PICTURES | Poignant occasion as late Dr Seamus Mimnagh’s book on mills in Longford is launched

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There was a very special event in Longford Library on Monday, April 3 to mark the launch of Mills, Millers and Milling in County Longford by Dr Seamus Mimnagh.

Very sadly, the author died last autumn just after finishing work on it. The launch was performed by Professor RV Comerford, Emeritus Professor of History and Head of Department in Maynooth University. READ MORE BELOW PHOTO

Seamus Mimnagh, a native of Clontumpher, Killoe, lived near Mullingar for more than forty years.

On his retirement from the Department of Agriculture, he embarked on the academic study of local history in Maynooth University. He progressed from the BA to PhD research into mills and milling in Longford, c. 1750-c.1950.

The book that has just been launched is based on his doctoral thesis, which was submitted in 2009.

The publication was funded by The Heritage Council as part of a project organised by Máiréad Ní Chonghaile, Heritage Officer with Longford County Council.

In addition to explaining the development and eventual decline of milling in Longford, the book contains details of ninety-eight mills that were scattered throughout the county.

Cllr Turlough McGovern, Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, and Leas-Cathaoirleach, Cllr Gerry Hagan, both paid tribute to Seamus and his great work.

Professor Comerford referred to Seamus’s extraordinary abilities and the broad significance of the book, now and in years to come.

The event also included contributions from Seamus’s son Mel and his widow Mary, and music by his son-in-law Noel and granddaughters Amy and Zoe.

The book is available from Longford Library and costs €10.