Members of the Fitzgerald family from St. Patrick's Place, Fethard, who came together to celebrate their brother, Paddy's, 70th birthday held on Saturday 21st May. L to R: Michael, Dick, Biddy, Tony, Paddy, Ollie, Mary and Jimmy.

Dick Sheehan photographed with family members on the occasion of his 60th Birthday Surprise Party. L to R: Dan Sheehan, Ann (Sheehan) Baker, Dick Sheehan, Bridget (Sheehan) Mann, Johnny Sheehan and Michael Sheehan. FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Dedicated to our friends and relations living away from home

Copyright © 2005

Published by the Fethard & Killusty Emigrants’ Newsletter ISSN 1393-2721

WWW.FETHARD.COM

Layout and design by Joe Kenny, Rocklow Road, Fethard Printed by Modern Printers Kilkenny

Cover: Fethard Ballroom & Town Wall — St. Stephen’s Day 2004

All rights reserved. No parts of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any informa- tion storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the author. FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Table of contents

29 Seconds ...... 113 Footprints & Recollections ...... 55 A black feathered problem ...... 149 Greetings from Killusty N.S ...... 52 A Railway Tale ...... 17 Houselessness or homelessness ...... 84 Abbey 700 Anniversary Celebrations! . . . . .7 Into Africa ...... 20 Abbey Greetings ...... 7 Irish Girl Guides ...... 150 Abymill Theatre ...... 117 Jim Murray — musician extraordinaire - 148 A letter from Ring College ...... 189 Jimmy does it again! ...... 139 All work and no play ...... 42 John Joe’s Corner ...... 126 Arts award for Austy in the Abymill . . . . . 95 Juvenile GAA Club ...... 132 Badgers — soccer for the over 30s ...... 41 Killusty Open Sheep Dog Trials ...... 32 Beneath the spreading chestnut tree . . . .143 Killusty Pony Show ...... 181 Bigger and hopefully better! ...... 5 Killusty Soccer Club ...... 64 Brain Freeze! ...... 39 Ladies Football Club ...... 142 Church of Ireland News ...... 7 Last wish to return made possible . . . . . 140 Civil Defence ...... 53 Lonergans’ Pub — the end of an era . . . 173 Community education in Fethard ...... 141 Marriages ...... 184 Contact Details ...... 16 Nano Nagle National School ...... 108 Deaths in the parish ...... 182 On a recent visit to Fethard ...... 33 Do You Remember 1970? ...... 66 Our dear departed 2005 ...... 183 Donations Received 2005 ...... 186 Parish greetings ...... 6 Easter Monday 1830 ...... 65 Patrician Presentation School ...... 44 Fethard & District Credit Union ...... 25 Red Haired Angel! ...... 121 Fethard & District Day Care Centre . . . . 159 Richard ‘Grawn’ Power ...... 166 Fethard & Killusty Community Council . 154 School Matters ...... 96 Fethard & Killusty Community Games . . 88 Slieve na mBan Holy Year Cross 2005 . . 105 Fethard & Killusty London Reunion . . . 180 Society of St. Vincent de Paul ...... 149 Fethard And Killusty Anglers ...... 138 Someone thinks of you tonight ...... 125 Fethard Ballroom celebrate 12 years . . . 178 South Tipperary Irish Farmers Assoc . . .102 Fethard Boys Scouts ...... 118 St. Patrick’s Boys’ National School . . . . . 111 Fethard Bridge Club ...... 37 St. Rita’s Camogie Club ...... 142 Fethard Community Scheme ...... 161 Still Life ...... 143 Fethard Community Sportsfield ...... 92 Table of contents ...... 4 Fethard GAA Club ...... 136 The Augustinian Abbey ...... 120 Fethard Historical Society ...... 54 The Fall of Cramp’s Castle! ...... 31 Fethard ICA Guild ...... 83 The Shannon Scheme ...... 26 Fethard Legion of Mary ...... 15 Tin Helmet ...... 168 Fethard Open Coursing Club ...... 162 Uncle Pete ...... 131 Fethard Players ...... 118 War Service Medals ...... 168 Fethard Senior Citizen’s Club ...... 38 Wokachika rock’n’roll ...... 145 Fethard Tidy Towns ...... 164 Woodvale Walk Residents’ Assoc ...... 151 First Steps Playgroup ...... 25 Ypres Revisited ...... 128

4 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Bigger and hopefully better! by Joe Kenny (editor)

ast year our publication got a we’ve included a lot of current photo- Llittle too heavy for its stamp and graphs mixed with a selection of old as many of you may have noticed, we ones from our files. A variety, we exceeded our allowed weight, which hope, to suit all our readers, young resulted in us getting a hefty bill for and old. excess postage from An Post. This As usual, we depend on your annu- was the result of the new ‘zero-toler- al donations to continue sending ance’ electronic weighing machines copies, free of charge, to over 1,000 used in the sorting office at emigrants throughout the world. Portlaoise. This year we’re respond- With the increased cost of postage ing in a positive manner by making and printing, we are now looking for this issue bigger and better. We hope sponsors to cover postage costs for you like it. each of the four postal areas as The past year has seen a lot of defined by An Post: Ireland, Britain, changes, and as my generation of Europe and Rest of the World. friends gracefully slide past the big Please contact us for details if you ‘five-o’, we’re very aware of the adults are interested. of our youth slowly slipping away as I would like to thank Sarah Murphy well. The Augustinian Abbey remem- for typing, up to days before the birth bered many of our past friends dur- of her first baby, Kate, in September. ing the month of November with a Congratulations Sarah and Vinny, I’m display of photographs in the abbey sure you’re getting some sleep at this church. A lovely touch for the month stage! Thanks to Carmel Rice who of the Holy Souls. keeps track of correspondence and In these days of information tech- donations every year; Brendan Kenny nology, it is very encouraging to see for distribution; Gemma Burke for the large number of emigrants, and proofreading, and Michael Hall, Kyle, their relatives, using the internet to Drangan, for keeping me supplied research their Fethard relatives. The with archived newspaper articles numbers visiting Fethard website relating to Fethard, more of which will (www.fethard.com) average over 600 be published in future issues. per day. One of the positive results of I would also like to thank all who gathering news for the website is that submit articles and photographs; we now also have a weekly page of those who subscribed to our church news published in the Nationalist gate collection, and a special thanks newspaper. With this constant to all those who make annual dona- demand for making / finding news, tions, from home and away, which we’re spoilt for choice for material to help make the publishing of this include in this publication. This year newsletter possible.

5 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Parish greetings

nother year has gone by. In love to all our lives. Alooking back at 2005 — Pope We congratulate the Augustinians John Paul II — was there ever a death on their 700 Year Celebrations; Fr. so public, so powerfully inspiring? Gerry on his election to Provincial; Our new spiritual leader’s election — Fr. Peter Haughey on his return as Pope Benedict XVI — and the awe- Prior; and we wish Fr. Malachy every some liturgical ceremony by which success in Limerick. he began his pastoral ministry. These To all the readers of the Newsletter, unique occasions brought the at home and abroad, we wish you Gospel of Jesus to centre stage in a every happiness and peace for this way that invites a response from us. Christmas and that the New Year will Sadly too in 2005, Catholics fill you with a new hope and a joy throughout Ireland have been that will truly help you to experience shocked and hurt by the child sexual Christ in a special way for the year abuse scandals involving priests and ahead. religious. We express our sorrow and We are truly grateful to the people sadness that such incidents have of Fethard and Killusty for their faith occurred and we apologise to all and support over the past year. May who have suffered. We must also the Lord bless and protect you look to the future and, in doing so, always. we seek the guidance of the Spirit to bring peace, justice, forgiveness and Canon James Power and Fr. Tom Breen P.P.

Fr. Tom Breen P.P. and Rev. George Knowd photographed in Fethard

6 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Church of Ireland News

estoration work is ongoing at flower arrangements were beautiful RHoly Trinity Church, Fethard. and the teas served delicious. On Wednesday, 24th November 2004, We are very grateful to the flower a funeral service was held for clubs who gave their time and work Wyndam Matthew Hughes. To his generously, also the ladies who gave mother, girlfriend and many friends cakes and worked hard to make the we send our sincere sympathy. three days so succesful. On Sunday Our annual Carol Service was held the people who set up their stalls at Christmas. It was very well attend- showed us what an amazing amount ed and the collection went to Meals of talent there is in the area. Again on Wheels. A Flower Festival was we thank everyone for supporting held from 22nd to 24th July. The the Flower Festival. Abbey Greetings

fter sixteen years of "exile" you will be pleased to know you Afrom Fethard, it is good for me were not forgotten at the special to be back here again and to send Masses said at various times during warm Christmas greeting from the the past year. priests in the Abbey to all our exiles. Fathers John Meagher, Gerry You probably heard from home Horan and Timmy Walsh join me in that 2005 has been a special year for praying that the Holy Child will bless us in the Abbey. The Augustinians all of you this Christmas with good first came to Fethard 700 years ago in health, happiness and peace of 1305. I was impressed by the scale of mind, and grant you success in all the celebrations held to mark this your undertakings in 2006. event and by the enthusiasm with which the people took part. I'm sure Peter Haughey O.SA. Abbey 700 Anniversary Celebrations! ery special liturgical and social of the ‘Mass of Thanksgiving’ was Fr. Vevents have taken place in Des Foley, then Prior Provincial of Fethard’s Abbey and Abymill to coin- the Irish province. More than twenty cide with church and Augustinian visiting friars and a large congrega- feasts over these past ten months. tion of worshippers joined Fr. Foley. Jubilee celebrations began last On 11th February, being the feast of Lent with a triduum, held from 10th Our Lady of Lourdes, Canon J. Power to 12th February. The chief celebrant was chief celebrant at a Mass and

7 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Members of the Augustinian Abbey Jubilee 700 Celebration Committee. Back L to R: Liam Cloonan, Percy O'Flynn, Vincent Cummins, Austin O'Flynn, Dick Prendergast, Paddy Broderick, John Fitzgerald. 3rd Row L to R: Joan Anglim, John Barrett, Chrissie Cummins, Marion O'Connor, Mary Healy, Kitty Delany. 2nd Row L to R: Fr. John Meagher OSA, Rena Kelly, Joan Halpin, Majella Walsh, Nell Broderick, Berney Myles. Front Row L to R: Fr. Timmy Walsh OSA, Agnes Evans, Gus Fitzgerald and Fr. Malachy Loghran OSA. Also on the com- mittee are Fr Gerry Horan OSA, Ann Cooney, Liam Flynn and Ciara Flynn.

‘Blessing of the Sick’. Fr. A.B. music in the Celtic idiom. His special Kennedy celebrated the Vigil Mass guest on the night was soloist Roisín on 12th February for the youth of O’Reilly. Fethard and their parents. Following A five-day Festival of Prayer in hon- the mass, Fr. A.B. presented prizes to our of the ‘Mother of Good Counsel’ primary and secondary student win- commenced on 22nd April, with Fr. ners of the Abbey 700 Art Gerry Horan leading a Reconciliation Competition. Service. Joan Anglim organised and On April 15th a packed Augustinian arranged the flowers for the five-day Abbey enjoyed Fr. Liam Lawton in event and a commemorative booklet concert. Liam Lawton is Ireland’s was compiled by Ann Cooney. Kitty leading composer of contemporary Delany and Joan Halpin looked after church music and also composes the lighting and the candles. People

8 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER were overjoyed and remarked that the success it was decided to make they felt it was a spiritual and joyous this an annual event. occasion. Adoration to the Mother of The Abbey’s Shrine of Our Lady of Good Counsel is very much associat- Good Counsel was dedicated to Our ed with the Augustinian Abbey and it Lady under that title in the 1880s and was wonderful to see the large num- is said to be the first in Ireland. The ber of people attending. Subsequent title originated in Genazzano, Italy. themes covered were: ‘The Family’, All who attended were struck by how by Canon Jim Power; ‘The Conversion beautifully the picture of Our Mother of St. Augustine’, by Fr. Ben O’Brien of Good Counsel and the side altar OSA; ‘God’s Love’, by Fr. Cooney OSA, were decorated with floral arrange- and ‘Mary, Mother of Good Counsel’, ments and candlelight. Ann Kenrick by Fr. Tom Breen P.P. Resulting from Walsh made a temporary return from

Prize winners in the national school art competition who were presented with their prizes at the conclusion of the youth mass held on Saturday 12th February. Back L to R: Alice Murphy, Lisronagh (3rd third and fourth class), Ellen Murphy, Lisronagh (2nd fifth and sixth class), Laura Rice (1st under-14), Gráinne Horan (2nd under-14), Joseph Morgan, Killusty (3rd fifth and sixth class), Padraig O'Shea (highly commended fifth and sixth class), Shannon Hickey, Killusty (highly commended third and fourth class). Front L to R: Evie O'Sullivan (1st third and fourth class), Deirdre Dwyer (highly commended third and fourth class), Louis Rice (1st fifth and sixth class), Brian Delahunty (highly commended fifth and sixth class), Colin Grant (2nd third and fourth class) and Michelle Walsh, Killusty (highly commended third and fourth class). Other prize winners were, John Frewen (1st under-16), Sarah Conway (3rd under- 14), and Nicole Looby (highly commended third and fourth class).

9 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Dublin to be guest organist for these blessing and distribution of rose five prayer-filled days. petals, shipped specially, for the Fr. Michael Barry celebrated a occasion, from the garden of Cascia. Youth Mass in the Abbey on 14th The Chapter of the Irish Province May. It was wonderful to see such of the Augustinian Order was held in large numbers present to hear the Limerick in late June 2005. It became uplifting words of Fr. Michael, and to a chapter of great significance to request divine help for forthcoming Fethard following their decision, examinations. made in spring 2004, to visit our Devotion to St. Rita of Cascia com- medieval town to celebrate mass in menced on 19th May. Fr. Michael our historic Abbey on June 29th 2005 Collender was the guest preacher at to coincide with the 700 Years each ceremony. St. Rita’s interces- Celebrations. sion is invoked especially for those In order to show our appreciation who are sick, for those preparing for to the Augustinians, it was decided to examinations and for those experi- host a dinner on their behalf. This encing difficulty in their lives. The was the ideal opportunity to give statue of St. Rita was given pride of something back to the Augustinians place, constantly illuminated by can- who willingly give so much to the dles and surrounded by a magnifi- people of Fethard. Joan Anglim cent array of red roses. On the Feast accepted the responsibility of the of St. Rita, 22nd May, we had the organisation of this event and sought

‘Mother of Good Council’ organising committee. L to R: Kitty Delany, Ann Cooney, Fr. Gerry Horan OSA, Joan Anglim and Joan Halpin.

10 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Fethard organists L to R: Ann (Kenrick) Walsh, a former organist in the Augustinian Abbey before moving to live in Dublin; Kathleen Kenny, current organist in the Augustinian Abbey; and Goldie Newport, current organist at Holy Trinity Parish Church, Fethard. sponsorship for the marquee and Ann Cooney prepared a special other ad hoc expenses. People were booklet to mark the occasion, which very generous in sponsoring this was attended by over ninety wondrous and joyous occasion. Who Augustinians, sisters from the needs a hotel when caterers, co-ordi- Presentation Convent and local cler- nated by Joan Anglim and aided by gy from the surrounding area. It was her “team” are ready, willing and a wonderful evening. All present able to perform to such a high stan- were so appreciative of the dinner dard. and most complimentary for the hos- By spring 2005 there was further pitality bestowed on them during reason to celebrate, because Fr. their visit to Fethard. Gerry Horan, Prior of the Fethard Spring has rolled into summer and community, had been elected as it's time for a golf classic with a pur- Prior Provincial of the Irish Province. pose. The Augustinians have a mis- The people of Fethard filled the sion in Ecuador, where their hospital Abbey to accord Fr. Gerry a special and clinic provide essential medical “Comhgáirdeachas” and to extend care. Over one hundred local chil- “Ceád Míle Fáilte” to his fellow dren are given a meal each day, Augustinians. Monday to Friday, to prevent malnu-

11 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Organising committee photographed at the display for the novena to St. Rita of Cascia. L to R: Margaret Prendergast, Nellie Ryan, Fr. Malachy Loghran OSA, Dick Prendergast, Ciere Flynn and Marion O'Connor. trition. The Abbey 700 Committee Their repertoire extended from clas- adopted this project helping to sical to modern, entertaining a finance its continuation. capacity audience of visitors and Slievenamon Golf Club was a hive locals. On Sunday, at 11.30am Mass, of activity and fun on 22nd July. Fifty- Cór Cois Abhann enriched our souls two teams participated in a three-ball with their rendition of contemporary scramble. The raffle for three beauti- and Latin hymns. ful hampers raised €4,500, while the The Feast of St. Augustine obliging- proceeds of the golf brought our total ly fell on a Sunday (28th August) this close to €10,000. Your support was so year and diverted the children’s wonderful you’ve also enabled us to minds away from their impeding sponsor a doctor at the mission’s return to school, after a lovely sunny hospital for a year. Míle bhuíchas to summer, towards a Fancy Dress everyone who helped to make that Parade. The ‘retired’ Fancy Dress par- day so successful. ticipants of the ‘70s and ‘80s pre- Cór Cois Abhann performed a con- pared their children and their ban- cert in the Abymill on 20th August. ners admirably. Banna Cluain Meala The Cork-based choir were accompa- led the children from the ballroom to nied by Sinéad Ni Mhurchú, soprano, the Abbey grounds, where the band and classical guitarist, Antanas gave a recital while majorettes per- Keturakis, under director Ian Sexton. formed highly synchronised move-

12 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER ments involving colourful flags. read the lists of their predecessors While the valley was alive with the who taught or worked in Fethard in sound of music the committee made the past. Our Augustinian community refreshments available for the chil- remembered their departed Brother dren who awaited the prize-giving. Friars who served the Fethard faithful We were treated to a recital by during their ministry. ‘Amadeus’, a trio of exceptional The Resurrection was the theme of female musicians, who entertained the mass to conclude the triduum. the crowd with a variety of classical The congregation renewed their bap- and traditional music and song. tismal promises, the Pascal candle As November is traditionally a time was central while water was blessed. to remember our deceased family The Abbey choir was joined by guest and friends a triduum was arranged soloist Denise Broderick of Limerick for 1st, 2nd and 3rd November. On for our November triduum. All Saints evening all our Irish saints, Augustinian saint and saints of the Forthcoming events in 2006 church were celebrated. The homily focused on St. Nicholas of Tolentine, As part of the Church Unity Octave, to whom there is great devotion in many choirs will gather at Trinity Fethard. Church of Ireland to honour the Lord Prior to the feast of All Souls “The in song on 20th January. Tree of Light and Life” was placed in Fr. Joe Walsh will celebrate a the sanctuary. The congregation Youth Mass on 25th February. On 5th were asked to write the names of March, the first Sunday of Lent will their deceased loved ones on a be dedicated to commemorating the miniature scroll and hang it on the life of Blessed William Tirry OSA, deciduous tree. A montage of photo- who was martyred in Clonmel in graphs of the deceased people of 1654 and beatified by Pope John Paul Fethard & Killusty and surrounding II in 1992. areas was assembled. Many, as invit- Our committee is planning to have ed to, brought memory cards of their an exhibition in conjunction with the loved ones to add to the montage. closing ceremony and would appre- Both the tree and the montage ciate any help available. Perhaps remained on display in the Abbey you’ve old photographs relating to Church throughout November. the Abbey or its friars? If so, please On All Souls evening as the forward a copy to: The Jubilee November Dead List was read aloud Committee, Augustinian Priory, a relative brought forward a lighted Abbey St., Fethard, or e-mail to candle. A representative of the [email protected] Presentation Sisters and another rep- Have you attended any of the resentative of the Patrician Brothers above-mentioned Augustinian cere-

13 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 monies in Ireland or abroad — and feel based in Fethard, not Dublin. We “inspired” to write about that experi- have decentralisation! ence? Please do con- We welcome back tact us. Do you write in our midst Fr. Peter poetry or prose? Are Haughey as Prior. you hoarding old Many thanks to Fr. newspaper articles Malachy Loghran sent to your ancestors who contributed by “the people back greatly to St. Rita’s home”? Our Jubilee week-end of prayer Committee would and also to the ‘Holy love to hear from you Souls’ triduum. We and welcome interna- wish him well in the tional submission for Augustinian our exhibition in Community in March. Limerick. Both Fr. In conclusion, the John Meagher and Fr. Abbey 700 Jubilee Timmy Walsh sur- committee wish Fr. vived the changes Gerry God’s blessing Fr. Peter Haughey OSA Prior and will remain in on his four-year term as Prior Fethard, thus granting spiritual suste- Provincial. Fr. Gerry has opted to be nance and continuity.

L to R: Fr. John Meagher OSA; General of the Augustinian Order, Fr Robert Prevost; and the new Provincial, Fr. Gerry Horan OSA, Fethard.

14 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Photographed watching the Augustinian Abbey 700 Fancy Dress Parade are L to R: Teresa Cummins, Noreen Maher and Margaret Coffey. Fethard Legion of Mary embers of Fethard Legion of and we need people to pick up a free MMary extend greetings to all copy of ‘Alive’ each month. Many of readers. We wish all of you a peace- you are aware you can now view ful, happy Christmas and New Year. EWTN each day, twenty-four hours a We welcome all newcomers to the day. In Ireland it is available on Sky, area and we appeal to all of you to channel 680. If you do not have Sky extend support to the Legion of Mary. your can get the Hotbird box. We We need your prayers and we need can direct you in the purchasing of members. Why not seriously consid- this. We need to increase our knowl- er the prayers and the support of your edge and strengthen our faith. Now, presence at our weekly meetings? we have the means. Let us use it. We do not make visitations, as we Our younger people need us to be do not have the people to go out. strong and to be informed. We need Our main work is the selling of to counteract their convenient pleas Catholic papers. These are available of boredom and their ignorance of at the doors of our Churches. We the moral teachings and the respon- had to terminate door delivery, as it sibilities of the Catholic Church. was no longer feasible to go from Each one of us must be out their door to door each week of the year. helping others to be true to the Faith. Now, however, we notice we have to How many are aware that there is decrease our orders of The Irish Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Catholic and The Universe. We need each First Friday in the Abbey? We people to purchase a Catholic paper are privileged in Fethard to have a

15 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Legion of Mary Group in the 1970s. Back L to R: Catherine Sayers, Tommy Carey, Christy Williams, Gus Fitzgerald, Kathleen Keane, Paddy Kenrick, Percy O'Flynn, Noelle Maher. Front L to R: Kathleen Kenny, Margaret Cummins, Margaret McCarthy and Mary Gunne choice of Masses not only on Sunday who mourn the loss of loved ones. but also on each day of the week. We pray for all at each Mass and in We appreciate the fact that we have November when we visit all our priests who are there for us when we cemeteries to pray The Rosary. The need them. They are there for the Year of The Holy Eucharist has Mass, for all the Sacraments; they are drawn to a close. What did each of us also very attentive in visiting the sick do to recognise this great year? and in helping where they can do so. May God bless all our families in The month of the Holy Souls is a our parish and those now living in so time when we remember all our many countries throughout the deceased. We extend sympathy to all world. CONTACT DETAILS Articles for publication Joe Kenny, Rocklow Road, Fethard, Co. Tipperary. Tel: +353 52 31663 Fax: +353 52 30051 Email: [email protected]

Donations, Letters, Change of Addresses Carmel Rice, Brookhill, Fethard, Co. Tipperary. Tel: +353 52 31134

16 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

A Railway Tale by Lory Dineen

rowing up in Kerry Street in In 1865 the Southern Railway Gthe 40s and 50s the railway Company proposed constructing a line was our play ground. Here we line from Thurles to Clonmel to built tents, played cowboys and Youghal, eastwards to Dungarvan Indians, made slides with cardboard and westwards to Fermoy via boxes and generally fooled around. Lismore. This line was to be 92 miles On Sunday evenings after the mati- long and at the time was the longest nee in the Capital Cinema, we re- projected railway of the period. The enacted the deeds of Johnny scheme was rejected by parliament, McBrown, Roy Rogers and Tarzan. however, a shortened version, The railway was also our shortcut to Thurles to Clonmel was approved. the Red Bridge for a swim or to Work commenced on constructing Crean's fields picking mushrooms or the line in 1866. Due to lack of money to the wood picking hazelnuts. Does and difficulties in construction, it was anyone pick mushrooms or hazel- a "stop - go"' railway. The land nuts now I wonder? between Laffansbridge and Horse We never thought much of the his- and Jockey was very boggy and tory of the railway or who built it or needed much drainage and in places even how long it was there. It was a heavy rock cuttings had to be made. safe place to play and close to our On 3rd January 1877 the first passen- houses. ger train arrived in Fethard from

Fethard Railway Station in the 1960s 17 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Clonmel. The journey took 20 min- tionally busy due to the beet trains utes and the train returned to operating from South Wexford to Clonmel on 6th January. Thurles. Up to ten trains a day operat- The people of Fethard returned to ed and with special anthracite trains their normal way of living and the from the Ballingarry Collieries to sound of a train did not disturb their New Ross and Waterford, the future peace until the 23rd June 1879 when of the line was very rosy. However, in three trains a day operated between the 50's things began to change. The Clonmel and fair days were Fethard. From the Waterford Newspaper Ad 1894 replaced by the cat- end of July, goods Waterford & Limerick Railway tle mart. Cattle were trains operated to excursion to Fethard Steeplechase transported by road Laffansbridge and and 10th Hussars Regiment Races and demand for by the end of the on Wednesday & Thursday 4th & anthracite declined. year there was a 5th April 1894. With more motor- full passenger and Train departs Waterford at cars on the roads the goods service 10.30am and arrives in Fethard at numbers travelling operating from 12.50pm. Fares: 1st class 7/7; 2nd began to drop. Clonmel to Passenger traffic class 5/7; 3rd class 3/1. Children Thurles. So what reduced to such an under 12 half fare. Return train had been pro- extent that it was not posed in 1865 from Fethard will leave at 6.20pm. feasible to run a came to fruition in train. A bus was fit- 1879. The line was 23 miles long and ted to run on the rails and even this served Clonmel, Fethard, could not save the line. Farranaleen, Laffansbridge, Horse On 26th March 1967 the Clonmel to and Jockey and Thurles Thurles branch line closed, as did For years the railway paid its way. many such branch lines in the 60s. It During the summer, special trains was in existence for just over 90 years operated to all the major GAA fix- and in its time provided an excellent tures and to Tramore. On Carnival service for the people of South Sunday a special train operated from Tipperary. Waterford and often this train had to I remember the railway fondly. I return to Clonmel to pick up more especially remember the fair days, passengers such was the demand. the GAA trains, the Fethard Carnival Special trains operated from trains and loading beet at the station. Waterford to the Kilnockin Races. I used call to the station very often to On fair days up to four special collect the films for the cinema and trains conveyed cattle to Waterford bring them back the following day. and Dublin for export. During the Pushing that cart up to the station winter months the line was excep- was no easy task. You did, however,

18 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

get in to see the pictures for nothing pigs had to be driven with hands and so that was reward enough! legs. What a job to control those My greatest memories were the pigs! Out under the archway and on occasions when we were hired as to the Main Street and then the fun youngsters of about nine or ten to started. We formed a line across the drive the pigs from McCarthy’s yard street to make sure they went out to the station. Paddy Purtill from over the bridge but inevitably one Mockler’s Hill bought pigs once a would break loose and run up the month locally and these were put in street and so it went on all the way to a pen in the yard. After school we the station — pigs going down the would rush down to the yard to be Valley, into the cinema, up Kerry ‘hired’. Paddy would take on about Street, down to the river. All the time ten of us depending on the number Paddy would be looking at his pock- of pigs he had bought. The train used et watch worrying about his dead- to leave the station at 6.30pm so we line. We were always in time for the had to be back in the yard at 5pm. train and our reward an English tru- Usually there would be up to 60 or 70 penny bit! The labourers were wor- pigs. No sticks were allowed and the thy of their hire!

19 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Into Africa by Mick Ryan (Killusty & Monasterevin)

t was an article in the Fethard prowess! It must have been my red Iannual newsletter of 2003, I think, hair. The thought of visiting Africa that stirred my thoughts about a trip was further fuelled by a chance meet- to Africa. Bro Paul Brennan, a past ing with Davie Fitzgerald at the 2004 teacher of mine from the Patrician Fleadh Cheoil in Clonmel. “You’ll School on the Rocklow Road, never guess who is home,” he said. penned an article of his work and “Paulinus.” (He will always be experience since moving to Kenya Paulinus to us). “You should give him almost 30 years ago. Towards the end a ring,” Davie suggested, “he is stay- of the piece he reminisced about ing in Newbridge”. I rang him the some of the students he had taught next day, we had a brief chat and in Fethard and mentioned a few exchanged contact details as he was names, among them mine. heading to the airport to return to I wondered how he remembered Kenya. me, as it was over 40 years since we Several emails and 12 months later, last met. Certainly not from any great Margaret and I were on a plane to academic achievements or sporting Nairobi, accompanied by our peren-

Bro Paul, on the right track, with visitors Mick and Margaret Ryan

20 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER nial holiday companions, Richard more peaceful surroundings of the and Catherine O’Rourke. As the Kenyan countryside. Here people plane made its decent, little thoughts take life at a different pace — herds- started to invade my mind. Would men tend their cattle, goats and this adventure be a success? Would I sheep, women carry huge pitchers of know Paul at the airport? Would he water balanced on their heads with still be the same man who had made the art of a circus performer. Shanty such an impact on my school days towns where every day is market day and on the parish in the early 60s. and every resident is a trader. I needn’t have worried. There he Incessant charcoal burning has led stood larger than life, older admitted- to a major deforestation problem. ly, just like us all. White haired The thought struck me that more instead of black, but still the same damage could be done to the envi- Paul, with the exact same manner- ronment here in one day than we in ism, smile and sense of humour. The Ireland could do in 10 years. The old memories came flooding back. The trucks coming out of the ports of meeting was a very special moment. Mombasa and tackling the long Paul was accompanied by his fellow steady climb to ten or twelve thou- Patrician Brothers, David and sand feet, belch out huge palls of Andrew. black fumes. However, to balance After a brief sojourn around that they certainly make better use of Nairobi, where we planned to return, the bicycle than we do. Some of the we headed for Mombasa on the loads which they manage to get onto Indian Ocean. Five people in a a bicycle are truly amazing. Suzuki Jeep, which miraculously Mombasa, a bustling town, was a managed to stay in one piece for the perfect place to kick off our adven- three-week duration. The 500km jour- ture. We swam in the Indian Ocean, ney takes about 12 hours. The road sampled the local food and wine and was in very poor condition and lit- took in all the tourist spots. Paul was tered with potholes but the trip was in his element. Using what Swahili he full of excitement for us. Hordes of knew to best effect, the locals were people walking, walking everywhere. amused when he could identify what The Kenyan people walk miles to tribes they were from. He took great work for a daily wage of maybe €2, if pride in telling them that he was a they are lucky. School children head teacher from St. Patrick’s School in to school very early in the morning Iten, and judging by their reaction, it with happy smiling faces even slowly dawned on me that this must though they survive on one bowl of be one of the best known schools in maize per day. Kenya, given that we were now some After the madness of the Nairobi 800kms from Iten. traffic it was nice to get out into the Back to Nairobi on Friday, with the

21 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 journey no less arduous, but the another age. hardship was lessened by a BBQ and On Sunday we headed for the high social evening hosted by the Holy country, Eldoret, in western Kenya, Ghost Fathers in St. Mary’s. Fr. John where Paul has lived and worked for Mahon, who has worked in Kenya for some 30 years. A long but pleasant 40 years, told us of his project work journey with much better infrastruc- in Kibera, now the largest “slum” in ture. The further up the Rift Valley we the world with over 700,000 people went, and the higher we drove, the living there. We asked if he could more fertile it became. Magnificent take us into Kibera the following lush valleys and beautiful scenery morning and he agreed. rolled out in front of us with forestry The journey through the township now becoming the dominant vegeta- will live in my memory forever. tion. We crossed the Equator on Narrow dirt streets with mud shanty route where at noon you can stand dwellings, thousands of people exist- on your own shadow. ing on morsels, children playing on Eldoret was like home from home. open sewers with distant looks in Paul knows everyone and is as popu- their eyes, with Aids and malaria a lar around town as he was in Fethard. daily companion. I thought, can this We spent lovely evenings with the be 2005 we are living in! For Christ’s Patrician Community in Kabsoya sake, man has landed on the moon, (Paul’s Home) and attended many Europe has food mountains and social events at the Golf Club, where these people are living on our it seems to me, he runs the show. doorstep in conditions far worse Although Paul has retired from than our animals have to endure at teaching for five years now, he is typ- home. ical of the man, busier than ever. He But there is hope – John Mahon, has just opened a new primary along with many others, is doing school and dispensary in Kabongo a tremendous work education people place that would make Boolagh to help themselves. The task is mon- North look like the centre of the uni- umental with abysmal support from verse. He is now working hard on the so-called developed world. But building a secondary school so that everyday is a day better. the children will have a place to Less than two miles away, we saw advance their studies. I had forgotten the other side of life in Kenya, the how driven he is. How else could a world of Karen Blixen and ‘Out of young man from Nobber, who knew Africa’, where trophies of elephant, nothing about hurling, come to lion and rhino adorn the great halls Fethard where we knew even less, and khaki-clad would-be game and inspire us to a Munster Colleges hunters come to get a taste of a way title in 1963. He hasn’t changed. of life that is now, thankfully, from He took us to see his project in

22 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Margaret Ryan photographed with some local children Kabongo, which for me, turned into 42 years ago, and asked which of us the highlight of the trip. Margaret looked the oldest. One little girl said, loved the place, she had lots of I did. I know he had her primed books, copies and pencils which she before we got there. Our trip to gave to the teachers to give to the Kabonga was complete when John children, who may not have been the caretaker invited us to his home able to afford even a pencil. The joy to meet his wife and three lovely chil- on their smiling faces after getting dren. We were honoured to be guests such a small gift was wonderful to in his house. behold. On our way to Lake Begoria we vis- Richard and Catherine, pharma- ited St. Patrick’s in Iten, the school cists from Monasterevin, were very Paul’s life work has gone into. interested in the dispensary and had Leading the way in academic and long chats with Sylvia, the local sporting achievements for years, it is, nurse, as she held her daily clinic. without doubt, one of the best- They presented very useful equip- known schools in Kenya. ment to the clinic that was very much We have sat and watched the appreciated. Kenyans massing towards the front, Paul introduced me to the school with two or three laps to go in an children as a former pupil of his over Olympic or World Championship

23 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 final. You can be sure that many of Mara National Reserve. It was inter- them have come through this school. esting if only to see how domesticat- Paul and Bro Colm O’Connell from ed wild animals can become if they Doneraile, have coached the cream are born and live with safari jeeps of world distance runners. Members and minibuses looking at them all of the Kalenjin tribe such as Wilson the time. One wonders what the Kipketer, Mike Boit, Wilson Boit, the noble Masai People make of advanc- Cheruyet twins and many more too ing civilisation which takes their graz- numerous to mention have graced ing land in order to preserve wild life. the athletic tracks of the world for And so it was finally time to take our decades. Add that to the several leave of Kenya — the beautiful and national basketball titles and you get complex country whose people are some idea of the progress of a small its strength. school built forty years ago in the Bro Paul is visiting Ireland in 2006. middle of nowhere. We spent a love- I hope that the Kinane Cup winning ly evening with Paul, Colm and team can get together for a night to friends at the Keiyo View where we relive old memories — he would love sat round the fire and had songs and that! Our team photograph still hangs stories from way back when. proudly in his office. Thanks Paul for Before taking our leave of Kenya a memorable holiday, we will be we did a three-day safari in the Masai back.

Bro Paul introducing one of his gardening friends to Margaret Ryan and her friends, Richard and Margaret O’Rourke from Monasterevin.

24 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Fethard & District Credit Union riday opening has proven very hoping for a representative atten- Fpopular, with of course the dance. usual Saturday night opening hours. Officers for 2004-2005 are: Marian This year our computer system is Gilpin (Chairperson); Kate Healy being upgraded which will increase (Treasurer); Eddie O’Brien speed and efficiency. Marian Gilpin, (Secretary). Credit Committee: Sean our chairperson, attended the AGM O’Callaghan, Mary Morrissey, Jacinta in Killarney in April. O’Connell. Insurance & Investment: At our annual general meeting in Johnathon Gilpin. Supervisory December, two new directors were Committee: John Barrett, Philomena elected to the board. Johnathon Morrissey, Eleanor Roche. Credit Gilpin was elected public relations Control: Elizabeth McLaughlin, officer for Chapter 10. The train tick- Johnathon Gilpin. P.R: Marian Gilpin. ets from Thurles to Dublin have now The opening hours of Fethard & gone up to €15 which is still good District Credit Union are: Friday from value. Our dividend was a healthy 10am to 12 (noon), and on Saturday 2%. Our next A.G.M will be held in from 7pm to 8.30pm. early December 2005 and we are

First Steps Playgroup by Patricia Fitzgerald t was another busy year for First cess and many thanks to the parents ISteps Playschool and great to who gave so freely of their time to welcome back old faces along with drive the children. Without their valu- the new boys and girls who had not able help and involvement these out- been before. ings would not be possible. Our thanks to the Dental A really big thank you must also go Department for visiting the to Joan O’Donohoe and the staff in Playschool again and involving us in the Tirry Centre and also the their dental survey. The children Community Council for their assis- were all presented with toothbrushes tance and generosity throughout the and given a small demonstration on year. how to clean their teeth. If you have any queries, please feel Our Xmas party was a great suc- free to call in to the Tirry Centre, or cess and thanks to Santa for coming you can contact me on Tel: (086) to our party and giving the children 1580897 or (052) 32164. their presents. Wishing all readers and emigrants Our annual summer outing to a very Merry Xmas and Peaceful New Planet Playground was a huge suc- Year.

25 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

The Shannon Scheme by Tom Burke

e were fortunate when grow- kitchen, and take his place near the Wing up in Redcity in the 50s, open fire. From this position, he to have as our nearest neighbours, would entertain us for hours with sto- the Daltons. The family comprised of ries and tales of the “olden times”. three girls and five boys, and only In the mid 50s , the Rural one, Paddy, the youngest, took the Electrification scheme reached us popular emigration trail from an and Mikey’s stock rose even higher. Ireland which at that time had little to Why? Because he had first-hand offer in the way of employment. knowledge of the source of this new The Dalton clan were prudent and phenomenon, namely the Shannon hardworking, and none, except Scheme at Ardnacrusha. With the Paddy in New York, ever married. country in the grip of a severe eco- Two of the seven who remained at nomic depression, Mikey had left home had permanent positions. The Fethard in September 1925, travelled two remaining girls ran the house, by train to Thurles, connected with whilst the three remaining boys the Dublin-Cork main line, and worked locally, when required, with changed at Limerick Junction for the farmers, and also took “conacre” on short shuttle service into Limerick. It which they grew sugar beet for near- was but a short walk to the Strand by Thurles Sugar factory. Snaring and Barracks near the docks, where the lamping of rabbits supplemented Siemens – Schuckert recruiting office their income. The family thrived on for the Shannon Scheme was situat- the principles of honesty and integri- ed. There he signed on as a labourer ty, and whilst they had only been for the next three years in a work- exposed to basic Primary schooling, force that averaged 2,500, but they were great admirers of educa- reached a maximum of 4,300 at one tion and never lost an opportunity of stage. instilling that principle into us as we With the average agricultural wage grew up. They were indeed brilliant set at 26 shillings for a 50/60 hour role models for us as young kids. week, Siemens were offering Mikey was the oldest of the clan, unskilled workers a weekly rate of 32 and in the winter nights, he would shillings for 50 hours, which includ- come to our house “ar cuartaíocht”. ed a guarantee of three years’ work, Rural Electricification had not yet free accommodation, and subsidised reached us, so there was no distrac- canteen meals. A short strike at the tion from TV. Studying was accom- beginning of the project over wage plished by oil lamp, and this would rates led to Limerick city workers be rushed to a conclusion when we being paid 50 shillings per week. The would hear Mikey arrive in the latter did not qualify for free accom-

26 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

On the left is Parteen intake building which allowed water into Ardnacrusha Station. On the right is Parteen Weir which allowed water down the Shannon river modation of course. Others would gather around the tem- The general feeling was that porary power station on a Sunday, Siemens would have been willing to where hot water was pumped out pay more, but were forbidden to do from the generator cooling system, so by the Government, lest it have a and wash their clothes in that. destabilising effect in other areas. The meals served in the canteen Early in 1926, the union agitation fiz- consisted of half a pint of tea, ten zled out and no further labour prob- ounces of bread and two ounces of lems arose for the duration of the butter for breakfast. Same was served scheme. As Mikey put it, “The strike for tea with addition of jam. Lunch was by men who themselves had no consisted of half a pound of lean complaint to make on behalf of men meat, vegetables, and a pound and a who made no complaint.” half of potatoes, with two ounces of Life in the camp at Ardnacrusha, bread. Because of the heavy work, like that on any building site, was at the men felt the need to supplement times primitive and tough. There was these rations, and several fish and a great variety of people working chip shops sprang up around the there, perhaps the most colourful camp. being the group from the West of Little did I know as I entered my Ireland, who spoke only Connemara teens, and hung on every word of my Irish. Many of these had walked from neighbour’s stories, that I would live home to get their jobs, as they did most of my adult life a mere stone’s not have the bus fare. All the workers throw from the same Ardnacrusha. were men of incredible endurance, Mikey’s accounts of the Shannon who thought nothing of working 70 Scheme, whilst they dealt primarily hours per week. Keeping clean was a with the human side, contained an problem; some would wade fully extraordinary amount of technical clothed into the Shannon, even in data that withstood my investigation the depths of winter, and wash the in later years: dirt and grime from their clothes. The large electric crane (25 ton)

27 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 which Siemens erected at Limerick period from 1922 to 1923. Whilst in docks to facilitate unloading of the Germany, he pursued with Siemens materials arriving from Germany, the concept of harnessing the with the power being supplied from Shannon and obtained the support the local Limerick City Electric Co. of McGilligan on his return. Any materials weigh- The contract, ing over 50 tons had signed between to be unloaded in Siemens and the Irish Dublin. To move government on 13th materials to August 1925, was for Ardnacrusha, a rail- 5.2 million Irish way was constructed Pounds, with comple- from Longpavement tion set for three and (a short distance a half years. It is diffi- from the docks) to cult for us now, 80 the site, the remains years on, to envisage of which are still visi- what a gigantic engi- ble today. neering feat was The construction involved in building of a temporary diesel this hydro electric power station on site scheme. A portion of for local supply. the river would be Siemens also erect- diverted into a canal ed a repair shop, a over 7 miles long and stone crushing and 37 feet deep. The fall washing plant, a saw of the river, about mill, stores, and In the background, derricks for 100ft, would be used small laboratory, drop-hammers, used for boring to turn the generators plus a plant for mak- holes to receive the blasting at Ardnacrusha, with charges. In the foreground, work- ing oxygen which the diverted water ers used compressed air hammers was used for weld- to break up rock already blasted. returned to the ing. Shannon at Parteen. The Shannon Scheme was the Newspapers of the time, with a cer- brainchild of Dr. Thomas tain amount of journalistic hyper- McLaughlin, a lecturer in physics at bole, described it as the eighth won- UCG, supported by the Minister for der of the world. There was no doubt Industry and Commerce, Patrick that the difficulties would have daunt- McGilligan. McLaughlin obtained a ed a less adventurous firm than degree in electrical engineering in Siemens. Yet the Germans got most his spare time, and had gone to things right, and the complex prob- Germany to work for Siemens for a lems were solved efficiently and

28 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER expertly. Unfortunately, they suffered According to Mikey, the engineer a financial loss on the project, drove immediately to Dublin, where rumoured at one million Irish he enrolled in Trinity College in an Pounds. However, they recouped English language training course. their losses by using the techniques “He was back the following Monday in other parts of the world to good morning,” said Mikey, “and he could effect. speak better English than ourselves, What surprised us most of all except with a slight Dublin accent.” about the information Mikey trotted Hurling and Gaelic football games out was that it requires 15 tons of were played at Ardnacrusha, some- water at a head of 95 feet to keep a times with more enthusiasm than 1Kw electric fire heated for one hour. skill. The referee’s report after one But if he stuck closely to the facts game, according to Mikey, where the in recounting the technical data, I going had got somewhat rough, stat- can see now that Mikey took great ed that five different languages were liberties in the stories of the people used on the pitch: Connemara Irish, involved. At that time, of course, we Munster Irish, English, and German. took everything as fact and mar- When asked what the fifth language velled at the following accounts. was, he replied rather tersely,“Bad”. Mikey’s admiration for the expert- The story I like best is one remem- ise of the German engineers was bered by my brother, Denis. Mikey unbounded, as the following story recounted that he was alone digging will emphasise. A new German engi- a trench one day, when a German neer arrived in Mikey’s division one engineer approached him. Monday morning and addressed the “One of you vust come out of ze workforce. He spoke in his native trench, Michael,” said the German. tongue, and the assembled workers “But sure there is only one of us in shook their heads to indicate their the trench,” said Mikey, slightly per- lack of understanding. A colleague, plexed. “It is zeither you or ze dirt, who spoke both languages, commu- Michael,” replied the engineer. nicated this to the engineer. Relations between the Irish and German workers were very good. The Germans were always more than willing to share their skills with the Irish, as Mikey put it, “If a German knew it, then we all knew it.” Some of the Germans brought their families with them and some forty

29 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 children were attending a special with a twinkle in his eye, he went on German school near Ardnacrusha. to say that the Germans were more In July of 1929, on a wet and windy than anxious for him to take over as day, President W.T. Cosgrave formally the first general manager of the opened the intake gates at Parteen famous Hydro Electric Plant, an offer Weir, allowing the waters of the which he believed was fully Shannon into the headrace for the endorsed by the Irish Government. first time. The canal was not actually His protests at lack of the required flooded by the President, as this education and expertise were process extended over several weeks answered by, “Michael, we will zend to enable the engineers to test the you to Trinity for ze one week, ze embankments. Both the Irish and one week will be enough”. After German flags were flown at the Weir, much soul-searching he was forced and as the President operated the to decline due to his continuing com- switch which opened the intake mitments, “to help the brothers out at gates, sirens rang out and the No 2 home”. Army Band played the national anthem. Later, a group of German Oh, were I a Homer, workers sang the German national that ancient roamer, anthem. On 21st Sept 1929, electric I’d write a poem on a noble theme. To sing the story and praise the glory current was first delivered into the Of that wondrous project, National System, known at that time the Shannon Scheme. as the Leinster Loop, and Siemens made final handover of the project ‘Twill light our houses, on 24th October 1929. ‘twill stitch our blouses, On January 25th, 1930, due to ‘twill milk our cows repairs and refurbishments at other and ‘twill churn the cream. plants, Ardnacrusha took its place as ‘Twill plough and sow sir, sole generating source for the ‘twill reap and mow sir, National Network. The dream of ‘twill raise our dough sir, power from the Shannon had the Shannon Scheme.” become a reality. The contribution of Then fill your glasses, people of the calibre of Mikey Dalton my lads and lasses, from Fethard will never be forgotten. All creeds and classes Was Mikey present for the final of the Irish name. events listed above? No. He had And toast the Statesmen returned to Fethard some months Those wise and great men, earlier, despite (according to him- Who boldly tackled self) repeated offers of extension to the Shannon Scheme. his contract, and considerable — (Syl Boland 1927) increase in remuneration. Indeed,

30 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER The Fall of Cramp’s Castle! (The following article was supplied by Michael Hall, Kyle, Drangan. The article was printed in the Fethard Notes section of The Nationalist on 26th Aug 1893)

ust some eight hundred yards, eral rents on the structure. Jon an eminence, to the east of In this state it remained until the Fethard, is all that now remains of 15th inst, when the west wing fell this once imposing edifice. In with a thunderous thud, making the Saturday's Nationalist was printed a stone resound in the streets of sketch of the siege of Fethard by Fethard. What wondrous mortar was Cromwell, and its capitulation and used in the building of those old cas- article of surrender by Sir Pierce tles! The stones will smash before the Butler, the governor. Tradition, if not mortar gives way. Pieces upwards of history, has it that Cramp’s fortified 30 tons were hurled a distance. It castle, being outside the boundary may be of interest to mention that wall of Fethard, and not included in Cramp’s Castle belongs to Mr the treaty of surrender, Cromwell Edmond Leamy, ex MP, editor of considered it a menace to the small United Ireland, but it is understood garrison he left after him, and that on that there has been some tension departing he tried six pieces of can- between the owners and the tenants not on it, leaving some gaps and sev- for some time.

31 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Killusty Open Sheep Dog Trials

his year’s competition for the delight he succeeded. TPaddy Morrissey Perpetual Cup The results on the day were as fol- was held in Killusty on Sunday 9th lows: October. There was a large atten- 1st: Denis Birchill, Wicklow; dance and competitors came from all 2nd: Johnnie O’ Brien, Tipperary; over the country to compete. It was a 3rd: Tim Flood, Wexford; large, testing course and the windy 4th: Johnnie O’ Brien, Tipperary; weather made it difficult for some of 5th: Paddy Byrne, Kildare; the dogs to hear. However, the rain 6th: Paddy Byrne, Kildare. stayed away and all enjoyed a good The organiser of the event, Dan competition. Denis Birchill (former Morrissey, would like to sincerely National Champion) came back to thank all those who worked at the defend his claim on the cup after venue or helped in any way to make winning it last year and much to his the day a success.

Picture from Left to Right: John Dick (Judge), Noreen Frewen (nee Morrissey), Denis Birchill with Scot, Joan O’Connor (nee Morrissey) and Dan Morrissey.

32 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

On a recent visit to Fethard by Alice Roberts (nee Flynn)

Presentation Convent school class group taken April 1956. Back: Stasia Whelan (Killenaule), Margaret Griffin, Patricia Ryan, Kitty Mai Barry, Eileen Hayes (Killenaule), Biddy Smith and Mary Cantwell. Middle: Alice Flynn, Mary O’Shea, Madeline Croke, Mary Tobin, Rita Kenny, Doreen Maher, Nan Sayers, Mary Sayers, Mary Murray and Alice Leahy. Front: Eileen Carey, Helen Fergus, Raphael Hanley, Geraldine Young, Ann Hurley and Maureen Moclair.

n a recent visit to Fethard, latest technological toys that cost an Ogoing down the old familiar absolute fortune. They feel inferior in tracks, my mind wandered back to their group if they haven’t got the com- life as it was in the 1950s. It was a sim- plete set of Pokemon and Digimon ple, uncomplicated life. They say that cards, together with the album in what you never had you never miss. which to house them. The Game Boy There must be some truth in that has been overtaken by the Nintendo because, although we were one of D.S. Hold on, these have now been the poorest families in the town, I superseded by the Game Cube and X didn’t really become aware of this Box. But wait, we must have the latest – until much later. We were never the P.S.P. which I have been told on bored and were content with the sim- good authority, means Play Station ple things. Portable. This wonderful device not One of the things that amazes me only plays games but also movies. Of today when I speak to children in course, for the musically minded, there schools, is the amount of money that is are the ‘iPod’ and MP3 Player for down- spent on them. They must have all the loading the latest music. We thought

33 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 we were very sophisticated listening to the Easter Eggs to decorate the top. Radio Luxemburg at the Fitzgerald’s We would have races down The house. Green with our tops, stopping now Our games were much simpler. Of and then to replace the bootlace as it course, we had our cards too. Yes, the slipped from the stick. To stop this ‘fag cards’. We collected discarded from happening, we had to put a empty cigarette boxes – Woodbine, groove in the stick. We also had to Players, Gold Flake and Craven A. keep the metal tip of the top nicely Having taken out the gold foil and inner polished, to help its smooth travel. card, we flattened the outer case. There Skipping was a very popular activi- was a wide path outside Paddy Grant’s ty in the road. When I now think of house. We would kneel on the kerb the rhymes that went with the skip- and flick a card towards the wall. The ping, I feel that today, most of them card to go the furthest was the winner, would be politically incorrect. thereby increasing the owner’s collec- However, in those days, we didn’t tion. We were very proud of our cards, pay any great attention to the words, especially if you had a good collection just watching to see how many vers- of Gold Flake. For some reason, we es we could recite before getting out. believed these were better gliders. Stamp collecting is also a rare This would be replaced, in time hobby today. Each year here in South with the spinning top season. That Australia, a representative from the must have been soon after Easter, as Post Office visits schools, bringing we would use the colourful foil from posters of the latest stamps and giv-

The Green in the 1960s, includes Alice Flynn, Eileen Carey, May Fitzgerald, Alice Fitzgerald, Sean Gunne and Billy Fitzgerald. 34 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Joe and Alice Fitzgerald photographed on the Green where we played ‘Rounders’. On the left is the ruin of the Bainín Ryan's House. ing free samples to encourage an next day to explain the dangers of interest in stamp collecting. Yet, chil- building such high walls without sup- dren don’t take it up. Is this just an port. We didn’t stop. We just modi- Australian thing, or is it more wide- fied our designs. One day, Jo Barrett spread? I suppose with the coming of brought us a gift of crockery. She’d e-mails, less and less letters are sent. had a clear out and gave us plates, Of course, we had the cinema, and cups, jugs and all sorts of dishes for the Sunday afternoon session was a our play. We thought these were just must. Apart from the Batman trailer, wonderful. there was also the main feature, As we grew older, our summer where we would get glimpses of life time activities changed. A daily visit in well-to-do American homes. We to Newbridge was the highlight of the would live out these fantasies in the summer. I would bring back a bottle ‘cubby houses’ we made in the ruins of water for my father from the Spring of my grandmother’s house (where Well in the grounds of Grove House. Billy Kenny’s workshop now stands). Was it always sunny and warm, or am We became experts at making dry I remembering life with rose stonewalls. We created rooms in coloured spectacles? I don’t remem- these houses — nurseries, drawing ber any miserable summer days. rooms and libraries, to act out our Summer evenings were filled with fantasies. Fr Hogan found us building games of rounders outside the one day and came to the convent the Fitzgeralds. Our bases would be the

35 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Alice (Flynn) Roberts meeting some old friends from the Green on her visit to Fethard in June this year. L to R: Alice (Flynn) Roberts (home from Australia), Billy Kenny, Eileen (Carey) Connolly, and Rita (Kenny) Kane. corner of Mrs Gunne’s house, the allow their children to go out of the Bainín’s house, the corner of Lory house in the morning and not expect Kenny’s garden and the steps outside them home ‘till they’re hungry. They Carey’s. These games became very keep them safe by buying all these competitive at times, with disagree- expensive games to keep them from ments over boundaries, hits and getting bored. There are a lot more misses. However, we liked the game cars about, so games we played like too much to let our evening be skipping, spinning tops and rounders spoiled, so we would agree to dis- can no longer be played on the road. agree and start again. I often wonder The modern house has a very small how a window was never broken and backyard, so it is necessary for parents why no one ever complained. Far to take children to sporting venues for from it – the adults would sit on their organised events. So many times I’ve windowsills to watch the game. seen the sign ‘Mum’s Taxi’ on the back Maybe they were protecting the win- window of a car. It’s a fast moving world dows! Who knows? I only remember with lots of pressures. There are so them encouraging us and cheering a many benefits we enjoy today that we good run. could not have seen in our wildest Are the children today missing out? dreams, but it is also good to reminisce I think so, but then this is a sign of on the times we think of as the ‘Good the times. Parents can no longer Old Days’.

36 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Fethard Bridge Club

ethard Bridge Club is now in its and continued to attend some of our F29th year and still going strong. annual parties. Margaret was a long- We play every Wednesday evening in time member of both Fethard Bridge the Tirry Centre, which has long club and the Comeragh Bridge club been the home of the bridge club. It in Clonmel. Although her illness pre- is a warm and comfortable venue, vented her from playing as much as convenient for everyone and we she would have liked in recent years, break for a cup of tea and a chat she continued to support the club halfway through the evening. Our and played whenever her health per- numbers have dropped a little in the mitted. As a partner and an oppo- last few years, so we would welcome nent, she was always courteous and new members and encourage as encouraging - especially to begin- many as possible to take up the ners, and her unfailing good humour game. and courage were an inspiration to The club was saddened this year all. Both will be sadly missed. by the death of two of our members, At our President’s Prize dinner at Margaret Cummins, Main Street, and Slievenamon Golf Club on Friday Margaret Hackett, Strylea. Both were 20th May 2005 the following prizes long-standing members of the club. were presented: President’s Prize: Although Margaret Cummins hadn’t Nora Lawrence and Madeleine actively played bridge for a number O’Donnell; Committee Prize: Teresa of years, she still maintained a keen Cummins and Alice Quinn; Player of interest in the activities of the club the Year, for which the O’Flynn tro-

Fethard Bridge Club honourary life members, John and Anne Lucey, pho- tographed with their daughter Breda (centre) outside their home. 37 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 phy is presented: Kay St. John; Club party was held in Sadel’s Restaurant Champions, for which the Hayes tro- on 9th December at which our phy is presented: Betty Walsh and Christmas prizes were presented. Brigid Gorey; Individual Champion, At our AGM on 18th May 2005 the for which the Dick Gorey Trophy was following officers and committee presented for the first time: Betty were elected: President: Marie Walsh; The Suzanne Opray Trophy, Delaney, Vice President: Mike Burke, presented for the first time this year Secretary/PRO: Gemma Burke, as well, was won by Nell Broderick, Treasurer: Frances Burke, Assistant as the player who reduced her hand- Treasurer: Anna Cooke. Tournament icap by the most during the year. Directors: Alice Quinn, Betty Walsh, We played for the free sub for the Frances Burke, and Gemma Burke. coming year on September 28th and Partner Facilitator: Annie O’Brien. 5th October and the winners of the Committee: Kay St. John, Bernie gross free sub were Anna Cooke and O’Meara, Berney Myles, Nell Bernie O’Meara. The free nett sub Broderick. was won by Brigid Gorey and Betty May we take this opportunity to Walsh. On 9th November we held a wish all bridge players (and non- charity night and donated the pro- bridge players!) at home and abroad ceeds for the evening to the National a very happy and holy Christmas and Council for the Blind. Our Christmas a prosperous New Year. Fethard Senior Citizen’s Club

nother year has slipped away followed by mass at 3pm. Dinner was Aand we are already busy very welcome that evening which we preparing for the next. Our club has eat heartily. We all agreed that it was gone from strength to strength over a very spiritual experience. the years with an increase in mem- Our monthly meetings were held as bers. In August 2004 we travelled to usual in the Tirry Community Centre Emmanuel House of Providence in which is an excellent venue, where all Clonfert, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. We our needs are catered for. Our had an early start as we had to be in Christmas Party was held once again in Clonfert by noon for a healing serv- the Anner Hotel, Thurles. This was pre- ice. We stopped off at the ceded by mass in the Abbey Church. Templemore Arms for tea and The committee worked very hard to scones en route. make the day a memorable and enjoy- Clonfert was a very busy place able for everyone. with pilgrims from all over gathered April saw us take a bus trip to there. Having brought packed lunch- Melleray, via the scenic route. It was es with us we took our break at 1pm, followed by a lovely meal in Cahir

38 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

House. All were dressed for the occa- House. The weather was beautiful. sion in their Easter bonnets. We held We’ve had a very busy year and, mass in the centre in May, which was due to the increase in members, we followed by a lovely tea. had to draw up a rota to facilitate all June saw us take a trip to Adare, our members making sure that each Co. Limerick. Adare is a charming person had at least one outing. At and quaint place and we had a lovely present we are preparing for this meal in the Woodlands Hotel. In July year’s Christmas Party. A Happy and we took a trip to Dublin where we Peaceful Christmas is extended to all visited Dublin Castle and Farmleigh from the Senior Club.

Brain Freeze! by Lydia (Newport) Kelly

Tony Newport photographed on the occasion of his marriage to Mary Kenny, The Green, c.1958. L to R: Bert Newport, Ciss Newport, Tony Newport, Mary Kenny and Maggie Kenny. recently had reason to have a day or two later when a friend of Ismall blemish removed from my mine reported that her young daugh- forehead using 'liquid nitrogen'. A ter had asked, on hearing my friend three minute visit to the local doctor recount my experience, was the pain and a couple of zaps to the left tem- like 'brain freeze'? And, when I heard ple did the trick, and I had to suffer a the question, I had to admit that yes, dull throbbing headache for only that's exactly what it was like, brain twenty-four hours before feeling back freeze. to normal. However, I was amused a Now, for the unitiated amongst you

39 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 readers, brain freeze is the feeling sure, I just know it definitely wasn't you get when you eat something that an oven! is so cold it first hits your tongue and a The icy steam used to rise out of couple of seconds later, hits your brain the machine when the lids were lift- and causes you a dull headache above ed off, and also from the containers, and between your eyes. they were so cold. And then, a few You're probably wondering at this seconds later, I'd be given a big dol- stage where this article is going and lop of vanilla ice-cream on the what it has to do with the Fethard saucer and back I'd go to the stairs to Newsletter, but this above-mentioned eat it. episode jogged something in my The only thing is, the saucer used memory, and gave me the subject for to get so cold that you couldn't hold this article. it or keep in on your lap, and the Going back more than thirty years, spoon used to get too cold to hold or yes, I'm that old, I was one of very put into your mouth, and of course few children in Fethard who had the the ice-cream was sooooo cold you unique pleasure of tasting home- had to try and put it into your mouth made ice-cream within a few sec- and swallow it without any of it onds of it being made. My grandfa- touching any of you (don't try this at ther, and later my father, used to home!). make ice-cream for our shop and Needless to say, I was told to wait a delicious ice-cream it was too. There while and let it 'heat' (opposite of all were no invitations issued to come other meals, where you'd be told to for ice-cream, it was a case of if you let it cool), but also needless to say - I just happened to visit at the right never did wait 'cos that ice cream time, you were the lucky one! was just too delicious to wait another I remember being given a saucer second for it. Inevitably, the brain and a spoon by my aunt and being freeze would follow on, but it was sent to where the ice-cream produc- always worth it. tion took place. I also remember I'm sure many of you readers will being told not to get in the way or to remember the ice-cream this article make any noise. I used to sit, quiet as is about, it was on sale in the shop on a mouse, waiting on the steps of the Main Street for many years, until the stairs as work went on in the next machine broke down and the parts room. I never actually saw what was could not be sourced to repair it. involved in the manufacturing I'm still partial to a nice ice-cream, process, but I do remember the actually, all my family are, must be a gloves my grandfather wore to pro- legacy from those days waiting on tect his hands as he took the big steel the stairs. We even have our own containers of icecrem out of the name for it 'gingine' . . . but that's ‘freezer’, ‘ice-cream maker’, I'm not another story!

40 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Badgers — soccer for the over 30s

Back L to R: Colm McGrath, Liam Meagher, Pat O'Donnell, Kari Laaksonen, Alan Connolly, Kevin Ryan, Garret Coleman. Front L to R: Liam Harrington, John Bermingham, John Neville, Mick Tillyer, Gabriel Needham, Tom Barry.

oming into the early autumn gone. Is there a point to this dis- Cmonths, as the evenings pull in course on the summer weather? Yes. and cooler temperatures return, Did anyone notice, that on every oftentimes the discussion is, whether Wednesday night this summer rain we had a good summer this year or was threatened or in fact it did rain, not. No matter what you believe, even though we may have had fine human nature will always come up and bright days leading up to it, and with opposing views. Remember indeed, on the following day. those three weeks together that the Being a ‘Badger’ and ever looking sun shone, temperatures rose and forward to the one night in the week water was becoming scarce. It is not for a good kick up of the heels on the so much with amazement but amuse- soccer field, it has become apparent ment that I recall a bloke passing the that Wednesday nights are cursed! time of day, just a day or two after the That said, this past year for the new weather had broken, saying, “sure tis club has been bright, seeing a steady always the bloody same in this coun- increase in members and we are now try isn't it?” 22 strong. A great boost this summer I had instinctively agreed before was acquiring new goal posts, thanks thinking to disagree, but he was to the community field committee.

41 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Also, many thanks to Coolmore for club, playing soccer each loaning us their goal posts while Wednesday night from 8pm to waiting delivery of the new posts. 9.30pm approx. No, we don't rush off There have been some very lively to the pub straight afterwards, nor- and very competitive games through mally the pub gathering has been the year and thankfully very few restricted to our AGMs, although a injuries apart from the odd bruised Christmas Party is definitely on the shin or ego. Some people outside the cards for this year. At the AGM the club remain confused as to the elected committee members were: whole idea behind it, probably Chair, Philip Furne; Secretary, Colm because of its simplicity. We are, McGrath; and Treasurer, Liam more or less, a sports and social Harrington.

All work and no play . . . by Sean Henehan

Section of the crowd at Kilnockin Platform in the 1940s

have always agreed with the say- Friday evening at the end of August, Iing, “all work and no play makes in a Ford van that I owned. After Jack a dull boy”, and took my holi- inspecting the village we went for a days and leisure as a matter of swim and had a few at the local course. hostelry. Afterwards we went for a On one occasion, two friends and stroll and found a Fun Fair, which we I, visited Courtown Harbour on a investigated. I noticed a shooting

42 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER gallery and went for a few shots. The We saw the talented Rackard broth- attendant set up a target and gave me ers amongst the team. Nicky died a three pellets which I fired and was few short years afterwards. told I scored 29 out of 30 which qual- We left for home on Monday ified me for the ‘shoot off’ to take evening and were very lucky to make place at 12 o’clock. it, as we had a slow puncture and no I duly returned and was given the spare, which was also punctured. gun, three pellets, and a target was put The van eventually went ‘on the run’ in place. Having fired my three shots, by the time we reached Abbey Street. the attendant said I had only two There was nothing left to do but marks on my card scoring 20 and that share the prize, which was a set of was not good enough. One of my two brown delph teapots with a blue companions asked in an authoritative band on the top. The big one should voice to see the card. After a lengthy have been given to the man who real- study he declared that two pellets had ly won the competition by declaring gone through the one mark and that I that I had achieved the impossible. had scored 30. The attendant accept- But, if I gave him the big one he ed his decision and declared me the would realise that I did not agree winner and presented me with the with his verdict, so I kept the big one prize. The locals were amazed and and we made our way home, delight- looked at me in a curious manner ed to be back in Fethard. thinking I had accomplished the I liked to spend my leisure time in impossible! I could not disagree. I did the open and engaged in shooting. not feel that I had done the impossi- On one occasion I shot a pheasant in ble but that was the decision. Kilknockin. I hit it and it landed in the On Saturday we went to the golf ditch about 200 yards away. My dog club with the owner of our guest- got on the trace and I heard her house. This was my introduction to growling in the distance as she head- golf, which I continued to play for ed towards Rocklow. The bark got years, winning numerous prizes, and very low so I decided to move on. On finishing on a seven handicap. crossing the racecourse field, I After lunch on Saturday, as we looked back and saw my dog were about to settle our account, we approaching with a pheasant in her were told by the proprietor that it mouth. I gave Roxy a good pat on the would be much cheaper to stay until head as she came up and dropped it Tuesday. August ended on Sunday, at my feet. It was at least a half mile so we would be paying the from where I first shot the bird. The September rate from then on. We dog tracked the bird down and then stayed and on Sunday evening went brought it back overcoming several out to welcome home the Wexford obstacles on the way. When I looked hurlers who had won the All-Ireland. at the beautiful bird dead on the

43 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 ground, I thought, it was not right to stop down the road. shoot such lovely birds with wonder- On one occasion, as we were ful covering and beautiful tail feath- about to leave for home, I met an ers more than a foot long. I shot a lot army man and he invited us to the of wild birds afterwards, but never barracks for ‘one for the road’. We again did I shoot at the king of all stayed until three o’clock. There birds, a cock pheasant. were five of us in the car. When we A companion and I tried some reached Kingsbridge one was snor- grouse shooting on the bog and start- ing and the others followed him at ed from Laffansbridge. We found the intervals. By the time we reached the going very rough with plenty of Curragh all were snoring so I decid- drains to be jumped. After a time we ed that I might as well join them and noticed a green patch ahead of us. pulled well in off the road and joined On coming up we saw a green island the chorus. of about one hundred acres prime I was awakened by one who land. It was really an amazing sight. It yawned and stretched himself when had ruins of a house, which was built he realised the car was stopped, by the ‘Gobbán Saor’, the legendary thinking he was back in Fethard. It Irish builder. When people lived in was eight o’clock and another three mud huts, he thought up a system for hours before we were in Fethard. Of building stone houses and his system course, the whole town heard about has been used down to the present our escapade. day. The system was: one stone on I patronised Landsdown Road for two and two on one for every second All Irelands and home internationals layer. If you notice a modern block and always sat on a reserved seat at built wall you will see the system in the wall in the half way line. I saw all operation. the great players from the period — As well as being a participant in Jackie Kyle, George Norton, Jim sport, I was also a keen spectator, McCarthy and Tom Clifford. There interested in Gaelic, rugby and soc- were five rows of seats outside the cer. I also patronised horse racing wall on the half way and we stood at and dog racing. the back and just took a vacant seat In Gaelic, I always had a ticket for when the match started. We were the finals in the Cusack stand. I saw all never challenged because only half the great players and a few that stood the seats were occupied. That is how out were Mick O’Connell, Jack I saw every match sitting in a O’Shea, all the great Tipperary hurlers, reserved seat. the Mackey brothers from Limerick, Aintree was another place I patron- and Cork’s famous Christy Ring. It was ised, as it was the place to be on always a great day out which included Grand National Day. The first day a having ‘a few’ in Dublin and the odd friend and I went and as we

44 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER approached the entrance I noticed cup at Clonamany, and also most of the pass gate. We went over and I the local coursing meetings held told the man there was a runner from every week from October to near Clonmel and we were there to February. represent the two local newspapers. We also kept a few racehorses and The official said he could not let us in had a few very good wins. ‘Rio Rita’ but he directed us to the secretary’s won 18 races, along with ‘Rita Óg’ office about 50 and many others. yards away. I ‘Jack Findlay’, pitched the take who was second again and the sec- to ‘Lively Collage’ retary gave us a in the Grand welcome to National, won a Aintree with a race few races for us card, a pass to the before we sold press stand, a him. lunch ticket and a Going to the ticket to the jockey dogs and follow- room after the ing the horses race. We really were my favourite enjoyed the day hobbies but I was and I made my not lucky. entrance the same However, we did way for about six win a race in grand nationals. Limerick Junction Soccer was not as Rosie & Sean Henehan 1950s with ‘Yacht Club’ at well patronised in 8-1, which kept us those days and I did not attend any on the right side for a time. I could matches. I’ve always kept a number see no future in gambling and never of greyhounds for track and coursing had a big bet, but looking back, I can and spent many hours walking the say that I had a very good life, very road exercising them. Many of our varied, with as many downs as ups. I greyhounds made their way to tracks never made much money but always in England and Scotland. It was very enjoyed myself. Of course, my life exciting and meant a lot of travelling. was shattered when my darling Rosie We won a number of cups on track died suddenly and there has been a and a large number in Tipperary, as big void in my life ever since. well as Cork, Connacht and North However, I thank God for giving us Kilkenny. I regularly attended the almost 40 years of happiness. I three-day national meeting in intend to continue to enjoy what is Clonmel every February, the Irish life, however long it will last.

45 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Patrician Presentation Secondary School

Awards Ceremony 2005 Back L to R: Ida Carroll (Student of the Year 2nd Year); Helen Frewen (Leaving Cert Results 2005); Kate O'Brien (Writers Award Junior Poetry); Robert Maher (Best Attendance 2nd Year); Joe Fogarty (Paddy Broderick Award), Cian Grogan (Writers Award Junior Fiction); David Gorey (Young Entrepreneur's Award). Front L to R: John Frewen (Outstanding Achievement Award), Jillian O'Connell (Sports Award), Laura Rice (Student of the Year 1st Year); Mr Ernan Britton (Principal), Sgt. Pat Fallon (Past Pupil and Guest Speaker); Ciarán Leahy (Padraig Pearse Award); Liam Ryan (Best Attendance 4th Year) and Pádraig O'Shea (Writers Award Junior Fiction).

“Ah! Fill the cup that boots it to repeat, how success. There was a great variety of time is slipping through our feet…” subject areas to visit and the nd yes! How the academic PowerPoint demonstration on profil- Ayear 2004-2005 has flown, as ing past students was a very interest- we now progress into the autumn ing feature. At this time our girls’ sen- term of 2005-2006. ior volleyball team qualified for the The last year was packed with All Ireland semifinals in University activity and achievements. The first College Limerick. Mary Gorey was milestone of the year was the excel- also chosen for the Munster lent results achieved by our 6th years Women’s Under-21 rugby team which and Junior Certs in September – a came to glory against Leinster. success repeated once more by this Our 5th year science team featured year’s Leaving Certs and Junior in the top table (4th) at the science Certs. quiz sponsored by Merck, Sharpe An ‘Open Evening’ took place on and Dohme. For the first time a 15th November 2004 and was a huge whole school show, “Joseph And

46 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

The Amazing Technicolor was awarded the bronze medal in Dreamcoat”, was staged in the final of the chemistry section at December 2004 in the Abymill the Irish Junior Science Olympiad. Theatre with many new ‘budding The Minister for Education, Mary starlets’. Hanafin, presented his award. The school Carol Service was held Congratulations to John and Ms on Thursday 16th December. Fr. Walsh. Gerry Horan, OSA celebrated the David Gorey got to the All-Ireland service. Fr. Tom Breen P.P. and of the Young Entrepreneurs Canon Jim Power were also present. Competition with his chosen skill The musical director was Kevin “Enchanted Wood” — beautiful can- Hickey and the soloists were Laura dleholders and napkin rings for the Rice (1st year), Joseph O’Connell dining table. Well done to David and and Donna Burke (3rd year), Anna Mrs O’Donnell. Davis (2nd year) and Siobhán Prout Brian Kennedy (6th year) qualified and Sarah Kennedy (6th year) with for the quarter final of the UCC Jonathon Fleming (2nd year). It was Philosophical Society second level a very uplifting service with all the debate held in Cork. Well done to school present and treated after- Brian and Mr McGree. wards to Slade’s “Merry Christmas” On March 14th 2005, the school by the school group ‘Talisin’ — Fintan tour to Barcelona departed, where a Maher, Michael McCarthy, Michael wonderful time, wonderful weather Leahy and James Williams. and wonderful memories were had The après Christmas period was far by all. from quiet — John Frewen (5th year) It was a very successful year for

Marian Gilpin, presenting the 2005 Mr Paddy Broderick presenting Joe Business and Enterprise Award to Fogarty with the Paddy Broderick David Gorey Perpetual Trophy

47 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 sport in the school. In football the Huge support from the school trav- Under-14 boys won the county blitz, elled with the team and led by a con- ably captained by Christopher voy of cars, they arrived victorious Sheehan who has gone on to repre- back to the Square on Friday sent Tipperary at underage level this evening. This is the first flush of suc- year. In hurling the Under-14s were cess for this young team and great very unlucky to lose the blitz to credit is due to them and to their Thurles in Cahir. In senior football we coach, Bernie O’Connor. Coolmore were victorious Stud sponsored over Tipperary V.S. the team’s new jer- in the first round seys and shorts but unlucky to lose and they looked the toss and had to pretty ‘classy’ on a travel to Ballingarry ‘classic’ day. for the semifinal. The Tanzanian Injury deprived us fund, which raises of the resources of money through Shane Walsh who sport for a school has already repre- in Tanzania, was sented Tipperary at exceptionally suc- minor football, and cessful raising despite the great Mr Ernan Britton, Principal, €1200 from a vol- efforts of captain presenting Ciarán Leahy with the leyball tournament Mike Kelly we lost a ‘Padraig Pearse Perpetual Memorial and a soccer game, Cup’ for his academic excellence in very high scoring and raising €275 Irish and History in the Junior Cert. game to Ballingarry. for the tsunami The highlight of the year, however, relief on the day of the volleyball had to be the magnificent victory of final. Sarah Mai Ahearne’s team won the junior boys when they captured the Intel class volleyball and the 6th the All-Ireland ‘A’ title in Loughrea year boys beat the 5th year boys in a ably led by J.P. McGrath and under spirited game of soccer. Hail to the the brilliant coaching of our P.E victors and the vanquished! teacher, Bernie O’Connor. The boys Lastly congratulations to Carrie played some of the best volleyball Sweeney (capt.) and the volleyball ever seen from a Fethard team to girls who won five games as juniors, edge out Loughrea V.S. in a thrilling and in the Community Games won final played in Loughrea. bronze medals at the National Finals Congratulations to each and every in Mosney. one of the panel and their coach. Mary Gorey (6th year) and Gillian ‘Man of the Match’ was Adrian O’Connell represented the youth of Lawrence from Woodvale Walk. our parish as helpers on the

48 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes. A our new school sign. school quiz and non-uniform day The annual ‘Awards Day’ was held helped to raise not only the girls’ on Friday 28th October 2005 — an expenses but also the full fare for one unusually warm late autumn day — a of the invalids who travelled. Well day to celebrate, to acknowledge done and thanks to Mr Dick success and achievement. To all Prendergast and all concerned. assembled at the Awards Mass — In June Transition Year students Principal, staff, ancillary staff, Board published the 10th edition of the of Management, Parents’ school’s yearbook, ‘Off The Wall’. ‘Off Association, parents and students — The Wall’ provides the opportunity to it was a personal day of achievement, bring together our memories and a “sense of worth” day which was record our successes. It is a major self evident. undertaking and we greatly appreci- Mass was celebrated by Fr. Tom ate the work of Mrs Mulhall, Miss Breen P.P. and Canon Jim Power. Fogarty and Mr McGree in coordinat- Kevin Hickey accompanied the choir ing the efforts of the Transition Year on organ, Fintan Maher on guitar, and Fifth Year students who gave and the soloist was Laura Rice from great commitment to producing this 2nd Year. year’s full colour edition. It would not Fr. Tom, in his homily, spoke very be possible to produce ‘Off The Wall’ wisely of doing small things in a great without the support of our sponsors way. Mrs Prendergast had prepared and again this year we are grateful for the altar and Mr Prendergast the litur- their generous contributions. gy. Both the head boy, John Frewen, The Intel school lunchtime volley- and the head girl, Jillian O’Connell, ball has proven to be a “big take” and addressed the assembled body. very competitive. Thanks to Jillian Our guest speaker was Sgt. Pat O’Connell, Stephanie Fitzgerald and Fallon. He and his wife Patricia are their team who umpire and Denis both past pupils of the school. Pat Burke and Justin McGree who organ- spoke of his delight at being back in ised the games. the school of his youth, the town of What a year of achievements, for his youth. He spoke to the student both individual and team. The pres- body of their value as people and ent academic year got off to great how that value and life can be so eas- start — good results and a new jacket ily lost at a young age through differ- with the attractively designed new ent forms of substance misuse and school crest. A big ‘thank you’ to Ms accidental death. Looby and the second years. One A highly experienced member of interesting summer achievement was the Gardai himself, he related some Jack Halley’s (6th year) participation of his memories of school, and life, in the Tall Ships race. And, of course, and said that he wished that all the

49 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Photographed at the Fethard Debs Ball held at Kilcoran Lodge Hotel on 2nd September 2005 are L to R: Brian Kennedy, David Sullivan, James Smyth, William O'Brien, Shane Walsh, Keith Phelan and Damien Donovan. assembled students would have the Mr Doocey who has been very ill, pres- opportunity to return, like he had ent on the occasion. done, after a number of years had John Frewen of 6th Year received a elapsed. He spoke of the different special achievement award but also ways one can achieve, and how there an outstanding achievement award are so many opportunities and for winning the bronze medal at the avenues open to young boys and National Science Olympiad. girls in this present time. For her excellent Leaving Cert The Principal, Mr Ernan Britton, results, Helen Frewen received an thanked all for their involvement and award, and a memento of the Padraig work for the Awards Day, particularly Pearse and Paddy Broderick awards Mr. Prendergast, Mr O’Gorman and were presented to last year’s recipi- Mr Burke. ents, Niall Hayes and Ronan Shee. Achievement awards were presented Denis Burke presented the Sports to Laura Rice 2nd Year and Ida Carroll Achievement Award to Jillian 3rd Year. The Junior Cert Awards were O’Connell, and all fifteen of the panel presented to Ciarán Leahy T.Y., who of our All-Ireland winning boys’ vol- received the Padraig Pearse Perpetual leyball team were presented with cer- Trophy, and Joe Fogarty T.Y., who tificates. Valerie Rice, representing received the Paddy Broderick the Parents’ Association, presented Perpetual Trophy. Indeed, it was a the team captain, J.P. McGrath, with pleasure to see both Mr Broderick and a special prize for their win.

50 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Marian Gilpin, Deputy Principal ry; Cian Grogan for junior fiction; and and also chairperson of the local the senior poetry award to Cormac Credit Union, presented the Young Grogan. Entrepreneur Award to David Gorey The Principal, Mr Britton, has every 3rd Year, and a memento to last reason to feel proud of the school on year’s recipient, Emma Walsh 6th such an outstanding occasion of suc- Year. cess and achievement. The ceremo- Best attendance awards went to ny finished with a presentation to Sgt. Aisling Dwyer and Gráinne Horan Pat Fallon and his wife. To conclude, 2nd Year, Robert Maher and Colm the words of Head Girl, Jillian Horan 3rd Year, Alan O’Connor T.Y. O’Connell, will resound once more: and Liam Ryan 6th Year. The school “Tá suil againn go mbainfidh gach acknowledged Pádraig O’Shea’s out- duine agaibh taitneamh as sos na standing achievement in Judo at the Samhna.” Community Games. Mr McGree of Till we meet again, Seasons the English Dept. presented the Greetings to readers far and wide Fethard Writers Quill 2005 Awards in from the principal and staff as we English to Pádraig O’Shea for junior head towards “Another Opening, fiction; Kate O’Brien for junior poet- Another Show”- Godspell 2005.

Photographed at the Fethard Debs Ball held at Kilcoran Lodge Hotel on 2nd September 2005 are L to R: Evelyn Fogarty. Amy Quigley, Helen Frewen, Roseanne Meaney, Marice Sullivan, Sharon Duggan, Tara O'Flynn,Siobhán Prout, Sarah Kennedy and Ciara Hickey. 51 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Greetings from Killusty N.S by Frances Harrington (Principal)

nother busy year has passed Gráinne’, presented by Clan Cluana Ain Killusty National School. We Theatre Company; our participation had seven new entrants: Thomas in football and hurling matches, with Morgan, Luke Coen, Jack Pollard, the much-appreciated guidance of Aoife Sheehan, Lorna Smyth, Noel Byrne, GAA representative; our Rebecca Kenny and Chelsea Kenny. enjoyment, in the summer term, of Our academic year was punctuated ‘Kool School’, an eight-week pro- by: our First Holy Communion, gramme of co-operative games and received by David Morgan, Derek physical health education. O'Brien, James Harrington, Kate Yes, a year full of variety, helping O'Donnell and Niamh Crotty; our us to implement our vision for school trip to Trabolgan, enjoyed by Killusty National School that each children, parents and teachers alike; child would be developed intellectu- our Sports Day held in Kilvemnon ally, socially, spiritually, physically with Cloneen National School and and morally. Kilvemnon National School; our Our sixth class, Aaron Conran, fundraising activities for the Hospice Daniel Hickey, Fiona Crotty, Katie movement, the Dyslexia Association Coen, Patrick Kearney and Stephen of Ireland and Mrs Quinn's Charity Coffey, moved on, in June, to com- Shops; our Day of Poetry, spent in the mence their Secondary Education, company of poet, Declan Lucey, giv- bringing with them, we hope, an ing enjoyment to all; our attendance appreciation of our vision for them. at a performance of ‘Diarmuid agus A Happy New Year to you all.

Pupils presenting a cheque for €230, the proceeds of a coffee morning, to Jim Bond, South Tipperary Hospice, on behalf of the people of Killusty.

52 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Civil Defence

L to R: Joe Strappe, Michael Mullins, Eddie Cooney, Ann Carroll, Rory Walsh. nce again 2004/05 was quite the Ballingarry area. Ambulance and Oactive for Civil Defence in the first aid cover was also provided at Fethard/Killusty area. First Aid training the GAA field for two major games. was provided in the secondary school Training for 2005/06 resumed in and a public First Aid course was held October under the direction of Ms at the Tirry Centre. Dolores Fahey who has replaced First aid and ambulance cover was Eddie Cooney as Civil Defence provided for the annual Killusty Officer for the county. We wish Show, GAA matches and for events in Dolores well in her new appointment Grove during the year. The Killusty and hope that many new members Show committee made a presenta- will join the Fethard Unit during the tion to Eddie Cooney, who has coming year. retired as Civil Defence Office, in Under the direction of the Civil appreciation for his support to the Defence Board we hope to see some show for over 20 years. new areas of training - rope rescue, Rory Walsh took charge of all the use of defibrillator and fire fighting in welfare arrangements for Annual the months ahead. Any one interest- Camp in Lahinch where over 80 ed in becoming involved should con- members took part during the June tact Civil Defence officer on (087) holiday weekend - well done Rory! 2435001 Other events local members were We send out best wishes to all past involved in were the Tall Ships Race members who served us so well in Waterford, Red Bull Air Stunts down the years and we think of those event in Cashel and the who are no longer with us, may they Stonethrowers Rally held this year in rest in peace.

53 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Fethard Historical Society

very year brings a new story, A very special night was held on Eand 2005 is also delivering its Saturday 29th January in the Abymill load to posterity and the Fethard Theatre when two presentations Historical Society continued with its were made. The first presentation, of mission of remembering the past, a framed hunting scene, was to Tony heralding the future, but above all, Newport, as the Society wished to enjoying the present. acknowledge his huge contribution The year began with the announce- over many years as the Fethard cor- ment by the society of its respondent of the Nationalist news- “Tipperariana Book of the Year” paper. Future historians will be which went to ‘Foreign and Fantastic using his notes as the authentic Field Sports – Cricket in County record of the goings-on in the Tipperary’ by Patrick Bracken. Fethard area for the past 45 years. Patrick is a native of Littleton and Thanks indeed to Tony. now works as a librarian in The second presentation was to Templemore. the winning author Patrick Bracken

Joe Kenny making a presentation to Tony Newport, on behalf of the Fethard Historical Society, in recognition of Tony's 45 years service as local correspon- dent for the Nationalist Newspaper. L to R: Joe Kenny, who took over as local correspondent, Tony Newport and Mary Hanrahan, PRO.

54 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER and this time it was a framed copy of saw the following officers elected: a photo from the Kenrick collection – Chairperson, Dóirín Saurus; Vice- ‘The Fethard Cricket Group’, which in chairperson, Mary Hanrahan; fact was used by Patrick on the cover Secretary, Margaret Newport; of his excellent book. Assistant Secretary, Peter Delaney; Then, on Sunday 13th February, Treasurer, Catherine O’Flynn; and the tenth Tipperariana Book Fair was PRO, Terry Cunningham. Committee held in the Fethard Ballroom and members: Kitty Delany, Tim once again it was a great success. A Robinson, Marie O’Donnell, Di sad note on the day was indicated by Stokes, Ann Gleeson, Ann Lynch and the oration and a minute’s silence for Colm McGrath. a great friend of the fair, Rudi The AGM was also treated to a talk Holzapfel. Rudi, who ran the Poor and demonstration by Marie Crean Sinner Bookshop in Tipperary Town, on the traditional crafts of Lumra and was also a significant poet and he Rush Weaving. Marie’s work has now had died only seven days previously featured in national and international on the 6th February. exhibitions. On the Saturday of the bookfair On a beautiful July evening, Friday weekend, i.e. Saturday 12th, we host- 1st July, Colm McGrath guided (and ed a lecture by Dr. Maureen drove the bus as well) a group of us Concannon on the subject of “Sile na to the Priory of Kells and the Gigs”, and on 28th February we host- Monastery of Kilree in nearby Co. ed a lecture by Con Manning (imme- Kilkenny. diate past President of the Royal Later in July, the Society joined the Society of Antiquities of Ireland) on Flower Festival in old Holy Trinity the subject of, “The Field Church by providing a guided walk Monuments of Ireland”. from Mary Hanrahan on the 23rd and On Sunday 6th March, an impor- then organising a Craft Display and tant Australian group came to follow Fair on Sunday 24th. the ‘John Kelly Trail’. Ian Jones The Society took part in Heritage (whose book ‘Ned Kelly-A Short Life’, Week in early September when, as is regarded as the definitive book on part of the Irish Walled Towns Ned Kelly) and Tony Lee, curator of Network (organised by the Heritage ‘Old Melbourne Jail’ (where Ned Council), we also hung the Network Kelly was hanged in 1880) and oth- Flag from the Town Wall battlements ers, came to see the site of the Kelly overlooking the Valley. homestead in Clonbrogan In early September also, 18 mem- (Moyglass) and the other ‘Kelly’ sites bers of the Society went for a week- in Mogorban, Newpark and end to Inis Oirr in the Aran Islands Ballysheehan. and, apart from a very “rocky” cross- The AGM of Tuesday 26th April, ing on the way out, a splendid time

55 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 was had by all. a great man to come to our lectures On Friday 23rd September, the and especially to go on our bus Society hosted an unusual event in ‘Outins’. But I don’t think we ever the Abymill Theatre, where modern went to a place that he hadn’t been to dance was performed to music already! We’ll miss him. played on a 16th Century instrument The Society can be contacted via (a ‘viola da gamba’). The show was The Secretary, Fethard Historical aptly titled, ‘Movement and Music Society, Fethard, (the Post Office will from the Wild Side’. find him/her) or via e-mail at On Tuesday 18th October, an illus- [email protected]. Membership is trated talk by Naturalist Liam Burke €7 for an individual, €10 for a family took place in the Abymill and, of and €5 for OAP/Unwaged/Student course, the Christmas Social is being and our newsletters and notices will organised for Friday 2nd December. be forwarded to you anywhere in the Our records for the past year civilised world. would not be complete without refer- On behalf of the Society we wish ence to the passing away of one of Fethard and Killusty people every- our greatest supporters, Neddy where a happy Christmas and a Delahunty of Market Hill. Neddy was healthy and peaceful 2006.

Members of Fethard Historical Society leaving by Jaunting Cart on a trip around the Island of Inis Oirr. L to R: Ann Gleeson, Chris Nevin, Kitty Delany, Mary Hanrahan, Chris Lee, Mary O'Neill, Breda Lee and driver.

56 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Footprints & Recollections by Jimmy McInerney

Fethard Main Street — a hive of activity in the early 1900s he market forces that heralded Field, the Barrack Field, and the Tthe age of steam and com- Market House were central to the merce had little or no effect on our lighter side of town life. Up on The way of life in rural Ireland up to and Green, the travelling showman including the forties and fifties. The pitched his tent and had his merry- horse and trap or ass and cart and of go-round dancing at the crossroads. course that old reliable, the push We had music from Tom Hickey’s bike, were the accepted means of Brass Band on festival days, and of getting about. course, “The Four-penny Hop” In these booming times it’s easy to helped to lift the spirits and kept the forget the scale of emigration that lamp of hope alight. blighted almost every home and fam- Stemming from the bleak penury ily. Most went to England and she that many had to face, someone siphoned off our surplus labour for made the ridiculous claim that, “If we decades. This safety valve of emigra- could make a living from dancing, tion prevented social unrest at home, the curse of emigration would evapo- leaving behind the very young and, rate overnight”. “those unable to work, who were Fethard town, at the time, had all mostly held together by means of the appearance of having had a bad Elastoplast and Sellotape”. fright. The selfless work of Rev. In those early years, the Green Canon Patten and Olivia Hughes,

57 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 helped to steady the ship. blessed them with gifts and sciences alien to our understanding. “True patriots we, for be it understood, We left our country for our country’s good.” “Courage without ferocity, beauty without vanity, School days were the least happy strength without insolence, occasions. The rod for correction and all the virtues of man, without his vices”. was used often and for the least provocation. On school breaks we traversed the flowery fields, and Religion was, to our young minds, spent endless happy hours amongst something we could have well done the ruins of the Military Barracks — without. There were endless devo- for years a hideous gash on the land- tions, where discipline and obser- scape (we burned it). History makes vance played an important part. it plain — we never really got over Later on, my seven years as an childish delight in arson — we were altar-boy changed all that and impart- addicted to this national pastime. ed an abiding interest in the Abbey I will always have a special place in monastery and the Augustinian my heart for all of ‘nature’s little chil- Friars community. dren’. I can still recall the names of A long avenue leading to a creeper- all the doggies in Fethard in my time. covered manor house against a back- Being nature’s offspring and finely ground of mature trees, formed a pic- tuned to her changing moods, she ture which the eye loved to dwell upon.

Augustinians lived in this house from 1855 until it was demolished in 1952.

58 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Fethard Brass Band and the Abbey Choir on the steps of the old Abbey house. The old values of discipline and prayer- together in unity, irrefutable witness- ful obedience were commonplace on es to the brevity of life. church calendar days. Of course we had to have a balance, where pride and “How loved, how valued once avail thee not, bigotry, with a helping of class distinc- To whom related or by whom begot. tion, kept the pot boiling. A heap of dust alone remains of thee, The convent foundation, with its ‘tis all thou art and all the proud shall be” — (A. Pope) commodious residence hidden with- in an old boundary wall of at least 10 feet high, had within its scope the How often as altar servers we ruin of the old church, with extensive watched with wondering eyes the gardens, stabling and farm yard, adorning of the high altar and encircled by iron railings with gate- observed with childish glee, the way entrance. Against the gable wall, activities of sacristan, Miss Nora burial-ground tablets huddled or at Corcoran. When dressed in her least rested together without any Sunday regimentals, we caught the regard to rank or seniority. Among aroma of candied mothballs clinging these relics of humanity there are, around her finery, looks of stern dis- without doubt, persons of contrary approval usually followed. interests and contradicting senti- Nora and her sister Molly spent the ments. Here, as in tombs every- post-famine years in Philadelphia, where, lie sworn enemies. They drop USA, where the gates of folly were every embittered thought and dwell extremely wide and inviting, yet both

59 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 returned intact and remained sea- paradise had swung open, and all of soned spinsters without going sour. us were transported into the realms Nora was accomplished in all work of bliss. to do with millinery, embroidery and floral design. Her handiwork is to be “But let not my due feet never fail, seen in the liturgical vestments, altar to walk the studious cloister’s pale, linen, and coverings still in use. She And love the high-embowered roof, always dressed the high altar with a and storied windows richly bright, Casting a dim religious light, plentiful yet chaste variety of orna- There let the pealing organ blow, ments. The sanctuary lamp of the full voiced quire below, embossed silver looked splendid In service high and anthem clear, hanging by its chains and pulley, giv- as may with sweetness thro’ mine ear ing a display of ecclesiastical splen- Dissolve me into ecstasies, and bring all dour over all. heaven before mine eyes”. Miss Brosnan, housekeeper, — (Milton) presided with precision and efficien- cy over the culinary duties, She was Fr. O’Donohoe was prior in my economic to a fault, and under her time. along with Fr Michael Toomey sage and experienced direction, and Fr Larry Doyle. Mission week many a roast went through a cycle of attracted saints and sinners alike. perpetual resurrection. The missionary dwelt in glowing Her shame was complete when terms on the communion between Hanna Shea, who kept the local she- the saints above and the sinners been, whispered to her in endearing below, making light the theories and terms, “If you ever want a little philosophies of imperfect humanity. ‘Dropeen’ Miss, come in by the back- So ardent were they in their aspira- door? You know I’ll never see you tions and eloquence, they made the dry”. congregation respond with rever- Suffice to say Miss Brosnan never ence mingled with awe. smiled again. Stern judgment was administered in the confessional where egoism “From each carved nook and sliding bend, was mercifully forgiven. Divine direc- cornice and gallery, seem to send tones tion is not always from the top down, that with seraph hymns might blend”. sometimes it is from the bottom up. This is evident in the many changes The swelling peal of the organ, and that have affected the friars’ pictur- the chanting of the choristers awoke esque seclusion. in my young mind strange and bright The commodious manor house is imaginings of those things which, no more; the park area reduced by at “The eye of man has not seen, nor, least one acre; gone are the majestic his ear heard”. I thought the gates of trees — home to a regiment of crows.

60 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Augustinian Abbey Grounds and outhouses c.1900

The farmyard, livestock and garden of their arrival. It was the only course fruit trees produced most of the com- which seemed to promise the bring- munities repasts. Gone too is the ing of the entire country within the splendid sanctuary lamp; and the old Roman obedience, and to the great boundary wall — once a worthy satisfaction of the reigning Pontiff. appendage to this ancient monastery. St. Augustine founded an order of The ‘High Altar’ — the focal point for monks called, afterwards, the the celebration of the ‘Holy “Hermits of St. Augustine”, who lived Eucharist’ — has been sadly reduced apart from cities or public places; to present an image of cold severity. and another branch called “Canons” Authors who have written with who formed a kind of religious com- judgment make it known that, before munity in their own house. the Anglo Normans came, we had no Then there were military orders — organised church, merely a number ‘The Knights of the Temple’, or of tribal monastic foundations con- Templars were formed or founded trolled by stewards appointed by the under Augustinian at Jerusalem in reigning families. We see the ruins of 1118 between the first and second these ancient piles that are still with crusades. They undertook the task of us today: Templemartin, Kilnockin, escorting pilgrims from the coast up Everardsgrange, Kiltinan, etc, to Jerusalem to protect them from Munster almost voted itself out of the infidel, and to wage war against the rest of Ireland and went over the laity in defence of the Cross. church and state to the Normans on In addition to these duties the

61 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Augustinian Abbey Interior c.1900

Templars took the usual vows of pover- changed everything. ty, chastity and obedience. They were The Augustinian Friars of Fethard introduced into England by Steven, having been thus robbed of their 1135-1154. The Temple Church in convent and property and thereby London bears memory to them. deprived of the very means of sup- A monastery of ‘Hermites’ of St. porting a community, were reduced Augustine was founded at Fethard in to the necessity of living apart from the county of Tipperary by Walter each other. Mulcot early in the fourteen century. The ancient church continued in a Maurice MacCarwill, Archbishop of state of ruin. After centuries of perse- Cashel, under whom the land was cution the friars that remained immediately held, having given his obtained possession of their home. consent — years 1304-1316. Venerable members of the order in In W.J. Battersby’s history of the times past are, Rev. James Slattery, Augustine Friars in Ireland, the 1766-1790, assisted by Rev. Cornelius names of two convents are men- Funsey, Rev. Fathers John and tioned in Fethard, the second one by Thomas Farrell and Patrick Tierney, the name of ‘Tethard’, could be Holy who all lived and served the people Trinity Church, Main Street. of Fethard during dangerous times. The order had considerable pos- It is worthy of remark that the pres- sessions in landed property before ent church, which is called the the grasping hand of Henry VIII and Abbey, is identical to the original the suppression of the monasteries founded 700 years ago. In the time of

62 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Holy Trinity Parish Church interior c.1900

Cromwell, it was unroofed and a por- in the time of Henry VIII, was pur- tion of it destroyed. The building hav- chased by Rev Henry Allen, by ing been thus reduced almost to a whose zeal pews were installed and state of complete ruin remained in extra land secured. that condition for nearly 170 years. In History states that, “A large and 1820 the ruin came back into the most commodious house stands hands of the rightful owners. upon the ground, which also has The Rev. Thomas Condon, then prior been included in the purchase. This of the order, obtained possession of the house is now the conventual resi- Old Abbey from Mrs Lowe, a widow, dence of the community and is whose husband had given her a life decidedly the most respectable interest in the property, with a reversion house in the town.” to his nephew, a Mr William Lathans, Long may the Augustinians remain who, having got possession after Mrs with us as harbingers of a brighter Lowe’s death, sanctioned the demise day. to Fr. Condon. Nearly one-half of the NOTE: Historical facts taken from W.J. Abbey was roofed soon after, and was Battersby’s Order of St. Augustine 1865. again fitted for divine service. Thus Fr. Thomas C. Butler was with us for a time in after an interrogation of nearly 300 the nineteen seventies, his altogether charming years the Augustinian Friars were back and fascinating book, “The Friars of Fethard in business. 1305-1975”, is a whirlwind of anecdote and In the year 1860, a portion of the things worth reading about, in fact a valuable Abbey ground that was confiscated historical document by a very able historian.

63 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Killusty Soccer Club

Killusty soccer team in the 1980s. Back L to R: Davy Williams, Donal Murphy, Paddy Kenrick, Pat Phelan, Noel Sharpe, Frank Fogarty, Louis Coen. Front L to R: Sean Aylward, Tom Halpin, Philip O'Connell, Eddie Sheehan, Kevin Ryan and Joe Keane.

ven though we have no silver- Michael's. The game itself put our Eware to show for last season, many supporters through the full we would still consider it a fairly suc- range of emotions; we went behind cessful year for the club. In our 35th to an early goal but played some year in domestic soccer, we were excellent soccer to equalise before once more back in the premier divi- half time through captain Karl Maher. sion of the Tipperary Southern and The scores remained level after nine- District League. Team manager, Chris ty minutes, and in extra time both Coen, assembled one of the sides had chances to finish the game. youngest panel of players in the his- Unfortunately, it was with virtually tory of the club and a third place fin- the last kick of the game that St. ish in the league, behind winners Michael's scored the all-important Clonmel Town and runners up St. winner. This was heartbreaking for Michael's, was no mean achieve- our team, who had matched their ment. more illustrious opponents in every The highlight of our season, how- sector of the game. We did receive ever, was reaching the final of the some consolation, as Colm Coen was Tipperary Cup, where we played St. chosen ‘Man of the Match’.

64 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Last season also saw Chris Coen our pitch. appointed as team manager for the At our AGM this season, the follow- TS&DL Oscar Traynor Cup inter- ing officers were elected: President, league team. Also on that panel were Bob Maher; Chairman, Tony Shelly; Killusty players, Philly Croke, Ronan Secretary, Sarah Shelly; Treasurer, Maher and Brian Coen. Emma Fitzgerald; Team Manager, We must take this opportunity to Chris Coen; PRO, Kevin Ryan. thank all those who have supported Committee members: Sean Aylward, us, both vocally and monetarily, Louis Coen, Sharon O'Meara, Ronan especially the local businesses that Maher, Colm Coen, Martin Coen and sponsored advertisement signs for Shay Coen.

Killusty Soccer Team 2005. Back L to R: Cathal Hurley, Colm Coen, Aaron Kelly, Aidan Fitzgerald, Ronan Maher, Philip Croke, Brian Coen, Michael Quinlan, Michael Dillon, Chris Coen. Front L to R: Shay Coen holding mascots Ben and Luke Coen, Philip Ryan, Tony Shelly, Jason Nevin, Shane Aylward and Martin Coen.

Easter Monday 1830 excerpt from Tipperary Free Press, 14th April 1930

e are happy to announce that contempt and abhorrence of the inhu- Wour appeal to the Magistrates man proceeding. of Fethard, in regard to the hundreds of On Monday that fearless patriot Penny and Two-Penny summonses for Councillor Ronayne passed through Church Rates, served on the poor of this town on his way home from that town and neighbourhood, was not Fethard where he was professionally in vain; they absented themselves from engaged to defend the people, the Court House on the threatened should the Magistrates enter into the "day of wrath", and thus proved their complaints above alluded to.

65 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Do You Remember 1970? by Michael O’Donnell

ow well does passing time Association was active in the town Hprove the fallibility of our and at its general quarterly meeting memories? Step back a few years in held in the ICA Hall on 10 March it set our life and suddenly we realise that in train a plan to hold a festival in we have forgotten things that we Fethard that was intended would run should remember. How many of the from Sunday 28 June to Sunday 5 Newsletter readers, I wonder, can July. The festival would open with a recall the events of 1970? Hardly any, fancy dress parade (the very old will I suppose, unless that year held spe- recall the carnivals of the 1940s and cial and particular memories for 50's and the crowds that came into them. Even those readers aged thirty- Fethard from the surrounding towns five to forty will have no clear memo- by train and bus on that great day). It ry of that year. Though for those of us was planned that the parade would who have well lost the bloom and march about the town and on to the vigour of youth, it seems to be no GAA field where there would be more than a step or two back in time. amusements, sports and Irish danc- ing. For the duration of the week it Fethard Development Association was planned to hold all sorts of fes- tive events, ballad sessions in pubs, In 1970 the Fethard Development tug-o-war, ladies football (still a nov-

Fethard Presentation Convent 1st Year Girls Class 1970. Back L to R: Vicky Hurley, Catherine Harrington, Caroline Lonergan, Claire Walsh, Deirdre Smith, Mary White, Joan Slattery, Madge McGrath, Lillian Gorey, Breda Tynan. Front L to R: Sheila O’Flynn, Catherine Keane, Mary Ryan, Vera O’Donovan, Carmel Kenny, Patricia Fogarty, Breda O’Shea, Rosemary Coffey and Helen Cummins. 66 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Patrician Brothers 1st Year Boys Class in 1970. Back L to R: Roger Grant, Jimmy Harrison, John Godfrey, Michael Ryan, Tommy Meehan, Paddy Maher, Seamus Grant. Front L to R: Francis Murphy, Liam Cummins, Gerard ‘Bunty’ O’Connell, Michael Downes, Eddie McGrath, Pat Aylward and John Cooney. elty if I remember alright), and a be erected on The Square in the gymkhana. On the Friday evening of Christmas of 1969 and had a Santa that week it was intended that the old Claus to switch on the lights. and famous Races of Kilnockin would be held. Who remembers the Local Committees article on the Races which appeared in the Irish Independent in the early The Association was but one of the 1950s and which was written by organisations in the town. Fethard Andrew Finn from Dualla, Cashel? has always been well served by well- Today no vestige of that course run committees and bodies that remains and even the stone-built work strenuously for the good of the grandstand has been demolished. It town. A friend of mine, a stranger to was intended that the Sunday of the Fethard, once commented on the festival be dedicated to children and number of well-conducted commit- to events in which they could active- tees that are to be found in the town. ly participate. My answer to him was that Fethard But the Association was more than has had local government organisa- a summer festival. Its members tion since the middle of the sixteenth worked actively at making the town century and so committee work is attractive to visitors and at Christmas bred in the blood of the locals. And time. It caused an illuminated tree to in 1970 Fethard had many such com-

67 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 mittees, but these were, and are, in 1889, had been re-positioned to ongoing and so, for better or worse, I comply with the terms of the Vatican have cast my eye away from them. In II directives. While doing so the friars no way, by doing so, do I mean to had arranged to have mirrors placed decry their value or the good that in Our Lady’s side-chapel so that the they do, rather it is because most of congregation there could easily fol- them are still with us and known to low the celebration at the main altar. all readers of this newsletter. The new sanctuary was designed by Messrs. J.C. Thompson and Partners, The Catholic Churches architects, of Limerick, and the work was carried to completion by Jerry In 1970 an organisation was still Ryan, monumental sculptor, of very important in the lives of the peo- Borrisoleigh, Co. Tipp. The mosaic in ple which today, sadly, has lost so the sanctuary was purchased from much of its value that us old people Irish Mosaics Ltd., Roscommon, and stand back almost in shock. Here I the carpeting from John Ryan, The write of the Catholic Church which Carpet House, Clonmel. Various thirty-five years ago still held first other altar furnishings were obtained place in the lives of the people and from William Egan and Sons, Patrick had not yet been buffeted and shak- St., Cork. The electrical work and en by materialism and scandals. new heating were installed by Frank At Christmas midnight masses O'Connell and Son, Burke St., were still being offered and in the Fethard. At this time the many trees report on 1969 the attendance was so that darkened the church and the large that it was noted in the local surrounds were removed. On the news report. The Christmas crib in completion of the work of renewal the Abbey church, always a great the late Dr. Thomas Morris, attraction locally, was featured on the Archbishop of Cashel, celebrated 8pm and 10pm news bulletins on mass in the Abbey Church on RTE on Christmas night. Sunday 30 August assisted by the late The Catholic Church in Ireland was Canon Christopher Lee, then parish still a fundamental, active and vibrant priest in Fethard, and Fr. Anthony body in the nation, a body that was Leddin, Father Prior in the Abbey. still renewing itself in the early post- The parish church in Fethard had Vatican II years. The terrible years of had its fabric renewed in 1969 and decline and debasement still lay the altar positioned to face the con- ahead. In The Nationalist of 25 July gregation to comply with the recent 1970 a lovely photo of the renovated liturgical decrees. This work, which altar in the Augustinian friary was displayed taste of a high order, was published. The altar, which had been undertaken by the late Canon Lee a gift of the Mockler family of Fethard who also wrote and published a first-

68 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Canon Lee welcoming three Archbishops: Dr Thomas Morris of Cashel, Dr Patrick O'Donnell of Brisbane and Dr. Patrick Dalton of Lagos, Nigeria, for the consecration of the renewed parish church on Friday 31 May 1969 69 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Consecration of Holy Trinity Parish Church on Friday 31 May 1969

70 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER rate booklet (and still a model for sisters in Killenaule to hold an emi- others who would follow him) on the grant reunion. And thirty-five years church. A booklet that is still a must- later such reunions are still taking have for Fethard people. The conse- place. In 1970 the united group went cration of the renewed parish church to London to meet with Fethard and was held on Friday 31 May 1969 and Killenaule people living and working the Mass of Dedication was attended in England. It is worth recalling that by three Archbishops: Dr Thomas even in 1970 it was not so convenient Morris of Cashel, Dr Patrick to get home to Ireland and certainly O'Donnell of Brisbane and Dr. Patrick not like today when people can com- Dalton of Lagos, Nigeria. mute by plane on a daily basis. The The parish church bell, which had reunion was held in the Knights of St. been silenced for repairs for some Columbus Club, in Holland Park, months, was again tolling its mes- London, on 22 May and photos of the sages from the end of August 1970. happy groups appeared in The The bell had been cast in Dublin in Nationalist of 30 May. Canon 1879 by J. Murphy, Iron Founders. Christopher Lee of Fethard and Canon William Hogan of Killenaule The Slievenamon Cross (a priest who served as a long-time curate in Fethard) travelled out with In 1970 great numbers of people the Legion. were making the annual climb to the Holy Year (1950) cross on the slopes of Past Pupils Reunion Slievenamon, which was held on 15 August. All participants were expected Fethard has had a long association to assemble at Boolagh Bridge at with the Patrician Brothers as educa- 2.30pm on the day. Unfortunately, the tors. From the late nineteenth century climb in 1970 was anything but pleas- they had provided junior level educa- ant as heavy rain fell all day. Despite tion to the children from town and such conditions a large crowd turned country and from the 1940s onwards out and were led by Father Kennedy, had educated second level students. then a curate in Fethard. The good work of the Brothers has been suitably recorded in a fine book- The Legion of Mary let written by Mr Jimmy McInerney of Fethard as has the debt owed to the As well as producing the annual Brothers by the men of Fethard who newsletter, which has proved to be passed through their hands. such a treasure to so many Fethard The booklet, published by Fethard people in so many places about the Historical Society in 1997, was one of world, the local Legion of Mary the consequences of a provisional group joined with their brothers and committee meeting, which was held

71 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

First elected committee of Fethard Patrician Brothers’ Past Pupils’ Union. Back L to R: Michael O’Sullivan, Hugh Walsh, Michael McCarthy, Tony Hanrahan, Jack Kenrick, Percy O’Flynn, Joe Hayes, Tommy Carey, Dick Fitzgerald. Front L to R: Paddy McCormack,Bro Stephen Delaney, Denis Hayes (President), John Whyte (Treasurer), Timmy O’Connor (Secretary) and Bro Luke Moroney. on Friday 20 February 1970 to form a The Credit Union Patrician Brothers’ Past Pupils’ On a Wednesday night in March of Union. Those who gathered for that 1970 a number of men met together first meeting had in mind that the (possibly notified by word-of-mouth) centenary of the coming of the to form in Fethard a branch of the Brothers to Fethard would fall due in Credit Union of Ireland. A most wor- 1973. To further the aims of this early thy undertaking and an organisation gathering a general meeting was held which has in the past, both in on 10 April. A committee and officers Fethard and nation-wide, benefited were nominated at this latter meeting people with its cheap loans and easy and their photo appeared in The repayment terms. In 1970, it should Nationalist of 18 April. The first social be remembered, it was next to event of the new union was an inau- impossible for a working man or gural dinner held in Hearns Hotel, woman to obtain a loan from a bank Clonmel, on the night of Friday 29 and if they were successful the inter- May. On that occasion, a lovely meal est rate stood at about 18 per cent. If was provided to a large attendance, you had a job the Credit Union gave which was followed by a dance. you a far more sympathetic hearing

72 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER and charged you 12 per cent. Today, Fethard and business commenced in in an age of cheap and easily the Town Hall on Saturday 9 May. The obtained money, it is difficult to find opening hours were from 7.30 to 9.00 the words to describe the great bene- in the evening, and in the beginning fits provided by a branch of the was open only on Saturday nights. By Credit Union thirty and more years the end of May the branch had 100 ago. For those with an interest in his- members. tory the Credit Union was not the first provider of cheap money in Fethard. Fethard Railway Station In the first three decades of the 1800s a Loan Society had been organised While new institutions were open- in the town, which gave out money ing into life an old one that had done (to those who were in a position to great good to the town was closing. repay) at a rate of 6d. in the £1 a year. With the benefit of hindsight we can In its day it conferred great benefits see what a great loss to both Fethard on the people of Fethard. and Clonmel was the scrapping of By May 1970, then, a branch of the the railway line that ran from Credit Union had been formed in Clonmel to Thurles through Fethard

Founder members of Fethard Credit Union in 1970 Back L. to R. : Dr. G. Maher, Dick Gorey, Jim Ryan, Front: Bill Mulligan, Fr. Kennedy, Jimmy Connolly and Sean Henehan. The photograph was taken, coincidentally, in the premises now owned by the Credit Union. 73 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Fethard Railway Station House in 1970 and Laffan's Bridge in the early 1960s. came when an advertisement Those of us who availed of its servic- appeared in The Nationalist of 17 es will recall it with affection. In the October noting that 1,100 used wooden issue of The Nationalist of 1 August railway sleepers would be sold at the paper's photographer, Donal Fethard railway goods yard on Tuesday Wylde, published a witty and excel- 27 October. All that now remains are lent series of photos on the railway some well-constructed houses and station that had then become a pri- sheds and a well-built embankment vate house. So sad to see two lines of heading north. washing hanging to dry across what were once actively used railway A Flying Club lines; rail lines that were taken up in 1970. What, I wonder, was the fate of Old age transport was disappear- the name-boards ("Fethard" in large ing, but new age transport did touch letters) that stood on each side of the Fethard. In September/October 1970 railway station? a grass airstrip to handle light aircraft By the beginning of September 1970 was being developed at Coolbawn the iron rails had been taken up from Cross on the lands of Mr Michael Thurles to as far south as Knockinglass. Smyth. By the end of the latter month And the real end of the Fethard Railway the strip was safely handling light air-

74 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER craft and some helicopters were for the young was very active in using the facility. At the same time Fethard in 1970. Despite the Asian 'flu flying instructions in a Beagle-Terrier then raging in the town and a bout of 3-seater light aircraft were being severe frost, the club got down to offered over the months ahead on business from the opening days of Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. January. The club-house was reopened and the officers were busy The Street Singer mapping a cross-country running course at Redcity by clearing dykes The rambling singer who sang his and ditches of weeds and briars. A songs about the streets of a town and cross-country event was planned for then sold his ballad sheets was a Sunday 11 January. Before that the commonplace in the Ireland of long club had fielded a team which partic- ago. But when one appeared in ipated in athletics at Solohead in Fethard on a Sunday in September west Tipperary. And in February the his efforts caused many to gaze in club was planning a dance, which wonder and others to walk by him would help to raise funds and also indifferently. Michael McGrath had provide entertainment. I'm not cer- walked over from Cashel where he tain if they held this dance, but they had sung about the streets; and when certainly had a very successful one, he was finished in Fethard he wan- which was held, in the Capitol dered on to God knows where. Ballroom in May. Nowadays a street singer can hardly So, as the year began, the club was be heard above the roar of motor traf- already on its feet and running. On fic on any street in the country; sadly, Sunday 15 February the local team our town centres have been invaded travelled to Kilgarvin in Co. Kerry to by motor-cars and there is no longer compete in a Munster under-sixteen any place for older and gentler championship game, but were, unfor- things. A Frank Harte cannot com- tunately, beaten into third place. And pete with the noise and fumes of a on 1 March Fethard itself was the diesel engine. Nearby Kilkenny is the venue for the athletic county champi- only place, and then only in its onships. The local team for that day medieval alleyways, where a singer consisted of Michael Kenrick, or 'busker' can perform or be heard. Thomas McCarthy, Eddie Nevin, Tony Hanrahan, Davy Morrissey and Fethard Youth Club Noel Sharpe. On that day a young Killusty man, Mick Prout, ended the But the people of Fethard did pro- event by winning fourteen of the forty vide entertainment in other ways and prizes on offer, following in the foot- especially for the young people of steps of his grandfather, Bill Prout, the town. A club to provide activities who was in his day a noted athlete

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Fethard Carnival 1970

76 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER and cross-country runner. The club Ballynonty, Tullamaine, Lismolin, 'lined out' at Dundrum on 2 March, Fethard, and Drombane -- a broad which was the final venue of the win- sweep of south and central ter season. Tipperary. And keeping with an old And, as it had done over so many tradition its opening meet was held decades, the local GAA club support- in Fethard, the event commemorated ed and actively encouraged young in a fine photo showing Micky players and potential players and Flanagan and Captain Williams and a provided a venue where even casual collection of dogs moving under the players of football and hurling could arch at Sparagoleith. exercise. The more widely-based sport of hunting on foot with dogs was also Other Sports popular in Fethard in 1970. On about two Sundays in each month the Today when we think on horses in Barrettstown Harriers held a chase at Fethard the two names that instantly such places as Redcity, Coolmoyne, spring to mind are John Magnier and Kilnockin, Silverfort, and Killerk. Coolmore and the vast landholding Hunting on foot (only for the young here and abroad that both can lay and fit) is part of our heritage and claim to. But in 1970 Coolmore was a still has a place in the lives of many. very different place. A stud farm and training centre for horses did exist Health and Social Services there. The house and lands had been purchased in the 1950s by Major But healthy activity and outdoor Ashmead Vigors. When he retired, pursuits could not always keep sick- the Major, who died in November ness at bay. Throughout the winter of 1969 aged 86 years, passed the con- 1969/70 the people of Fethard suf- cern to his son Tim who continued fered greatly from an outbreak of the horse business and enjoyed a Asian 'flu. It was so prevalent, we are modicum of success. But Tim Vigors told, that the local medical officers never had the high profile of the could hardly cope with the demands present owner. of sick people, and the opening of Another horse business that had the local schools after the Christmas long associations with Fethard was holiday was put back to 19 January. the Tipperary Foxhounds which, in Something, no doubt, that was great- 1970, was still active and virile under ly appreciated by any kids who were its then master, Captain Evan free of the virus. Williams. In the winter season of Fethard in that year of 1970 had a 1969/70 it hunted in such places as number of voluntary social services. Kedrah near Cahir, Ballinahinch near Two of them were the St. Brigid's Cashel, Ardfinnan, Ballingarry, clothing society and the Meals-on-

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Wheels service (a service that deliv- opened two men died who deserved ers a hot midday meal to men or not to be forgotten in their native women living alone). Early in the Killusty and Fethard. Bill Prout of year the latter held a sale and collec- Killusty died on Saturday 11 October tion, which brought in £250 (a good 1969 at the residence of his daughter sum in those days), which allowed in Dublin. Bill in his younger days this excellent service to continue its was an outstanding cross-country work for a further period. The runner at distances of one mile to ten Clonmel Lions Club also weighed in miles. He was truly described as an with help. Local man, Mr Louis 'iron man'. Very often Bill cycled to a Ronan, who was a vice-president of the sporting event (even one thirty or Lions, presented part of the money that more miles distant), participated, had been collected at a Lions Club race won several events, and then cycled night held in the Hotel Minella, home that evening. This would have Clonmel. And the same Lions Club been on a Sunday. And on Monday planned a big charity walk on 3 May to morning he would turn out for work further help the Meals-on-Wheels. What to deliver his postal route on a bicy- was planned, and it did take place, was cle. In his time the working week for a walk that would begin at The Square postmen was six days. Even up to the at 2pm and from there the walkers mid 1950s Bill regularly cycled to would travel by Grove, Killusty and Dublin on a Sunday to visit his Cloneen, to finish back at The Square. daughter and cycled home on the same day. He is buried in Killusty Deaths cemetery at the foot of beautiful Slievenamon. The one constant in the lives of peo- Another who died as 1969 came to ple, be they living in Fethard or in any a close was Tommy Hogan of Main place about the world, is death. As in St., Fethard. He passed away on every other year, 1970 had its share of Tuesday 7 October 1969. Tommy was people whose time had come. A full list a prominent and talented member of of all those who died in that year can the GAA both in Fethard and at coun- be read in the Fethard Newsletter of ty level. It should not be forgotten 1970, which was published by the local that he was one of the players on the branch of the Legion of Mary. Those re-constituted 1921 Bloody Sunday whose names I have recorded below Tipperary football team that replayed are but a small part of that list and I its game against Dublin. Later in life have chosen them above others only Fethard football became Tommy's because in a small way my path full life. His working life was spent as crossed with theirs or I knew them in a an assistant in John Scully's store on distant way. the Main St., and his sister was mar- Shortly before the New Year ried to Mr Scully. He was buried in

78 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Jack O’Shea’s bar and electrical shop in the late 1960s

Staff at Jack O’Shea’s L to R: Paddy Tynan, Joe Fenton, Jack O’Shea and Willie Stapleton. 79 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Calvary cemetery on the Kilnockin newsletter. Road; and he was honoured at the Gus McCarthy of Main St. died on following meeting of the GAA County Saturday 2 May. He played football Board. for Fethard and for his county and In that year of 1970 a Fethard was counted one of the great players woman had the rare honour of hav- of his day. He was, it is worthy of ing her funeral Mass celebrated in note, one of the Tipperary team that the Augustinian Abbey church. This 'togged' out to play on that well was Mary Halley from the Kilnockin remembered Bloody Sunday 1921 in Road who had been housekeeper to Croke Park. He was also an amateur the Augustinian priests for so long jockey and rode a number of winners that she was considered to be one of in his day, as did his brother Dick of their own. She collapsed suddenly Burke St. on Easter Sunday morning while Another well-known figure that working in the Abbey kitchen and died in 1970 was Jim Stapleton of died that same night. She was a Burke St. Jim, a man of many parts quiet, unassuming and gentle woman and all of them for the benefit of who devoted herself selflessly to the Fethard, died unexpectedly on 11 welfare of the friars; in her dying they August. In his younger days Jim had felt as if they had lost a mother. been elected to represent the town Another with long associations on the long-gone Fethard Town with the Abbey was Margaret Kenrick Commissioners, and he also fought of Burke St., who died on 11 May in in the Irish War of Independence. He her 94th year. She was accorded the was an active member of the Fethard honour of being buried in the Abbey Dramatic Society. From at least the cemetery because she had served as early 1940s onwards he served as organist to the Abbey Church for secretary to the local Old Age nigh on half a century. Among her Pensions committee (an organisation children was Jack who will be that is also long gone). Jim lies remembered by most of the older buried in Calvary cemetery. readers of this newsletter since it is In the long ago every farmer who most likely that he cut their hair. At took milk to the creamery in Fethard one time he was the only barber in knew him. He was Tim Tierney who Fethard. Another of her sons was died on Saturday 3 October. Tim was Father Ted Kenrick, OSA, who was described as one of Fethard's leading parish priest at Gordondale (about personalities and indeed he was. In 15 miles south of Cairns) in north- his forty-year working life he served east Queensland, Australia. Father as manager of the Coolmoyne and Ted died at the young age of twenty- Fethard Co-operative Creamery in its nine. Incidentally, Mrs Kenrick's branches at Cloran, Killerk, grandson is the present editor of this Coolmoyne and finally Fethard. But

80 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Jane Ponsonby on ‘Butterbox’ at the Killusty Pony Show 1970. Tim was more than that. In his day he sense of humour. In his young days was one of the leading civic and Tim had served as a lieutenant with social workers in the town and the 2nd Battalion of the Cashel served as an officer on such organi- Company of the 3rd Tipperary sations as the St. Vincent de Paul Brigade in the War of Independence. Society, Fethard GAA Club, Fethard And he served terms as a prisoner Pioneer Association, the Fethard for his republican views in Limerick, Carnival Committee, and he was The Curragh, and Spike Island in what today would be called a Friend Cork harbour. It was but fitting that of the Abbey. Indeed, he was always his coffin was draped with the Irish available, in season and out of sea- tricolour and that a firing-party from son, to help any club or society that the military barracks in Clonmel would benefit the people of Fethard. attended at his graveside. He even found time to be a rent and As the year 1970 drew to its close a water-rate collector for South long-time resident of Fethard died. Tipperary County Council. A man of Doctor Patrick J. Stokes, the medical boundless energy and yet always officer for Fethard and coroner for courteous and with a wonderful south Tipperary, passed away at his

81 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 residence at Main St. on Thursday 26 He was buried in the cemetery that October. Dr. Stokes had given his lies about the parish church; and his working life in Fethard where he was wife died a few months after him. seen as a native, though he was born A Fethard-born man was buried on near Clonmel. He was educated at St. Stephen's Day in the Augustinian Rockwell and Blackrock Colleges cemetery in Cork city. This was Father and later at the National University in John Bernard O'Flynn, OSA, a mem- Dublin. His early medical training ber of the Augustinian community in was spent in St. Vincent's Hospital, Washington St., Cork. He was son of Dublin. He qualified in medicine in Paddy O'Flynn, Burke St., where the 1917 and practiced for some years in latter had a tailoring business. Father various Dublin hospitals. In the early John received his early education 1920s he came to Fethard where he from the Patrician Brothers in Fethard set up a practice and where he was and the Augustinian College in to dedicate the remainder of his life Dungarvan. He joined the Augustinian to the well-being of the people of Order in 1928 aged 16 years. He then Fethard. For two or three generations went on to further education at he was the doctor: year after year he University College, Dublin, and the healed our wounds, he cured our Gregorian University in Rome. diseases, and put us once again on He was ordained a priest in 1935, our feet. His peers, writing at the time following which he returned to of his death, recalled his extensive Ireland where he served with the practice, the trust his patients placed communities at Dublin, Limerick and in him, his technical skills, and the Cork for some years. He then moved excellence of his judgement. The back to Rome where, for five years, same peers recalled the coolness of he was Rector of the Augustinian his courage and the lack of panic in College in that city. And he remained critical medical situations. on in Rome until 1960. The author of But Dr. Stokes had another life out- these notes recalls having him point- side of medicine. In his younger days ed out as he passed in a small Fiat he was a noted athlete especially in car along the streets of Rome. Rome rugby in which game he was capped seems to have been his city and it for Ireland on twelve occasions often called him back, but death between 1913 and 1922. He was also a came to him in Cork after a short ill- successful farmer and served as vice- ness and at the age of fifty-nine years president of the Clonmel Horse Show. The above, then, were some of the But throughout his life his primary people who died in 1970. Like all of and abiding interest was his profes- us they are worthy of being remem- sion. And it was here that his abilities bered; and were people, as I noted shone out. Abilities that he offered in above, that I would have known in equal measure to rich and poor alike. one small way or another.

82 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Fethard ICA Guild

ethard ICA guild is still going well. Tipperary Federation. Many of our FWe have 32 members this year members participated and we had and meetings are held on the 2nd great results as we won two perpetual Tuesday of every month at 8 pm in our cups. We got the overall guild award so own ICA hall on Rocklow Road. there is much talent in this guild. We have speakers at all meetings and Our summer outing was on 16th these speakers make the night interest- June. We left Fethard at 9.30 am and ing and informative. We rent our hall to headed on to the National Stud local groups such as IFA, Glanbia, where we first had morning coffee Speech and Drama class and yoga and then a guided tour of the beauti- class. This generates a little income to ful farm, the Japanese gardens and help us with the running costs of the St. Fiachrai garden. We headed on to hall. the Butterfly Farm in Straffan, Co. This year again we held our Kildare and we also got a trip Christmas Party on 10th December in through the famous K Club in our hall. We had a hot four-course Straffan. We had our evening meal in meal. Catering was by Sophie The Montague Hotel, Portlaoise. O'Connor and her staff. Once again we had another enjoy- On 13th April we took part in an Arts, able day out. Crafts and Produce day run by South We then had our summer recess and

This group was photographed in the 1950's in Holohan's Pub in Burke Street. L to R: Paddy Ryan, Kerry Street; Dan & Mae Mullins, Knockbrack; Denis and Nora O'Meara, Knockbrack. 83 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 started back again in September with a Anne Gleeson, and Treasurer: Anne talk by Bridie Withero from Tipperary, Horan. on the "Power of Flowers in your New members are always very wel- Home". The officers who were elected come to join our Guild. last year are still in place and they are: We wish all who read this article a President: Nuala Delaney, Vice very Happy Christmas and best wishes President: Sheila O'Donnell, Secretary: for the year ahead.

Houselessness or homelessness by Alice Leahy Alice Leahy, Annsgift, Fethard, is Director of TRUST, which she co-founded in 1975, and which is a non-judgmental, befriending, social and health service for people who are homeless. Alice was recently awarded an honourary doctorate from UCD and was also named Tipperary Person of the Year for 2004. She also lectures widely to specialist groups and has directly contributed to public poli- cy as a member of various policy bodies. Alice gives us a glimpse of her won- derful work in the following article.

e are reminded daily in our have met people from all over Ireland Wwork in Trust how much we and beyond. We see new people all take for granted, not least the daily and often have people calling sense of home and place. Trust will who were housed – settled – and be 30 years in existence this year and become homeless again. Re-settle- I still meet people I met ment is now seen as the over 30 years ago, then, solution to homeless- as now, labelled home- ness. A word much less. used but rarely defined. The philosophy of We meet people Trust is based on two whose bodies are rav- central principles. The aged by disease and vio- recognition of every lence, who may have individual’s right to be pressure sores from treated as an sleeping out in all autonomous and weathers, because they unique human being, may have been sleeping and the need to restore in urine soaked clothes the dignity of individu- for weeks. They can als whom society has Alice Leahy have infected and labelled deviant and undesirable. untreated minor skin conditions and Up to 60 men and women call each major skin problems, e.g. leg ulcers. morning, the majority of whom are They may suffer from medical condi- sleeping out (aged 18 to 85). We tions common to the general public

84 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER but exacerbated by their living condi- died with whom they were unable to tions such as lice infected heads, sca- say goodbye. Drugs often dull the bies and malnutrition. pain of living. Alcohol, gambling, ille- We regularly come into contact gal drugs, and prescribed drugs all with men and women who have play a part. Many people we meet been abused mentally and physical- have attempted suicide and some, ly, some may even be working in sadly, succeeded. Some people we prostitution. We see people who meet, in spite of unthinkable pain have been institutionalised in psychi- and misery, never complain, never atric hospitals and prisons many for ask for anything, accept their lot and years, who are now relocated from leave us feeling challenged and one institution to another (hostels) in inspired. the name of progress with insufficient We live in a market-driven society support services to meet their needs. that sees only the loud and impres- Some of these people have even sive actions. The little things done found themselves to be inappropriate- are usually seen as being irrelevant. ly labelled “mentally ill”. Services are also driven by market These people, our friends, often forces. In Trust every morning we struggle with guilt because they have meet men and women, who come left loved ones behind. Partners who simply for a wash or change of have suffered for so long, children clothes to make them feel that they who are in care, parents who have are part of society and have a sense

Photographed at the presentation of prizes at the Trust Classic on 17th September 2005 at Slievenamon Golf Club, L to R: Anne Moloney, Frank Purcell, Dr. Carmel Condon, Alice Leahy, Tony McGarry and Mattie Tynan.

85 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Over 30's Killusty soccer team who beat an under-30 selection 5-4 in a charity game played on 30th January 2005 in aid of TRUST. Back L to R: Kevin Ryan, Michael Quinlan, Brendan Brett, Gerry Murphy, Johnny McEvoy, Willie O'Meara, Chris Coen, Shay Coen, David Lawton. Front L to R: Martin Coen, Jimmy O'Meara, Tony Shelly, Tom Halpin, Willie Morrissey and Eugene Walsh. of worth. The inter-action can have a – it’s not easy. Sometimes the people far more impressive outcome than we meet are listened to only when many realise and proves that success they are being researched - that is cannot be measured in the language why we have grave reservations of consumerism. about the quality and quantity of Washing facilities are available and research currently taking place. At each month we give clothes to times it appears to us in Trust that approximately 500 people who are people must trade personal informa- homeless (members of the public tion to get a service. including Rotary, church groups, Since Trust was founded our coun- members of the business community try has changed dramatically, our and others, donate the clothes and currency changed twice, our way of shoes). We refer people to the rele- life has changed, our expectations vant health services and help them have changed, but the human condi- to avail of them and encourage serv- tion remains the same – we all need ices to look beyond the label of to be wanted, loved and belong to homelessness. something. We attempt as best we can to meet People wonder why there is still a people as they are, listen and do problem with homelessness when vast what we can as fellow human beings sums of money have been spent on

86 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER research, accommodation, consultants money, got drunk, got the train, and expert groups, many based on could not get a bed in a hostel, slept models of “best practice” from abroad under a bush in Phoenix Park and a – this being one of the buzz words in night in a doorway. A garda student the litany of jargon that helps to dis- who had been on placement with us tance us from human beings not only met him – they talked about football in the field of homelessness. and hurling. Next morning he called We fail to accept the difference to Trust. A bath, change of clothes, a between houselessness and home- phone call to a relative and he left for lessness – accepting this difference the west. would go a long way towards creat- To try and create a greater under- ing some understanding of the com- standing of how easy it is to become plexities of the human condition and an outsider we have undertaken a how easy it is to become an outsider. number of projects all aimed at John, in his late 70s, from the West effecting change through awareness of Ireland, lived in hostels and slept and all based on our experience. rough when I first met him years ago. These include: He worked hard in England for years, his social life evolved around his * A one day Training Day on “The church, his local pub and the people Homeless Experience”: he met at work and in his digs. He never married; he returned to * A video documentary “A Fragile Ireland, a changed place from his City” made by Esperanza Productions on Trust which youth. He had returned from time to was shown on RTE and distrib- time for family funerals if he could be uted to all schools as part of contacted. our educational projects. This summer he called in one morning having slept rough again. I * National Essay Competition for hadn’t seen him for years; he was Transition Year Students 2001. delighted to see a familiar face. He told me he was living in the west * National Art Competition for all looking after a few horses on “com- second level students on theme monage” – “You’d understand”, he of “The Outsider” 2002. said, “you’re from the country.” “With Trust in Place”, published at “What in God’s name are you doing the end of 2003 by Townhouse, now up here?” I said. “The city has available from Trust (€10 including changed, it’s noisy, it’s violent, it’s not postage), had 40 contributors includ- as it was when you slept rough ing Judge Michael Moriarty, Christy before.” His eyes filled up – “But why Moore and Tony Gill, a man who was am I not happy there?” He told me he homeless, who died last year, and had backed a horse, won a lot of who is buried in the Trust plot in

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Glasnevin. Mervyn Colville, a neigh- from all involved in the Golf Classic, bour in Annsgift, was instrumental in now in its third year and organised Trust getting a plot from the commit- by Frank Purcell and Vincent Murphy tee in Glasnevin Cemetery. in Slievenamon Golf Club. We great- We have a further project on ly appreciate the coverage we get stream for November this year. from our local papers – The Please check our website Nationalist, South Tipp Today and www.trust-ireland.ie which is updat- even those in the north riding – ed regularly. Tipperary Star and Nenagh Guardian We greatly acknowledge the spe- and local radio, Tipp FM. Even cial support from so many from my though based in Dublin, Trust is firm- home place in Fethard, especially ly rooted in Tipperary. Fethard & Killusty Community Games ommunity Games, now in its medals. C33rd year in the Fethard and Alice Feery was the judo team Killusty area, enjoyed a successful manager. The competitors in this 2005. Even though we strongly sport are a model of consistency and emphasise the importance of partici- have never returned empty handed. pation, the goal of every young per- A very young girls’ volleyball team son is to make the magical trip to the consisting of: Carrie Sweeney (cap- National Finals in Mosney, and since tain), Lisa Anglim, Sinead Coffey, Ida I became involved in 1985, the area Carroll, Mary Anne Keane, Debbie has been represented at the National Lawrence, Gráinne Horan, Chloe Finals every year. This is a great Gough, Sarah Conway, Niamh achievement for a small area. Fanning, Lesley Looby and Sarah This year was no exception. Hayes, won bronze medals against Twenty competitors, representing Monaghan and were defeated by the their county and province, along volleyball specialists from with three managers, left for Mosney Graiguecullen, Co Carlow. However, on 19th August and returned with most of the team are young enough three gold, two silver individual to have another go next year. Team medals, and bronze medals for the managers were Denis Burke, Redcity, girls’ under-16 volleyball team. and Fintan Rice, Brookhill. Other Judo competitors, Natalie Cahill, competitors at Mosney were: Áine Woodvale Walk, Padraig O’Shea, The Proudfoot, Strylea, Louis and Laura Valley and Cathal Gorey, Moanbeg, Rice, Brookhill, all in the highly com- won gold medals. Emma Walsh, petitive art event. Bernard Feery and Main Street, and Samantha Feery, Helena O’Shea acted as National Claremore, Killusty, won silver Officials.

88 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Photographed at the County Art & Model Making Finals held in Fethard Ballroom on 2nd April 2005 are L to R: Katie O'Shea (Fethard), Faye Manton (Fethard), Jane Holohan (Fethard) and Áine Proudfoot (Fethard).

Some nostalgic memories come to Back to the present — the boys’ mind: Carrie Sweeney’s mother, under-15 volleyball team consisting Pamela, her aunt Marguerite Lawlor, of James Kelly, Joseph Sheehan, and Sarah Conway’s sisters, Mandy Kevin Hayes, Eoin O’Connell, and Jackie, all competed on the vol- Thomas O’Connell, Ciaran Ryan, leyball team in 1986. Áine Proudfoot’s Jonathan Fleming, Michael Costello granny, Concepta Hurley, was area and Adrian Lawrence were County treasurer at that time. Paul Fitzgerald, Champions and were narrowly Sladagh, now goalkeeper with the defeated in the regional Munster Tipperary senior football team and finals. recipient of ‘Man of the Match Award’ Competitors who qualified for the in Tipperary’s recent victory over County Athletics finals held in Wexford in the final of the Tommy Thurles Greyhound Stadium were: Murphy Cup, also won a gold medal in Jack Gleeson, Coolmore; Alex the ‘Long Puck’ in 1989. O’Donovan, Moanbeg; Aine The Community Games County Proudfoot, Dean Dorney, Board are currently compiling thirty- Slievenamon Close; Conor Mackey, five years of history of the games in Barrack Street; Kyle Walsh, Monroe; Tipperary and the names of Pat and James Harrington, Tinakelly; Kate Richard Fallon and Pat McDonnell, all Quigley, Redcity; Hannah Tobin, St. from Main Street, came up in results Patricks Place; David Heffernan, from the early seventies. Tommy Ballyvaden; Rachel Prout, Butler, Coolanure, was heavily involved Derryluskin; Gerard Gorey, at that time. Fethard has been well and Moanbeg; Áine Phelan, Coolmore; truly on the map from day one. Radika Jannacikova, Coolmore;

89 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Fethard under-16 girls’ volleyball team who represented Tipperary at the Community Games Munster Finals in Cork on July 9th. Back L to R: Sarah Hayes, Debbie Lawrence, Sineád Coffey, Maryanne Keane, Lisa Anglim, Niamh Fanning. Front L to R: Ida Carroll, Leslie Looby, Carrie Sweeney, Sarah Conway, Chloé Gough and Gráinne Horan.

Louis Rice, Brookhill; Jenny Pyke, Under/10: Jennifer Rice, Brookhill; Woodvale Walk; Nicole Looby, St. Donal Walsh, Killenaule Road; Aobh Patrick’s Place; Evie O’Sullivan, Main O’Shea, The Valley; Charlie Manton, Street; Mary Jane Kearney, The Main Street. Green; Louise O’Donnell, Under/12: Faye Manton, Main Slanestown; Owen Healy, The Green; Street; Louis Rice, Jane Holohan, Laura Rice, Brookhill; Laura Mullins Rocklow; Michael Smyth, Burke Farranshea; Michael and Bernadette Street. Costello, Woodvale Walk. Under/14: Laura Rice, Joseph Well done to Bernadette who won Thompson, Mockler’s Terrace; Katie a silver medal in the under/16, 1500m O’Shea, Woodvale Walk. event. Model Making Under/10 Girls: Amy In the local art competition the fol- Sweeney, The Valley. Under/14 Boys: lowing children all qualified for the Gerry Horan, Tullamaine; Mark county final which was held in Fogarty, Garrinch; with Áine, Louis Fethard Ballroom: and Laura all qualifying for the Under/8: Áine Proudfoot, Alex National Finals. Katie O’Shea won a O’Donovan, Moanbeg; Cassandra silver medal and Gerry Horan a Needham, Woodvale Walk; Eoin bronze medal both at the County O’Donovan, The Valley. Finals.

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We had only two competitors in Other teams entered this year the County Swimming were: Under/10 Mixed Football, Championships held in Nenagh: Under/12 Girls’ Football, Under/13 Kevin Hayes, Redcity, who won a and Under/15 Boys’ Indoor Soccer bronze medal and Aobh O’Shea, The and Tag Rugby. Current committee Valley, who finished 4th. members are: Joe Keane, Bernard In the team events, the under/11 Feery, Peggy Colville, Helena rugby boys were defeated by Nenagh O’Shea, Sean Devaney, Fintan Rice, in the County Final held in Fethard Denis Burke, Michael O’Dwyer. “Well Community Sportsfield, Killenaule Done” to all who participated, con- Road. Silver medallists were: Colin gratulations to all our medal winners, Grant, Gavin Delaney, Kyle Walsh, and thanks to everybody who helped Donal Walsh, Dylan Fitzgerald, Philip in any way. Indeed there are many Maher, William Morgan, Jack who continually support us, Devaney, Matthew Holohan, Russell We wish everybody a Holy and Casey, Kieran Walsh. Team manager Happy Christmas and look forward was Sean Devaney and referee was to an exciting 2006. Pat Walsh, Clerihan.

Fethard Under-11 mixed rugby team who were runners-up in the Community Games County Final at Fethard Sportsfield. Back L to R: Kieran Walsh, William Morgan, Russell Casey, Charlie Manton, Matthew Holohan, Donal Walsh. Front L to R: Jack Devaney, Philip Maher, Dylan Fitzgerald, Colin Grant, Gavin Delaney and Kyle Walsh.

91 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Fethard Community Sportsfield

Helping on the ticket stall at the Benefit Dog Night on 5th March 2005 are committee members L to R: Sean Devaney and Fintan Rice.

ethard Community Sportsfield personal training. F— a six-acre field leased from Development during the year Mr and Mrs Magnier Coolmore Stud included floodlighting of pitch, pur- — situated on the Killenaule road is chasing toilet units and extending the now in great demand and used by car park. Two 40x8 foot containers the following: Fethard Athletic Club, are still being used as dressing Fethard and District Rugby Club, rooms but hopefully proper facilities Fethard Juvenile GAA, Ladies will be erected in the future. Football Club, Badgers Soccer Club Fethard and District Rugby Club — a club geared at non-competitive host several matches at weekends in soccer for the 30 plus age group — addition to training on Tuesday and founded by Colm McGrath, Philip Friday nights. There was an exciting Furnell and Liam Harrington. evening in the field last spring when Membership is steadily growing and the Munster Rugby Team paid a visit matches are played every and signed autographs for their Wednesday night. Fethard & Killusty many fans. Finance for facilities Community Games and various and maintenance of such a project is other individuals use the field for always a problem. We secured a cap-

92 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER ital grant of €30,000 from the Rugby Jersey, purchased by Department of Arts, Sport and McCarthy’s Hotel, a Munster Rugby Tourism, and a €15,000 amenities Jersey purchased by Clem Murphy, grant from South Tipperary County Kilnockin, and a Rowing Jersey Council. We also held a ‘Benefit Dog signed by Steve Redgrave, purchased Race Night’ at Thurles Greyhound by Paul Nugent, Clonmel. An addi- Stadium in March, which generated a tional feature of the benefit night was further €30,000. the Buster Draw for €600 which was We really appreciated the local won by the Morgan brothers, Joseph, community support for this venture William, David, and Thomas, sons of and also from the many other out- Tommy and Mary, Grangebeg, side businesses and individuals. Fethard. Richard O’Connor, Cashel, donated a The present committee are: Rev Fr. greyhound bitch for auction at the Tom Breen P.P., Susanna Manton, benefit night, which was purchased Gus Fitzgerald, Valerie Colville, by a local syndicate and is now in Fintan Rice, Sean Devaney, Jerome training with David Flanagan in Casey, Clem Murphy and Peggy Coolmoyne. Thanks to Eugene Colville. A finance committee was Cooney for publicity in Greyhound also elected during the year and Press. Other items auctioned were comprises of: Bernard Feery, Michael framed pictures of a signed Irish O’Dwyer, Audrey Conway, Colm

Photographed at the 'Race Night' held at Thurles Greyhound Track are L to R: Thomas Neville, Colin O'Riordan, Michael O'Riordan and Johnny Neville. 93 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Photographed at the 'Race Night' held at Thurles Greyhound Track are Back L to R: Christy Grassick, Yvonne Blackmore, Jerome Casey. Front L to R: Andrea Grassick, Heather Casey, Christian Casey and Russell Casey.

Photographed at the 'Race Night' held at Thurles Greyhound Track are L to R: Greta O'Dwyer, Matt O'Dwyer and Marie Smyth. 94 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Photographed at the Fethard Community Sportsfield 'Race Night' held at Thurles Greyhound Track are L to R: Noelle O'Dwyer, Liam Harrington, Theresa Harrington, Colm McGrath and Bridget Hayes.

McGrath, Philip Furnell, Aidan supplying a ‘home’ for meetings. Maher, Mary Trehy and Cora The committee wish to express sin- Stapleton. This committee did great cere sympathy to Michael O’Dwyer, work, and special thanks to Philip Clonacody, on the recent death of his Furnell who compiled the race card. wife, Noelle, and to all who suffered Thanks also to Primus Advertising, to bereavements during the year. Marie McGrath, Rocklow Road, to Fr. Wishing everyone a Holy and Happy Tom Breen and Susanna Manton for Christmas and Prosperous 2006. Arts award for Austy in the Abymill

number of people associated County Tipperary. Awith the Abymill Theatre and Denis O’Sullivan, presenter of the the Fethard Players attended a sur- Arts programme on Tipp FM Radio, prise presentation to Austin O’Flynn made the presentation, in ambush in the above-mentioned theatre on style, at the weekly bingo night in the Thursday 6th January. Abymill. The award marked Austy’s The award presented was the Tipp thirty-five years of service to the arts FM local radio monthly award in in Fethard, with the Fethard Players recognition of an individual’s contri- and the huge variety of events staged bution to Arts and Entertainment in in the Abymill Theatre.

95 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

School Matters! by Denis Burke

received all my education we were all escorted up the back I(Primary/Secondary) from the lane to the Boys’ Primary School. Presentation Sisters and the Patrician Travelling up with me were Tom Brothers in Fethard (13 years in all) O'Connell, Hugh O'Neill, Jimmy and for the past 25 years I have been O'Connor and Johnny Mullins involved in education in Fethard as a amongst others. teacher in the Patrician/Presentation Our new teacher was the ageing Secondary School. In this short arti- Brother Damian Early from Tyrone. I cle I hope to revive some memories remember him as being reasonably which some might be able to share. pleasant and in the winter months he I started in Junior Infants’ class in used to have the job of making tea for the Presentation Convent in all the boys. We would get a mug of September 1950. My first teacher was tea in the green enamel mugs provid- Sr. Salian who, from my memory, was ed and it was very welcome in the a young and gentle nun. I heard later cold weather. We stayed with Brother that the order transferred her to Damien for two years and went on to Australia where she taught for many 3rd and 4th class in a different room years. My 'minder' I think was with Brother Bonaventure who was a Patricia O'Halloran and I remember much younger man. I recall he was she was very proud of me when I very keen on Irish, often to the exclu- won a race in the school field. sion of other subjects. My one bad memory was when However, older boys had assured Miceál McCormack and I were us that we were having it easy com- released at the gates at 2pm and we pared to what awaited us in the sen- proceeded to somehow climb the ior class (5th, & 6th) where Brother wall of the bridge over the Kieran Lawlor had been established Clashawley. As if this wasn't enough, for many years with a reputation for when we saw the horrified nuns being extremely tough. Bro. Kieran looking down from the convent and was a Kilkenny man and had collect- offering prayers that we wouldn't fall ed most of the money which built the into the river, we proceeded to dan- Brothers’ residence on the Rocklow gle our legs over the edge and pre- Road — now Northgate Medical tended to jump. Next day our Centre. Those who attended Bro. beloved Sr. Salian sent us to Sr. Kieran will have their own stories to Theresia who reddened our hands tell and I hope not to exaggerate or with light leather. I have never been indeed minimise. Bro. Kieran did use up on the parapet of that bridge the leather and cane — but not as since then. often as I remember. I did get one After two pleasant enough years bad beating in 5th Class for forgetting

96 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER my catechism book. However, I four teachers in the school: Brother remember all of the class being gath- Albert Small, Brother Athanasius ered around the open fire - no central Phelan and two lay teachers, Joe heating then — and learning history Glynn from Galway and Timmy and religion without punishment. O'Connor from Kerry. Joe Glynn During the winter we would while stayed only one year and was away some time counting the num- replaced by John Meade and later by ber of beet trains which passed along Paddy Maher who stayed for many the nearby railway line on their way years. to the factory in Thurles. Secondary school definitely was Two years went by and secondary far more interesting than primary. I school loomed on the horizon. We found that the lay teachers were mostly looked forward to it because younger and more up-to-date than of the shorter year and because we the Brothers. They had also mostly heard that there was less of the abandoned corporal punishment cane/leather and a change of teacher and used a variety of more modern every 40 minutes or so. methods. In particular they tended to I made the short trip across to sec- explain things better and were far ondary school in 1958. There were more patient.

Fethard Graduation Class June 1963 Back L to R: Philip Byrne, Willie Harrington, Rick Flynn, Tom O'Connell, Michael Maher, Morgan Fergus, Jimmy O'Neill. Front: Dick Lucey, Jim O'Mahoney (Killenaule), Liam Whyte, Paul Raleigh (Glengoole), Patrick Purcell (Glengoole) and Hugh O'Neill. (Denis Burke was also in this class) 97 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Fethard Senior Football team, winners of the Tipperary Mans Cup 1968. Back L to R: Liam O’Flaherty, Michael Sheehan, Denis Burke, Liam Connolly, John Fitzgerald, Pat Byrne, Gus Danagher. Front L to R: Waltie Moloney, Gerry Leahy, Pat Barrett, Cly Mullins, Davy Fitzgerald, Michael Holohan, Eamonn Butler and Sean Moloney. Timmy O'Connor taught me geogra- make much more sense through phy, commerce and Irish and he left a being explained so clearly. He was lasting impression. His strong point also able to talk to us on a friendly, was his humane approach and his personal level treating us as young complete clarity in teaching. Because adults. I believe this to have been a of this I can still understand why the terrific help in our education. Mercator Net in geography maps The legendary Brother Albert was makes countries furthest from the now in his declining years. Stories equator appear bigger than they are. I about him were numerous and many still have a reasonable understanding likely to inspire fear. However, I most- of double entry book-keeping and I ly found him to be quite okay, with still remember the people who died the odd exception — when you in a boat accident in the Irish poem, messed up Latin sentences or the 'Anach Cuan' — because a pig put its translation of Caesar's Gallic Wars. foot through the bottom of the boat. He also had a terrific love of Gaelic Thank you Timmy! games particularly hurling. This was Later Paddy Maher, a Tipperary not surprising since he was from man, arrived teaching Latin and Borrisoleigh and had actively pro- English. Both subjects now began to moted the GAA for many years in

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Fethard. Many a clever student had Willie Harrington, Davy Fitzgerald, got out of a tight spot by raising the Pat Butler, Pierce Ryan, Jimmy topic of Tipperary hurling or any O'Connor, Willie Frewen and Tony GAA matter when the Latin sen- Fitzgerald. tences became too difficult. The games had taken up nearly all The principal of the school was of the school year and I will never Brother Athanasius Phelan. He was a forget that year of hurling and the Galway man and had served several friendships that it cemented. stints in Fethard. In each one he I left Fethard School in 1963 and became more unpopular than the after working for three years I went to last. It wasn't so much that he was UCD. I started teaching in Dublin in keen on corporal punishment but the 1969 in Drimnagh Castle, a large boys fact that he was sarcastic and insult- secondary school, where I taught ing. He taught Irish and maths until 1980. By then I had acquired a through Irish — I remember none of wife and three young children. The the theorems that he taught. Of all the prospect of bringing up a family in teachers who taught me, he was the the city seemed less attractive than in one I least liked and respected. the freedom of the countryside, so In my Leaving Cert year 1962/63 a when the opportunity to return to young Brother from County Meath, Fethard presented itself, I accepted Paulinus Brennan, joined the staff. A Sr. Cannel Daly's offer of a job and in strong GAA man he immediately September 1980 I returned to my old entered teams and for the first time school teaching economics, history we got the chance to play for the and career guidance. school. In football we lost our only In seventeen years many changes game to the High School from had occurred. The school was now Clonmel but our hurling team was to co-educational, there were many last much longer - in fact, with a female teachers (in my Dublin string of victories over Mitchelstown, school there were none), and in Bandon and Adare, we reached a addition the school was in two sepa- Munster Final the following May. The rate locations with much travelling Dr. Kinnane Cup was fought out between monastery and convent. In between ourselves and Doon CBS over addition, corporal punishment, virtu- two matches in Semple Stadium. The ally gone in reality, was legally ended drawn match was a real thriller but in the early eighties. luckily we won the replay fairly easily. Getting used to all these changes The Kinnane Cup champions were took a long time but I became very Pat Barrett, John Joe Morrissey, involved in the school football teams Austie Woodlock, Pierce Coady, Ger and luckily it was a golden period. In Casey, Paul Raleigh, Denis Burke, Pa five years we won three Munster Joe Purcell, Philip Byrne, Ger Leahy, Championships and players like

99 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Fethard Patrician / Presentation under-14 camogie team 1992 which won the Tipperary Schools under-14 A Championship. Fethard become the first holders of the Kitty O’Flaherty trophy, generously presented by the O’Flaherty family of Cahir in memory of their mother Kitty who was a leading camogie player and organiser in the county for many years. Back L to R: Olivia Phelan, Shonagh Coen, Ann Marie Kenny, Leanne Burke, Carmel O’Dwyer. Middle L to R: Denis Burke (trainer), Ailish Sheehan, Gwen Cooke, Bernie Horan, Annette McCarthy, Colm O’Flaherty (donor). Front L to R: Verona Holohan, Deirdre O’Meara, Caroline Fitzgerald (capt.), Lisa McCormack, Leona Holohan.

Tommy Sheehan, Brian Burke, Willie Camogie players tended to devote O'Meara, Chris Coen, John Hackett, more passion to their game whereas Liam Cronin, Davy Hogan, Tom the boys often seemed to take things Anglim and others all went on to rep- for granted. Fortunately, many other resent Tipperary in many grades. teachers concentrated on the aca- The girls played a lot of volleyball demic side and the exam results and regularly won All-Ireland hon- down through the years have been ours. In the early nineties camogie comparable to any school. made an appearance and I was “Are young people more difficult delighted to find that training girls (a now to deal with than they were in first for me) was even preferable to years gone by?” is the most common training boys’ football teams. Why question I am often asked. I often should this be so? hear it said that young people have

100 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

'gone to the dogs' nowadays. I For all these reasons I feel very confi- believe both of these to be totally dent that the future will pass to false. Without corporal punishment vibrant, confident and well-educated classes are now conducted in a young men and women with drive much more humane and effective and initiative. manner, corporal punishment often merely hid the inability of the person Epilogue: using it. It has been my great luck to have Most young people are far more been taught by some brilliant and confident and outgoing than when I many very good teachers and my was growing up. Youngsters of 13/14 good fortune to have taught a genera- are now capable of conducting full tion of pupils from the Fethard area. conversations with any adult where- Like all teachers I hope I have con- as in my time we would have been tributed in some small way to the intimidated by having to do so. In the many successes of the young people many charity events which we organ- that I have taught or at the very least ise in the school I see the huge vol- that I have not hindered any of them untary effort put in by young people. in any way.

Staff members of Presentation Patrician Secondary School in 2005. Back L to R: Michael O'Gorman, Michael Leonard, Deirdre Mullhall, Vincent Doocey, Catriona McKeogh, Joan Walsh, Majella Whelan, Noel Maher, Ann O'Donnell, Justin McGree. Mary Anne Fogarty, Denis Burke, Mary Lysaght, Dick Prendergast, Gwen Cronan, Connie Sullivan. Front L to R: Marie Maher, Pat Looby, Mary O'Sullivan, Ernan Britton (Principal), Marian Gilpin (Vice- Principal), Margaret Prendergast and Bernie O'Connor.

101 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 South Tipperary Irish Farmers Association

outh Tipperary IFA Executive people who have already purchased Scelebrated the 50th anniversary copies. The following is an excerpt of the founding of NFA/IFA this year from the section of the book which at a special function at Rockwell deals with Fethard branch: College. During the past year a com- Fethard branch was formed in May mittee was working on compiling a 1955. The meeting was held in the complete history town hall. The of these farm area covered by organisations in the branch mem- south Tipperary. It bership was much was decided to bigger than have a book writ- Fethard parish. ten to mark the There were 207 occasion. Willie members in the Hayes who is a area at the time. native of Fethard The first chairman was employed to of the branch was write the book. John H. Delany, Willie was born Parsonshill. He in Rathcoole was present at the and was educated meeting held on by the Patrician the previous 6th of Brothers, primary January in the and secondary Four Seasons schools. The min- Hotel in Dublin, ister for agricul- which launched ture, Mary the organisation. Coughlan, The secretary of launched the the branch was book which was Paddy Morrissey, called, "From Chatting about IFA matters c.1960s Cloran. The treas- were L to R: Tom O'Dea, Neddy Trehy, Knocknagow To urer was Michael Philly O'Meara, J. H. Delany, Bat Brussels". This O'Dea and Henry Quinn Smith, Coolbawn. event took place in In 1962, Michael Rockwell College on Friday 6th May. Smith was elected vice chairman and All IFA members got a special invita- Edmund Trehy, Kilnockin was elect- tion to the event and over one thou- ed as treasurer. sand people turned up. The book At the AGM held on March 10th has been very well received by the 1962 Mr Con Murphy, PRO Irish Sugar

102 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Company, gave a talk on the emerg- instructor for the Fethard area. ing common market to the members. At the branch meeting held on At the same meeting it was decided 26th May 1967, it was decided to to invite Mr W. Holohan of Dovea to approach the parish priest to change the next meeting to give a talk on calf the times of masses. It would seem rearing and to ask Mr O’Grady to talk that he responded favourably as in on pigs. the minutes of a branch meeting held At the annual general meeting held on the following 8th August a vote of on 20 January 1964 the following offi- thanks was passed to the PP for his cers were elected: chairman, Philip cooperation. The amalgamation of Maher, Ballybough; vice chairman, the local creamery also came up at John Skehan, Clonbrogan; secretary this meeting Paddy Morrissey, Cloran; treasurer There was no change of officers Paddy Coffey, Rathsallagh. At this until the annual general meeting held meeting it was proposed that NFA on the 25th March 1971. The follow- and ICMSA should be called on to ing officers were then elected: chair- unite. These officers were in place man John Slattery; vice chairman, L. until 1966 when John Holohan was Trehy; secretary, Denis McGrath; and elected chairman. Philip Maher was treasurer, Edmund Trehy. During vice chairman and Denis McGrath 1971, £100 was contributed from was elected secretary with Paddy branch members and branch funds Coffey re-elected as treasurer. At this to The Irish Farm Centre. meeting members felt that the rates There was a further change of offi- campaign should not have been cers in 1975 when TP Meagher was called off. The CAO was also asked to elected chairman, vice chairman, L. appoint a permanent agricultural Trehy, secretary, Denis McGrath,

Killerk Land Dispute meeting in the 1950s

103 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 treasurer, Joseph D O’Connor. At the Denis O’Halloran was elected chair- AGM in 1979 farm credit and the man with Francis McGivem and Bob banks were the main issues. Frewen as vice chairmen. At the 1995 The AGM held on 28th September AGM Francis McGivern and John 1982 resulted in the following being O’Flynn were elected as vice chair- elected: chairman, Philip Maher, vice men. At the 1997 AGM the officers chairman, Bobby Guiry, secretary, elected were: chairman, John Denis McGrath and treasurer, Joseph O’Flynn, secretary, Denis McGrath, D O’Connor. The following year Tom vice chairmen, Francis McGivern Butler was elected chairman with and Sean O’Dea and treasurer, David Philip Maher and H. Ponsonby as Tierney. At a branch meeting held on vice chairmen. There was no change 20 February 1999 the members in the other officers. Mrs Kitty Delany decided to organise some cattle fod- was a founder member of the south der to help out farmers in the west of Tipperary farm family group, which Ireland who were in a desperate situ- was founded around this time. At the ation. Feed was urgently needed to AGM in October 1985 Malachy Brett keep their cattle alive. Loading points was elected chairman, Frank were designated at Coolmoyne, McGivern vice chairman and Denis Fethard and Cloran creameries. McGrath and Joseph D O’Connor Three artic loads of feed were organ- secretary and treasurer respectively. ised in the area and sent up to them. In 1988 David O’Meara was elected The present officers of the branch chairman with Frank McGivern and are chairman, Francis McGivern, sec- Denis O’Halloran as vice chairmen. retary, Denis McGrath, vice chair- At the 1989 AGM Bob Frewen was man, Tom Delahunty and treasurer, added to the vice chairmen. In 1990 David Tierney.

Jim Trehy (right) selling organic produce at Cahir Farmers Market Nov. 2005

104 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Slieve na mBan Holy Year Cross 2005 by Kevin Ryan

nce more we were blessed where Fr. Malachy Loghran OSA, led Owith a beautiful day for our the procession to the Holy Year annual pilgrimage to the Holy Year Cross, while down at the mass rock in Cross. This year also marked the 55th O’Donnell’s field, Canon Jim Power anniversary of the erecting of the first and Fr. Timmy Walsh O.S.A. led the cross, and I’m sure that the people rosary for those who were unable to who established the tradition of the make the climb. On the return of the August 15th pilgrimage would be walkers, mass was celebrated by proud to know that it’s still going Canon Power and Fr. Loghran. strong all these years later. In fact, Once again, when the ceremonies judging by our visitors’ book that we were concluded, the locals provided opened for the first time this year, we much appreciated tea and refresh- had in excess of 200 people in atten- ments. Judging by the amount of food dance. As well as the hardy annuals, that was prepared, they could have fed it is also nice to see that a growing as many more again. One thing is cer- number of people from outside the tain, no one went home hungry. parish are coming to join our cele- Of course a lot of preparation was bration. This is a trend that we hope needed to make this day the success will continue in the coming years. that it was. Special thanks must go to Ceremonies began at the hill wall, our dedicated clergymen who give

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At the cross L to R: Laurence Kenny, Tom Purcell, Bill Meaney and Pat Cleary so freely of their time, to Jimmy and for providing the amplification. To Eileen O’Donnell for the use of their Merry’s of Clonmel for their gener- field, and we must also take this ous sponsorship. To Joan Dunphy, opportunity to wish Jimmy a speedy Clonmel, and Willie O’Meara for their recovery after his recent accident, work on the visitors’ book and stand. and to all the locals who helped in To the man who single-handedly any way, be it erecting the crosses, keeps Fethard and Killusty accessi- food preparation or altar preparation. ble to our friends and relatives far Take a bow one and all. To our Dutch away, Joe Kenny. And finally, to all of friends, Bert and Janneke, for provid- you who took the time to be there, ing much needed refreshments on your attendance made our efforts our way to the mountain. To Tommy worthwhile. We hope to see you all Butler and Premier Music, Clonmel, again next year.

Made it to the top! L to R: Patricia Cronan, Michael Cronan, Dan Sheehan, Toby Purcell and Philly Cahill. 106 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

107 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Nano Nagle National School

Junior Infants’ Class at Nano Nagle National School. Back L to R: Noelle O'Meara (Woodvale Walk), Conor Harrington (Kerry Street), Ciara Connolly (The Green), Katie O'Flynn (Killerk North), Megan Earl (Slievenamon Close), Mrs Margaret Gleeson (Teacher). Middle Row L to R: Rebecca Jones (Monroe House, Cashel Road), Shannon Thompson (Kilnockin View), Sally Nagle (Rathkenny, Drangan), Gavin Mullally (Woodvale Walk), Leah Lawrence (Woodvale Walk), Sally Butler (Kilnockin). Front L to R: Amy Brophy (Kilnockin View), Sarah Carroll (Ballyrichard, Mullinahone), Sophie Neary (Burke Street), Amy Roche (Kilnockin View), Katie Ryan (Tullamaine), and Rebecca McCarthy (Derryluskin). Missing from photograph are: Shane Lawless (Woodvale Walk), Malachy Brett (Tullamaine), Sarah Slattery (Jossestown), Laura Hards (Kilnockin View), and Sinead Regan (Woodvale Walk).

ano Nagle National School Lorraine de Lacy, High Support Unit; Nstaff for this year: Sr. Maureen Mrs Anne D’Arcy, Secretary; and Mr Power (Principal) 5th Class; Mrs. Willie Ryan, Caretaker. Maureen Maher (Vice-Principal) 1st This year we say a fond farewell to & 2nd Classes; Mrs. Rita Kenny, 6th Sr. Mary McNamara who has retired Class; Ms. Elaine Brady, 3rd & 4th after thirty-seven years teaching in Classes; Sr. Winnie Kirwan, Senior Fethard. Many of our readers will Infants; Mrs. Margaret Gleeson, remember Sr. Mary by her former Junior Infants; Mrs Mary Hanrahan, name, Sr. Gemma, and all of us will Learning Support Teacher; Ms. remember her dedication to teaching

108 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER and to her pupils. Presentations to Sr. for each performance. Our thanks Mary by the school staff, pupils and also to Austy O’Flynn and his staff in the Parents’ Association affirmed the the Abymill. high esteem in which she was held Our programme comprised: ‘The by all and, we hope, conveyed our Christmas Angel’, Junior Infants deep appreciation of her long and (with a little help from their friends in valued contribution to Nano Nagle 3rd Class) — This little angel knows, National School. “there’s something special going Ann-Marie Harty, our Special on”, but isn’t quite sure what it’s all Needs Assistant, also finished her about. We journey with her on her tenure in June, but has returned to us quest, enjoying the many delights of on a part-time basis, to the delight of the Christmas season along the way. both staff and pupils. Sr. Juliana, who And then, finally, the real meaning of is home from New Zealand, is also Christmas is revealed. helping out on a voluntary basis with ‘Our Magic Christmas Tree’, Senior learning support pupils and we are Infants, 1st & 2nd Classes — very grateful for her assistance. Christmas is coming and expecta- Ms Michelle Skehan, who taught tions are high, and although the out- 6th Class last year, is now working in look is none too bright for a certain Thurles and we wish her every suc- “tiny, little tatty little tree” or indeed cess in her new position. Michelle for the children in the nearby spearheaded a major M.S. orphanage, yet with a sprinkle of Readathon Project with her pupils Christmas magic everything comes which realised a substantial €2,300. right on the night. She also arranged for the school to ‘Manger Mania’ 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th feature on Tipp FM Radio later in the Classes — This modern upbeat ver- year. Our older pupils got a chance sion of the Nativity is a fun-filled live- to showcase their talents and a most ly show that nonetheless reflects the enjoyable session ensued. deeper meaning of Christmas. It was We are delighted to welcome back a musical medley showcasing the Mrs. Rita Kenny, our 6th class teacher many talents of our 53-pupil cast. who rejoins us after a one-year Teachers, Ms. Michelle Skehan and career break. Ms. Elaine Brady, provided the musi- One of our most successful ven- cal accompaniment on guitar and tures last year was our Christmas keyboard. concert in the Abymill Theatre. All Our pupils are going swimming classes were involved and, once this year for the first time and athlet- again, our parents were a great sup- ics has also figured prominently dur- port sourcing and making costumes, ing the first term with our pupils helping out ‘front of house’ and, of competing in Thurles and Clonmel. course, being a wonderful audience Céilí dancing will resume next term

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Fethard Nano Nagle Primary School 6th Class. Back L to R: Rachel Prout, Orla Lawrence, Stephanie Allen, Claire Morrissey, Rebecca O'Donnell, Jenny Pyke, Maryanne Fogarty, Edel O'Sullivan. Front L to R: Mary Jane Kearney, Louise O'Donnell, Amy Lyons, Jane Holohan, Faye Manton and Amanda Ryan. and we hope to focus on basketball prizes took place in Cahir House and football skills in the third term. Hotel. On behalf of our school Katie Promoting environmental aware- Butler, Jennifer Rice and Lucy Butler ness continues apace with ongoing accompanied by Mrs Maureen recycling of cans and computer ink Maher, accepted a Waterford Crystal cartridges, the promotion of a litter- figurine and a cheque for €300. Great free environment and the ‘planting excitement was engendered by the –up’ of the courtyard. The grove of presence of Duncan Stewart (of trees planted just below the play- ‘About the House’ TV fame) who ground is now developing nicely, and duly signed autographs and posed during the summer a pathway was for photographs. put in to facilitate nature walks for The Book Fair in February was, as our pupils. This should prove a great always a great success with sales resource for the school as it contains totalling €3,422 which means that we a wide variety of trees, with a special were entitled to claim books to the emphasis on the native species. value of €2,053 in commission for our Our efforts to date have born fruit class libraries. During Book Fair week, as the school has once again won we focus on reading in a very special first prize (Fethard Electoral area) in way, allocating specific times for class the County Council’s ‘Tidy Schools visits to the fair and arranging story- Competition.’ telling sessions. The childrens’ enjoy- Last year, the presentation of ment of, and enthusiasm for, books is

110 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER the real measure of the Book Fair’s successful realisation of our goals for success as far as we are concerned. our school and we very much appre- Our Parents’ Association is ciate all their efforts on our behalf. involved in various events through- As we prepare for Christmas 2005, out the year: the annual cake sale in we send seasonal greetings to all October, the sponsored walk and our who read this newsletter, especially ever popular Fun Sports Day in June. those who may find themselves far The parents’ ongoing commitment from home; Beannacht Dé Oraibh and support is a major factor in the agus Nollaig Shona Dhíbh go léir. St. Patrick’s Boys’ National School

St. Patrick's Boys School 6th Class. Back L to R: Dean Sharpe, Ger Maher, Tony Myler, David Burke, Gavin Carroll, Gareth Lawrence, Jamie Walsh, Andrew Maher. Front L to R: Noel O'Brien, Ted Barrett, Brian Delahunty, Louis Rice, Michael Smyth and Gavin Lonergan. Missing from photograph is Tommy Veale. e have had a very busy year on our school outing to U.C.L. Sports Wthis year. Some of our activi- Complex in Limerick also had a ties included swimming, hurling, memorable and tiring day. football, soccer, athletics and céilí We would like to thank the staff dancing. We had an excellent show and pupils of the Patrician from Clan Cluana Drama Group and Presentation Secondary School who had an exciting day with poet Declan took our senior pupils for cookery Lucey. We also visited the South classes and volleyball coaching dur- Tipperary County Museum in ing the year. We were successful in Clonmel. Everybody who travelled the junior section of the Credit Union

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Quiz. We had a good year in the we received a Highly Commended sporting field too. The Under-13 and Certificate. We would like to thank Under-11 football teams reached the everybody who helped us with our finals in their respective divisions. research and especially Mrs. Mary The Under-11 hurling team won the Hanrahan for her great contribution county final for the first time ever. and time. On the athletics scene in the We have had major work carried Cidona Primary Schools Cross out to the school building itself and Country Competition our boys came also on the heating system with work 1st in Divisions 2 and 3 and 2nd in still to be done to the yard. It looks as Division 1. Brian Delahunty took 2nd if we’ll be equally busy next year! overall. Our current staff are: Mrs Patricia We entered a project on The Treacy (Principal), Mrs Eileen Augustinian Abbey-700 years in Fitzgerald, Ms Carmel Lonergan, Ms Fethard in the Independent Aisling Ryan and Ms Helena Delany. Newspapers Competition for which Best wishes to all.

St Patrick's Boys School Fethard, County Champions, Cumann na mBunscoil Under 11 Roinn C, following their win over Upperchurch. The final score was Fethard 6-4, Upperchurch 3-4. Back L to R: Willie Ryan (coach), Eoin Walsh, Ger Maher, Garreth Lawrence, Ronan Fitzgerald, Gerard Gorey, Andrew Maher, Eileen Fitzgerald (teacher). Front L to R: Brian Delahunty, David Gartland, Ciarán O'Meara, Dylan Fitzgerald, John Gartland (captain), Brian Healy, Cathal Hurley and Vincent Lawrence.

112 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

29 Seconds by Vincent Murphy

Fethard on the 14th August 2003 didn’t know anything about the “It’s a deal . . . enjoy the flight.” Iman who was sitting at the bar. I I shot out the door and into the car found out later that he had starred in before anybody could change their many films, including classics like mind. A few minutes later I was hov- Alfred Hitchcock’s film, ‘The Birds’ ering over Fethard and it was fantas- and ‘Giant’ with James Dean, among tic. It was a dream come true. It only many others. All I knew when I lasted a few short minutes but it felt served him a pint in the bar was that like forever. And to top it all, we land- he had arrived from Dublin by heli- ed behind my own house. copter and that his wife was urging I asked the pilot what the man’s him to drink up as they had to get name was. He answered me, shout- back to the capital in a hurry. He was ing over the noise of the swirling hoping to have a second pint. I saw rotors overhead. “Roy something or an opening to get a spin in a helicop- other . . . will you give him this pack- ter so I volunteered to go out to age . . . his photos are in it.” Mouse Morris’ yard where they had I ran straight up to the bar to tell landed and guide the pilot to the the gentleman that his helicopter field behind the bar. I told them that I was out the back. “Thanks for the had never been in a helicopter and spin, Roy,” I said, handing over the that he could have the second pint package, and went back to work while he waited for his transport to behind the bar. arrive. He shook my hand and said, Mick Dineen was sitting at the

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The Valley of Slievenamon — 14th August 2003 counter. “You got his name wrong. them like mad, I’d try any type of fly- It’s Rod, not Roy, Rod Taylor the ing activity whenever I got the actor,” he informed me. I looked at chance. Mr Taylor who didn’t seem too upset On 28th June this year, a friend, by my mistake. He was busy pulling Hugh, phoned offering a flight in his pictures from an envelope that the helicopter. As usual, I jumped at the pilot had given me at the helicopter. chance. We arranged to meet at Pat They were photographs of the film White’s airstrip in Derryluskin, where star as a much younger man. He he would pick me up and take me for signed a few for the older people the promised trip. I decided to take who knew his name, posed for a pic- the video camera along, as I couldn’t ture for the local paper and then took usually use it when I was doing the off into the sky and disappeared. flying myself. The helicopter was just I had been fascinated by flying back from its ‘Certificate of before that, but now I was hooked. A Airworthiness’ examination and the few years later I got a pilot’s license doors hadn’t been put back on, so it to fly aeroplanes. After that I did a was the ideal time to shoot a bit of few hours training on helicopters. footage of Fethard, without the per- Not enough to get a full helicopter spex door in the way. The quality of license, but enough to understand the shots would be much clearer. how they worked. Little did I realise I strapped myself in and we took how useful that few hours’ training off. I turned the camera on and let it would be a few years down the line. roll. We shot along the cornfields and Now, shoot forward about fifteen out over the hedge, gaining height all years to 2005. I’d been flying for over the time. It was a beautiful summer’s ten years in everything from micro- day with a gentle breeze and a few lights, ultralights, gliders, paragliders, clouds in the sky, an ideal flying day helicopters and planes. Short of glu- with good visibility and no turbu- ing feathers to my arms and flapping lence. We climbed to a thousand

114 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER feet on the north side of Fethard and a helicopter can glide a certain dis- then decided to circle the town a few tance if the engine blows. It won’t times before hovering on the south glide very far, but you’ll hopefully side to get a few good shots of the have enough of a glide to get down medieval town wall before landing safely. Hugh’s years of experience back at the airstrip. kicked in. The machine was going Everything was going well on our down fast. Directly beneath us were first circuit of the town. We had just houses. They had to be avoided. flown over my house and I knew that Behind them was a field full of cattle. my wife, Sarah, would be at the back They had to be avoided. The next door giving a wave, though I couldn’t field had a set of power lines going see her as I was concentrating on through it. They had to be avoided. filming. I’d planned to give her a big Our options were limited if we want- wave on the second circuit, or when ed to avoid an accident on the we stopped to hover. But then we ground. The next field was empty so heard a bang. Hugh aimed “What was for that. that?”, we both Thankfully, said in unison. after hours of Then the nose training in vari- of the helicop- ous flying ter dipped and machines, with the tail started many simulat- to go into a ed engine fail- spin. For about ures, we both three seconds remained total- I thought that ly calm. we were going Helicopter pilot Hugh Clarke from Kilsheelan You never photographed seconds after he was forced to to die. Those know how you crash land in a field outside Fethard. were three very will react in a long seconds. The only thing I real situation until you are actually in remember was a glimpse of the sun it. I have no idea if Hugh heard a illuminating the town wall and the word that I said as I pointed out thought that we were going to spin obstacles on our way down. With into it. If a full spin developed, we about fifty feet to go, we still had to would not recover. But somehow avoid one more obstacle. There was Hugh retained control. He put the a tree in our way. Hugh gave the helicopter into autorotation. Having machine a shot of power to get over done a few hours’ training in helicop- that final hurdle. We cleared it and ters, I knew what was going on. then ran out of steam. With just a few Contrary to what many people think, feet to go, the helicopter fell to the

115 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 ground. It thrashed around for a few the ground. Bits of the machine were seconds, but stayed upright. We scattered all over the field. Hugh and checked that we were both unin- I stood by the wrecked machine with- jured, and I then jumped from the air- out a scratch on either of us in the craft in case the fuel tank exploded. full knowledge that we were very As I jumped something grazed my lucky to be alive. Without realising it, head, so I dived onto the ground and I had kept the camera rolling all the started to roll until I was sure that I time. It was still in my hands, even had cleared the area where the after jumping and rolling from the blades were still spinning. I stood up helicopter. and looked back. I thought then that That night, Sarah and I sat down the spinning blades had hit my hair. I and watched the footage that I had found out later that I had forgotten to shot that day. She had seen the acci- remove my headset before I jumped dent from the ground and had out and that was what had grazed my received a bigger shock than either head. The rotor would have removed Hugh or myself. We counted the it. time that elapsed between the bang I could then see that the tail end of in the air to the impact with the the helicopter was missing. The ground. It was all over in just twenty rotors had sliced it off when we hit nine seconds.

Tom McCormack, Monroe, Fethard, photographed on the occasion of his 70th birthday this year with his wife Kathleen, daughters Claire (left) and Rita. 116 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Abymill Theatre

he Annual General Meeting of which attracts a great variety of peo- Tthe Abymill Theatre took place ple and shows every year. On the on Thursday 23rd June 2005 in the home front, the Fethard Players Abymill Theatre and the following staged the highly acclaimed, ‘Blithe Board of Directors was elected: Spirit’ in November 2004. The Austin O’Flynn (Administrator), Joe Patrician Presentation Secondary Kenny (Chairman), Marian Gilpin School had ‘Joseph and the Amazing (Secretary), Agnes Evans Technicolor Dreamcoat’ in (Treasurer), Michael McCarthy, December 2004 and the pupils an Noelle O’Dwyer, Eileen Maher, staff of the Nano Nagle National Jimmy O’Shea, Vincent Murphy, School delighted all with a return Mary McCormack, Bernard Walsh Christmas visit to the Abymill. and Carmel Rice. The Premier Swing Band made a The Abymill is a beautiful building return visit in February with Irene Malone, Liam Butler and the Thurles Gospel Singers. Majella Forte’s dance school staged a packed-to-capacity show in the early summer. The Abymill has also been the venue for some of the Augustinian Abbey Jubilee 700 celebrations. One of the local popular events in the Abymill is the weekly Thursday night game of Bingo, which is still alive and well in Fethard. It is great to see so many younger players taking part in this family game, hosted by Gerry Fogarty. The Abymill is also used as a venue for large public meetings and seminars, as well as lectures and meetings organised by the local Historical Society. On a more sombre note one of our directors Noelle O’Dwyer sadly passed away in September, our sym- pathy is extended to her husband, Gerry Fogarty calling the numbers at Michael and her brothers of the the weekly game of Bingo. Maher family.

117 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Fethard Players

Cast of 'Tons of Money'. Back L to R (standing with hats): Eoin Powel and Eoin Whyte. Front L to R: Niamh Hayes, Joe Hanley, Mia Treacy, Jimmy O'Sullivan, Gerry Fogarty, Marian Gilpin, Liam Ryan and Mary O'Connell.

his year’s Fethard Players pro- November, due to public demand. Tduction was ‘Tons of Money’, a Fethard Players officers for this comedy by Alan Ayckbourn adapted year: Chairperson, Carmel Rice; from the original by Will Evans and Secretary, Geraldine McCarthy; and Valentine. Treasurer, Lisa Laaksonen. The play was produced by Austin The Fethard Players wish to thank O’Flynn was staged in the Abymill all who helped stage this production, Theatre from 13th to 19th November, and wish all our emigrants and read- with an extra night on 20th ers a very Happy Christmas. Fethard Boys Scouts

n comparison with years gone members assisted at regional scout- Iby, 2005 was certainly a quiet ing events where the opportunity year for Fethard Scouts. With the presented. exception of putting up marquees to Local leader Robert Phelan provid- aid the running of pony shows in ed assistance in organising and run- Grove, our activities at local level, ning the regional orienteering, but so were sadly, very limited. At regional as not to break tradition, the highlight level, some of our leaders and senior of our calendar was joining the

118 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Clonmel, Ballymac and Kilsheelan McCarthy and Philip O’Donnell also units on their annual camp. Camp attended camp. this year was held in Carne Beach, Congratulations to Leader John Wexford where the sun seemed to be Cloonan who gave us a big day out hiding for a lot of the two weeks! Still, on 23rd July, when he got married to despite the poor weather, spirits Susan Moore. John has given long, were not dampened, with one of the loyal and devoted service to the highlights being a hike up Mount Fethard scout troop over the years as Leinster with an added bonus of a both a scout and leader, and we wish tour of the RTE booster station at the both Sue and himself every happiness summit. Camp was attended by and good health for the future. Dermot Culligan and Mike McCarthy At the time of going of press plans who joined up with the Clonmel ven- are afoot to restart the unit for mid to turers for the two weeks. late October so hopefully the Fethard The two boys, now ‘veterans’ of Scout notes for the newsletter in 2006 annual camp, having camped for two will be a much fuller report! If you weeks every summer for the last six have any queries about Scouts in summers, have already said they Fethard, please feel free to contact hope to journey again next year for Bobby Phelan Tel: 086 2446085, another fortnight of fun, games and Philip O’Donnell Tel: 087 8124548 or maybe even some romance, eh lads! John Cloonan Tel: 086 8190569. Leaders, Bobby Phelan, John Thanks for your support.

Mary and Louis Coen from Killusty pictured with their family at a surprise 25th wedding anniversary party which was organised at their home in Killusty by their many friends and neighbours in May 1992

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The Augustinian Abbey

Remembering a youthful code of devotion to spiritual mode. The chapel that is between the Clashawley, and the houses on the Cloneen road. There is a long history of devotion and prayers, Benediction in the evening with incense, High Mass during Easter ceremonies, at Christmas, a midnight mass. Corpus Christi and May processions, the Rosary, confessions, windows of stained glass, music from the organ in the balcony, played by Anne Kenrick, flowers brought by Joe Barrett O’Connor, Girlie Healy and Mary O’Connell, farm manager Joey Fogarty putting Easter and holy water into the barrel fonts and bottles. Reading and praying before the headstones in the cemetery that adjoins, serving as an altar boy, reciting the Latin lines. The walking saints, Fathers Stokes, Bell, Clifford, Killian of the young, Lighting candles for intentions, admiring the marble and stained glass, kissing of the Cross, blessing the throats and half seven Mass. Lovely fashion by Angeline, gardens of a sundial, statues, Sheela na gig, trees, flowers, paths, the paper house, orchard and the farm scenery of charm, echoes of Father Tirry, Oliver Cromwell, Bishop O’Donnell. The Butlers so still, beside the mysteries of Coffey’s Mill. The wonder of the missions. Go raibh maith agat, Dhia guit .

— John Joe Keane

120 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Red Haired Angel! by Eddie O’Brien

e were going to a wedding in time to catch the last order for Wand we didn’t even know it lunch at the village bar. While wait- yet! ‘We’ being me, Eddie O’Brien, ing, what did I see on the wall facing who currently resides on the corner me but the one and only sublime of Burke Street and Main Street, and ‘Desiderata’, a wonderful verse of my other two travel companions, wisdom, knowledge and common aunts Agnes Evans and Maura Trehy. sense that was found many many It was Wednesday 14th September years ago in Old Pauls Church, 2005 and we were travelling back to Baltimore, Maryland, USA. It begins, County Cork. Kanturk to be exact — “Go placidly amid the noise and well not exactly! haste and remember what virtue It does say on the Legion of Mary there is in silence as far as possible leaflet that Edel Quinn was born in without surrender…” Kanturk, Co Cork. The truth is she It’s worth checking out. Nobody was born a couple of miles outside appears to know who wrote it and I Kanturk in a townland called believe it is available in book format Greenane and the house is still there. or as a poster. It was printed on the It is known locally as the “magpie wall in the vintage bar on a large house”, so I guess there must have piece of wood. I can tell you that it been three of those birds hanging lifted my spirit to see that there . . . around that house on 14th and I was only drinking coffee! September, 1907, when this little baby After lunch we three pilgrims drove girl was born (three for a girl). back out the road towards Greenane Her father was a Galway man, and Edel Quinn’s birthplace. Last Charles Quinn, and her mother’s year we met the elderly couple living maiden name was Louise Burke there so when we arrived I rang the Browne, a Clare woman. She had met doorbell but there appeared to be and married Charles in Roscommon nobody at home. where he worked in the National Our next stop was the church of St Bank and now in a new home and Mary in Castlemagner, not too far county there were three. down the road. It was here that my Back to the present — we three pil- red-haired angel was baptised Edel grims left Fethard about 11.30am. Mary Quinn on 18th September, 1907, Being a Wednesday morning I had to by resident priest Fr. Green. Her deliver newspapers, ‘South Tipp mother had chosen the name of Today’, before I left. Even with a cou- Adéle, after one of her sisters, yet the ple of road diversions on the way, we priest mistook it for Edel, which was made good time and got to Kanturk the short version for Edelweiss — the

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Visiting Edel Quinn’s grave in the Missionaries' Cemetery, Nairobi, Kenya, earli- er this year were L to R: Richard O’Rourke, Margaret Ryan, Bro Paul Brennan and Catherine O’Rourke. flower that grows on the mountain, made their way into the church. I most notably in Alpine regions and asked one of the wedding party what made famous by Christopher the bride’s name was and they told Plummer in the film ‘The Sound of me, Máiréad Carroll and she was Music (1965)’. It is a flower that marrying Mrs O’Brien’s son. blooms in the heights, despite the Well, I paused for a moment and gales and heavy snow, so from then thought for a moment (or was it the on, the little girl would be known as other way around), then I said, “Well Edel. thank heaven I just got here on time!” Last year, our visit to the church in Well truthfully, I didn’t say any- Castlemagner had been delayed thing, in fact Máiréad was marrying a because we came across the funeral Mr Mark O’Brien from New Zealand of a local man, Dan Joe Corbett. and as the ceremony got underway Now, a year later, as we neared the my two aunties and I watched from a church of St Mary we spotted a lady pew at the back of the church. It was in white stepping out of a big black a lovely ceremony with a group of car. It was a young bride about to go musicians playing violins, guitars and into the church to get married. Her cello. When the wedding was over father held her by the hand as they and the new Mr and Mrs O’Brien

122 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER walked down the aisle (don’t worry ished her schooling, she left home to my day will come too). live in the city of Dublin. Edel wanted I later got a chance to pay my dear to, and planned to, become a nun, respects to my ‘Red Haired Angel’, though this was prevented because Edel Quinn, who has a shrine dedi- of a serious illness. She joined the cated to her on the left of the church. Legion of Mary and became a On the right of the chapel is the very remarkable worker for that cause. same baptismal font where she was Her long stay in hospital had left her baptised. physically impaired. Edel’s father’s work with the In 1936, she was appointed Legion National Irish Bank saw the family of Mary envoy and established the make frequent changes of address organisation in East and Central and, only after a few months living in Africa. This she did with remarkable Greenane, the family left Co. Cork faith and courage despite her poor and went to live in Clonmel. I am told health. After eight years of dedicated they lived on the Colville Road, there work Edel Quinn died in Nairobi, is a house on the right hand side Kenya, on 12th May, 1944, where she before you get to the Minella Hotel. is buried in the Missionaries’ Edel and her family lived in Clonmel Cemetery. By the way, 12th May is for six and a half years and during also the anniversary of our own this time she attended her first Blessed William Tirry, who died in school in the Loreto Convent. Market Square, Clonmel, on 12th May In 1913 her father Charles became 1654. manger of the National Bank in Cahir Before we left the church in and while still in County Tipperary, Castlemagner on 14th September, the Edel made her First Holy 98th anniversary of Edel’s birth, I met Communion in Cahir on the first day and spoke to a local woman, Shelia of June 1916. Healy, and she told me that she has a Further promotion for her father great faith in the little ‘Red Haired took the family to Enniscorthy, and Angel’. She is now Venerable Edel then Tralee. where they lived until Quinn and as we left the church in Christmas1924 before moving perma- Castlemagner and began our journey nently to Dublin. By this time Edel back to Fethard, I thought to myself had three sisters, Leslie, Mona and that this has been another special Dorathea, and one brother Raphael. day. I had visited my ‘Red Haired Edel spent a couple of years at a Angel’ again and Mrs O’Brien’s son boarding school in England at Upton had just tied the knot (not too tight I in Cheshire, where she excelled at hope). The best of luck to Máiréad studies and sports, before returning and Mark, wherever you are. to the family home at, Trafalgar It had been a faithful member of Terrace, Monkstown. When she fin- the Fethard Legion of Mary, Agnes

123 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Photo taken on 15th August 1954 at the blessing of the Mary Immaculate Shrine by Archbishop O'Donnell in Killusty on the site of the old school. L to R: Lar Donovan (Byrneskill), Dick Donovan (Walshbog), Michael Byrne (Killusty), Pat Cantwell (Loughcopple), Pat Lonergan (Shanbally, Lisronagh), Jim Corr (Killusty South), Tom Sheehan (Clarebeg), Tommy O'Connell (Main Street, Fethard), Dick Allen (Killusty), Master Neddy Holohan (Killusty), Archbishop O'Donnell, Paddy O'Meara, Cloran (partially hidden), Phil Quinn (Walshbog), Master Larry Hickey (Cloran), Canon Ryan P.P. (Fethard), Mick Halpin (Killusty), and Fr Lambe C.C. (Fethard). Allen (rest her soul) who had first ed because she was all for progress given me a leaflet and made me and nothing would ever stand in her aware of the life of Edel Quinn, and way. There’s not many who would so it was another Agnes, my aunt, get in the way of a red headed Cork who had driven us both times to that women. I’ll bet, and please God, one quiet crossroads in Castlemagner, day we’ll give up our sins and our which as it happens, is enjoying a ‘Red Headed Angel’ will become a housing development. ‘Shocking Holy Saint. I’m sure Edel would not have mind-

124 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Someone thinks of you tonight

Far away a light is burning, In a window clear and bright, Far away you’re not forgotten, Someone thinks of you tonight.

Far away a spray of ivy, Clings beside a cabin door, Far away a Robin Redbreast, Sings in song of days of yore,

Write a letter home to mother, Send your love to dear old dad, Tell them that you’re feeling happy, Though some days you may be sad.

Never tell the world your sorrows, Smiles are better by far then tears. Tell them that you will be home soon, Though you may not come home for years.

But far away a light is burning, In a window clear at night, Far away you’re not forgotten, Someone thinks of you tonight.

— Frankie Napper

125 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 John Joe’s Corner by John Joe Keane

McCarthy’s Worldwide Hotel by John Joe Keane

A quaint place of renown In dear old Fethard town Good drinks, food and craic An undertaking business out back Associated with the horse trade Regally, for many, many years A hub of industry careers Visited regularly by the famous Frequented by the spirited and sublime A capsule that transcends time.

Torrent old Roman Legion system. Alas, quite a few of the members are n a winter’s day while cross- deceased — Don Byard, Tommy Oing over by Coffey’s Mill weir, I O’Connell, Tommy Carey — and more stopped for a look, the sheer force of are scattered wide. the water was disorientating. The The means were the secret bag col- sluice gate was open and its current lections, a bag that was passed mixed with the main river and mill around at each meeting. Along with pool. Our coming of age was to hang money you could find washers, upside down on the bar over the mints and sometimes nothing. Times weir in flood. From that angle, the were tough. eyes, brain and inner ear were out of The Christmas party was eagerly sync with normality, but you were awaited, sweets, buns, lemonade and chicken if you didn’t do it. The cur- Tommy O’Connell’s rendition of the rents were strong enough to carry ‘Hokey Pokey’. I got my first spot on anything not fastened away. stage in New Inn, backed by Marie Shortall and friends, John Shortall on The Legion mandolin, singing ‘Lovely Leitrim’ o the Tirry Club or the Nissan and ‘I’ll tell my Ma’. Ned King, God THut we duly came and prayed, have mercy on him, gave me a loan a weekly gathering of all ages, the of new shoes. God bless Josie King. Presidium was democratic and offi- The Legion formed a valuable part of cers were elected, format was on the Fethard life then.

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Roots doing the biz. A break for lunch of o the babies in the convent I bread and milk, then back to work. Twas brought to school, and That evening we cycled home. Our then there was no Harry Potter, only backs were stiff, but we were grow- the pencil and jotter. The nuns were ing. Come Friday a decent wage, the strict and dedicated and not allowed race home was all the rage. out. Mrs Treacy gave us a grinder with jam and cocoa from the spout. The Forge “An bhfúil cead agam dul amach?” Situated on the Green, there, was the password to go to the toilet. smoke and horses were to be seen, The gardens were lovely. to be shod and newly turned out. I can still remember the smacks. Jack Gunne was the blacksmith, an The Powers lived in the lodge and a awkward animal he could quieten haven was the hedge. Sisters Teresita with a shout. The bellows reddened and Thomas kept us going but our the coals, which in turn heated the burgeoning interest was growing. A irons. The old shoes were removed penny for the black babies, or a half- and the makings of new ones shaped penny’s worth of tough slab toffee the groove. Paring, rasping, hammer- ing on the anvil, into the water The Dush trough, onto the hoof, nailed and tidi- oe Keane had a good left foot, a ly finished. The customer paid and Jregular free taker who scored, the sound of clip clop could be and many a defender succumbed. In heard on the road as it diminished. seventy-eight, his prowess was seen, a penalty was given, he hit it clean. Teenage Kicks The net danced, Fethard were on he Tirry Club for hops, the lat- their way. Once while hemmed in Test fashion from the shops, a Clonmel, he judged a gale, from the kiss after a dance or a serious corner flag, a point, the crowd did romance. Playing soccer near the hail. Played for his county and soc- dressing rooms, applying after-shave cer too, the memories do accrue. for scented fumes, hanging out with the lads being macho, listening for The Bulbs the latest catcho. Dreaming of ssembling in the morning to blondes, sports cars, money, playing Acycle to Annsgift. Hulsebosch air guitar and making faces that are was the owner and Mister Naundorf funny. The top twenty, image being got his drift. Out to the fields, bend all, answering a recognisable call. the backs, fill the boxes, the ditch Gathering after Mass, drinking bottles was the jacks. Mick Prout was large. of Bass, entertained by life and mak- Willy Crean kept going, Jack Leahy ing do with little time. and family and Mister Brown were

127 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Ypres Revisited by Tommy Healy

his summer I revisited the chants who grew rich on that trade TBelgian town of Ypres. I had and, as a result, endowed their town last been there in 1994 with my with many fine buildings. The other younger daughter, Ruth and this time which survives from that time, albeit I went with my elder daughter, restored, is St Martin’s Cathedral, a Kathleen. Both girls had studied the huge ecclesiastical edifice where we First World War as part of their ‘A’ attended Mass on the Sunday Level courses in history and were evening of our visit. Across the road anxious to see at from it is the more first hand some of modest St George’s the sights of that Anglican Church, now most distant constructed as part conflict. Ypres is a of the English War good starting point Memorial to the for anyone interest- fallen and which is ed in that war for it furnished entirely is preserved like with material some scientific donated in memo- specimen, almost in ry of individuals aspic. It suffered and regiments of destruction of bibli- the British Army. A cal proportions visit to it is a sober- between Autumn ing experience, it 1914 and the end of brings home in the conflict. striking fashion the Afterwards it was human cost of war reconstructed to the and puts or should original plan and put to shame those and now it seems Tommy Healy politicians who are like a place utterly frozen in time, that keen to sacrifice the lives of others to time being the period immediately advance their own glory. before 1914. During most of the time we were It has a museum dedicated to that subjected to Flanders weather, like war housed in the restored Cloth Fethard on a rainy day when the mist Hall. This building was erected origi- rolls over Sliabh Na Mban, only far nally during the Middle Ages when worse if such can be imagined. Flanders was the centre of the Having been caught out on previous European cloth trade and it was the visits we arrived well prepared and meeting place of the wealthy mer- negotiated the sights through a per-

128 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER sistent downpour. recreate the conditions of the battle A visit to Artillery Wood Cemetery and almost succeeds. I was intrigued began in rain, which relented after a to notice that among the recordings few minutes and we were able to of songs of the time was one of view the resting place of Francis “Keep the Home Fires Burning”, Ledwidge. I discovered that a memo- sung by John McCormack. rial to him has been erected on the What particularly caught my atten- edge of the cemetery and it is good tion was an attempt to chronicle the to know that such a fine poet and part played in the conflict by Irish sterling character has been so hon- Regiments of the British Army. It oured at last. A few yards from his describes the part played by such as grave lies Ellis Humphrey Evans, the the Royal Dublin Fusiliers, the Welsh poet, better known as Hedw Munster and Leinster Fusiliers and Wynn, who strangely was killed on the Connaught Rangers, regiments the same day as Ledwidge, July 31st which were raised originally during 1917. That August a poem of his won the 18th century but disbanded in the Bardic Chair Title at the 1922 when independence was Llangollen Festival. As the judges achieved. It tries to redress an imbal- arrived at their decision it was point- ance in Irish history, the neglect of ed out that the author had been that aspect of the story. In the recent reported as having been killed in past the events of 1916 to 1922 and action the previous week and, as a the struggle of the then Free State to result, the chair was swathed in acquire a place in the world tended black in his memory. to obscure that facet of the country’s The Great War has spawned a huge experience. Fethard contributed a number of museums across Belgium huge number of troops to Kitchener’s and France. The latest is the Armies, as did every other town in Passchendaele Museum in the the country, a fact that Kitchener sleepy village of nearby Zonnebeke. chose not to appreciate, considering It is devoted to keeping alive the the shabby treatment accorded the memory of this destructive battle Irish Volunteers who joined up. This where men fought and died in condi- was in stark contrast to the deferen- tions of almost unimaginable tial treatment given the Ulster squalor. The area is low lying, much Volunteers who a few weeks before of it is below sea level, in fact the were threatening mayhem if the word Flanders means “the flooded actions of a democratically elected land”. It rains on two days out of government were carried into force. I three and on the morning the battle refer to the Third Home Rule Bill began, the heavens opened and it which proposed to create for the rained for the next fortnight almost whole of the island what the same without respite. The museum tries to unionists were to accept for the Six

129 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Kathleen Healy at Artillery Wood Cemetery Counties seven years later. Army during the early part of the As Ireland has achieved a cred- 19th century were Irish. When the itable economic status and has shak- Connaught Rangers returned from a en off the feeling of always compar- seven-year-long period of service in ing itself to Great Britain, often with India in the 1880s, many had no fami- an unjustified inferiority complex, ly homes to go to for eviction and that aspect can be explored and its emigration had destroyed that aspect place recognised. of their lives. Ireland contributed hugely to the A visit to the Royal Naval Museum economic, the military and naval in Portsmouth in May led to the dis- development of Britain. In the TV covery that many of the sailors in series ‘Sharpe’ is the character Nelson’s Fleet were Irish, for some Patrick Harper, a sergeant in the Rifle were literate enough to leave graphic Brigade during the Peninsular War accounts of their experiences. The (1808-1814). He is merely the proto- ‘hedge schools’ must have been very type of the many thousands of efficient establishments. Irishmen who served in the regi- The point I am making is that ments of the British Army at that Ireland has a creditable history. We time. In fact it has been calculated should accept our flaws and limita- that thirty five percent of the British tions like every other country but

130 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER also remember our wider contribu- its schools which is bizarre in many tion to the world, not least to Britain. of its features. It is peculiar that it has It is a contribution which is not fallen to the lot of a small museum in known very well in Ireland nor an area of Belgium a little off the appreciated in Britain which is now beaten track to try to set the record saddled with a history curriculum for straight.

Uncle Peter by Bridget Napier

elview Nursing Home is Peter to visit Clonea beach.” “Twas often I MNapier’s new home these walked to Dungarvan,” he said. days. In this fine house he lives out “How far is it?” I ask, incredulous. his days. Still the life and soul of “Twenty-six miles to the Square in every party and get Dungarvan,” he together, Peter likes answers. “It used to nothing better than to take a day and a half. climb aboard the bus The farmer, after buy- for Fethard and spend ing 6 or 8 cattle in the a day in his beloved sale would give you town. £3 to walk them back I went to visit Peter to Clonmel along the on a ‘pet day’ in back roads, and when October — one of darkness fell, I’d hunt those golden days — a them into a field for gift from mother the night, then I’d pile nature, and quite ‘sops’ of hay around unexpected in its in a circle and sleep beauty before the there for meself, safe onset of winter. from the cattle Peter was seated hooves.” outside the rear of the “God you’d wake up house — a picture of stiff and sore. The relaxation — cigarette woman of the house smoke rising to the would give you a mug heavens. His face of tea if she was feel- shows the entire story Peter Napier at Melview ing generous. If not, a of his years and his head still covered sup of milk. On along then and in that familiar white thatch. shorten the road, collect me £3 from “Many’s the Saturday I spent like the farmer, buy a few messages in this in the mart,” he tells me. I Kenny’s shop, then off to the pub for remark, “What a nice day it would be a few pints of porter and a song or

131 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 two.” to visit again tomorrow and maybe “That was a long time ago,” he take a spin to Clonea if I’m not too offers. “People living in little hovels at tired. Driving 26 miles there and back the side of the road, all in big man- seems a mighty task but the road will sions now.” be shortened by some more of As we parted company I promise Peter’s stories. Juvenile GAA Club

Juvenile players and club members about to leave by bus to the All Ireland Hurling Quarter Finals in Croke Park on 31st July, where thirty-five children and six adults set off to see Tipperary v Galway, and Kilkenny v Limerick.

he past year proved to be a We were beaten by 4 points in the Tgreat one for us — the highlight replay. Our under-6, 8 and 10s played — playing in the Under-12 ‘B’ county numerous games throughout the hurling final. This year we were year, as they developed their basic delighted to have 70 to 80 players skills in some great games. play for us in grades under-6, 8, 10, Our under-14s got to both semifi- 11, 12, 13, 14 and 16, in both codes. nals but were unfortunately beaten. Although we did not win all of No disgrace for this young team as these competitions, we reached the they put up very brave performanc- finals of the under-11 floodlight cup, es. The under-16 teams also reached under-12 south finals in both hurling the semis in both codes and were and football. We were not successful most disappointed not to do better, in the football but won the hurling in the hurling particularly, after win- final in great style beating Kilsheelan ning all their league matches con- in a thrilling game. We then qualified vincingly. for the county final in Semple When we look back on last year it Stadium and this ended in a draw. is quite evident to see that our future

132 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Intermediate Girls Group at Fethard Summer Camp looks bright in the club. We have required to play hurling and football. some outstanding talent coming We would like to thank all the parents through the ranks and this is testa- for the time and effort they have made ment to the coaches who gave their in travelling to and from training and time, and make a tremendous effort in matches. One knows it is never easy developing the necessary skills particularly in this day and age when

Kevin Hayes and his wife Jackie with their children Devin and Liam at Fethard GAA Summer Camp. Kevin and family were home on holiday from USA

133 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Senior Boys’ Group at Fethard Summer Camp children are nearly all involved in come and get involved. Every little other activities. I’m sure it’s worth it helps and our door is always open. when we celebrate the wins. To all the players, parents, anyone Finally, with next year just around who has helped over the year, and all the corner, the juvenile club would abroad, we wish you a very Merry like to invite anyone who can to Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Senior Girls Group at Fethard Summer Camp

134 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Intermediate Boys Group at Fethard GAA Summer Camp

Junior Boys Group at Fethard Summer Camp

135 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Fethard GAA Club

South Tipp Champions 1924 - Back Row: John O’Donnell (trainer), John O’Shea, Ned Connolly, Tommy Hogan, Tommy Mackey, Jer. Phelan, Mick Gunne, Jack Cummins, Gilla Allen, Middle Row: Dick Mackey, Tom Tubridy, Jack Delaney, Jim Gorman, Front Row: Gus McCarthy, Ned Cummins, Thomas Conway, Jack Brett and Ned O’Shea.

n Sunday 9th January 2005, O’Riordan; Chairman, Dick Oover fifty people attended our Fitzgerald; Vice Chairmen, Michael AGM held in the Abymill Theatre. A O’Dwyer and Austy Godfrey; detailed and excellent report of last Secretary, Gus Fitzgerald; Assistant year’s club happenings was put Secretary (and Juvenile Secretary), together by Noel Byrne, Miceál Caroline Sheehan; Treasurer, Nicky McCormack and Nicky O’Shea, O’Shea; Assistant Treasurer, Mary showing a healthy balance for the Godfrey; PRO, Noel Byrne; Insurance year ahead. Outgoing chairman Officer, Noel Byrne; Field (2004) Dick Fitzgerald and president Development Officer, Denis O’Meara; Fr Tom Breen handled proceedings Coaching, Damien Byrne; Youth / in a very constructive manner and Oifig Na Gaeilge, Miceál McCormack; both were re-elected for 2005. Scór, Mary Godfrey; County Board Officers elected for the coming Representative, Gus Fitzgerald; South year were: President, Fr Tom Breen; Board Representatives, Noel Byrne Life Presidents, Dick Cummins and and Michael O’Dwyer; Football Canon James Power; Vice Board Representative, Austy Godfrey. Presidents, Joe Aherne and Timmy The club entered nine teams in

136 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER championships for 2005 at a cost of a wonderful fisted goal to put us on €650 per team (minimum) at senior the road to victory. The Fethard play- level with juveniles extra, so you can ers acquitted themselves very well at see the rising cost of entering GAA headquarters in helping to bring teams in competition and the com- home the silverware to the premier mitment needed for raising finances. county against all the odds. We would like to thank everyone for The Intermediate Hurling South their continued support to the ‘Give Final was played on Sunday 25th All Association’. September in Kilsheelan and went to The Senior Football South Final extra time. We were unfortunate to played on Sunday 11th September loose this game by a point. Most resulted in Fethard winning their observers were definite that a replay 28th title, the last in 2002, on a score- would have been the call at the end line, Fethard 1-20 (1-10), Carrick of normal time, especially in a South Swans 1-4 (0-2). The team on Sunday Final with extra time applying to a was: Paul Fitzgerald (captain), Alan replay only. But, as a result of pres- Phelan, Michael Aherne, Ian Kenrick, sure from GAC and with Munster Willie Morrissey, John P. Looby, Club Championships in every grade, Stephen O’Donnell, Aidan Fitzgerald the show must move on regardless 0-3, Tomás Keane, Karl Maher 1-1, and hence we moved on to quarterfi- Michael Dillon 0-4, Miceál Spillane 0- nal of the County Championship with 2, Conor McCarthy 0-8 (3f), Brian a game on Saturday 1st October Coen 0-1, and Kenneth O’Donnell 0-1. against Moycarkey Borris in Cashel. Subs Introduced during the second The Fethard team who did us proud half were: Glen Burke for Ian Kenrick, were: Paul Fitzgerald, Shane Walsh, Damien Byrne for Stephen Stephen O’Donnell, Michael Carroll, O’Donnell, and Owen Doyle for Tomás Keane 0-1, Michael Ahearn, Willie Morrissey. Congratulations to Jamie McCormack, Aidan Fitzgerald Conor McCarthy for his ‘Man of the 0-4, Michael Dillon 0-2, Kenneth Match Award’. O’Donnell 0-3, John P. Looby, Brian Congratulations to Tipperary sen- Coen 0-1, Kieran Treacy 0-8F, Michael ior football team on achieving a great Ryan, Karl Maher 0-1. Subs were: victory over Wexford in the final of Cian Maher 0-1, Willie Morrissey, the Tommy Murphy Cup (Tipp 3-10, Alan Burke, and Alan Phelan.. Wexford 0-15) played in Croke Park To all those who passed to their on Sunday 4th September; to Paul eternal reward in 2005, Dick Wall, Fitzgerald for his ‘Man Of The Match’ Margaret Hackett (nee Hogan), Brian performance; to Damien Byrne on O’Donnell, Ned Delahunty, Noelle his performance for holding the All O’Dwyer (nee Maher), Dick Star Matty Forde to a single point Cummins. Go ndeana Dia trocaire from play; and to Aidan Fitzgerald for orthu.

137 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Fethard And Killusty Anglers

George McGrath bringing a nice trout to the net on the Anner

ur AGM was held on Friday they would like to fish these competi- O5th March in the Tirry Centre tions also, Sunday 24th April was the and the officers elected were: Tom only available Sunday. Our competi- Fogarty chairman, David Grant treas- tion was held on that day and proved urer, Matty Fleming secretary. Jim to be our best attended competition Sayers, Jim Fogarty, Tony Quigley, for years. Norman O’Regan and Liam Boland Twenty four anglers fished, a total were elected committee members. of seventy trout were caught, and the Membership fees for seniors was set results were: at €20 and juveniles €10. The John Sayers trophy: 1st Eddie All competition trophies, i.e. the Casey, 2nd Willie McGrath, 3rd John John Sayers, Eddie O’Neill, Jack Burke. O’Donnell and Tom Shea Cup would The John O’Donnell Cup was won be fished for on the same day. The by Paul Burke, for the heaviest trout. reason for this is that all fishing clubs The Tom Shea Cup was won by Jim affiliated to the M.R.T.A.C. set their Sayers. competition dates at the start of the The Eddie O’Neill cup was won by season and with a lot of our mem- Willie McGrath. bers being members of other clubs, A presentation was made to Matty

138 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Fleming for Club Person of the Year. times of heavy rain, bank high floods Fethard and Killusty Angling Club in winter and a dry riverbed in the has been in existence for fifty years summer — absolutely useless for fish- or more. Older Fethard people espe- ing. Couple this with pollution from cially, will no doubt recall times the sewage treatment plant below the when fishermen could be seen fish- town and what we are left with is a ing the Clashawley right through the river with no fish life and, of course, town stretch of water — John Sayers, no fishermen. Jim Ryan, Ned Shea, Tommy Coffey, But it is not all doom and gloom. Paddy Dahill and Dickie Butler to Meetings with the Fisheries Board name but a few. Times have changed have taken place and they have now and the Clashawley river has informed us that the new water treat- suffered the effects of land drainage ment plant should eliminate the pol- and pollution. lution and that within one to two Land drainage, as you are probably years, trout should return to the aware, allows water to run into the stretches of water below the treat- river quickly, bank high floods come ment plant. The drainage on the and go in a few hours. This can be other hand is just a big mistake we seen every year in Fethard during are going to have to live with. Jimmy does it again! immy O'Donnell, Sandyford, JDublin, and formerly Crampscastle, Fethard, has done it again this year, winning 1st prize of €210 in the Writers' Week Originals Short Poem, sponsored by Cork/Kerry Tourism & The Kerryman, with his entry entitled "Still Life". The prize was presented at the 'Writers Week' Official Opening Ceremony on Wednesday 1st June at the Listowel Arms Hotel. The entry was published in the 'Writers Week Winners' Book 2005. Once again congratulations on your success Jimmy (‘Still Life’ Jimmy’s winning poem, is published on page 143),

139 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Last wish to return home made possible

The immediate family of the late Joe Walsh, at the ruins of his family home. L to R: Rachael Brinsden, Nick Walsh, Di Harris, Danny Walsh, Margaret Walsh (Joe's wife), Timmy Walsh, Teresa Phillips and Bernie Walsh.

oseph Walsh, formerly from plaque taken from those school JCrampscastle, passed away on buildings is mounted in the wall of 16th June 2005. One of Joe's last the present school in Fethard. He wishes was to return home to his never wanted to leave Fethard, but in much loved Fethard. Early in the late 1930s his family moved to the September 2005, Joe's immediate fam- South East of England where they ily ensured that his last wish was car- settled in West End, Surrey, and ried out and they brought him home. where he later settled with his own Joe was born in a small cottage, a family in Berkshire. mere stone's throw from Joe remained an Irishman who Crampscastle. Only a small section of was very proud of his roots in that cottage remains now and it Tipperary and he returned to visit marks the corner of a field. Fethard later in his life with his chil- Joe enjoyed his childhood growing dren, looking for all the places he up in and around Fethard. He used to remembered from his childhood. walk across the fields with his broth- Joe's ashes were interred in er Mick, to attend school in Fethard. Everardsgrange cemetery on Friday His school doesn’t exist now, but a 2nd September 2005, only yards

140 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER away from the cottage where he was Fr. Tom Breen for their generous born, where Fr. Tom Breen P.P. said a help in ensuring that Joe’s last wish small blessing. to return home came true. They Following their recent trip to would also like to thank the people Fethard, the Walsh family would like of Fethard for being so friendly and to thank Joe Kenny, Dermot Rice, welcoming. They look forward to vis- Edwina Newport, Paddy McEvoy and iting again. Community education flying in Fethard

he beautiful Abymill is the evenings are filled with fun and Tmeeting place for two women's laughter that can be heard outside groups now up and running in the the Abymill. Fethard area. The morning group has Many new friends have been made been established over two years and and much support received through- has completed many programmes to out the two years. This was made date such as: Horticulture and Thi- possible with on-going facilitation Chi, Health and Fitness, First Aid, from Veronica Crowe, Community Flower-Arranging and Personal Education Facilitator, South Development. Tipperary VEC, who based all the The morning group has ten women programmes on the needs of the participating and the evening group groups. Thanks also to Treacy and has twenty. Hilda in Health Promotions Union, To date, the evening group has also Clonmel, who delivered the Health completed some of the above pro- Programmes in Conjunction with grammes, plus alternative therapies VEC. For more information contact and computers. Both mornings and Veronica at Tel: 052-26269.

141 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Four generations

Four generations: Nelllie Ryan (nee Pollard), Rathbritt, Fethard; Peggy Colville (nee Ryan), Spitalfield; Avril Morrissey (nee Colville), Tullow, Killusty; and baby Amy Morrissey (3 months), Tullow. Ladies Football Club

he Annual General Meeting of Fitzgerald; Hon. Secretary, Ollie TFethard Ladies Football Club Noonan; Asst. Secretary, Jennifer took place on Friday, 1st April in the Keane; Treasurer, Norah O’Meara; Tirry Community Centre. There was Asst. Treasurer, Sandra Maher; and a very good attendance and good PRO, Ollie Noonan. discussion took place on all aspects Delegates to County Board are of the club. The following officers Edel Fitzgerald and Sandra Maher. were elected for 2005: President, Rev. Juvenile Trainers, Norah O’Meara, Fr. Tom Breen P.P; Chairman, Joe Jennifer Keane, Barbara Ryan, Amy Keane; Vice Chairperson, Edel Hopkins and Audrey Conway.

142 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Junior training commenced on resented the club at the Community Monday, 11th April in the Community Sportsfield meetings. We look for- Sportsfield, Killenaule Road. Under- ward to welcoming new players for age training commenced on 9th April the coming year. Congratulations to in the GAA Park. Fees for the coming trainer, Aidan Fitzgerald, who was year are: €37 euro for over 18 players picked for the County Tipperary sen- and €27 euro for under-age players. ior hurling panel. Thanks to Audrey Conway who rep- St. Rita’s Camogie Club

he AGM of St. Rita’s Camogie We hope that full commitment will TClub was held on Tuesday 29th be given to training and matches this March and the following officers year. A special word of thanks to were elected: Jean Morrissey (chair- Martha, Sharon and Emma for their person), Eimear Gahan (secretary), hard work with the club over the last Edel Fitzgerald (treasurer), Stephen number of years. Thanks also to Pat Fitzgerald (county board delegate). Sheehan for all his help and support. Davy Morrissey was elected as train- Membership fees for the coming er for the coming year with two year are: €25 for adults and €10 for selectors, Stephen Fitzgerald and under 18s. New players are always Denis O’Meara. welcome. Still Life "Art by the gateway to Kitty Field's back door" A Rhode Island red Of life Preening Full and new. Tossing feathers A silver birch A matter of taste "Lady of the woods" Groomed for motherhood Ruled by Venus Clucking an unspoken bond Holding a mystical place Parades her clutch Scribbled with streaks Day olds, In saffron A baker's dozen With a rosewood tint From a privileged brake Plays host Of sheltered briars Keeping vigil Chirping out With shimmering boughs In wondrous delight "By the hazel wattled gate". — by James O’Donnell (Winner: Writers’ Week Originals-Short Poem)

143 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 “Beneath the spreading chestnut tree the village smithy stands” by Tommy Healy

Jack Gunne at his forge on The Green in the 1970s ver fifty years ago I discovered the great steel bands which protect- Oan Ordnance Survey map of ed the wooden wheels of carts and South Tipperary at my grandmother’s carriages from excessive wear. house opposite the Abbey Church. It In Fethard all throughout my child- dated from the mid 19th century and hood the blacksmith was Jack showed features which would not Gunne. His forge was on The Green appear today on a similar chart. In and his trade fascinated me as a particular it highlighted the locations child. I found watching him shoe a of blacksmiths’ forges under the title, horse to be a most interesting and ’smithy’ and these appeared at inter- absorbing experience. Seeing him vals of two miles or less along most take a rough shoe, match it roughly roads. In an age of horse-drawn trans- to the hoof of a horse and then by port the smithy was every bit as heating it in the fire ‘til it was white important to the smooth passage of hot and hammer it until its shape fit- people and goods along the highway ted the hoof, was a most intricate as the garage and filling station are operation, I thought. Heat came from today. The blacksmith did not only a coal fire on a raised iron bed, the keep the horses well shod but forged temperature being created by a huge

144 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER leather bellows which was operated great and to drive a nail into that by a large wooden lever which Jack would probably result in the smith pumped vigorously until the fire being kicked or the horse collapsing roared loudly and threateningly. upon him. As the nail emerged Horse shoes were cooled by drop- through the side of the hoof, the ping them in a bath of cold water so excess was twisted off and the ends dark that I believed it was mixed with were clinched to prevent it from coal dust. Certainly the shoes taken pulling away. I was utterly fascinated from this bath were by the whole opera- almost black, hence tion and had a vast my assumption respect for its practi- about the coal. tioner. What intrigued me Seeing him tackle a the most was seeing huge cart horse, him press the red hot some of whom shoe to the hoof of weighed nearly a ton, the animal and burn made me feel that its impression into Jack possessed the hoof to secure an superhuman accurate fit. The strength. What was smell of burning hoof more likely was that is one which has this was a mixture of remained clear in my strength, understand- memory and I was at ing of the animal and first worried that it that technique you might be painful for acquire with long the horse. My fears practice, the mark of were dispelled when my father a true professional. explained that a horse’s hoof was On the path outside the forge was rather like a finger nail, it had no a limestone slab. It had embedded in sense of feeling and, just as you could it a square steel hoop just a few inch- cut and file a nail without feeling pain, es tall. I discovered it when I tripped you could burn a hoof likewise. over it on my way to Burke Street. A Nailing the shoe was an equally few days later I discovered why it was skilled operation. The specially there. Returning from school I spot- shaped nails were driven through the ted Jack and another man struggling slots forged in the base of the shoe with a long piece of iron. This piece but emerged through the outer side was about two inches wide and five of the hoof. A mistake here could or six feet long. They were attempting maim a horse for the space between to bend it into a circle. It had been the hoof and the inner foot was not heated in the fire and it being soft

145 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

they were beating and twisting it into know, was it dug up and discarded shape. It was a warm day and both long ago perhaps? were sweating profusely. The strip Jack Gunne’s forge closed when was inserted under the hoop and Jack retired. The demand for his several minutes later it emerged in a services declined as the automobile roughly circular form. A wooden replaced the cart. Horses were now wheel was rolled forward and Jack for riding, mainly off the road, and, and assistant proceeded to fit the therefore, they needed to be shod band to its rim. Rather like the less often. Certainly Jack’s sons did process of shoeing the horse Jack not feel the urge to follow in their burned the band onto the wheel and father’s footsteps for the prospects of then shrunk it tight by pouring water making a decent living from the trade onto it causing it to contract sharply. had diminished. However, I am told My admiration was complete. Here the trade is being revived. The was a most intricate trade and here increase in the popularity of riding was a consummate tradesman. has revived the trade of farrier, the Proper cartwheels disappeared demand for ornamental ironwork has from the scene decades ago. increased demand for the services of Motorcar wheels with their pneumat- the blacksmith. Both trades now ic tyres replaced the cart wheel and operate separately, the versatility of if you see a horse-drawn cart today, the likes of Jack Gunne, of being able these are the wheels which are likely to operate over several skills is sadly to support it. What happened to the no more. Nor is Jack who now prac- stone slab with its steel hoop I do not tices his trade in celestial realms.

146 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Wokachika — rock’n’roll

eggy Delguidice, a daughter of ences from classic rock of the sixties PAnastasia Bedford (nee Ryan) and seventies to the new school of who formerly lived in the Rocklow today's bands. Wokachika have a Road, sent us this review of her son’s very unique sound, it's hard to put band ‘Wokachika’ who are currently them in a category and compare doing very well in London. Peggy them to anyone else because they spent a lot of time in Fethard as a don’t sound like anyone else, the mix child with her uncle the late Paddy of music is a mix of happy-go lucky, Ryan in Barrack Street. uncomplicated balladry to epic rock “Wokachika are a four-piece rock n' roll and leaves the crowd with a ‘n' roll band based in Islington, grin on their faces and a ringing in London. The band was formed there ears —just how a band should around four years ago, and has be! All in all — a band to look out for played countless venues such as The — band members, Mark Delguidice, Water Rats, Hammersmith Palais, Danny Delguidice, Olly Allgrove and The Marquee, Islington Academy and Steve Martin.” Sound Republic, to name but a few. www.wokachika.co.uk They have a broad spectrum of influ-

Dick Allen, Killusty, having a bit of fun with newly weds, Nellie and Pat Ryan, Killusty. Also included are John Tobin and Joe Allen.

147 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Jim Murray — musician extraordinaire

Jim Murray playing a pub session with Sharon Shannon im Murray, a son of Jim Murray age. Jim is a full-time member of her Jfrom Killusty, is a young musi- band and has travelled around the cian making a big name for himself world several times since, playing playing and touring with the cream venues in Europe, Asia, America, of Irish musicians, Sharon Shannon Australia and New Zealand. He has and Séamus Begley. Jim started play- just returned from America after play- ing guitar at 11 years of age, met Steve ing on the ‘Woman’s Heart’ tour with Cooney of the ‘Cooney & Begley’ Sharon Shannon, Mary Black, Maura duo, who was so impressed he asked O’Connell and Carra Dillon. Jim to go to Japan in his place with Jim is featured on Sharon’s CDs Séamus Begley, which he did at the and has also recorded with Séamus young age of 18 years. Begley. It would be great to hear Jim One of Ireland’s most talented play in our own Abymill Theatre. musicians, Sharon Shannon, then Jim is the son of Jim and Nora heard him play and asked him to join Murray, who now live in Clondrohid, her band, which he did at 19 years of Macroom, Co. Cork.

148 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Society of St. Vincent de Paul

he Holy Trinity Conference of We are extremely blessed in Tthis Society has a very long tra- Fethard in that the people we deal dition and history going back almost with treat the Society with respect 80 years in Fethard. The present mem- and help us in every way to help bers are Vincent Doocey, President, them. We wish to extend our sincere Denis Burke, Secretary/Treasurer, thanks to all who request our help. Josie Fitzgerald, Eileen Burke, and Fr. In conclusion we must say that Tom Breen as Spiritual Director. without the generous donations of The work of the Conference is to the people of Fethard Parish we help any people from the area would not be able to carry out any (sometimes nearby parishes as well) charitable work. Our annual collec- who need a helping hand or a listen- tion each year is really awesome and ing ear. The assistance ranges from other private donations are such that holidays for senior citizens to we are humbled by the generosity of Christmas help, emergency help to the people. families when some unforeseen set- A very sincere and genuine thank back occurs, etc. you to everybody who helps us. A black feathered problem common sight across the b*st*rds." This image has lifted my Acountryside of modern farm- spirits on many occasions, until I ing methods is the stacks of round became victim of the feathered vil- bale silage, neatly wrapped and lain myself. It must have been around stacked by the side of ditch or 4 or 5am, dawn was just breaking hedgerow. The bales are often paint- and the birds were beginning to stir, ed with an X, though some farmers and stir they did. take the opportunity to express their First it was persistence cawing artistic side, as can be seen on the across the street that came ever clos- Fethard road leading into Clonmel, er. Then it was the sound of clawing where a series of funny faces greet feet on the slate roof right above my the passer by. head. If that were not bad enough Last year, on the Clonmel road they then began to peck at the slates. leading into Cashel, a farmer seemed After a time they flew away, but came to be making a political statement. back again and continued in the The one that sticks out in my mind same vain. When this persisted I from a few years back still conjures could take it no longer. I stuck my up images of a very irate farmer, as head out the third story window to the message read; "crows are see what I could. On the street in

149 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 front of the XL shop the crows were these crows. In frustration I resorted hopping into the rubbish bin, pulling to waving a big Waterford county flag out what they could (quite a lot), out the window to frighten the crows then anything edible was taken sky- away. It actually worked. ward. For some reason this morning Though I'm sure if anyone hap- the preferred option was my particu- pened to see me, the laugh would be lar roof and the pecking feast began. on me. If anyone has a solution for Interestingly, I noticed that a white this particular crow problem XL shop cross painted on the black rubbish and I would be glad to hear it. bin seemed to have little effect on Irish Girl Guides

At enrolment day, April 2005, were L to R: Kate O'Donnell, Áine Proudfoot, Annie Prout, Sarah Burke and Jade Pattison.

ethard District Girl guides had Fethard guides can achieve similar Fanother busy and active year in awards in future. 2005. In February we celebrated On a lovely bright sunny April day Thinking Day in Cashel with guides we had outdoor activities in from Thurles and Cashel. Several Dundrum Scout Centre which includ- young leaders from both these com- ed orienteering, an Easter Egg panies were presented with silver Treasure Hunt and Fun Olympics. and gold guiding awards, and silver The sight of the leaders participating and gold An Gaisce presidential in the Fun Olympics, is best left to awards. These young girls, aged 15 the imagination, although photo- upwards, were examples of what can graphic evidence does exist! be achieved in guiding. Hopefully, In July brownie leaders Catherine

150 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Leaders taking a break at camp in Dundrum 2005. L to R: Catherine O'Connell, Irene Reale (Thurles), Judy Doyle and Catherine O'Donnell. O’Donnell and Catherine O’Connell Guides (10-14 years) but, hopefully, took our brownies on a weekend in the spring some of the senior away to the Guide Cottage in Brownies will advance to Guides. Broadfort in Co. Clare. They were Our weekly meetings consist of accompanied by Cashel brownies guide laws and promise, crafts, and leaders. This was a very success- badge work, games, songs, in a fun ful venture, which we hope to repeat and caring atmosphere. as lasting friendships were made. Each year the girls are involved in Another outdoor activity was to visit the Christmas Shoebox Appeal. So a Catherine O’Donnell’s farm for varied programme is provided by our nature walk, games and goodies! leaders Catherine O’Donnell, Ladybirds (5-7 years) and Catherine O’Connell, Teresa Hurley, Brownies (7-10 years) meet every Judy Doyle and our new recruit, Tuesday night in Fethard Ballroom Melissa Stokes. So here’s to another from 7-8pm. At present we have no successful Guiding year. Woodvale Walk Residents’ Association oodvale Walk Resident’s Treasurer, Dolores O’Donnell; WAssociation held their AGM Assistant Treasurer, Joan Brown. on 5th July 2005. This meeting was On 16th August we hired two mini well attended and officers elected buses to take children and some were as follows: Chairperson, Patsy adults to the beach in Clonea. We Lawrence; Vice Chairperson, Gerard had a lovely sunny day and a great Brown; Secretary, Theresa Roche; time was had by all. We extend our Assistant Secretary, Mary Thompson; sympathy to the McGarry family and

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Halloween L to R: Cillian Slattery, Cathal Slattery, Sarah Slattery, Sally Nagle. to Stephanie McCormack on their ings. We are also looking forward to recent sad loss. road repairs commencing this year. We held our door-to-door collec- Well done lads and thanks to every- tion again this year and a word of one who helped us in any way this thanks to everybody who donated year including our grass cutters and and to our collectors. We continue to litter pickers. keep our estate as litter free as possi- We wish all the residents of ble and a great addition is the coun- Woodvale Walk a Happy Christmas cil’s road-sweeper on Friday morn- and a Merry New Year.

Rachael O'Meara and Chloe Doyle at the Halloween bonfire 2005 152 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

153 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Fethard & Killusty Community Council

ethard and Killusty Community Canon Lee P.P. was the president. FCouncil are fast approaching The association was elected to con- the thirtieth anniversary of the estab- centrate on efforts to promote indus- lishment of the organisation. To trial activity in the town and the commemorate this event and to cele- tourist potential of the area with spe- brate the community spirit alive in cial reference to hotel and guest- Fethard today the present committee house accommodation. Officers are hosting a Community Dinner elected were Mr. P. Meagher BA, Dance in the Ballroom on Friday 13th Secretary; Mr. E O’Neill and Mrs January 2006. This is the actual date Maher, Treasurer. The association of the first meeting of the Community formed three groups, Industrial Council held in 1976. Development, Tourism & Tidy Towns Prior to formation of the and Social, Recreational & Community Council the people were Educational Development. In 1974 in represented by the Fethard an effort to re-organise the group a Development Association. This was new council was elected under the formed in 1967 and the late Rev. auspices of Muintir na Tire. In 1975 a

Fethard Community Council Committee photographed at the official opening of the renovated Tirry Community Centre which took place on 29th September 1980. Front L to R: Tommy Butler, Fr. Clifford OSA, Jerry Skehan, Tomás Roseingrave, Fr. Noonan, Fr. Stapleton, Austin O'Flynn, Carol Kenny, Peter Colville. Back L to R: Dermot Rice, John Whyte, Sean Spillane, Jimmy Connolly, Gerry Horan, Mick Ahearne, Percy O'Donnell, Tim Slattery (Bank Manager), Michael O'Dwyer. Fethard & Killusty Community Council will cele- brated their 30th Anniversary with a special 'Anniversary Dinner Dance' in Fethard Ballroom on Friday 13th January 2006.

154 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER public meeting was convened to The current officers of the Fethard ascertain the views of the people of & Killusty Community Council are as Fethard & Killusty Parish on the follows: Joe Kenny, Chairman; advisability of forming a Community Edwina Newport, Secretary; Jimmy Council. There was a unanimous Connolly, Treasurer; Maria Murphy vote in favour of forming a Council PRO and Peter Grant, FAS Scheme and a temporary steering committee Liaison Officer. The Board of was elected. This committee distrib- Directors comprises of Rev. Fr. Tom uted nomination papers to each Breen PP, Ger Manton, Thelma household in the parish, each per- Griffith, Diana Stokes, John Barrett, son over eighteen years of age voted Brian Sheehy, Paddy McEvoy, Nellie for the candidate of their choice. Donovan and Liam Hayes. The vote was a ballot. In 1996 the The primary function of the organisation was incorporated as a Community Council is the operation limited company and became Fethard of the Fr. Tirry Community Centre & Killusty Muintir Council Ltd. incorporating the community office. At the first meeting of Fethard & These facilities are managed on a Killusty Community Council, in 1976, day-to-day basis under the excellent the following officers were elected. direction of Joan O’Donohoe, FÁS Rev. Fr. John Stapleton CC, CE Scheme Supervisor. Activities in Chairperson; Mr Jerry Skehan, Vice- the community office, the Day Care chairman; Mrs Mary Healy, Secretary; Centre, and other locations in Messrs. Paddy Broderick and Paddy Fethard are carried out by partici- Heffernan, Treasurers; and Mr Austin pants on the scheme. O’Flynn, PRO. The guiding princi- The members and committee of ples of the Council at that meeting the Community Council would like to stated that: “A community council is take this opportunity to express our a representative body whose aim is sincere gratitude to Joan and her to involve all members of the com- staff for their involvement and co- munity in identifying local needs and operation. Their actions, and the FÁS problems and taking the initiative to Scheme, make a considerable contri- solve them. A community council bution to life in Fethard today. The ensures that the identification of services available in the Community local problems and their solution is Office will be expanded in the new an ongoing concern and that con- year as we have just received notifi- cern is integrated into the everyday cation of the granting of almost life of the community. We have at the €8,000 for the provision of IT moment, projects in operation, Equipment for the office under the which we are confident will benefit government scheme of grants for the whole community.” Thirty years community & voluntary groups. on these same principles hold true. In keeping with the principles as

155 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 already outlined much of the activi- this proposal. ties of the past few months have seen In an effort to ascertain the best the Community Council act as a rep- use for the convent hall to establish a resentative body on behalf of the youth centre the Community Council people of Fethard. This action has engaged the services of Tipperary primarily been directed towards Institute to conduct a study on the South Tipperary County Council in opinions of young people in Fethard. relation to their proposal to provide, This report ‘Youth Needs and Service at Strylea, twenty houses and ten Provision in Fethard’ was undertaken serviced sites. This development between June and August 2005 and constitutes phase one of a much the findings were presented at a pub- more substantial development which lic meeting in November. This is a on completion will comprise of very impressive document; it gives a approximately ninety units. In very accurate account of the opin- October we, in conjunction with ions of young people today. It is South Tipperary County Council, worth noting that almost half, 116, of hosted a successful public meeting the young people (ten to eighteen to inform the community of the year olds) living in Fethard participat- issues from both sides, in relation to ed in the study. In addition to these

Class Reunion of 1955 photographed in Sadels Restaurant, in May 2005. Back L to R: Rita (O'Donnell) Cutler, Rose (Walsh) Cudden, Marie (Dineen) Whyte, Lucy Hanly, Frances (Evans) Linehan, Patsy (Byard) Burke, Eileen (Woodlock) O'Keeffe. Front L to R: Kathleen (O'Donnell) Hally, Marie (Rice) O'Donnell, Ann (O'Donnell) Lynch, Mary (Skehan) Hennessy and Joan (Fergus) Dooley.

156 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Photographed in Holohan's Pub, Burke Street, in the 1980s are L to R: Austin O'Flynn, Michael O'Brien, John Bourke and Tom Purcell. contributors a substantial number of munity projects. The lotto draw takes adults who are involved with young place weekly on Wednesday morn- people as care providers, service ings at 11am in the Day Care Centre deliverers or in a club or sporting and is open to all members of the context were interviewed. It is envis- community to attend. The commit- aged that this Youth Needs Report tee would like to thank all those who will provide a framework around support this draw, your contribution which youth actions can be initiated. is supporting the whole community. The availability of the convent hall, The Christmas lights were turned the existence of the Multi-Agency on in Fethard on Thursday 8th Network, the collaboration between December. These adorn both Main Foróige and Tipperary Regional Street, Burke Street and the Fr. Tirry Youth Services in the Slieveardagh Community Centre. The provision of area and the proposed co-ordination these lights, at considerable cost, of activities at local level will con- invokes a festive spirit to the tribute greatly towards the success of Christmas season in Fethard. such actions. A meeting will take Other activities currently being place in the new year to begin the undertaken by the group include the process of co-ordinating activities re-establishment of the Badminton and to advance the situation further. Club and the development of a dedi- The Community Council operates cated walking route, Sli na Slainte, in the Community Lotto. This draw association with the Irish Heart accumulates considerable funds, Foundation. Fethard applied and which are available for various com- received funding, in conjunction

157 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 with Eircom, to provide broadband uance of the organisation since its access in the town. This was installed formation thirty years ago bears tes- in August. In the near future, a wire- tament to the commitment and dedi- less system will be installed to serv- cation of the many members and offi- ice the outlying areas and villages. cers who were involved down Funding was also received to rede- through the years. velop the river walk area and discus- We would like to invite you to sions are taking place to decide on come along to the Anniversary what projects will be undertaken Dinner Dance on Friday January 13th under the Urban & Village Renewal 2006 (don’t let the date put you off!), Programme for which Fethard is one where we will remember the past of the designated towns for 2006. with pride and salute the tradition of As we draw towards the end of community action in Fethard. another year and approach a signifi- Tickets are available locally. cant milestone for the organisation Wishing all our readers a peaceful we can take pride in the activities of Christmas and every good wish for the Community Council. The contin- the New Year.

Some of the exhibits from Fethard Folk Museum at the 1984 opening of The Granary in Limerick. L to R: Jimmy Mullins, Kitty Strang, Donal Mullins, Marina Mullins, Mary Keyes, Patrick Keyes (baby), Margaret and Christy Mullins.

158 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Fethard & District Day Care Centre

Photographed at the Christmas Bazaar on 24th November 2005 are L to R: Thelma Griffith, Mary Danagher and Annie Ryan. ethard & District Day Care the year for the Easter raffle and the FCentre, as usual, has had a very Christmas Bazaar. The group knit busy fun filled year. It is always great and crochet beautiful pieces for both to see the place fill up again after the events and thanks to the expert organ- Christmas break. The centre is a hive isational skills of Thelma Griffith, they of activity five days a week. Passing are both great fundraising events for by, one can hear the melodious the Day Care Centre. One could according playing of John Pollard sometimes wonder how they even get and Pauline Morrissey and indeed, time to eat the lovely meals ably pro- songs such as "Slievenamon" and vided by the catering staff. many other old favourites ring out The staff are a great bunch of peo- loud and clear. We have many great ple who put their heart and soul into singers attending every day, always everything they do for the clients. willing to sing a few verses. John and This creates a great rapport between Pauline are two stalwarts and have the staff and clients and so leads to a been with us from the start, many very happy atmosphere. thanks for the great entertainment We enjoyed some lovely trips dur- they provide for all. ing the year including a trip to the The clients get very involved in the Anner Hotel for tea and pancakes on many everyday activities — painting, Shrove Tuesday. In July we headed to exercise, safe touch, bingo, and the Lismore for the day and stopped for a raffle. Work goes on all throughout beautiful meal in Dungarvan. There

159 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

L to R: Mary Grant, Kathy Aylward, Patricia Brett and Mary Fitzgerald. were also several trips to the Meals on Wheels deliveries and Slievenamon Golf Club for afternoon spend time in the Centre with clients. tea and entertainment in conjunction Thanks also to our supervisor with the Lions Club. Geraldine McCarthy and Jim Keane, This year the Day Care Centre got a our bus driver. On a sad note, one of wonderful boost from the ‘People in our dearest and longest serving vol- Need’ trust. We received a grant of unteers and vice-chairman, Brian €28,000 towards our new bus, which O’Donnell, passed away this year. transports our clients to and fro Brian was a very warm and jolly man every day. This means we were able and endeared himself to everyone. to clear our debt incurred when buy- We miss him, especially his very ing the bus earlier this year. We are hearty laugh, which was always extremely grateful to ‘People in heard before you saw him. Ar dheis Need’. It is nice to know that the Dé go raibh a h-anam dilis. work carried out in the Centre is Our committee this year is: Thelma being recognised. Griffith, our hard working chairper- ‘Meals on Wheels’ are delivered son (and another of our unsung three days a week by our wonderful heroes), Joan O’Donohoe, Liam volunteers — the unsung heroes who Hayes, Carmel Rice, Jimmy Connolly, give so selflessly of their time — and Nellie O’Donovan, Phil Wyatt, Nora the same has to be said of the many Lawrence, Megan Sceats, Joe Kenny volunteers who come to the Centre and Marie Murphy. Happy Christmas every day. and New Year to everyone and if We say a big thank you, to all and you’re ever passing by Barrack Street, to the transition year students from drop in for a chat and a cup of tea Fethard Patrician Presentation and you might even sing a song for Secondary School, who help with us. We’d love to meet you!

160 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Fethard Community Employment Scheme

e had a very shaky start to well. Quite a few of this year’s partici- Wthe Community Employment pants received certificates from train- Scheme in 2005. Numbers were ing and development. All of them down and it looked like things were completed the ‘Safe Pass’ and several not going to improve. All in all it was studied computers. This is a great a very unsettled time for all con- achievement as certified training is cerned, both our sponsors and par- very important in today’s world. ticipants. Other training included, stonework, However, our Sponsors Fethard & ‘Colour Me Beautiful’ (nothing like a Killusty Community Council, got bit of personal development) and behind us and lobbied our council- driving lessons. One of our partici- lors and TDs. This proved fruitful pants passed her driving test, con- and thankfully by July things had set- gratulations Patsy! Indeed, congratu- tled down. We were able to bring our lations to each and every one on numbers back up to our full comple- their achievements. ment for the first time in six months. Our team this year is Janet Byrne, This year also saw community Marie Hannigan, Esther Breen, Brud employment schemes being amalga- Roach and Robert O’Riordan based mated and as a result we took over in the Tirry Centre; John Hennessy the supervision of three participants in the GAA Sports Complex; Tom working in St. Bernard’s Group Shine and Michael Morrissey with Homes. This is working out very Fethard Tidy Towns; and Anne Marie

Jimmy Connolly and John Whyte photographed with Tanya Comber-Rait from Irish Heart Foundation, who visited Fethard this year to look at the proposed Ballybough Slí na Sláinte walk in Fethard. 161 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Buck, Patsy Webster and Patsy Nagle but you know who I’m talking about, with St. Bernard’s Group Homes. "don’t you Brud?" A huge "thank you" They all do great work, which may be to Fethard & Killusty Community sometimes taken for granted. As Council and to Joe Nixon, our FÁS supervisor, I would like to say how officer, who make it all possible. much their commitment and hard Upwards and onwards we go and work is appreciated. hopefully, everything will be well with- One of our mighty team is so dedi- in the FÁS world for the foreseeable cated I can’t even get him to take his future. A very Merry Christmas and holidays. I won’t mention his name Prosperous New Year to everyone. Fethard Open Coursing Club fficers elected for the coming we got one with a strong hare after a Oyear: President, Tim long slip. ‘Going Rate’ was fast away O’Riordan; Vice President, Michael and led by three lengths at one stage, Flanagan; Chairman, Arthur Daly; but ‘South Court’ had cut him back to Treasurer, Paddy Hickey; and one length at the turn. After two Secretary, Peter more turns, O’Sullivan. which were Last year’s shared, the flag coursing season was pulled in was probably the ‘Going Rates’ best we’ve had in favour. years. We started We also ran the season with the Consolation the main event of Stake, sponsored our year, The Pat by Clonmel Dalton Cup, kind- Cabins and C.C ly sponsored by Engineering, for Pat Dalton, the dogs beaten Golden. Without Winner of the Consolation Stakes at the in the first round his support we Fethard Open Coursing Meeting L to R:Pat of the cup. After could not run this Cormack, Marie Roche and Willie Roche. some very hard event. The cup was for sixteen all age coursing we were down to the final dogs and bitches, and with hares and in the decider we had W.H being very plentiful, we were down Roche’s ‘Marshall Dream’ and Ms A. to the final in two hours. In the O’Gorman’s ‘Aoife Tearaway’. After a deciders we had Pat Cunningham’s short course, ‘Marshall Dream’ was ‘Going Rate’ against P. Curtin’s ‘South declared the winner. Court’, with €1,500 to the winner. During the year we also ran the We hoped for a good buckle and Cormack Cup, which was won by

162 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Presentation of the Pat Dalton Cup to winner 'South Court' owned by Pat Cunningham (Middleton). L to R: Peter O'Sullivan, Pat Cunningham, Pat Cormack, Tom Clifford, Michael Grimes (slipper), Arthur Daly and Paddy Hickey.

Tom Cormack. The Burke Cup was bring a friend for fresh air and exer- won by M. Flanagan and the cise. You can’t beat a day in the Donovan Cup was won by John countryside! Clifford, Fermoy. Fethard Coursing Club would like to thank all the beat- ers who turned up for our big day. We would like to thank our head beaters, Tommy Shine, Dinny Shine and Michael Shine. Special thanks to D. Flanagan and to our sponsors Pat Dalton, Woodlock Developments, Willy Roach, Pat McCormack, Frank Barrett, Matty Tynan, Bridge Bar Fethard, XL Stop and Shop, Coolmore, Fethard Oil, Daly Fuels, and the Oriental Gardens Restaurant, Fethard. Sincere thanks to Coolmore Stud for the use of their land for our main event, and to all landowners who let us course their land. We hope to see Danny Kane holding the‘Waterloo you all in the 2005/2006 season, Cup’ last January in Fethard

163 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Fethard Tidy Towns

Photographed at the Fethard Tidy Towns monthly meeting with Council Officials and Engineers on 14th September 2005 are Back L to R: Cllr Michael O'Brien, Cllr John Fahey, Jonathon Cooney (Fethard Area Engineer, South Tipperary County Council), James Horan (incoming Foreman Fethard Area), Peter Grant (Chairman Fethard Tidy Towns), Thomas Fitzgerald (outgoing Foreman Fethard Area). Front L to R: Joan O’Donohoe (Supervisor Fethard & Killusty Community Council FÁS Scheme), Cllr Susan Meagher, Tess Collins (Tenant Liaison Officer South Tipperary County Council) and Anna Cooke (Secretary Fethard Tidy Towns).

ethard Tidy Towns have had a Council and local councillors who Fgood year. We hold our meet- also attend these meetings. We find ing on the 2nd Tuesday of each the meetings very productive. month at 7.30pm in the Tirry Centre. This year saw the long awaited car- In conjunction with these meetings parking come to fruition and in the we have bi-monthly meetings with pipeline is the €40,000 grant for the South Tipperary County Council river walk project. We also hope to Area Engineer, Jonathan Cooney, see, if not this year then in 2006, our and Town Foreman, Tom Fitzgerald. one-way system in place. Imagine, We would like to express our grati- who would ever have thought tude for all their hard work during Fethard would ever need one! Our the year. FÁS participants are Tommy Shine We would also like to thank the and Michael Morrissey and they look representatives from the County after flower beds, grass cutting, plant-

164 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER ing of bulbs, shrubs etc. We would Tommy O'Dwyer and Jason like to say a big thank you to both. Lawrence. The annual church gate collection Our committee this year is: was a great success and many thanks Chairperson, Peter Grant; Vice to all who supported us. We would Chairperson, Nellie O'Donovan; also like to the sponsors of our very Secretary, Thelma Griffith; Treasurer, popular Garden Competition and to Anna Cooke; PRO, Diana Stokes and Joan for judging the competition. Pat Fitzgerald. We welcomed on This year we were also delighted board Ann Marie O'Sullivan. As with the good turn out for the annual always, we are looking for, and river clean up. The group included: would welcome, new members with Bill Kennedy, Colm McGrath, Diana new ideas and lots of energy (don't Stokes, Anne Marie O'Sullivan, worry we won’t work you too hard). Catherine Kearney, Peter Grant, A Very Happy Christmas and New Thelma Griffith, Mary Jane Kearney, Year to all and please, take your rub- Amy Grant, Colin Grant, Luke Grant, bish home with you!

Garden Competition Results Best Business Premises, Paddy McEvoy; Best Baskets, Vera & Michael Sheehan; Best Window Boxes, Maura & David Gorey; Best Large Garden, Clodagh & Brendan Brett; Best Overall Area, Fr Tirry Park. Highly Commended: Annie Ryan, Claire Landy, David Hennessy, and Fr Tirry Community Centre.

Area Results for Best Garden: (1) Knockbrack / Spittlefield / Mockler’s Terrace — Pierce Littleton. (2) The Valley / Watergate — Nora Lawrence. (3) Kerry St. / Congress Tce. / Red City — Una & Frank Fogarty. (4) Cashel Road — Noel & Irene Sharpe. (5) Main St. / Rocklow Road / Cois Falla — Ruth Farrell. (6) Burke St. / Abbey Road — Percy Flynn. (7) The Green / Barrack St. — Alma Pollard. (8) Fr. Tirry Park / Canon Hayes Court — 1st: John Tobin, 2nd: Ann Foley. (9) St. Patrick's Place — 1st: Chrissie Moloney, 2nd: Philly Hannigan. (10) Slievenamon Close — Maura & Tony Morgan. (11) Strylea / Cedar Grove — Christy & Audrey Devitt. (12) Woodvale Walk — 1st: Rita & Con Doyle, 2nd: Patricia O'Meara. (13) Kilnockin View — Chris & Mary Mackey.

165 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Richard ‘Grawn’ Power by Valerie Patricia Watson (Power)

have been receiving, via my son (Massachusetts); Mary, married ISimon Watson, copies of your name Dwyer, who lived in Belsize excellent newsletter. I have read Park area of London; the youngest these with great interest, as my late child was Alice, who like my father father was born in Fethard and lived moved to north west London. there with his family until his early My father was Michael Power twenties, when he left for England. (Mick), born in Kerry St. Fethard on My great-grandfather, Con Power, 22nd, February1915. He came to live was a baker and came in London in 1931, from Ballyporeen. He worked with my worked in a bakery mother, Rose Harwin, called ‘Stapletons’ in at Gilbey's Distillery, Fethard. He had sever- and married her in al children: Will, one April 1939. They lived of his sons, helped all their married life in him in the bakery and Kingsbury, North- was married to Annie West London. They O’Brien, a local girl, had two children: and, by all accounts, Anthony, born very devout; Patrick, January 1945, and I who was lame after an am their elder child, argument with a horse Valerie Patricia, born during the first world December 1940. My war; a son who lost his Valerie Patricia Watson (Power) brother lives in life in France during that war (no Sussex with his family and is a very name for him unfortunately); a successful civil engineer, and I have daughter Bridget; and a son Richard lived in New Zealand for the past 30 (Grawn) Power, who was my grand- years, during which time I have not father. His wife, my grandmother, learned to type properly! Alice, passed away, probably in the I have three sons, one of whom early 1930s. I would dearly love to lives in Dublin, almost back to the know more about her. Why she died ancestral seat. Simon, the youngest, at such a relatively early age, for like his brother, the Jackeen, has also example? visited Fethard. He spent some time I have never seen a photograph of talking to a gentleman who had lots of either my Irish grandparents and local information on computer files. wonder if any exist? Richard and This may have been your good self. Alice had five children: Bridget I am wondering about any relatives (Bridie) who went to live in America that I may have living in the district,

166 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Michael Power, left in 1930 and on the right in 1958 or if there is anyone who may have maker and his handmade nails are any memories of my late grandpar- still in the church. Simon says he was ents, or knows where they are my great-grandfather, which confus- buried, or has anything to tell me es me greatly, as my father told me about my family? If so, I would love to that his grandfather was ‘Con the hear from them. Baker’. Perhaps it is myself who’s Also, can anyone enlighten me as been conned. Can anyone throw any to the significance of the title light on this for me please? ‘Grawn’. I understand all the Richards Simon brought me back some love- in the family were called this and you ly photographs of Fethard, including have used it in the caption to the one of Will and Anne Power’s grave. I hurling photograph. My dad didn’t hope to be able to come and see for know what it meant, and my partner myself one day. Also, Christy Hayde, who is an Irish speaker, is also puz- is a musician (trumpet) and in his zled by it. youth played in dance bands around My partner, Christopher Hayden the district. He feels people may pre- (Christy), is also a Tipperary man, fer to forget this, but someone may born in Tipperary Town. He is the remember nevertheless. Anyway, son of Joseph Hayden, coach-builder thank you for reading my ramblings. from Nenagh. His uncle, also All the very best to you and God Christopher, was the editor of the Bless. Nenagh Guardian. We will be Valerie Patricia Watson (Power), 66 researching his family through the Hillcrest Avenue, Hillcrest, North Nenagh Historical Society, but I men- Shore City, Auckland, New Zealand. tion this in case any local folk may All correspondence will be have heard of them. answered and I would love to hear My son tells me one of our rela- from anyone who may wish to put tives, Richard Power, was a nail- pen to paper!

167 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

War Service Medals by Leonora McCormack

hen the 2004 Issue of the enlisted with the Canadian Forces. WFethard & Killusty Newsletter We know very little of his army arrived I read the contents with inter- record, but sadly in due course he est. One article, of special signifi- paid the supreme sacrifice in France. cance to the McCormack family in It is interesting to note that two of New Zealand, was the list of recipi- his commemorative medals were ents of a certificate of honour repro- sent to his brother Patrick who had duced from the Clonmel Chronicle of emigrated to New Zealand. These Wednesday June 27th 1917. medals are held by family members Among the names listed was today. Daniel's fine example of join- Daniel McCormack, Kerry Street, ing the armed forces was continued Fethard. Daniel was the tenth child of into the next generation, five of his Daniel & Johanna (Delahunty) nephews and one niece enlisted dur- McCormack who lived at 4 Kerry ing World War II. They served in N.Z. Street, he was born in 1880 and was Pacific, Middle East, Syria, Italy and my husband’s uncle. England. One nephew was killed We believe he, with his brother while serving as a gunner in RNZAF. Michael and sister Catherine (Kate) For various reasons, some family emigrated to USA when the 1914-1918 members were not able to serve in war broke out. Keen to do his bit for the armed forces, but stayed at home his country of origin, Daniel, at some and trained to defend their country if stage crossed into Canada where he the need arose.

Tin Helmet by John Fogarty e never knew who he was or roads. A nondescript bundle and Wwhere he came from. But some blackened, billycans dangled once, or maybe twice every summer from his shoulder. A knight of the he’d come striding up The Valley and road, my father called him. But he briefly into our lives. A tall man, or so wasn’t at all like those other strange, he seemed to us as we crowded ragged men who would wander aim- inside the kitchen window watching lessly through the town from time to him pass. ‘Tin Helmet’ we called time. Harmless, slightly comical fig- him, because of the strange-looking ures, and somehow pathetic as well, hat, not unlike a soldier’s helmet, we would gather round in curiosity if which sat on his head. His coat was one of them knocked at our door khaki coloured, shabby and stained. looking for something to eat. The boots he wore were muddy and ‘What county am I in?’, one of broken from endlessly trudging the those knights asked my brother, Jim,

168 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

‘Fethard Gone West’ Fethard Carnival includes Hugh O'Donnell, P.J. Holohan, Sean Henehan (on fiddle), Billy Kenrick, Tom Barrett, Thomas Henehan, Aggie Barrett, Derek Wall, Betty Holohan, Mary Goldsborough and Rena Staunton. once. was those staring eyes that seemed ‘Tipperary.’ ‘Holy God, I knew I to look into and beyond everything, could smell the burnt witch!’ he that seemed to be fixed on horrors replied, and hurried away down the that could not be described. Valley as if he would be tainted by Over many summers we had come delaying any longer. He’d held on to to know some things about him. We his slice of bread, though. knew that he was an old soldier who But it wasn’t like that with Tin had been in the trenches during the Helmet. We were frightened of him — Great War. Nobody knew what bat- without really knowing why — and tlefields he had survived. Everybody always ran indoors when word went said that he had been shell-shocked, round that he was on his way. that he wasn’t right, ‘poor divil’. ‘Quick, quick, Tin Helmet is com- But we had seen many old soldiers ing!’ who were veterans of the trenches That name, ‘Tin Helmet’, touched and there was nothing frightening on something. It made you want to about them. There was Pad Shea run, run, quickly, as you would on a from St. Patrick’s Place who had dark night, anxious for the light and potatoes and vegetables growing in comfort of home. And yet Tin Helmet the council plots behind our house had never spoken to or threatened on The Valley. As soon as the first anybody as he passed along. No, it green potato stalks poked from the wasn’t anything that he had ever said clay he would begin to spend time in or done. It was the look, that terrible his plot. Almost every morning of look on his gaunt, unshaven face. It the summer he would come slowly

169 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 up The Valley wheeling his old bike endured on those distant battlefields with fork and shovel tied to the bar. where millions of men were crushed Every day he would slowly work his out of existence. way up and down between the drills Neither did Mickey Kearney who flicking weeds, tap tapping with the lived a few doors from us on The back of his shovel, pausing occasion- Valley. ally for long moments. Sometimes, Mickey lived with his brother standing there in the silence of a Paddy who had come back to live in summer’s day, he seemed almost to Fethard after spending some years in become part of the blossoming pota- America. Mickey broke horses but to stalks that he contemplated. There didn’t seem to work for anyone in in the quiet of the garden he was a particular. Every morning he would long way from the mud the murder cycle away from the house and come and the madness that must have sur- slowly back late in the evening- rounded him all those years ago sometimes very late, and from the when he had stood in the trenches direction of Pearl Dowling’s. gazing out on the hellish sight that Sometimes, if some of us were sitting was no man’s land. Possibly waiting on the wall watching his halting to go over the top and thinking that progress towards home, he would he would not come back alive. But stop to talk. Propping his bike against there in the tranquillity of his little the wall he’d begin the ritual of filling potato plot on The Valley Pad Shea his pipe. Cutting slivers of tobacco didn’t seem to be haunted by memo- from a plug with a penknife, rubbing ries of the horrors he must have it in the palm of his hand, packing it

'Hospital Sweep' Fethard Carnival c.1938. Nancy McInerney (in white uniform), Nurse Walsh (pipe and cap), Mrs Paddy O'Donnell (scarf), Dick Allen (Garda uniform) and Willie Slattery (white band cap).

170 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER into the pipe, striking a match, letting see them together, those old sol- it go out, striking another, puffing bil- diers, Mickey and Pad — and Pad’s lows of sweet-smelling smoke. And brother Mick — walking through the spitting constantly. And sitting beside crowd at the opening meet of the us on the wall he’d ramble on about Tipperary Foxhounds carrying their places he’d been to, horses he’d bro- little boxes of bright red poppies: ken, people he’d worked for, saying offering them up to those mounted so-and–so was a “dacent ‘aul skin” on well-groomed hunters with plait- and someone else was a “mane ‘aul ed manes; the riders leaning stiffly hoor.” Sometimes he would close his down from their gleaming saddles to eyes and let his pipe go out as he drop a condescending coin into the screeched out garbled bits of a bal- box; the old soldiers moving off with lad about Sean Treacy, always put- a deferential lift of their caps. ting extra vigour into the refrain: Those old soldiers were part of our ‘Ahhhh, he will never more roam, lives on The Valley, coming and To his own native home, going, caught up in the quiet, every- Tipperary so far away.’ day rhythms of life. When they were Sometimes, if prompted, he would young men barely out of boyhood talk about the war. He had not served they had travelled many thousands in the trenches. He had worked of miles from their home town and behind the line looking after the found themselves on the bloodiest horses that were used to pull sup- battlefields the world had ever seen. plies and weaponry to and from the They had seen terrible things, had front line. He would became quiet seen human life degraded into mud. and distant and there was a sadness All around them thousands of men in his voice when he spoke about the were slaughtered every day. By the horses he’d looked after and told of time it was all over, by the time the how so many had been killed in the work of the generals and the guns endless shelling. Of course, as young was finished, millions would have boys, we didn’t want to hear about been killed pointlessly. But somehow horses, we wanted heroics, the kind they had managed to stay alive and that we’d seen from John Wayne in get back home. They had looked into war films in the Capitol cinema the darkest pit of Hell and lived – but Eventually Mickey would wander they were not anxious to tell the tale. off towards home and soon after he They rarely spoke of the war, never could be heard calling out to Mamie boasted of any Hollywood heroics on Croke: the battlefield. Perhaps they wanted ‘Ah how ya Mamie me aul’ segotia!’ to forget the horror of it all, erase it And you could imagine Mamie from their memories by immersing scowling at him over the half-door. themselves in the ordinary things In early November you’d always that might have been lost to them in

171 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 the mud of Flanders or the Somme. on a summer’s day, he was soon gone. And maybe that was what made Sometimes he would take the road to Tin Helmet different. Maybe, unlike Cashel, sometimes disappear to the Pad Shea and Mickey Kearney, he left at the cross for Clonmel. And could not forget the horror of what when he was gone it was as if some he had been through, was forced to kind of tension had been broken, as relive it again and again and again. when a funeral has passed, and we Maybe that was why he strode so would run out to resume our play. purposefully along through towns Summers passed, we watched Tin and villages and winding country Helmet come and go. Always in the roads like a man in flight, fleeing a same way. And then one summer he nightmare that he could never didn’t appear at all. We didn’t give his escape, a nightmare that was embed- absence much thought being too ded forever in his memory. A night- busy with the details of our own mare filled with bombs, bullets, bro- young lives. Occasionally, Mamie ken bodies and barbed wire. Perhaps Mackey or Josie Barrett would idly as children we took fearful flight from say, “no sign of aul’ Tin Helmet.” And him because we could sense what that was all. We never knew where those staring eyes of his could never he went or what became of him. stop seeing: death, destruction, Perhaps his war had finally ended Armageddon, the absolute extinction and his relentless trudging was over. of life. But we never saw him again and So we would wait for him to pass on, gradually he faded into the dim and, like a cloud passing over the sun world of half-remembered things.

Fethard Garden Club Outing 1983 L to R: Phil Wyatt, Aggie Barrett, Eileen Dillon, Mary Hennessy, Pauline Coffey, Sharon Grimson, Phyllis McDonnell, Mary O'Donnell, Nora Ahearne, Breda Smyth, Sheila O'Donnell, Joan Anglim and the hostess from Cork who was taking the group on a tour of her garden.

172 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Lonergans’ Pub — the end of an era by Davy Morrissey

headline from Pub Spy’s col- graphs taken, a fitting end to the fam- Aumn in the Sunday World ily’s great social and business contri- newspaper reads, “Cosy with all the bution to the life of the town. home comforts,” a eulogy written Paddy left home at a young age for about Lonergans Bar, Fethard. Pub London with Tommy Whyte in June Spy was right, but his was a fleeting 1960. They spent three months there visit, ours was of a much longer dura- where Paddy worked in Woolworths tion and there was much more to tell. of Victoria. Paddy returned to Paddy, Anne and family were rightly London on his own and worked in proud and deserving of the publicity Oxford Street, and in a wine shop on and copies get pride of place on the Edgware Road where he remembers premises. many singers, Gene Vincent, Frankie In September this year, Paddy and Vaughan, comedian Dick Emery, and Anne retired from business, a deci- the Bowes Ryan family, whom he sion taken after much agonising and later discovered were relatives of the soul searching. For their final night as Queen Mother’s. A pub in Cananbury, hosts, they were joined by family, North London, was his next port of friends and customers for a highly call where he spent eighteen months enjoyable, if emotional send-off. Past working for a Limerick man. Michael customers, visitors, and staff were O’Duffy, the Irish tenor, was a cus- recalled and stories told, photo- tomer of his there. He also remem-

173 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 bers a family, Michael Fagin, his wife ment capital of south Tipperary and son Michael junior, as customers. when ballad and music sessions Junior later became infamous as an began in the “Forge Tavern” part of intruder in the Queen’s bedroom at the courtyard. These were hugely Buckingham Palace. popular and many of the leading London, then as artistes and groups now, was a great of the day played centre of entertain- here. Bobby Clancy, ment and Paddy got Anne Byrne and to see and meet Paddy Roche, many of the stars of Maeve Mulvaney, the day. He met and Pecker Dunne, has a precious auto- Emerald Folk, graph of Louis Wexford, Ormonde Armstrong, whom Folk, Clonmel, Billy he describes as Kenrick and the being an absolute Remo from Clonmel gentleman and a are some among star in every way. the many that come Billy Fury, Adam to mind. Not forget- Faith, and Marianne ting ‘local star’ Jim Faithful were oth- Carroll, who always ers. A Bing Crosby did a turn with autograph is also a these bands to pop- part of Paddy’s vast Paddy Lonergan in the 1960s ular acclaim. Jim array of memorabilia. has entertained many over the years In 1963 Paddy returned home and with his vast repertoire and individ- re-opened the family business, which ual style and can still be relied upon had been closed since the death of today (with a little urging) to do a his grandfather in 1952. Poverty and turn. Thanks Jim! bleakness were endemic in Ireland at The ‘Dubliners’, en route to a date that time and customers were scarce. at the Grand Hotel Tramore (1966), A week’s wages of that era, would broke their journey at Lonergans, hardly buy a drink today. Paddy having read about the “Forge Tavern” remembers with great compassion through a music column in the the poverty and suffering of many Evening Herald. They partook of natives in that period. The range of refreshments and got talking to the drinks was quite small, and the range only customer at the time, Dave of customers equally small. Things Morrissey, St. Patricks Place, who slowly improved and in 1966 carried his tin whistle in his coat Lonergans became the entertain- pocket and enthralled them with his

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Lonergan's Bar, established 1833, changed hands on Friday 2nd September. Photographed on the final night are family members Paddy and Anne Lonergan with children Gary and Kim knowledge and mastery of music Billy Fury again when he played in they had not come across before. the “Ballroom”. He and his wife were They left rather late for their engage- house guests and he was fascinated ment in Tramore, and left a cache of by the peat briquettes in the open small bottles for Dave to consume at fire. He brought some back to his leisure. Paddy met Ronnie Drew England in the boot of his blue on a few occasions since and he Mercedes. By the way, the record remembers the day vividly. crowd for the Ballroom was 1,987 for The showband scene was really a Joe Dolan dance. taking off at that time and Paddy got In their many years in the trade, to know many of them through his Paddy (42 years), and Anne (37 involvement with the ballroom. All years), played host to the great and the leading bands played in Fethard, the good, the rich and famous, the Joe Dolan, Dickie Rock, Brendan poor and the thirsty. Luminaries from Boyer, Joe Mac and Brendan many walks of life, entertainment O’Brien, and many more. Most would sport, politics, etc, including have partaken of refreshments in this Pavarotti and Trevor Howard, politi- imposing bar at the top of Main cians John Bruton, Bertie Ahearne, Street. Many became friends and Ruari Quinn and David Andrew; from some were house guests of Paddy racing Vincent O’Brien, Mick and Anne. Paddy was to come across O’Toole, Brian Meehan, the Sangster

175 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Jim Carroll, who celebrated his 65th birthday this year, is still good for a song. family, and of course the Irish rugby Higgins, John Clancy, Paddy Ryan, team of 1985 who played Fethard Tom Barrett, Gus Kenrick, Donal senior footballers, among many. O’Sullivan, Timmy O’Connor, Jimmy Paddy’s pleasant manner and com- Ryan, Mick Shelly, Paddy (Fifty) mon touch made him an ideal Ryan, Mick Ryan, Jack Forsyth and ambassador meeting all nationalities, many others, R.I.P. returned emigrants, and those trac- Being adjacent to the GAA field ing their lineage, with aplomb. and cattle mart added another strand Anne and Paddy would like to to the great spectrum of clientele. express their gratitude to their cus- Mullinahone, St. Patricks and tomers over many years, not just for Ballingarry were great supporters their trade, but also for their friend- over the years and all added to the ship and company. Quality on both great diversity of customers. sides of the counter and a mutual Bar staff were many, some long enrichment. Anne fondly remembers term, some temporary, and some the early days and her older cus- fleeting. Francis Kearney, Jimmy tomers with great fondness, and the Higgins and Mick Ryan, who are no contribution the Green, St. Patrick’s longer with us; Danny Morrissey and Place and Barrack St. residents Michael McCarthy, were some of the played in their business. They earlier staff. remember fondly many that have left Everybody will have their own spe- us including Paddy O’Shea, Mick cial memories of this quality premis- O’Shea, Paddy McCarthy, Frank es. New Year’s Eve was always a Kearney, Michael Fox, Jimmy great night as was Christmas Party

176 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Night, and who can forget the was owned by Paddy and a syndicate Fethard Festival (2am bar exten- of friends. She died tragically in a rac- sions) for a whole week. ing accident at Cheltenham — the Lonergans food had a great reputa- cruel side of racing. tion and they acquired a large I’m sure I speak for everyone when lunchtime clientele adding further I say we are sorry to see you go, but brownie points to their portfolio. The you leave us with every best wish Lonergan family put together premis- from your friends and customers. To es of rare quality and beauty, your children Mark, Kim and Gary, adorned by antiques, memorabilia, good luck in the future and thanks prints, paintings, photographs and for everything. To Anne and Paddy, bric a brac, which we were privi- we wish you many years of a happy leged to share. Paddy’s love of racing and healthy retirement, and thanks can be seen all about the premises, for the memories. including spectacular shots of ‘Call To the current owners John and Me Later’ in action. ‘Call Me Later’, a Roseanne, good luck and prosperity great mare and winner of ten races for many years to come.

New owners, John and Roseanne Carroll, getting into the Halloween spirit! 177 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Fethard Ballroom celebrate 12 years

Fethard Ballroom men's committee members photographed at the 12th anniversary dance on St. Patrick's night. L to R: Seamus Barry, Gay Horan, Robert Phelan (secretary), Mick Ahearne (chairman), Paddy Hickey, Thomas O'Connell and Sean Spillane. t. Patrick’s Night is a special night, 17 March 1993, the former Snight for patrons of Fethard Country Club Ballroom, which was Ballroom, and this year was no originally the Capital Cinema, exception for the large number of reopened its doors in splendour to dancers who turned up to celebrate all and sundry. The ballroom was 12 years of success with the organis- purchased about twelve months pre- ing committee and their many viously, at a cost of £30,000, by the helpers. Fethard Ballroom is now Community Council but was in very one of the most popular venues for bad repair following at least five popular dancing in the south with years of closure and neglect. patrons driving from as far as However, community spirit came to Wexford, Cork and Waterford every the fore when various members of week. The committee would now the community spent endless nights like to see more locals coming to working to reinstate this building to enjoy the wonderful facility and its former glory. A Christmas draw warm friendly atmosphere generated took place to generate funds for among the many loyal followers materials and as much voluntary every Sunday night. Dancing is from labour as possible was used to make 9pm to midnight and admission the dream became a reality on St. includes light refreshments supplied Patrick’s Night. Most of the popula- by a very capable ladies’ committee. tion of the town and surrounding Twelve years ago, on St. Patrick’s areas danced the night away to the

178 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER sound of the Pat Burke Band from In the following years the commit- Cahir, and enjoyed themselves tee, using mainly voluntary labour, immensely. upgraded the hall to the tremendous In 1994 the committee formed facility it is today, fitting out a new Fethard Ballroom Company Ltd to fully equipped kitchen, new doors take over the running and financing and windows, new carpeting and of the ballroom. On top of the pur- non-slip floor covering, and vast chase price, a further £17,000 was improvements to the heating system spent on essential repairs to enable to eliminate draughts, reduce heat the hall to open. By 1995 the com- loss and add to the comfort of mittee had the original debt of patrons. £47,341 reduced to £20,379. Today, the Ballroom is completely 1997 was a very difficult year for paid for and self-sustaining and great the Ballroom with the possibility of credit is due to the present commit- closure due to a large increase in tee who stuck with the project, and insurance premium for the facility the many others who also worked and also some insurance claims with the committee over the past against the Ballroom. With outstand- twelve years. Well done! ing dedication and determination, We can show our appreciation by the committee tackled these prob- coming along with our friends and lems and successfully turned around enjoying a dance on Sunday nights! this tough situation and have never The committee assure us a very looked back since. warm welcome.

Fethard Ballroom ladies committee who look after the refreshments every Sunday. L to R: Sheila O’Donnell, Margaret Phelan, Catherine O’Connell, Monica Ahearn (treasurer), Pat Horan and Breda Spillane.

179 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Fethard & Killusty London Reunion

Photographed at this year’s Fethard-London Reunion L to R: Majella Looby, Keith Barnes, Ray Looby, Pat Looby and Frances Barnes. he Fethard & Killusty London couldn't attend, Gus Cummins, a TReunion was again held in St. speedy return to full health. Anthony's Parish Club in Edgware. In The reunion would not be possible excess of 50 people attended the without a lot of support. Paul Looby event, with attendees from as far has asked us to thank the following: away as Bradford in Yorkshire and Mary Hennessy for once again allow- John Maher, a resident of the USA for ing us the use of St. Anthony's Social the past 43 years, taking time out Club, Mary Morrissey and her band, from his holiday to attend. Billy and the North Wind, the Looby Early arrivals were entertained by family for their assistance with food Mary Morrissey and her band who preparation and transport and got the evening off to a fine start. The Fethard and Killusty Community reunion organiser Paul Looby Council for their continued support. thanked Mary for starting off the The reunion most importantly, evening and asked her to cut the needs the support of people — resi- reunion cake prior to her departure dents and emigrants alike. Paul has for another gig. asked for feedback from those who Later in the evening, our band from attended and also from those who last year, ‘Billy and the North Wind’, didn't, with a view to providing an entertained all present 'til late, ably even better event for next year. assisted by Pat Shine for a few num- If you have any comments, good, bers. The Cummins family, formerly bad or indifferent, please email Paul from the Cashel Road, was well rep- at [email protected] or call on resented on the night and we would +44 7967 648244. like to wish one of our regulars who

180 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Killusty Pony Show

At the Killusty Pony Show were L to R: Tom Ronan (Senior), Romy Ronan (on pony), Slaney Ronan and Thomas Ronan. he 2005 Killusty Pony Show was very difficult for the judge to Twas held at Claremore, Killusty, decide among the many colourful Fethard on Saturday 2nd July. The costumes. This year was no exception Weather Steward will be retained, for and with no rain to mar the proceed- after a truly appaling weather fore- ings, the colour lasted to the end. Mrs cast, he managed to keep the rain Annette Murphy was the judge. away so that the show could go on in The Dog Show increases in popu- unexpected and welcome comfort. larity every year. Mr and Mrs The Fancy Dress Competition and Chapman from England kindly the Dog Show were spectacular. It judged the classes.

At the show were L to R: Michael Coffey, Pat Culligan and Barry Walsh. 181 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Deaths in the parish The following is a list of deaths that occurred in the parish during the year. We have also included many of the deaths (from information supplied) that occurred away from Fethard and, in brackets, the place of funeral service if known. Bradshaw, Kathleen, The Green (Calvary) Kennedy, Sean, Burke Street (Calvary) Burke, Michael. Clonacody (Lisronagh) Leahy, Tess (Curran), Annesgift (Calvary) Carpendale, Theodora (Fergus), Dublin (Calvary) Leonard, Patrick, formerly Rocklow (Passage West) Croke, Kitty (Tobin) Farranaleen. (England) Martley, Denis, Moyglass (Calvary) Cummins, Dick, Main Street (Fethard Parish Church) Matthews, Georgie, formerly Kerry Street (Manchester) Cummins, Kathleen (O’Dwyer) Clonmel (Calvary) McCarthy, Michael, Main Street (Fethard Parish Church) Cummins, Margaret. Main St. (Fethard Parish Church) McGarry, Margaret, Woodvale Walk (Calvary) Delahunty, Neddy, Market Hill (Calvary) Millet, Matt, formerly The Valley (Calvary) Delaney, Peggy, formerly Coleman (Bray) Morris, Kathleen (Mulcahy), Kerry Street (London) Dorney, Mary ‘Mai’, Milestown (Cloneen) Murphy, Eileen, formerly Sparagoleith (England) Fagan, Mai (Strappe), formerly Drumdeel (Naas) O’Donnell, Anna (Danagher), Kilnockin (England) Fields, Madge (Looby), formerly Barrettstown (England) O’Dwyer, Noelle (Maher), Jossestown (Calvary) Fogarty, Bridget, Curraghscarteen (Calvary) O’Meara, James ‘Jim’, formerly Coolmoyne (England) Foster, Margaret (Heffernan), Congress Tec (England) O'Connell, Mary (McInerney), Strylea (Abbey) Frewen, Frances, Tullamaine (Calvary) O'Connor, Biddy (Henehan), Middlesex (Calvary) Gleeson, Frances (Walsh), St. Patrick’s Place (Thurles) O'Donnell, Brian, Garrinch, Fethard, (Killusty) Godfrey, Joe, Derryluskin (Calvary) O'Gorman, Richard, born in Fethard (New York) Goode, Margaret, Coolmoyne (Glen of Aherlow) Prout, Ned, formerly Killusty (Templemore) Grant, Jerome, formerly Tullamaine (England) Ryan, Paddy ‘Little Paddy’, Tirry Park (Calvary) Hackett, Margaret, Strylea, (Calvary) Shine, Michael (Jnr), Congress Terrace (Calvary) Halpin, Teresa. Quartercross, Killusty (Killusty) Sr. Pius, Presentation Convent, Thurles. Healy, Kitty, formerly Burke Street (Dublin) Stapleton, Mary, formerly Cashel Road (Calvary) Hennessy, Pat, Derryluskin & London (Lisronagh) Wall, Dick, Tullamaine (Calvary) Holohan, Maureen, Burke Street (Calvary) Walsh, Joseph, formerly Crampscastle (England) Keane, Alice, Fr. Tirry Park (Peppardstown) Whelan, James, formerly Bennettshill (England)

Photographed after this year's Corpus Christi Procession are L to R: Canon James Power, Pauline Sheehan, Tom Butler, Fr. Tom Breen P.P., Fr Malachy Loghran OSA and Kathleen Kenny. 182 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Our dear departed 2005 from available photographs

Kathleen Bradshaw Dick Cummins Margaret Cummins Neddy Delahunty

Paddy Ryan Noelle O’Dwyer Brian O’Donnell Matt Millett

Tess Leahy Sean Kennedy Denis Martley Paddy Hennessy

Frances Frewen Dick Wall Alice Keane Maureen Holohan

Margaret Hackett Mai Dorney Margaret McGarry James Whelan

183 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Marriages Weddings in the Parish Áine Henehan, The Square Fethard, to Scott Kelly, Dublin (Abbey) Eoin Prendergast, Cashel Road, Fethard, to Ms Gillian Ryan, Clonmel (Abbey) Lorraine Treacy, Congress Terrace, Fethard, to Mr Ed Collum, Kilsheelan (Parish) William O’Meara, The Green, Fethard, to Jennifer Vanderford, USA (Fethard) Eoin Coffey, Enfield, Co. Meath, to Jennifer Casey, Mallow (Killusty) Martha Williams, Carrick-on-Suir to Raymond Connolly, Killusty (Killusty) Aidan Fitzgerald, Kiltinan, to Jennifer Keane, St. Patrick’s Place (Parish) John J. Mullally, Woodvale Walk, to Eileen O’Brien, Woodvale Walk (Parish) Bernard Cawley, Grove Road, to Margaret Sweeney, Clonmel (Parish) Nigel Cleere, Ballingarry, to Anne (Marie) Noonan, Cloneen (Killusty) Colm O’Donoghue, Cashel, to Emily Heyligen, Cashel (Abbey) Martin Ryan, Clerihan, to Terese Murphy, Clerihan (Parish)

Weddings outside the Parish John Kelly, Rathvin, Fethard, to Claire Love, Newry (Newry) Shane Kenny, St. Patrick’s Place, to Niamh Connolly, Kilsheelan (Gambonsfield) Liam Kenny, Cois Falla, to Rebecca Maher, Clonmel (Lisronagh) Damien Byrne, Killusty, to Una Kiernan, Borris (Borris) John McEvoy, Killusty, to Deirdre Cuddihy (Drangan) Anna ‘Nadja’ Humphries, Coolmore to Eoin Barnible, Wexford (Rome) Anne Looney, Fethard, to T.J. O’Connell, Dualla (Boherlahan) David Lawton, Fethard, to Michelle Hickey, Lisronagh (Lisronagh)

Marriage of John Kelly, Rathvin, Fethard, and Claire Love, Newry, Co. Down. The wedding took place in the Sacred Heart Church, Cloughue, Newry. Wedding party L to R: Michelle Fox. Geraldine Love, Gemma Love, John Kelly and Claire Love, Gabriel Horan, David Kelly and Mike Kelly.

184 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Liam Kenny and Rebecca Maher who Eoin Prendergast and Gillian Ryan were married in Lisronagh who were married in Fethard

Shane Kenny and Niamh Connolly Lorraine Treacy and Ed Collum who who were married in Gambonsfield were married in Fethard

185 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005 Donations Received 2005 Acknowledged below are donations (€10 and over) received from readers and organisations up to 30th November 2005. We would also like to thank all those who wished to remain anonymous. Adams, Joann, New South Wales, Australia Corr, Patrick Michael, Australia Ahearne, Bridie, Youghal Costigan, Sr. Nora, Callan Aherne, Joan (Murphy), Clondalkin, Dublin Crane, Tom, Illinois USA Allen, Vincent, Edenderry Croke, Kevin J., Cheshire, UK Angel, Noreen (McDonnell), Sandiago, USA Cuddihy, Martin, Mass USA Arkell, Joan (O’Donnell), Warwick Culligan, James, Malaga, Spain Armstrong, Monica (Dwyer), Northampton Cummins, Catherine (O’Dwyer) RIP, Clonmel Augustinian Abbey, Fethard Cummins, Gus, Peterborough Aylward, Christie, Clonmel Cummins, Joan (Sayers), Cashel Aylward, Mary, Bray Cummins, John, Dublin 5 Aylward, Tony & Paula, Naas Cummins, Liam, Clonmel Badgers Soccer Club, Fethard Cummins, Michael, Sunningdale, UK Bagley, Margaret (Cooney), New York Cummins, Michael, Yorkshire Barnard, Brian, Castine, Maine Cummins, Mrs R., Hemel Hempstead, UK Barnes, Frances, Kent, Curran, Timmy, Welwyn Garden City, UK Barrett, Angela (McCarthy), Ardfinnan Curtin, Jacqueline (Moloney), Stillorgan Barry, Fr. Michael, Borrisoleigh Dalton, Aine (Tierney), Oakland, California Barry, Michael, Kilkenny Dalton, Michael, Howard Beach, N.Y. Barry, Rose (Ryan), Lismore Darcy, Mr & Mrs Phil, Kent, England Beavis, Pat (Finn), Herts., England Davin Haran, Mrs Lois, New York Boness, Cathy (O’Donnell), Biggleswade, UK Dawson, Sheila (Cummins), Solihull, West Midlands Broderick, Pat & Rowena, Melbourne, Australia Delahunty, Steve & Kathy, Novato, USA Browne, Nora (Ryan), Rathdowney Delaney, Catherine (Bergin), Nottingham, UK Burke, Eamonn & Nora, Tralee, Co. Kerry Delany, Kitty, Parsonshill, Fethard Burke, James, San Francisco, USA Delguidice, Mick & Peggy (Bedford), London Burke, Joanne, Dublin Devlin, Rainy (Healy), West Virginia, USA Burke, Kevin, Illinois, USA Devlin, Rt. Rev. Msgr. B. P., Gibraltar Burke, Mary, Thurles Dineen, James, California Burke, Patsy (Byard), Killenaule Dixon, Patrick, Enniscorthy Butler, Mike, Limerick City Donohue, Anne (Morrissey), Limerick Butler, Richard, Middlesex, UK Downes, Mary, Cahir Butler, Sean, Lisronagh Duggan, Eugene, Christchurch, New Zealand Byard, Dr. Donal, Cincinnati, USA Dunphy, Deborah (Guiry), Dunhill, Co. Waterford Byrne Healy, Peg, , New Jersey Dwyer, Geraldine (Fitzgerald), Newmarket-on-Fergus Byrne, John, Ballincollig, Cork Eustace, Teresa, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon Byrne, R. A., Daingean Road, Tullamore Everard, Richard, Holland Byrnes, George, Texas, USA Fahey, Betty (Bradshaw), Clonmel Cahill, Michael, New York Farrell, Christina (O’Donovan), Clonmel Cantrill, Alan and Hazel (Mackey), Burton-on-Trent Fethard Ballroom Ltd Cantwell, Bill, Florida Fethard Bridge Club Canty, Mary (Casey), Tramore Fethard Community Employment Scheme Carey, Peter, New Jersey USA Fethard Community Games Carroll, Mary (Morrissey), Warwickshire, UK Fethard Community Playgroup Carroll, Mary (Shine), South Australia Fethard Country Markets Caruana, J.P., George J., Kensington, Australia Fethard Coursing Club Casey, Fionnuala (Murray), Cork Fethard Folk Museum Casey, Michael & Katherine, (Delaney), Newmarket Fethard GAA Club Cathie, Alice (Mulcahy), Hants. Fethard Girl Guides Clark, Rita, San Mateo USA Fethard Historical Society Coady, Johnie & Mary, Dorset, England. Fethard Judo Club Coady, Michael & Elizabeth, Manchester Fethard Legion of Mary Collins, Olivia (Schofield), Templemore Fethard & Killusty Parish Colville, Anthony, Essex, England Fethard Red Cross Colville, Peggy, Spittlefield, Fethard Fethard Tidy Towns Colville, Tony & Maeve (O’Shea), Tullamore Fethard Womens’ Group Comerford, Esther (Nevin), Kilkenny Fitzgerald, Con, Bradford Connolly, Joan (O’Meara), Ballybunion Fitzgerald, Paddy, Wrexham UK Connolly, Sean, Kilsheelan Fitzgerald, Patrick, Leicester UK Cord, J., Sussex, England Fitzgerald, Sheena, Surrey, UK

186 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Fitzpatrick, Jo Beatty, Long Island, NY Lord, Caroline (Connolly), Milton Keynes, UK Fitzpatrick, Thomas, Woodlawn, New York Lovatt-Dolan, Elizabeth (Quirke), Dublin 14 Flanagan, Frank & Rita (Fitzgerald), Bristol Lyons, Alice, (McDonnell), Birkenhead Flanagan, John, Nr. Wantage, Oxon MacDermid, Walt, Silver Spring, MD, USA Flanagan, Tony, London W5 Mackay, Ann (Murphy), Devon, England Flanagan, Walter, Grove Wantage, Englang Mallon, Nuala (Kenny), Sandymount, Dublin 4 Flannery, James, Perrysburg, USA Malone, Mary (Maher), New York Flynn, Denis, Redhill, Surrey Mannion, Cathryn (Byrne), Athlone Fogarty, Anne (Ahearne), Youghal Marshall, Frank, Kilkenny Fogarty, John & Veronica, Garrinch, Fethard Marshall, Tom & Patricia, Portlaoise Fox, Andy, Thurles Martin, Lucy (Wyatt), Lawrenceville, Georgia Frewen, Willie, Tramore Martley, Sr. Margaret, Cork Frost, Mary (Whelan), Surrey McCarthy, Don, Leixlip Gallagher, Kathleen (Mackey), Croydon, Surrey McCarthy, Kitty, Main Street, Fethard Gibbs, Maria (Scanlan), Calgary, Canada McCarthy, Tony, Cross Street, Clonmel Gibson, Mrs M., Tullaroan, Co. Kilkenny McCole, Nora (O’Shea), Perth Glover, Bruce & Jane (Napier), Sawtell, Australia McCormack Sheridan, Eileen, Naas, Co. Kildare Gluck, Kathleen (Morrissey), Isle of Wight McCormack, John Joe, Limerick Gough-Risk, Mrs. Patricia, California McCormack, Leonora, New Zealand Green, Laura (Cummins), Clonmel McCormack, Thomas, Gwynedd, Wales Grimson, Douglas, Queensland, Australia McLaren, Mary (Ryan), Kent, UK Gunne, Patrick, Islington, London McLaughlin, Claire (Fahy), Leeds, UK Gunne, Sean, Clonmel McNulty, Mary (Maher), Bedford, UK Haide, Theresa (Quinlan), Bucks. UK McQuinn, Cynthia & Timothy, Indiana, USA Halley, John, Dublin 16 Meagher, Bridie (Phelan) RIP, Birmingham Hanlon, Margaret, New Jersey USA Meaney, James J., London SW19 Hannigan, Dorothea (Schofield), Cashel Meehan, Mrs Ellen, Oklahoma, USA Hanrahan, Alice (Phelan), London W4 Moloney, Patrick F., Bucks. UK Harkin, Jennifer (Cummins), Leighlinbridge Moloney, Tom, Northampton UK Harrington, William, Cavan Mooney, Anna (Skehan), Belfast Harris, Neil & Di, Reading Mooney, Noel, Roquefort-les-Pins, France Hayes, Canon Matthew, Bath, UK Moore, Mary, (Gorey), Drogheda Hayes, Joe & Mossie, Rathcoole, Fethard Moran, Bro. James, Abbeyleix, Co. Laois Hayes, Michael, Dublin 24 Morrissey, Billy, Herts. UK Hayes, Pat & Mary (Anglim), Queensland, Australia Morrissey, J. J., Tralee, Co. Kerry Heffernan, Larry & Inger, Oslo, Norway Morrissey, Mamie (Murphy), St. Patrick’s Place Henehan, Sean, Dublin 6 Morrissey, Mary, London N19 Hetterley, David & Frances (Kenrick), Hereford, UK Morrissey, Patsy, Swords, Co Dublin Hocken, Mary, Redditch, UK Morrissey, Pauline (Sheehan), Fethard Irish Countrywomen's Association, Fethard Morrissey, Sean, Newcastle Upon Tyne Johnson, Dr. Brian & Joan (Carey), CT, USA Morrissey, Teresa (McCarthy), Ballymacarby Jones, Mrs Barbara, East Sussex Mullins, Denis, New Jersey Jordan, Ronan, Celbridge, Co. Kildare Mullins, Vincent, North Yorks UK Kavanagh, Elizabeth, Urlingford Murphy, David, Dublin 16 Kavanagh, Rena (Keyes), Waterford Murphy, Muriel (Mullins), New Ross Keane, John, Tullamore Murray, Jim, Macroom, Cork Kelly, Vera (Stokes), Cork Nagle, Anastasia (Kelly), Bansha Kennedy, Bill and Liz, The Valley, Fethard Neville, Michael, Cork Kennedy, Fr. A. B., Portumna Neville, Roger, Tullamore Kennedy, John B., Maine, USA Neville, Seamus, Tramore Kenny, Maura (Stokes), Dublin 6 Newport, Tony and Mary, Congress Tce, Fethard Kenrick, John, Cashel Nichols, Betty (Dineen), Warwick UK Kenrick, Paddy, Clonmel O’Brien, Margaret (Butler), Limerick Kerr, Colleen, Ontario, Canada O’Brien, Mary (Kenrick), Limerick Kevin, Sr. Monica OSU, The Bronx, New York O’Brien, OSU, Sr. Margaret, New York Killusty National School O’Brien, OSU, Sr. Philomena, Blue Point, N.Y. Knight, Mai, Wantage, UK O’Carroll, Lila, California Lanigan, Helen, Faugheen O’Connell, Katie, West Yorkshire, UK Lavin, Michael James, New Jersey, USA O’Connell, Peg (Darcy), Basildon, Essex Leahy, Gerry, Kilkenny O’Connor, Jimmy, Castletown Berehaven, Co. Cork Leahy, John, Grantham, Lincs. O’Connor, Mary, Westport, Co. Mayo Leahy, Thomas, Oakwood, UK O’Connor, OSA, Fr. John, Dungarvan Lines, Ellen, (Flynn), Milton Keynes O’Connor, Stephen, Devon, England Lonergan, Thomas, Preston, UK O’Donnell, Anna (Danagher), Surrey, England Looby, John & Patricia (Halloran), Surrey, UK O’Donnell, Anna (Mackey), Niles, Illinois

187 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

O’Donnell, Brian, Fethard, (in Memory of) Ryan, Donal, Kentucky, USA O’Donnell, Jim & Betty, (O’Sullivan), Minnesota Ryan, John (Boxer), Kilsheelan O’Donnell, Jimmy, Dublin 16 Ryan, Mary (Murphy), Cashel O’Donnell, Mary (O’Meara), Ontario, Canada Ryan, Michael J., St. Albans, Herts. O’Donnell, Tony, Dublin 9 Ryan, Michael, Monasterevin O’Donovan, Gabrielle (Mackey), Naas Road, Dublin Ryan, Noel, Surrey UK O’Donovan, Greta, Burke Street, Fethard Ryan, Thomas, London NW3 O’Donovan, Michael, Clonmel Sayers, Tony, Peterbourgh O’Dwyer, Chris and John, Strylea, Fethard Sgarlata, Patricia (Sheehan), Loudonville, N.Y. O’Dwyer, Elsie (Ahearne), Derryluskin, Fethard Shannon, Tony, Leeds, UK O’Dwyer, Ita, Derryluskin, Fethard Sharkey, Neil, Galway O’Flynn, Patrick, Glen Ellyn, Illinois Shattock, Jack & Pam (Myles), Essex UK O’Flynn, Peggy, Ballincollig Sheehan, Don, Cincinnati, USA O’Gara (RIP), Nora, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Sheehan, Patrick, London N17 O’Gorman, Paddy, Woking, Surrey. Shine, Benny, Essex, England O’Hanrahan, Patrick, London W9 Shine, Nessa (O’Donovan), London E7 O’Hara, Catherine, Oxford, England. Shine, Pat, Herts. UK O’Hare, Patricia (Murphy), Limerick Shine, Tom, Cahir O’Keeffe, Larry & Helen (Cummins), Clonmel Shortman, Mary (Quirke), Herts, England. O’Keeffe, Michael & Hazel, Birmingham Skehan, CSsR, Rev. William, Philippines. O’Mahoney, Laura (Ward), Ballybay, Co. Monaghan Skehan, Nicholas, Dublin O’Mara, Jimmy, New York Slattery, William, Mitchelstown O’Meara, Molly, Caoimhe & Dara, Killusty Smith, Robert, Waltham Abbey, Essex O’Neill, Hal, Cork Squires, May (O’Dwyer), Essex O’Neill, Ken, Dublin 6 Stapleton, Martin & Rita (O’Grady), Dublin 7 O’Neill, Rt. Rev. Msgr. William, Georgia, USA Stapleton, Peggy, Thurles O’Reilly, Rita (Walsh), Dunadry, Co. Antrim Staunton, Rena (Stokes), London NW1 O’Riain, Padraig, Báile Atha Cliath 13 Szwarc, Agnes (Culligan), Kent UK O’Riordan, Kay, Ballynoe, Co. Cork Taylor Family, Saucestown, Fethard O’Rourke, Andy, Dublin 15 The Curator, County Museum, Clonmel O’Rourke, Paddy, Dublin 6W Tingley, Ellen (Culligan), Seven Oaks, Kent, UK O’Shea, Gerry & Alysa, Brooklyn, New York Tobin, Patrick & Ellen (Walsh), Clonmel O’Sullivan, Brian & Edith, Ayr, Scotland Torpey, Kitty (Strappe), Cambridge, O’Sullivan, John & Claire, Clonmel Totonchi, Louise (Kenrick), Illinois O’Sullivan, Marie (McCarthy), Main Street, Fethard Trehy - Halliday, Max, Sydney O’Sullivan, Michael, Rathvin, Fethard. Vinten, Joan (O’Shea), Maidstone, Kent O'Neill, PP, Rt. Rev. Msgr. William, Savannah, USA Voss, Eleanor (Morrissey), Surrey UK Oriental Gardens & Lonergans Bar Wade-Palmer, Eileen (Doherty), Hampshire Paine, Vera (O’Donovan), Cambs. England Walker, Eleanor (O’Donnell), Australia Patrician Presentation Secondary School, Fethard Walsh, Gerard, Ontario, Canada Perkins, Biddy, (Power), Cheltenham Walsh, Mary (Fahy), Portlaw Phelan, Gus, Crampscastle, Fethard Walsh, Pat, Leeds UK Phelan, Kathleen (Elsie), New York Walsh, Pat, N.S.W. Australia Phelan, Robert, Strylea, Fethard Watson, Simon & Amanda, North Shore City, NZ Power, Canon James, Fethard Whelan, Kathleen (Quirke), Clonmel Power, Ellen, Rosslare Road, Co. Wexford. Whelan, Miriam (O’Brien), Drakesland, Kilkenny Power, Ned, Wolverhampton UK Whelan, Paddy, London SE13 Purcell, Tom, Burke Street, Fethard White, Marie (Dineen), Leamington Spa UK Purcell, Yvonne, London Woodlock, Austin, Birmingham Quinn, Elaine (Maher), Ennis, Co. Clare Woodvale Walk Residents Association Reeves, Maureen (Fogarty), Shrewley, UK Woodward, Sheila Aline, Warkickshire UK Robinson, Bridget (Smith), Dundalk Wright, Ann (Flanagan), Wantage, Oxon Roche, Peggy (Kenny), Thurles Wyatt, Frank, North Carolina, USA Ryan (Jnr), Mattie, Buffana, Killenaule Wyatt, Kathryn, Amsterdam, Netherlands Ryan, Ann (Neville), Thurles Wyatt, Kevin, Phoenix, Arizona Ryan, Breda (Grant), Golden Wyatt, Paul, San Francisco Ryan, Brendan, London Wynne, Monica (Dwyer), Clonmel.

If, for any reason, we have omitted your name, please let us know and we will acknowledge your donation next year.

188 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

A letter from Ring Irish College 1946 by Tony Newport

he following letter, written by could hear them quite plain because TTony Newport on 18th July there is only a wooden partition 1946, was sent by to his parents from between the two rooms. Condon is Ring College, Co. Waterford, where the Limerick boy’s name and I was students go to learn the Irish lan- shouting, “Style Condon!”, and Fr. guage in natural surroundings. Ring Lee wanted to know this morning College is still going strong today and who was shouting it. not much has changed since 1946 — We have only to go to the college or at least from what parents are told! for one hour a day now. All the chocolate is gone now because I Dear Mam and Dad, shared it with the other two. I hope you are well as I am here. Henehans brought a pot of jam and We arrived here at about 6 o’clock every night we get about a dozen on Monday night. We did not go to cuts of bread and have a right feed of sleep for a long time after we went to bread and jam before we go to bed. bed that night because we were The weather has not been so good singing all night. I am sleeping in the up to this but I went swimming three same bed that I was sleeping in last times since I came. I went in today year and I am sharing the room with and the water was cold as ice. We go Paddy Sullivan and Michael to the céilí every night and have Henehan. great fun there. There are three boys from Clonmel That is all the news I have for the staying in the room next to us and present. Give my love to all at home. one of them is Tony Millet. Tony and Please send some more chocolate. another boy from Limerick were Love from, singing solos for us last night. We Tony.

189 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Photographed at a surprise 40th birthday party held for Helen Carrigan at Slievenamon Golf Club are L to R: Kylie Magner, Frances Boyle, Helen Carrigan, Ann Moloney, Áine Wright, Michael Knightly and Melissa Stokes.

Tipperary footballers, Declan Browne and Paul Fitzgerald, performing the offi- cial opening of Butler's Sports Bar new off-license on Main Street, Fethard.

190 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Chris Punch, a nephew of Mary Danagher, enjoying his tour of Fethard Folk Museum. Photographed above with Jimmy Mullins (right).

Children from Fethard Community Playgroup. Back L to R: Sean Walsh, Caoimhe O'Meara, Ben Coen, Matilda Magnier, Cathal O'Mahoney. Middle Row L to R: Keylin O'Donnell, Chloe Nolan, Alison Connolly, Lucy Cummins, Lucy Spillane. Front L to R: Hanna Dolan, Maggie Fitzgerald and Leah Coen.

191 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Members of the Sayers family from St. Patrick's Place photographed at a family reunion L to R: Tom Sayers, Monica Moriarty, Joan Cummins, Jim Sayers, Rita Kelly, Chrissie Cummins, Patsy Kirwin, Peg Barrett, and Buddy Sayers. (Missing Catherine, Nan and Liam.)

Boys and girls from Fethard who received their First Holy Communion at Holy Trinity Parish Church Fethard. Back L to R: Canon James Power, Maureen Maher (teacher), Kate Quigley, Hannah Tobin, Molly Proudfoot, Eoghan Hurley, Niall Doocey, Tommy Anglim, Fr. Tom Breen P.P. Middle Row L to R: Kayleigh Higgins, Gráinne Fanning, Amy Sweeney, Niamh Shanahan, Niamh O'Meara, Adam Fitzgerald, Darragh Bradshaw, Charlie Manton, Ms Carmel Lonergan (teacher). Front L to R: Jane Morrissey, Jennifer Rice, Larissa Clancy, Katie Butler, Clodagh Bradshaw, Shauna Mackey, Cormac Horan, Joedy Sheehan and John Bernard O'Reilly. Missing from photograph is Jack Connolly. 192 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Group photographed with Rt. Revd. Peter Barrett M.A. Bishop of Cashel and Ossory at the ‘Flower Festival — Fethard Through the Ages’ held in aid of the Restoration Work on the Holy Trinity Church of Ireland.

Photographed at the Augustinian Abbey 700 Celebrations are Back L to R: Kathleen Connolly, and sisters Joan O'Meara, Teresa Fogarty and Breda Walsh. Front L to R: Ciara Connolly and Ryan Walsh.

193 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2005

Residents of Fr. Tirry Park action group who are awaiting South Tipperary County Council to undertake repairs to their houses for many years. L to R: John Fahey MCC, Pat Fitzgerald, Seamus Moloney, Paddy and Margaret Grant, Noel Coffey, Maureen Keane and David Hennessy.

Photographed at the official opening of St. Bernard's Group Homes 30th Anniversary exhibition of photographs by Rev Patrick Mooney, "The Mystery of the Ordinary". L to R: Rev. Patrick Mooney, Sr Éilís Bergin and Ms Pat Looby, who officially opened the exhibition.

194 2005 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Davy Lawless, 36 years a postman, retired this year. Davy is photographed above in Fethard Post Office where Joe O'Sullivan, An Post Area Office, Limerick, made a presentation. L to R: Denis Toomey, John Fogarty, Davy Lawless, Pat Brett, Joe O'Sullivan, Barry Connolly and Jane Hayes.

Needham Family from Friarsgrange, Fethard, photographed with their newly found cousins Bill and Roz Gleason from Long Island, New York, who made contact with their relatives through the Fethard Website. Bill and Roz travelled to Fethard with their three children and were thrilled with the warm friendly reception received from the Needham family. Back L to R: Willie Needham, Bill Gleason, Roz Gleason, Majella Lonergan, Helen Needham, Francis Lonergan, Geraldine Lonergan. Front L to R: Kathleen Tuohy and Val Needham.

195 Augustinian Abbey — celebrating 700 years in Fethard

The late Michael McCarthy looking after his stock on Market Hill

ISSN 1393-2721