlas of Irish Mathematics 30: Fermanagh (Apr 2022) — Maths Ireland Richard Biggs was born in Devizes, Wiltshire, England into a Presbyterian family of educated and educators. Religious faith was prevalent in the paternal side of his family. Richards’s great grandfather James Biggs became a Presbyterian Minister, his … Continue reading Richard Biggs (1847–1904) MA, LLB, LLD, tutor to the Rosse children, […]
- 20 Grand Canal Townlands, from east to west in County Offaly: Clocanon to Drumcooly, Edenderry. No 20 in the Grand Canal Offaly Series. By Philomena...
The commencement of the construction of the Grand Canal in the late 1750s, brought with it the expansion of trade. Goods could be carried to Dublin in the east and from Edenderry to Shannon Harbour in the west and helped boost the development of the local economy from the early 1800s. We are starting an … Continue reading 20 Grand Canal Townlands, from east to west in County Offaly: Clocanon to Drumcooly, Edenderry. No 20 in the Grand Canal Offaly Series. By Philomena Bracken
- 19 The Grand Canal in Offaly and Westmeath: the five great aqueducts: Part Two. By James Scully. No 19 in the Grand Canal Offaly series
Part two of this presentation looks at the Charleville and Macartney aqueducts west of Tullamore and the Silver River aqueduct halfway between Ballycommon and Kilbeggan. The Clodiagh River rises in Knockachoora Mountain in Sliabh Bloom and flows swiftly through Clonaslee and on under Gorteen, Clonad and Mucklagh bridges into Charleville Demesne before passing under the … Continue reading 19 The Grand Canal in Offaly and Westmeath: the five great aqueducts: Part Two. By James Scully. No 19 in […]
- 18 Guinness, Thomas Berry & Co and the carrying trade on the Grand Canal, Dublin to Tullamore and Shannon Harbour. No. 18 in the Grand Canal Offaly...
Patrick Lynch and John Vaizey in their history of Guinness’s brewery in the Irish economy to 1876 observed that in England the canals followed trade while in Ireland it was hoped that trade would follow the canals. It was a hope that was only partially fulfilled as outside of Dublin the new canals served few … Continue reading 18 Guinness, Thomas Berry & Co and the carrying trade on the Grand Canal, Dublin to Tullamore and Shannon Harbour. No. 18 in the Grand Canal Offaly series. […]
- 17 The Finest Building in Offaly: The Grand Canal: A Modest Declaration. By James Scully, No. 17 in the Grand Canal Offaly series
A case can be made for declaring that the Grand Canal in Offaly is the county’s greatest building. No other structure has contributed so much to the economic development of so many of its towns and villages over the last 230 years. In addition, it has supported the recreational wellbeing of local citizens for a … Continue reading 17 The Finest Building in Offaly: The Grand Canal: A Modest Declaration. By James Scully, No. 17 in the Grand Canal Offaly series
- 16 Those Canal Days at Shannon Harbour in the 1950s recalled by Gerry Devery. No 16 in the Grand Canal Offaly series.
This evocative piece of writing, describing childhood in Shannon Harbour in the 1950s by Gerry Devery, Cuba Avenue, Banagher won for him the prestigious 1st prize, Autobiographical section in the Writers’ Week, Listowel, Co. Kerry in May 1991. It is one of my many interesting articles over the years in the Banagher Review.[1] Our thanks … Continue reading 16 Those Canal Days at Shannon Harbour in the 1950s recalled by Gerry Devery. No 16 in the Grand Canal Offaly series.
- Former Tullamore Tribune journalist Séamus Dooley recalls the political career of veteran Fianna Fáil TD for Laois/Offaly Ger Connolly.
The death of Ger Connolly at Droimnin Nursing Home, Stradbally on 25th January 2024 marks the end of an era in the political life of County Offaly. Aged 86 Gerard C (Ger) Connolly was a former Fianna Fáil councillor, TD and Minister of State who might best be described as the great survivor of … Continue reading Former Tullamore Tribune journalist Séamus Dooley recalls the political career of veteran Fianna Fáil TD for Laois/Offaly Ger Connolly.
- 14 and 15 The Grand Canal: Trollope, Rolt, Gardner and Walter Mitchell. Nos 14 and 15 in the Grand Canal Offaly Series
We looked a few days ago at Charles Lever’s description of Shannon Harbour through the eyes of Jack Hinton (1843) and which he commenced writing in the winter of 1841. Another visitor to Banagher was the celebrated novelist, Anthony Trollope. Material has already been published on Offaly History blog on Trollope’s connection with Banagher where … Continue reading 14 and 15 The Grand Canal: Trollope, Rolt, Gardner and Walter Mitchell. Nos 14 and 15 in the Grand Canal Offaly Series
- 13 Stories of the Grand Canal: Charles Lever and Jack Hinton at Shannon Harbour, 1843. No 13 in the Grand Canal Offaly, Ireland Series
Charles Lever in his novel Jack Hinton sends his hero on a passage boat from Portobello (Rathmines, Dublin) to Shannon Harbour where he attempts to find accommodation at the hotel, then already in decay. Charles Lever began his Jack Hinton in the winter of 1841. He had one chapter dedicated to ‘The Canal Boat’ and … Continue reading 13 Stories of the Grand Canal: Charles Lever and Jack Hinton at Shannon Harbour, 1843. No 13 in the Grand Canal Offaly, Ireland Series
- 12 The Grand Canal: the Brosna route from Tullamore to the Shannon. No 12 in the Grand Canal Offaly series
The line from Tullamore to the Shannon is known as the Brosna route. Last week we looked at it from the terminus at Shannon Harbour and followed Donal Boland’s well illustrated trip from the Shannon to Tullamore. The canal had reached Daingean in 1797 and Tullamore in 1798. It was then the terminus for six … Continue reading 12 The Grand Canal: the Brosna route from Tullamore to the Shannon. No 12 in the Grand Canal Offaly series
- 11 L.T.C. (Tom) Rolt’s trip on the Grand Canal in 1946: Banagher town gets a bang
The pioneering travel book on the Irish canals was Green and Silver (London, 1949) by L.T.C. Rolt. Tom Rolt made his voyage of discovery by motor cruiser in 1946 along the course of the Grand Canal, the Royal Canal and the Shannon navigation from Boyne to Limerick. The Delanys writing in 1966, considered Rolt’s book … Continue reading 11 L.T.C. (Tom) Rolt’s trip on the Grand Canal in 1946: Banagher town gets a bang
- The late Girvan McKay/Garbhan MacAoidh, Tullamore. By Declan McSweeney
The late Girvan McKay/Garbhan MacAoidh, who died recently at the age of 94, was Presbyterian Minister in Tullamore and Mountmellick from 1983-96 and made a huge contribution to the local community. After retirement, he and his wife Máire continued to reside at Clonminch, Tullamore. A service in his memory was held at the Presbyterian Church, … Continue reading The late Girvan McKay/Garbhan MacAoidh, Tullamore. By Declan McSweeney
- 6-10 The Grand Extension, Shannon Harbour to Tullamore. A Journey in August 2023. By Donal Boland. Nos 6-10 in the Grand Canal Offaly series
A singlehanded trip from the River Shannon to the town of Tullamore along the western section of the Grand Canal was conducted by the writer over seven days in August, 2023. The trip was conducted aboard the heritage vessel Bomb Scow a converted thirty-three foot Royal Navy seaplane tender. Our thanks to Donal Boland for … Continue reading 6-10 The Grand Extension, Shannon Harbour to Tullamore. A Journey in August 2023. By Donal Boland. Nos 6-10 in the Grand Canal Offaly series
- Down the Decades – The journey with George Griffith of Clonshanny, Clara, Ireland. By Tom Minnock
Down the Decades was launched in Rahan Hall in November 2023 with a large audience and since then the new book by Tom Minnock has proved to be extremely popular with more copies printed to meet the demand. We asked Tom Minnock to tell us in this blog article about how the book came about. … Continue reading Down the Decades – The journey with George Griffith of Clonshanny, Clara, Ireland. By Tom Minnock
- ‘Six’ fine works of public sculpture in Birr. By Fergal MacCabe and Paul Moore.
Would you like to know more about public sculptures in Birr and Offaly? Who commissioned them and what do they tell us? Author, Architect and Town Planner Fergal McCabe will focus on the sculptures in and around Birr town, The Maid of Erin, The Column in Emmet Square, the Hurler, the third Earl and the Tullamore … Continue reading ‘Six’ fine works of public sculpture in Birr. By Fergal MacCabe and Paul Moore.
- 5 L.T.C. (Tom) Rolt’ trip on the Grand Canal in 1946 – Athlone to Clonmacnoise. No. 5 in the Grand Canal Offaly series presented by Offaly...
The pioneering travel book on the Irish canals was Green and Silver (London, 1949) by L.T.C. Rolt (1910–74). Tom Rolt made his voyage of discovery by motor cruiser in 1946 along the course of the Grand Canal, the Royal Canal (fully open from Mullingar to the Shannon, until 1955 and thereafter from 2010), and the … Continue reading 5 L.T.C. (Tom) Rolt’ trip on the Grand Canal in 1946 – Athlone to Clonmacnoise. No. 5 in the Grand Canal Offaly series presented by Offaly History
- 4 A Canalside Idyll: the Tullamore canal quarter of the future. From the Grand Canal Offaly series by Offaly History. This essay by Fergal MacCabe
A Summer’s Evening recalled Thinking back on 2023, possibly my most pleasant memory is of an evening in early June. Sitting with some very good friends on the sunlit deck at Bury Quay, we had finished a delicious meal and our attentive waiter was bringing the second bottle of wine. All the tables around were … Continue reading 4 A Canalside Idyll: the Tullamore canal quarter of the future. From the Grand Canal Offaly series by Offaly History. This essay by Fergal MacCabe
- 3 From bonded warehouse and grain store to Old Warehouse bar/ restaurant and Aldi Retail Store: the changing uses of canal side buildings at Bury...
The recent demolition of all the former Irish Mist liqueur warehouses in Tullamore and the upcoming demolition of the great oats store of D.E. Williams have prompted this lookback at the site that may have been intended for the first canal harbour or docking point in Tullamore close to Pound Street, later called William Street … Continue reading 3 From bonded warehouse and grain store to Old Warehouse bar/ restaurant and Aldi Retail Store: the changing uses of canal side buildings at Bury […]
- 2 The background to the development of the towns on the Grand Canal in County Offaly. ‘The man-made features of the Irish landscape, urban and...
This week we look at the background to the Vallancey report on the Offaly towns carried out in 1771 to facilitate the construction of the new Grand Canal line from Dublin to the Shannon. Vallancey was then a young engineer, employed to report to the Commissioners of Inland Navigation and his findings were published in a little … Continue reading 2 The background to the development of the towns on the Grand Canal in County Offaly. ‘The man-made features of the Irish landscape, […]
- 1 The Grand Canal in County Offaly, Ireland: one of the county’s greatest amenities for walking, cycling and taking time out in tranquil...
This month we begin a series of articles on the history and heritage of the Grand Canal in County Offaly that will run to upwards of 50 blog articles in 2024 and have its own platform on our website, http://www.offalyhistory.com. Our aim is to document the story of the course of the canal from the … Continue reading 1 The Grand Canal in County Offaly, Ireland: one of the county’s greatest amenities for walking, cycling and taking time out in tranquil countryside. Buen Camino this Christmas […]
- When turkeys could fly: Irish Christmases in England. By Sylvia Turner
During the twentieth century a tradition arose of a Christmas bird, usually a turkey, being sent from Ireland to extended members of the family who had emigrated to the Britain. They arrived in a canvas bag packed in straw. The Second World War disrupted the tradition. It did not resume immediately after the War as … Continue reading When turkeys could fly: Irish Christmases in England. By Sylvia Turner
- Try again, Explain Better: A Revolution in Profiles, the Offaly Story. By Aidan Doyle
There is a popular saying in politics sometimes attributed to Ronald Reagan ‘When you’re explaining, you’re losing History often involves explaining, but in recent times I’ve regularly watched people’s eyes glaze over as I described my latest research project. Q: What’s it called. A: ‘A Revolution in Profiles’. Q: What’s it about. A: Its about … Continue reading Try again, Explain Better: A […]
- 5 The Brewery Tap, Tullamore (1713- ): part of the story of the evolution of the market place to the Georgian Charleville/O’Connor Square,...
Business and residential The square proper never had a public house until that in GV 5 in recent times, while the Brewery Tap on the western side at GV 3 High Street has served the public for well over 100 years. It was only in 2018 that a new public house and night club was … Continue reading 5 The Brewery Tap, Tullamore (1713- ): part of the story of the evolution of the market place to the Georgian Charleville/O’Connor Square, Tullamore, Ireland. A contribution to the Historic Towns […]
- Faithful Images: public art in County Offaly : a new book from Fergal MacCabe and Paul Moore
Faithful Images: public art in County Offaly, will be launched on Monday 11 December at 8 p.m. at Offaly History Centre, Tullamore by Eddie Fitzpatrick, cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council. Faithful Images is a welcome addition to the growing library on the cultural patrimony of County Offaly. Thanks to Creative Ireland and Offaly County Council … Continue reading Faithful Images: public art in County Offaly : a new book from Fergal MacCabe and Paul Moore
- 4 The people of O’Connor Square, Tullamore, Ireland in 1901 and 1911. A contribution to the Living in Towns series supported by the Heritage...
Unlike Birr the detail for the 1821 census for Tullamore has not survived. The 1821 summary from the census of that year indicates that the total number of people living in Charleville/O’Connor Square in 1821 was eighty people, living in ten houses. This figure may have been arrived by excluding GV 1–4 High Street, the … Continue reading 4 The people of O’Connor Square, Tullamore, Ireland in 1901 and 1911. A contribution to the Living in Towns series supported by the […]
- New Offaly interest publications issued in 2023, thoughtful Christmas presents/reading 2023
The publications below are available from Offaly History’s history shop at Bury Quay, Tullamore beside the Old Warehouse restaurant, online 24/7, and open Mon to Fri 9 to 4. 30. We are also in Bridge Centre from 14th to 24 Dec. as in previous years. We look forward to seeing you. All our work is … Continue reading New Offaly interest publications issued in 2023, thoughtful Christmas presents/reading 2023
- John Flanagan recalls his time with Irish Mist, Tullamore, Ireland, 1963–1985. An extract from the new book on Ireland’s legendary liqueur and...
In 1961 I joined B. Daly & Co Ltd and two years later SI was transferred to Irish Mist (another wholly owned Williams company) to supervise the production line in the Bond Store. I joined up with Joe Scally, and I was still with him until I finished in 1985 over 22 years later. Joe … Continue reading John Flanagan recalls his time with Irish Mist, Tullamore, Ireland, 1963–1985. An extract from the new book on Ireland’s legendary liqueur and the people who made it, published by […]
- The Founding of the Presentation Brothers’ Schools at Birr in 1877. Recollections of 1927 from J. Deering.
[Birr Historical Society meets again on Monday 4 December 2023 after a break of three years. To mark the occasion we reproduce an article by J. Deering first published in the Midland Tribune in 1927 in the context of the golden jubilee of the coming of the Presentation Brothers to Birr. J. Deering makes reference … Continue reading The Founding of the Presentation Brothers’ Schools at Birr in 1877. Recollections of 1927 from J. Deering.
- 3 Timeline for the building of O’Connor Square, Tullamore, Ireland, 1713-1795. By Michael Byrne A contribution to the Living in Towns series...
In the first two articles in this series we looked at the leasing of the sites in O’Connor Square and who built the houses. Today we look at the timeline and we have added more recent detail on occupiers and uses. There are sixteen properties to cover from the four on the west side to … Continue reading 3 Timeline for the building of O’Connor Square, Tullamore, Ireland, 1713-1795. By Michael Byrne A contribution to the Living in Towns series supported by the Heritage Council.
- The story of Irish Mist is as intriguing as the legendary liqueur, a tale interwoven with the social, cultural and economic life of Tullamore in the...
Commerce, community, and creativity are all part of the weave. Golden, sophisticated, with a dash of mystery Irish Mist occupies a special place in the history of Irish distilling. Ireland’s legendary liqueur might well be described as the accidental offspring of Tullamore Dew. First produced in 1947 in response to the urgent need to make … Continue reading The story of Irish Mist is as intriguing as the legendary liqueur, a tale interwoven with the social, cultural and economic life of […]
- 2 The people who built O’Connor Square, Tullamore, (1713- ). By Michael Byrne. A contribution to the Living in Towns series promoted by the...
In the first half of the nineteenth century all of the original buildings in O’Connor Square were three-storey with the exception of the market house and the house where PTSB is now located (GV 8). The finest house was that of Pim/Wilson (GV 7) of c. 1740–48 (demolished 1936) and not unlike the fine houses … Continue reading 2 The people who built O’Connor Square, Tullamore, (1713- ). By Michael Byrne. A contribution to the Living in Towns series promoted by the Heritage Council.
- 1 The making of O’Connor Square, Tullamore, Ireland, 1713–2023: the first market place or Market Square. By Michael Byrne. A contribution to...
Over a series of articles, it is intended to examine the evolution of the ‘market place’, Tullamore to the fine square it is today. It is intended to look first at the evolution of the square over the period from 1713 to 1820 with additional comments on the building history in the last 300 years … Continue reading 1 The making of O’Connor Square, Tullamore, Ireland, 1713–2023: the first market place or Market Square. By Michael Byrne. A contribution to the Living in Towns series […]
- He just walked…. Ireland’s lost people 1850-1950: reflections on the Protestant experience. By Sylvia Turner
Ireland has been associated with the loss of its people through migration for centuries. The analyses by the Central Statistics Office identifies that the famine of 1845 – 52 led to a peak in migration and changed the country’s demographic, political, and cultural landscape. Related themes of endemic poverty and religious intolerance were reasons why … Continue reading He just walked…. Ireland’s lost people 1850-1950: reflections on the Protestant experience. By Sylvia Turner
- Castle Street, Birr in 1911: households, families and businesses in the street over 110 years ago. A contribution to the Heritage Council’s Living...
So far we have looked at the 1821 and 1901 censuses for Castle Street, Birr together with traders in the street in the nineteenth century (see previous articles by going to the blog section on http://www.offalyhistory.com.) There were a lot of new families in Castle Street in 1911 when compared with 1901 based on the … Continue reading Castle Street, Birr in 1911: households, families and businesses in the street over 110 years ago. A contribution to the Heritage Council’s Living in Towns […]
- The limestone quarries of Ballyduff, Tullamore. PART 5 – Wrafter stonecutting heritage still alive. By John Wrafter
In my previous article (Part 4) on the history of the Ballyduff quarries I looked in more detail at one of the Wrafter families involved in stonecutting at far back as at least 1807. In this article I will relate the story of two other Wrafter families of stonecutters. Members of these families are still … Continue reading The limestone quarries of Ballyduff, Tullamore. PART 5 – Wrafter stonecutting heritage still alive. By John Wrafter
- 29 High Street, Tullamore – the former Motor Works house, known since the 1900s as The Manse and formerly West View. A contribution to the Living...
On several walking tours of High Street, Tullamore in 2023 what stuck one was how good the architecture is, the plan of the street, how much has survived, and the extent of reforms and repairs needed to houses that have become dilapidated. This article is about no. 29 High Street, the former Motor Works, and … Continue reading 29 High Street, Tullamore – the former Motor Works house, known since the 1900s as The Manse and formerly West View. A contribution to the Living in Towns series. […]
- Castle Street, Birr in 1901: households, families and businesses in the street over 120 years ago. A contribution to the Living in Towns series. By...
The 1901 census noted twenty-seven buildings in Castle Street, Birr (five less than in 1821, see our recent blog) of which six were unoccupied commercial properties, eight were shops including two public houses, four were boarding and lodging houses, and ten were private dwellings. Women were ‘head’ of house in six of the twenty-one dwellings. … Continue reading Castle Street, Birr in 1901: households, families and businesses in the street over 120 years ago. A contribution to the Living […]
- The limestone quarries of Ballyduff, Tullamore: PART 4 – Four centuries of Wrafter stonecutters. By John Wrafter. Tags: stonecutting, Birr,...
In 2022, Barry Wrafter, sculptor and architectural stone carver, was interviewed about his work on Clare FM local radio. Among other things, he talked about the value of using traditional methods and skills in working with stone. Barry is the latest in a long line of Wrafters who have made their living by working with … Continue reading The limestone quarries of Ballyduff, Tullamore: PART 4 – Four centuries of Wrafter stonecutters. By John Wrafter. Tags: stonecutting, Birr, Castlebrack, […]
- Soccer, Rugby and Dancing at Spollanstown, Tullamore, County Offaly. By Michael Byrne
The growth of the soccer club and the rugby club from the mid-1960s led to increased pressure on the grounds such that from time-to-time fixture lists had to be substantially revised so that a pitch would be available. The soccer club enjoyed a tremendous burst of success right through the 1960s while the rugby club … Continue reading Soccer, Rugby and Dancing at Spollanstown, Tullamore, County Offaly. By Michael Byrne
- Birr and the 1821 census: the case of Castle Street, Birr. An exploration for the Living in Towns series. By Michael Byrne
In the Pigot directory of 1824 Birr was described ‘as far the most considerable of any of the towns in the King’s County. Birr was the leading town in the county from the 1620s until the 1840s By the 1820s Birr had new Protestant and Catholic churches (the latter nearing completion at the time of … Continue reading Birr and the 1821 census: the case of Castle Street, Birr. An exploration for the Living in Towns series. By Michael Byrne
- Bogs, Turbines and Toghers. What will be the fate of Offaly’s natural heritage, and that of Lemanaghan with its natural and monastic heritage? By...
We need wind energy, but are we to give up on saving the bogs and destroying natural and community amenity in the process? This article looks at the works at Clongawney bog and the real threat to Lemanaghan and the natural heritage of County Offaly. More transparency is needed and more care about what outcomes … Continue reading Bogs, Turbines and Toghers. What will be the fate of Offaly’s natural heritage, and that of Lemanaghan with its natural and monastic heritage? By a […]
- Spollanstown Sports Field, Tullamore: a sports venue for over 140 years. A contribution to the Decade of Centenaries. By Michael Byrne
The rugby grounds at Spollanstown have been used for sporting activity in Tullamore for over 140 years. The establishing of the Spollanstown sports field is rooted in the difficult situation in the 1880s when the land war was at its height, the home rule movement was advancing steadily and, increasingly, sporting activities reflected the deep … Continue reading Spollanstown Sports Field, Tullamore: a sports venue for over 140 years. A contribution to the Decade of Centenaries. By […]
- Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Edward Biddulph (1834-1919), St. Kilda’s, Birr, County Offaly. By Nicola Jennings. Part 2, concluded. A contribution to...
But while Amy Biddulph’s life was happy, these were troubled times. From the age of nine Amy began to hear of the Land League. Francis read the newspapers out loud every day for the benefit of Annabella. Just after the shooting of the Chief Secretary Lord Frederick Cavendish in the Phoenix Park, her brothers were … Continue reading Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Edward Biddulph (1834-1919), St. Kilda’s, Birr, County Offaly. By Nicola Jennings. Part 2, concluded. A contribution to the Decade […]
- Exploring Castle Street, Birr – merchants and trading community in the nineteenth century. Part of the Living in Towns series. Michael Byrne
Castle Street, Birr comprises a mix of about thirty commercial and residential properties close to the Camcor river to the south, Main Street and the old parish church to the north, and to the west Birr Castle. On the east at the Market Place or Market Square the street opens into Main Street, Bridge Street … Continue reading Exploring Castle Street, Birr – merchants and trading community in the nineteenth century. Part of the Living in Towns series. Michael Byrne
- Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Edward Biddulph (1834-1919), St. Kilda’s, Birr, County Offaly. By Nicola Jennings. A contribution to the Decade of...
Francis Edward Biddulph was born in Congor, County Tipperary, the son of Nicholas Biddulph and Catherine Lucas. His mother died shortly after his birth. Francis was cared for by his aunt, and later by his stepmother Isabella Digges la Touche. He was to have nine half-siblings, many of whom would later live in Birr. In … Continue reading Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Edward Biddulph (1834-1919), St. Kilda’s, Birr, County Offaly. By Nicola Jennings. A contribution to the Decade of Centenaries
- Sr Dolores Walsh and Student empowerment at the Sacred Heart, Tullamore. Recalling fifty years in a new book.
When Sr Dolores Walsh returned to Tullamore in the early 1970s to take over as principal of the Sacred Heart School she brought with her a wealth of ideas influenced by her years in California. The Sacred Heart School (or SHS as it has always been known by its pupils past and present) is believed … Continue reading Sr Dolores Walsh and Student empowerment at the Sacred Heart, Tullamore. Recalling fifty years in a new book.
- Paul Burke-Kennedy, architect. An Appreciation by Fergal MacCabe
The co-founder of one of Ireland’s most successful architectural practices, Paul Burke-Kennedy died at his home in Booterstown Co. Dublin on 28 September 2023. Born in Tullamore in 1935, Paul’s father Gerry Burke-Kennedy was the popular manager of the Hibernian Bank (now part of Bank of Ireland) in the 1950s, well known for his hunting, … Continue reading Paul Burke-Kennedy, architect. An Appreciation by Fergal MacCabe
- Offaly Heritage 12: a new book of essays on the history of County Offaly to be published Friday 6 October at a public event at Offaly History Centre....
It was 2003 when the first issue of Offaly Heritage was published. Just twenty years later the twelfth book of essays will be issued by Offaly History on 6 October 2023 at the Offaly History Centre at 6 p.m. and launched by a son of Tullamore, Terry Clavin. Terry is a distinguished historian who works … Continue reading Offaly Heritage 12: a new book of essays on the history of County Offaly to be published Friday 6 October at a public event at Offaly History Centre. A contribution to the […]
- Bro Pat Guidera of the Jesuit college, Tullabeg, Tullamore recalls his role in the War of Independence and the Civil War, Mountrath and Johnswell,...
Brother Pat Guidera S.J. (born 1900, died 1992) was a familiar figure in Tullamore over a period of forty-two years from his transfer to Tullabeg College in 1948 up to its closure in 1990. Today the old college is falling to ruin. Many will recall its very good order up to the 1990s and thereafter … Continue reading Bro Pat Guidera of the Jesuit college, Tullabeg, Tullamore recalls his role in the War of Independence and the Civil War, Mountrath and Johnswell, Kilkenny. A contribution to the […]
- Visualizing Tullamore and its unique architectural character – A new Capriccio. By Fergal MacCabe
An Image in my head As the town changes and my own perceptions and values alter, the visual image of Tullamore that I hold in my head is continually refined. Little by little I have begun to realise that buildings which I dismissed as mundane are more important than I had first considered, while others … Continue reading Visualizing Tullamore and its unique architectural character – A new Capriccio. By Fergal MacCabe
- History of transport – a County Offaly, Ireland perspective: bogs, canals, rail, steam and petrol fuelled motors. By Sylvia Turner. A...
As evidence of the climate crisis increases across the world, the need to find alternative forms of energy to fossil fuels has intensified. According to the Sustainable Energy Authority, Ireland imports a little over 70% of the energy used with the EU average, being 58%. Ireland’s. Transport accounts for the most demand, with over 95% … Continue reading History of transport – a County Offaly, Ireland perspective: bogs, canals, rail, steam and petrol fuelled motors. By Sylvia Turner. A […]
- The Law of the Innocents, Birr 697 AD. By Jim Houlihan
In a time of war in eastern Europe and the coming to an end of the Decade of Centenaries period in Ireland, 1912–23 with the cessation of the civil war, here we today publish the second of two blogs on the protection of innocent people in times of strife. The article is by Jim Houlihan … Continue reading The Law of the Innocents, Birr 697 AD. By Jim Houlihan
- After the Break. By Terry Adams
It was cold, dark and rainy that November 2017 night as we left the Embassy. My mood did not fit the weather. The warm glow of a job well done wrapped itself around my stomach and spread out to envelop my whole being. It was all hard to believe that my scribbling had brought me … Continue reading After the Break. By Terry Adams
- The 1923 General Election in Laois-Offaly: Cumann na nGaedheal papers in Offaly Archives. An Offaly History contribution to the Decade of...
In the last blog we noted that the August 1923 General Election in Laois-Offaly was remarkably peaceful given that the civil war had only ended in May. Offaly was still strong in support for the Republicans as was clear from the fact they gained two seats, but, of course, were committed to not entering the … Continue reading The 1923 General Election in Laois-Offaly: Cumann na nGaedheal papers in Offaly Archives. An Offaly History contribution to the Decade of Centenaries. By Michael Byrne
- The Synod of Birr, 697AD. By John Dolan
In a time of war in eastern Europe, and the coming to an end of the Decade of Centenaries period in Ireland, 1912–23 with the cessation of the civil war here, we today publish the first of two blogs on the protection of innocent people in times of strife. The first article is by John … Continue reading The Synod of Birr, 697AD. By John Dolan
- St Catherine’s Church, 1815-2015: central to the heritage of Tullamore. By Michael Byrne
St Catherine’s Church, 1815. This is the second article to mark the successful Heritage Week 2023. The new St Catherine’s Church was designed by Francis Johnston and was built in the Gothic style with a Latin cross plan, side-aisles, a tower in the west and a crypt at the east end for the burial place of … Continue reading St Catherine’s Church, 1815-2015: central to the heritage of Tullamore. By Michael Byrne
- Declan McSweeney reflects on the Laois-Offaly Constituency and its history
The news that the Laois-Offaly constituency is to come to an end at the next general election, following the recommendations of the Electoral Commission, is an occasion to reflect on its long history. Under the Government of Ireland Act of 1920, the constituency was established as King’s County-Queen’s County, a four-member constituency for the House … Continue reading Declan McSweeney reflects on the Laois-Offaly Constituency and its history
- The 1923 General Election in Laois and Offaly: a remarkable outcome. Tar barrels in O’Connor Square for Pat Egan and a substantial vote for...
Laois Offaly is again to be divided into two three-seat constituencies according to the just announced electoral commission report. ‘This would be the first time that the Offaly constituency would fully align with its county boundary.’ For the 2016 General Election Laois and Offaly were divided and to the Offaly constituency was added 24 electoral … Continue reading The 1923 General Election in Laois and Offaly: a remarkable outcome. Tar barrels in O’Connor Square for Pat Egan and a […]
Offaly History (short for Offaly Historical & Archaeological) was first formed in 1938 and re-established in 1969 and is located at Bury Quay, Tullamore, Co. Offaly since 1993(next to the new Tullamore D.E.W Visitor Centre).
We are about collecting and sharing memories. We do this in an organised way though exhibitions, supporting the publication of local interest books, our website Offalyhistory.com , Facebook, open evenings, our library and offices at Bury Quay.