PICTURES | Insightful Longford Historical Society journal Teathbha the perfect Yuletide gift

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It’s that time of year again when you can look forward to another crowded and interesting edition of Teathbha 2022, the journal of County Longford Historical Society.

Teathbha ‘22, edited by James MacNerney, was launched on Monday, November 28 in Longford library by Longford Leader Managing Editor Alan Walsh. Teathbha is packed full of local history articles from the parishes and towns of Longford. READ MORE BELOW PHOTO

Speaking at the launch, Alan Walsh highlighted that Teathbha ‘22 is James MacNerney’s 13th and final edition as Editor, adding “It is a tribute to his professionalism, dedication and attention to detail that we are gathered here for the launch of yet another top quality and insightful journal.

“And while he may be vacating the Editor’s chair, I’m quite sure that as the Society’s new Honorary President, James will have a considerable contribution to make to Teathbha ‘23. I’m well aware of the painstaking work that goes into editing a publication as comprehensive as this and I commend James for all his work and I wish him well.”

Longford’s new County Librarian Martina Needham, Longford Municipal District Cathaoirleach Gerry Hagan, County Longford Historical Society Chairperson Pat Donnelly and Teathbha ‘22 Editor James MacNerney also addressed the large gathering on what was a very enjoyable launch evening.

There is much to read about in this centenary year of the new Free State, our own parliament and the start of the civil war.

One hundred years ago, Michael Collins was shot, Arthur Griffith died suddenly, Sir Henry Wilson was assassinated in London.

These were significant, powerful events in the lives of our people, reflected in the scholarly, in-depth studies done by some of the major contributors to Teathbha 2022.

Two recently deceased, prominent members of County Longford Historical Society, Ann Donohoe and Seamus Mimnagh, are remembered in Teathbha 2022. Seamus had just handed in his last article on his special subject, milling in the entire county, so there will be special interest in this essay throughout the county. Indeed, members of his family were in attendance at last week’s launch of the journal.

There is also a wonderful description of the handing over by the departing British soldiers of the military barracks to Sean MacEoin and the Free State army on February 17, 1922.

Many other places and subjects are covered, of course: detailed changes in land ownership in Moydow barony, that famous Aughnacliffe dancer, Joe ‘Dandy’ O’Reilly, a prominent Abbeyderg family, a further examination of unionism in the early 1920s, that renowned Drumlish footballer Jim Hannify.

There is much more to enjoy and much for the younger generation to learn about county Longford’s history.

In Longford town you can pick up a copy at Trappe’s Main Street, Newsround Ballymahon Street and Pat Mollaghan, Donlon's Newsagent adjacent to St Mel’s Cathedral.

This journal would make an ideal Christmas gift for Longfordians, or indeed anyone with an interest in local history.

Despite rising costs, this edition is still at the usual price of €12. You know it makes sense to purchase one or two or maybe more as Yuletide presents.

If anyone needs further information contact, John Christopher Farrell, email johncfarrell@eircom.net