'It’s a beautiful piece of work': Longford Historical Society names next speaker

The Longford Historical Society was founded in 1967 by locals who became aware of the fact that there was no society of its kind in Longford. The aim was to develop and encourage people to take an interest in the heritage of the country, and has been growing ever since. The current membership approximately adds up to 200 individuals, with the majority being Longford-based, but members have been involved elsewhere.

“We have an annual lecture programme from September up until April of the following year. A lecturer comes each month. We usually get local speakers and subjects,” said Martin Morris, who is the public relations officer of the society. “They talk about different aspects of Longford. Some are academic historians, local historians who are well-versed in particular subjects, such as a life of the Longford person or area of the county; sport or politics. We had one on traditional music from Ballinamuck, who is a musician himself and a PhD student, Darren Culliney, on the accordion tradition. He played as well as spoke.”

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The current chairperson of the society, Pat Donnelly, was said to be key to lobbying of the museum which will be happening in Connolly Barracks, under the new development plan which was awarded to Longford County Council. A huge step forward, he was involved in the campaigning to make it happen.

This means that artefacts that the society has collected will now have a place to be displayed, once the construction is completed.

On November 20 at 8pm, there will be a talk by the author of ‘Heritage Homes in South Longford’, Eamon Hughes.

Martin added: “He will be talking about significant houses. It’s a beautiful piece of work. The fruit of eight years of work. Very painstaking research and people like him and Darren that we call on for lecturers. We want to highlight the work that people are doing in local history."

This will take place in the Teallach Iosa Family Centre.

Although the committee is yet to have their website open for joining the membership, Martin said the following:

“We do not have a facility for people to join via website. If they approach any committee member, they can join and be added to the mentorship list. There is a newsletter done during the lecturing season.”

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The next 'Teathbha' magazine that the society produces is due for release on November 26. Published since 1969, it has been a massive part of the society, covering a range of historic events.

More information about the County Longford Historical Society can be found directly on their website or through their Facebook page where they post frequent updates and local facts.