Niall Quinn presenting a Sunderland jersey signed by himself, Roy Keane and the rest of the squad, to Alice Leahy, co-founder of Trust. The jersey was auctioned at the Frank Purcell Memorial Golf Classic barbecue. Also in the photograph is Vincent Murphy (left).

The Presleys photographed in McCarthy's Hotel, Fethard, on Tuesday 2nd January 2007 L to R: Michael Lockwood, Lisa Marie Presley and Priscilla Presley. FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Dedicated to our friends and relations living away from home

Copyright © 2007

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: National Heritage Day in Fethard

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 information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the author. FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Table of contents

Abymill Theatre ...... 142 Fethard Senior Citizens Club ...... 41 An unusual find at Watergate! ...... 124 First Irishman at the Dutch Open ...... 31 Badgers Over 30’s Soccer ...... 36 First Steps Playgroup ...... 146 Christmas Greetings from the Abbey . . . . .8 From Black’s Bridge to Leahy’s Bridge . .14 Church of Ireland News ...... 10 Irish Girl Guides ...... 121 Community Employment Scheme ...... 161 John Joe’s Corner ...... 122 Conor Maher remembered by a friend . . .37 Killerk Land Division ...... 102 Country Market’s 60th Birthday ...... 148 Killusty National School ...... 92 Deaths in the parish ...... 172 Killusty Pony Show ...... 33 Do You Remember . . . 1980 ...... 45 Killusty Soccer Club ...... 109 Donal wins photographic competition . .179 Marriages ...... 162 Donations Received 2007 ...... 180 Nano Nagle National School ...... 97 Expanding Fethard ...... 3 Newsletter Contact Details ...... 172 Fethard & District Day Care Centre . . . .177 Our dear departed 2007 ...... 173 Fethard & District Rugby Club ...... 71 Our Town Walls for all to enjoy ...... 129 Fethard & Killusty Community Council .166 Parish Greetings ...... 8 Fethard & Killusty Community Games . . .41 Patrician Presentation Secondary School 136 Fethard and District Credit Union ...... 135 Playing for Life — Tanzania ...... 165 Fethard Ballroom ...... 126 Red Hills Farmers’ Market ...... 158 Fethard Bridge Club ...... 128 Sheepdog Trials in Killusty ...... 31 Fethard Community Sportsfield ...... 70 Soldiers Were We ...... 151 Fethard Flower Show and Fête 1912 . . . . .84 Spirits in the Bar ...... 132 Fethard GAA Club ...... 22 St. Patrick’s Boys’ National School . . . . .94 Fethard Historical Society ...... 110 Table of contents ...... 2 Fethard ICA celebrating 80 years ...... 146 The late Catherine Quinn ...... 174 Fethard Knitting Group ...... 127 The Life and Times of Canon Patten . . . . .76 Fethard Ladies Football Club ...... 39 Traditional Gardener at Crampscastle . . .175 Fethard Legion of Mary ...... 13 What’s the Forecast? ...... 114 Fethard Scout Notes ...... 118

2 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Expanding Fethard by Joe Kenny (editor)

Fethard from the air on 28th August 2007 showing some of the many new developments underway. n the past twelve months here in involvement, should pave the way. IFethard one of the most noticeable In the past, county councils intrusions in our dormant, quiet lives is throughout the country have created the huge building activity in and housing estates that have not around the town. It wasn’t so many enhanced towns or benefited the peo- years ago that we were looking for ple living in them as the majority of council houses to be built in Fethard residents aspire to leave at the first and were lucky to get five built in a possible opportunity. How long does two-year cycle. Well, for better or it take to learn from mistakes? worse, things have changed in sleepy From attending community-driven old Fethard. We have new housing meetings with county council officials developments built or being built at it appears they are duty bound to Strylea, Killenaule Road, Abbey Road build houses, however and wherever and Congress Terrace with more even they get the land, and then house fam- larger developments planned for the ilies from waiting lists throughout the Rocklow Road and Jesuit’s Walk county. In doing their ‘duty’ they are /Congress Terrace areas. While an also ‘forced’ to ignore the wishes of influx of new people is always welcome communities that have spent genera- in any town it is particularly important tions providing schools, community that proper planning, with community centres, theatres, halls, sport centres 3 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

New housing developments between Barrack Street (left) and Burke Street (right). and various voluntary services and readdressing the 3 to 1 imbalance of organisations necessary to provide for social housing to private housing that community living. While many peo- has occurred in Fethard over the past ple have come to live in Fethard and few years. We also notice an increase have been very proactive in their com- in new businesses starting up in town, munity involvement, it is our experi- which is always welcome. Overall ence that this figure is getting less and things are looking up and our good less. Unfortunately, in the case of relationship with local elected council- council housing lists, our community lors has helped in no end to have our has no involvement whatsoever in wishes listened to at county council who comes to live in our town and level. I take this opportunity to con- share our community facilities. Not gratulate Cllr. John Fahey, Killenaule, alone have we no involvement, but we on his election this year as Chairman are not even entitled to know, for legal of South Tipperary County Council. reasons, if we have re-housed sex Since first elected to South Tipperary offenders, drug dealers, or murderers County Council, John has attended living among us. Until this matter is our monthly Community Council addressed, what community would meetings and various other communi- want council housing estates built in ty meetings in Fethard, to keep well their town? informed of the work and wishes of On the positive side, many of the the community. current building developments are Fethard received a tremendous 4 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER boost this year with Fethard’s affilia- which is currently underway. The tion to the Irish Walled Town Heritage Council’s Planning and Network, spearheaded by Tim Development Officer, Alison Harvey, Robinson, Watergate, and the involve- has played a great role in securing sig- ment and support of the Heritage nificant funding for Fethard, which Council of Ireland. will secure the proper conservation of Since August 1986, when Mr John Fethard Town Wall and recognition for Bradley M.A. (Director of the Urban Fethard’s tourist potential at national Archaeology Survey) speaking at “The and international level. Alison, a keen Norman Festival Weekend” was first supporter of Fethard’s Town Wall, was heard say, “Fethard is without any also instrumental in forming the Irish doubt the most important small Walled Towns Network to which medieval town in Ireland. Its preserva- Fethard is affiliated. tion and its proper development as a As we look forward to another historic town is a matter of national Christmas and New Year we can only importance”, we have been fighting an be optimistic and pray the path we’re uphill battle to convince officialdom of on is the correct one. We wish our the uniqueness of Fethard’s Town emigrants and readers at home and Walls. This year, we have finally abroad, a very Happy Christmas and achieved these objectives through the prosperous New Year. Who knows, work of the Historical Society and the with house prices dropping every day formation of a local steering commit- here, some of you may even consider tee for the Fethard Town Wall moving back home again . . . Fethard’s Conservation and Management Plan, still a great old place to live! >

New housing development at Congress Terrace (Fethard Ballroom on left) 5 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Killenaule Road housing developments. In the top right corner of the photograph (above) is the new Equine Hospital and below it is Calvary Cemetery, lower down is Dawn Foods factory and the new Ard Alainn estate. On the left hand side from top down is the new Friar’s Field estate, Woodvale Walk and Strylea.

Killenaule Road housing developments looking back towards Fethard. On the left from bottom up is Dawn Foods factory and the new Ard Alainn estate. On the right hand side from top down is Canon Hayes Park, Kilnockin View, Slievenamon Close, Strylea, Woodvale Walk and Friar’s Field (on bottom edge) 6 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

New housing development on Abbey Road. Fethard town is to the left of photograph.

Above is the site for the new council houses above St. Patrick’s Place and adjacent to Strylea lane (left). Public housing schemes in Fethard (Woodvale Walk, Fr. Tirry Park, Canon Hayes Court, Slievenamon Close, Barrack Street and Kilnockin View) provide one hundred and eighty-one houses. In contrast private housing schemes consist of approx. forty-six houses completed (Strylea, Cedar Grove, Cois Falla, Abbey Close) and approx. thirty-three under construction (Killenaule and Cashel roads). 7 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Parish Greetings nce again it gives me great but the sense of belonging has always Opleasure, through the pages of brought us through. To all our readers the Fethard & Killusty Newsletter, to we wish you every happiness and send greetings to all both home and peace for this Christmas and New away on behalf of the Canon and Year. May the experience of the season myself. May this greeting find you fill you with hope and joy that will well and happy wherever you are. We truly help you to experience Christ for send special good wishes to the the year ahead. unwell: may the Lord be close to you We are truly grateful to the people as you journey under the shadow of of Fethard and Killusty for their faith the Cross. and support over the past year. May The year that is now drawing to a the Lord in his goodness protect you close has had its moments of happi- always. > ness and also its occasions of sadness Fr. T.F. Breen P.P. and Canon J. Power

Photographed at this year’s Corpus Christi Procession to the Augustinian Abbey grounds on 10th June are L to R: Canon James Power, Fr. Timmy Walsh OSA, Fr. Peter Haughey OSA, Tom Butler, Kathleen Kenny, Fr. Tom Breen P.P., Gus Maher and Fr. John Meagher OSA. Christmas Greetings from the Abbey he Augustinians in the Abbey home. Tsend warm greetings to all our March 16th last was a special day exiles. At Christmas you will be think- for those in the Abbey; it marked the ing of Fethard, and we will remember 50th anniversary of the priestly ordi- you, and hope that some of you will nation of Fr Timmy Walsh. A native of be able to make at least a flying visit Ballylanders, he entered the 8 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Augustinian order in 1950 and was ies after Easter. We were glad that he ordained in Rome on 16th March spent a night in Fethard at the start of 1957. His first appointment was to May and concelebrated Mass with the missions in northern Nigeria where he community. He was impressed by the spent twenty years. He went back for a age of the Abbey church — not many further eight years after a spell in a of the Order's churches could boast, parish in California run by the Irish as Fethard can, of having walls that Augustinians. When he returned to were part of the original building Ireland, he ministered in Limerick, which dates from 700 years ago. Dungarvan and Ballyhaunis before I am joined by Frs Gerry Horan, being appointed to Fethard in 2001. John Meagher and Timmy Walsh in We join the many who congratulated praying that Christmas will be a time him on his Golden Jubilee, and pray of rich blessings for all of you and the that he will be blessed in his ministry members of your families, and that in here. 2008 you will enjoy good health, hap- Fr Robert Prevost, the American- piness and peace of mind. > born Prior General of the Augustinian Peter Haughey O.S.A. Order, visited some of the Irish prior-

Corpus Christi Procession making its way through Burke Street to the Augustinian Abbey grounds on 10th June

9 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Church of Ireland News

Helping at the Confidential Art Sale at Holy Trinity Church of Ireland Fethard were L to R: Jenny Butler, Judy Butler, Ernest Bates and Anne Baily. n Monday 6th November this was the best fundraising event O2006 a funeral service was held ever held for Holy Trinity. The event in Holy Trinity Church for Jean Mary attracted a large attendance and was Tara Bricknell. She was very well blessed with sunshine. Nellie Shortall known in the Fethard area, and a sup- formally opened the doors at 3pm and porter of Holy Trinity Church. On customers quickly viewed the art 22nd December 2006 the Annual works by many well-known artists Carol Service was held, it was well and amateurs alike that were donated attended and the collection went to and sold at the one price of €25 each. Meals on Wheels. The ‘anonymous’ works were signed On 12th January 2007 the Reverend on the back so buyers had to trust Barbara Yvonne Fryday was installed their judgement and purchase their as Rector of Clonmel, Cahir and pieces without knowing who the artist Fethard. The Service took place at Old was. Everyone was very happy with Saint Mary's Church, Clonmel. their pieces and some were pleasantly On Sunday 17th June a Confidential surprised to find they had purchased a Art Sale was organised by Mrs Judy valuable painting for €25. Butler and her daughter Jenny. To date A marquee was erected on the 10 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Photographed at the Confidential Art Sale at Holy Trinity Church of Ireland Fethard were L to R: Diana Watson, Eve Goodbody, Tim Goodbody and Harry Ponsonby grounds where a delicious cream tea day and a novel fundraising idea rais- was provided by Thelma Griffith and ing a total just short of €10,000. friends. The day concluded with the On 14th September Jill Lawlor auction of a framed print by Peter daughter of Mr and Mrs R. Lawlor, Curling. Mr Christopher Horsman Rathkenty, Lisronagh, married James was in control of bidding and finally Nolan. We wish the young couple a agreed to sell to the highest offer of long and happy life together. > €500 from Brian Palmer. A wonderful

Photographed at the Confidential Art Sale at Holy Trinity Church of Ireland Fethard were L to R: Chrissie Cummins, Monica Moriarty, Mary Cummins, Ann Tillyer and Fiona Cummins. 11 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Photographed at the Confidential Art Sale at Holy Trinity Church of Ireland Fethard were L to R: Marianne Shortall, Nellie Shortall, who opened the event, John Shortall and Anne Heverin.

L to R: Holly Moore, Caroline Stokes, Matilda Magner, Tadhg Magner and Zoë Stokes.

Christopher Horsman auctioning the hunt print by Peter Curling which sold for €500 to Brian Palmer.

12 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Fethard Legion of Mary he Legion of Mary extends Well, the Legion is still in existence, Tgreetings to all readers. We wish but badly in need of members. We do you a pleasant, peaceful Christmas remind you to pray the Rosary. This is and New Year. We express apprecia- stressed during May and October. Let tion to all who have helped us this us encourage one another to pray the past year, and we are pleased that Rosary and attend daily Mass, to there are those among you who avail practice reverence and respect in of the opportunity to take papers or Church and to tune in to ETWN reli- books that are provided. gious channel on Sky 769. Since last year many of our loyal We pay tribute to all who helped to friends and relatives have been called lay the foundations for the faithful to their eternal reward. We pray for practice of our religion. Now it is up those left behind as well as for the to us to continue this work, as we souls of their departed. thank God for all the helps and bless- You may wish to know what the ings of our lives. > Legion of Mary is doing nowadays. Your Fethard Legionnaires of Mary.

Group photographed at the old Fethard Tennis Court in Burke Street in the 1950s. Back L to R: Tossie Stapleton, Paddy Tierney, Johnny O'Flynn, Fr. Lambe, Dermot Rice, Louis O'Donnell. Front L to R: Ann O'Sullivan, Bridget Fahey, Noreen Ward, Rita Tierney, Marie Rice, Alice Mulcahy and Marie McCarthy.

13 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 From Black’s Bridge to Leahy’s Bridge he title refers to about a Tmile and a half stretch of the former railway track between the two road bridges known as Black’s Bridge and Leahy’s Bridge, on the Farranaleen to Fethard section of the old Thurles-Clonmel branch line. Although it is now exactly forty years since the line was finally closed, faint traces of it can still be seen on the ground here and there. The two hump-back bridges that we knew as Black’s Bridge and Leahy’s Bridge remain the prin- cipal reminders of the now van- ished railway along that part of the countryside. Black’s Bridge is now redundant as the Fethard-Moyglass road by- passes it. The road, however, still passes over Leahy’s Bridge, which has the typical twist at the top of it to suit the direction that railway line had. It was the ‘Black’s Bridge by- pass’ that got me thinking again about the old railway line along there and how much it featured in our lives as we were growing up in Rathcoole. Black’s Bridge was near the top end of our farm. It was there that the rail- way and the road converged, and from there the two ran side by side for about a half mile in the direction of Fethard. This meant that the trains ran practi- 14 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER cally along the edge of our farm. ting in, and the prospect of beginning When we were saving hay in one or the hand-milking was far from invit- other of the fields alongside the road ing. My father would nominate two of — fields such as the Hill Field, the us for the task, and the hay-saving Road Field, the Paddock, the Kiln Field went on for another three-quarters of — the passenger train coming down an hour or so. The milking crew from Thurles, and passing by us would then be augmented, and the around quarter to one, was a welcome other tasks, such as feeding the calves signal that the dinnertime was and pigs, would be done. There might approaching. Hunger would be begin- be time for a quick dip in one of the ning to gnaw at us by that time, with pools of the Clashawley behind the all the manual work we were doing, house, which would refresh us as well ‘piking’ the hay. Ignoring the train, my as wash away hay seed and dried father, who was well skilled at working sweat. After that there was no need to the horse-drawn tumbler rake, would give us a second call for the ‘supper’. keep bringing in more supplies of hay There was little traffic along the to the pike sites. Someone would road in the 1940s when we were grow- finally call out to Dan, our old bache- ing up, and this gave the trains, espe- lor cousin, who was forking up to one cially the steam trains, that went up of us on a pike, “What’s the time, and down extra prominence. During Dan?” Sticking the pitchfork in the the war years and for a while after- ground, Dan would take out the wards there was only bicycle and watch from his waistcoat pocket — he horse, pony and ass traffic going by. never shed the waistcoat, even on the Parson Grey, who lived in the former, hottest day — and declare that it was creeper-clad rectory in Magorban and “One-a-clock, and five minutes along who was the last rector of Magorban with it”, or some such precise time. Church and parish, passed down We slid down from the pikes, and almost daily in a trap drawn by a traipsed home across the sun-filled stout, slow-moving pony. We used to fields to the dinner, generally of home- wonder how the pony fitted between cured bacon, cabbage and potatoes, the shafts. With him in the trap were followed by stewed rhubarb and cus- his wife and another lady. They tard. seemed to take ages passing by, and A goods train coming up the line gave only hesitant responses to our from Clonmel and passing by our waving to them. fields around half past five was anoth- Another regular passer-by was Ter er important time signal — that it was Donnell in his ass and cart. Ter lived time that some of us left the meadow in a roadside cottage in Ballyvaden, to hunt in the cows for milking. There about a half mile from Farranaleen sta- were no volunteers for this task com- tion, with his brother Mick. Ter’s ing at a time when tiredness was set- progress to Fethard was even slower 15 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Ter Daniels buying bread from Mrs Skehan at the Country Market in the ICA Hall Fethard May 1948. In the background is Mrs Ahearn. than Parson Grey’s, and both ass and that went into the bridge, or the driver appeared to be in a daydream immense amount of physical work coming along the road. When Ter involved in building up the earthen would see us working in the meadow, mound to carry the road over the rail- he would rouse himself, and give the way — all done by men and horse and ass a few smacks of the stick to pres- carts. Albert Maher in his Signalman’s ent a purposeful appearance passing Memories relates that 280 men us by. Ter gave us a moment of hilarity worked on the completion of the one day as he passed our meadow. He extension of the railway line along stood up to convey all the more there in 1878 by the Southern Railway urgency to the ass, and in the forward Company. thrust the board across the sideboards Black’s Bridge was originally known of the cart that served as his seat as Blackmore’s Bridge, and I suspect slipped back. When Ter went to sit that it took on its shortened form as down again he fell backwards in the time went on. It was named after the cart, his two legs swinging up into the Blackmore family that had a leasehold air. of Rathcoole farm for practically all of Although as youngsters we often the 19th century. Henry Blackmore stood on the road at the top of Black’s was the lessee in the early part of the Bridge, which had a more acute turn century, and then it passed to his son at its top than Leahy’s Bridge, we gave Charles. The farm was larger than it is no attention to the fine craftsmanship today, and included all of Rathcoole 16 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER townland and probably the townland springs. Conspicuous on the fence of Farranaleen as well. Albert Maher side of the pond was a small white states that it was originally intended to iron celtic cross, commemorating a name the railway station at fourteen year old boy who was so Farranaleen as Rathcoole, and he also tragically drowned there on 14 states that it was proposed to con- February 1940. He was Dick struct a branch line to Cashel from McCarthy of Buffana. that station, as well as another one This little memorial cross has been from there to the Slieveardagh re-erected at the now by-passed and Colleries. Those proposals were aban- redundant bridge. As I looked at it doned, however, as priority was given recently it recalled one of my own to completion of the Thurles-Clonmel memories of that immensely sad line along the Clashawley valley, com- event. Young Dick was assisting a plete with its bridges and stations. neighbour, Mick Ryall, in the droving A former feature of Black’s Bridge of cattle to Fethard fair. It was early was the long narrow pond on the morning and still dark on that fateful Fethard side of it. It occupied the space February day, and apparently Mick between the railway line and the wire sent Dick ahead before Black’s Bridge and concrete post fence. Limestone for to keep the cattle from going into any the construction of the bridge was open entrances. Dick came around probably quarried at that spot, and the Black’s Bridge by the field on the deep quarry hole filled up with water Carrigeen side, and intending to cross to form a permanent pond. The area the railway track he jumped from the all around is well known for its wire fence of the railway into a deep

The memorial to Richard McCarthy at the now by-passed Black’s Bridge. Two of his older brothers, Patrick and Michael, became members of the Patrician Brothers, and Patrick went on to become Provincial of the Order. Michael died in 1979, and Patrick in 1993. 17 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 pond between the track and the fence. ly named Dorney. Quarrying for the He must not have been aware that the gravel that was there in such quantities pond was there, or mistook it for the under the nearby fields was little done road. His cries for help were unheard, in those times, and there were no signs and it was some time before the awful of the extensive ponds that later devel- tragedy was discovered. oped there through the quarrying I recall the impact the news had on operations. us when it arrived at the national The next entrance the railway school. Vividly embedded in my crossed was that going into memory is seeing Mrs McCarthy, the McCarthy’s farm, owned formerly by distraught mother all dressed in black, the late Dick McCarthy, of Burke arriving in her pony and trap in the Street, and now by his son Michael. schoolyard, maybe the following day. This crossing was beside what we It was playtime, and we all came to a knew as Jerry Ryan’s cottage, now standstill when we realised who was owned by owned by his daughter arriving. Silence reigned. It was a Teresa, and her husband Sean Kelly. poignant moment. Brother Columban, At that point the space between road who was out in the yard with us, went and railway was widening, and the over quickly to the trap with out- one acre plot going with the cottage stretched arms, calling out, as far as I stretched between the railway and the remember, “My poor woman, my road on either side of the house. Jerry poor woman”. I could sense some- was an engine driver, and drove the thing of the heartfelt sympathy he was engine for the threshing set of the pouring out. Supporting her he direct- O’Keeffe’s of Horse and Jockey, popu- ed her into a classroom. No doubt he larly called Keeffe’s of the Jockey. gave her some measure of comforting, Not far below Jerry Ryan’s was an for he was a big-hearted, sensitive angled iron post beside the track with man. 14 on its two faces. This was one of We often walked stretches of that the mileposts along the line indicting railway line, hopping from one sleeper the distance from Thurles Junction — to another. After Black’s Bridge the 14 miles in this case. railway crossed over the entrance to Next came the railway crossing over the house we knew as Mattie Maher’s, the entrance to O’Connell’s of now owned by Denis Walsh, of Rathvin, (or Rathavin as it is in the Rathcoole Sand and Gravel. The Ordnance Survey maps), now owned house there was originally a herds- by John Halley. There were two rail- man’s house going with Rathcoole way gates there with a sign on them farm, and Mattie Maher was the last which read ‘GS & WR Notice. Any of the herdsmen to occupy it. That person leaving this gate open is liable was in the 1910s and early 1920s. to penalty of forty shillings’. The Before that it was occupied by a fami- opening and closing of the two gates 18 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

our tracks. Ned had his crossest sheepdog tied to a tree. The barking brought Ned on the scene shouting in our general direction, but by then we had scaled the railway fence and lay hidden like undercover agents in the high rank grass of the sloped bank beside the track. We got only a few windfalls. After passing Neville’s bush-cov- ered fort and the line of fine beech trees that was along by Rocklow, the One of the notices attached to all the gates on railway railway passed over the Ballybough crossings between Black’s Bridge and Leahy’s Bridge Road, which swung sharply down the each time they were going out their inclining ground in an S-bend to go driveway must have been a nuisance under the stone bridge. The farm- for the O’Connell family, especially in house, now derelict, above the bridge the days of the pony and trap. The was owned by Pat Byrne when we gates had timber styles at one side of were going to school. In the late 1910s them. and early 1920s Jack Walsh and family The O’Connell family was associat- lived there. He later bought Carrigeen ed with Rathvin for generations. farm, with its late 16th century tower- Phillip O’Connell occupied the farm house and extensive pond, formerly when the railway was being put owned by the Dunne family. Jack’s through in 1878. In our time growing wife Bridget was the well-known up it was owned by his grandson, bone-setter. Edward O’Connell, known to all sim- The Walsh family was in ply as Ned Connell. There was a big Ballybough in the course of the War of apple orchard below Ned’s house Independence and the Civil War. It bounded on the lower side by the rail- was in the Civil War period of 1922-23 way fence. The sight of red apples that the Thurles-Clonmel railway line ripening in August was more than any was targeted, and eight bridges were lad could resist. Even though we had blown up, including the one at plenty of apple trees ourselves, we Ballybough. Jimmy Walsh made the made an odd raid on Connell’s blowing up of that bridge the subject orchard. The approach through the of one of his poems in a little collec- outward-leaning railway fence was the tion entitled Arkle and Other Poems, obvious strategy. I remember two of which he published in 1977 in England us stealthily approaching the tree with where he spent most of his life. the reddest apples one evening when a Ballybough Bridge, the first poem in sudden barrage of barking froze us in this modest collection, runs thus: 19 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

The now ivy-covered railway bridge at Ballybough that was rebuilt following the bombing of it in 1922 by the anti-Treaty Republicans towards the end of the Civil War

Silently they came with guns that night, name as Lahy. We went over the And a knock on the window gave us all a fright. bridge every school day in the pony “Wake up, wake up, get out of bed: and trap in the early 1940s. I recall that “Open your doors and windows”, they said. the slogan “Up Duffy”, painted in “The railway bridge we want to blow: white on the wall face at the top of the In a little while you’ll hear it go”. bridge, had become rather faded by The hour was late so the fire was lit. that time. It was a faint echo of the Then quietly there we all did sit. Blueshirt days. The bridge took its To such men we paid little heed; popular name from Tommy Leahy, For I was very young indeed. whose house, now owned by Alphie In actual fact I was but five, Brett, is on the Rocklow side of it. And to understand it all I did not strive. Tommy was a small, quiet man, who In a little while the bang did go, had joined the British army as a young The house fair shook, but stood it so. man and saw action in World War I, “Holy Mary!” — Mother went, especially in the notorious and ill- And a few more prayers to the angels sent. fated Gallipoli campaign. He used to Now all was quiet, so back to bed, come to till our kitchen garden for my No more we heard for the boyos fled. mother every springtime. I often Next morning we saw the bridge was broke. regretted that I not get him to tell me As an army officer to Father spoke. some of his war experiences. Two bombs he said that there had been, After Leahy’s Bridge the railway But one had failed, as he had seen. curved again to cross over the “Lucky people,” he did say, Clashawley at Breen’s Bridge before “That your house is there today.” heading for Fethard station. We often If perchance you wish to know, swam in the deep hole under the The name of the bridge was Ballybough. Breen’s Bridge. It was in 1967 that the last train, a goods train, passed along After Ballybough Bridge the railway that way. It was the last time a train line curved gently towards the was heard going between Black’s Rocklow road to cross under it at Bridge and Leahy’s Bridge. > Leahy’s Bridge. We pronounced the by Willie Hayes 20 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Red City Knackers — Winners of First Prize in 1989 Fethard Festival Parade. Derry O'Dwyer with Billy the donkey and on cart. Back L to R (standing): Dermot Burke, Kevin Burke, Michael O'Dwyer. Middle L to R: Mark O'Dwyer, Emmet Burke, Mary Conway, Glen Burke, Carmel O'Dwyer. Front: Leeann Burke.

Michael Whyte's birthday party October 1978. Back L to R: Declan Morrissey, Vincent Murphy, Michael Whyte, Vincent Slattery, Stanley Murphy, Pat Whyte, Deirdre Norris. Front L to R Brendan Morrissey, Ted Connolly, Michael Slattery, Do O'Sullivan and Aishling Norris. 21 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Fethard GAA Club

Fethard Minor football team who drew 1-6 to 1-6 with Upperchurch / Drombane in the County Minor 'B' Football Final played in Boherlahan on 27th October. Back L to R: Tom O'Connell, Christopher Sheehan, Cathal Gorey, Aaron Donovan, Declan Doyle, Adrian Lawrence, J.P. McGrath, Michael Fleming, Eoin Condon, Ciarán O'Connell, Ciarán Ryan. Front L to R: Eoin Healy, Ben Walsh, Johnny Fleming, Alan O'Connor, James Kelly, Eoin O'Connell, Gavin Fitzgerald, Dean Tobin and Daniel Hickey. n Sunday 4th November 2007, ty semifinal. Oour senior footballers’ year on Our Minor B footballers came back the playing field came to an end with a from the dead in the south final to very poor performance in the county record a 2-14 to 2-9 win over senior football final. This was our first Ballyporeen and then went on to beat time reaching a senior football county Newport by 1-9 to 1-6 in the county final in 6 years and it was our second semifinal played in Templemore. The defeat this year to Moyle Rovers, hav- team went on to meet ing already lost the south final. While Upperchurch/Drombane in the county it was great to qualify for both finals, final played in Boherlahan on 27th the manner in losing them leaves a lot October and were lucky to survive on to be desired and one would have to a score line of 1-6 each to earn a sec- ask where the future lies for this cur- ond chance in a replay on 11th rent team. November 2007 at the same venue. The brighter side of 2007 was the Unfortunately, we were not good success of our Minor B teams having enough on the day in a game that won both south titles. The Minor B could have been saved with a little bit hurlers gave us great enjoyment in of luck. After missing a penalty and winning the title when they beat two very scorable frees in front of Carrick Swans in the final, 6-13 to 3- goal, the game finished on a scoreline, 11, and eventually losing to Fethard 0-8, Upperchurch 1-10. Toomevara by 2-10 to 2-4 in the coun- Overall Upperchurch / Drombane 22 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER proved to be a well-balanced opposi- from this position on 2007, launched tion in both size, power and football the book. This excellent book of histo- over the 120 minutes. ry, Gaelic culture and club records, The Club Officers elected for the will retail at €40 and is available in current year were: Chairman Michael Fethard at Newport’s, Main Street, or O’Dwyer; Secretary Mary Godfrey; from Noel Byrne (book committee Joint Treasurers Noel Byrne & Nicky member), and has something in it for O’Shea; and PRO Noel Byrne. We everyone who has a love of Gaelic cul- take this opportunity to thank spon- ture and beyond. It was great to see a sors, players, supporters, selectors and fine turnout and appropriate that the the committee for all their wonderful Director General of the GAA was wel- work in keeping the club on the road. comed to our division by our own May 2008 bring us further success on Miceál McCormack (South Board the playing fields. Chairman 2007). The book was excellently produced South Board History by Michael O’Meara and his commit- The launch of ‘The South Board tee and is available in hard-back edi- History 1907–2007’ took place on 7th tion featuring 800 pages, 250 photos October in GAA Centre, Clonmel. (present and past), 220 profiles of Our ‘Ard Stiurithoir’ (Director south players and mentors over the General GAA), Liam Mulvihill, on his past 100 years, and some excellent sto- first official visit to the South Board as ries of times gone bye in upholding Director General since his appoint- the running of our championship. The ment in 1979 and his stepping down book committee apologise for any

Fethard South Minor B Hurling Champions 2007. Back L to R: P.J. Aherne (selector), Michael Carroll (selec- tor), Gavin Fitzgerald, Alan O’Connor, Thomas O’Connell, Jerome Ahearne, Jack O’Sullivan, Aaron O’Donovan, Declan Doyle, Christopher Sheehan, J.P. McGrath, Cathal Gorey, Joe Fogarty, Dean Tobin. Front L to R: Eoin O’Connell, Mathew Fitzgerald, Ciarán O’Connell, James Kelly, Johnny Fleming, Kevin Hayes, Shamie O’Keeffe. Seated in front are Kieran Ryan and Adrian Lawrence. 23 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Fethard Senior Football 2007 Back L to R: Miceál Spillane, Edmond Sheehan, Stephen O’Donnell, John P Looby, Connie O’Flynn, Aiden Fitzgerald, Paul Fitzgerald, Tommy Gahan, J P McGrath, Cian Maher, Eoin Doyle, Glen Burke, Benny Hahessy. Front L to R: Michael Dillon, Willie Morrissey, Adrian Lawrence, Dean Tobin, Kenneth O’Donnell, Brian Coen, Ian Kenrick, Michael Aherne, Shane Walsh, Conor McCarthy, Christopher Sheehan, Damien Byrne and Shane Aylward. Missing from photo is Jamie McCormack. omissions or mistakes. This book the Fethard Club form 1928 to 1930. would make an excellent Christmas Tom was a highly respected referee present for anyone interested in GAA and a brother of John Keating who over the 100 years. was South Board Chairman in 1956, was Club Chairman from 1937 to Deceased Officers remembered 1950, and again in 1953 and 1954. Ned At the South Board Centenary O’Shea of Bloody Sunday fame, Celebrations on Saturday 13th served as Vice Chairman of the South January 2007, all deceased officers of Board from 1912 to 1915 and in 1916 the board were honoured and a became the fifth South Board medallion presentation was made to Chairman, a position he held until family members who were present on 1922. He was also Chairman of the the day. Nearly 150 people were pres- Fethard Club from 1919 to 1924 before ent and Fethard had seven recipients: emigrating to USA in 1925. His broth- Dan P. Walsh who was Club Secretary er, Sean O’Shea, was the seventh in 1912–1913 and also held Treasurer Chairman of South Board from 1928 of South Board in 1912, and now the to 1936 (died in office), and was also D.P. Walsh Cup perpetuates his mem- Chairman of Fethard Club from 1919 ory; Ned Kenrick served as Secretary to 1924 and from 1927 to 1936. He of the South Board in 1909 and 1910 was also Secretary of Fethard Club and also served as Secretary of the from 1920 to 1927 and the South Fethard Club between 1911 and 1913; Senior Football Championship Trophy school teacher Tom Keating served as is named in his honour. Dick Vice Chairman of the Board in 1932 Cummins (Jnr) was Life President of and 1933, and served as Secretary of the South Board from 2003 to his 24 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Group photographed at the grave of Dick Cummins in Fethard Parish Church graveyard where Dick was hon- oured by the South Board. L to R: Michael O'Dwyer (Chairman Fethard GAA Club), Kay O'Dwyer, Miceál McCormack (Chairman South Board GAA), Fr Tom Breen P.P. and Michael O'Dwyer (Dublin).

Fethard GAA members photographed at the grave of John Keating in Calvary Cemetery Fethard where he was honoured by the South Board as part of the Centenary Celebrations in South Tipperary. L to R: Joe Ahearn, Sean Moloney, Tony Newport, Dick Fitzgerald, Liam Connolly, Percy O'Flynn and Austin Godfrey.

Photographed at Redcity Cemetery where Ned Kenrick and John O'Shea were honoured by the South Board . L to R: Sean Moloney, Tony Newport and Jimmy McInerney.

25 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

GAA South Board Members and Fethard club members at the grave of John O'Shea in Redcity Cemetery

GAA South Board Members and Fethard club members at the grave of Ned Kenrick in Redcity Cemetery

GAA South Board Members and Fethard club members at the grave of John Keating in Calvary Cemetery

GAA South Board and Fethard club members at the grave of Dick Cummins in Parish Church Graveyard 26 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER passing in 2005. Dick was also hon- 1967 without success. He also repre- oured with the Sean Na Ghael award sented his club at minor in 1954, a feat in 2003 for his services to the GAA. unrivalled by any other person in the He served as Chairman of the Fethard Fethard club. Club from 1981 to 1984. For his Fethard club Liam holds To all those who kept the flag flying Senior County Football titles for 1954 for 100 years we are truly grateful and and 1957, when he won his first title at look forward with optimism to what age eighteen. He won South Senior the next 100 will bring. Titles in 1954, 1955, 1957, 1969, 1976, The South Board Commemoration spanning 22 years between his first visitations on 27th May 2007 to and last, and also won Tipperary Man Fethard Cemeteries went off very well. Cup Medals during that period. Our thanks to Jimmy O’Shea, Denis Having had the privilege of winning Burke, Gussy Fitzgerald and Miceál two South titles with him I can say McCormack for their orations at the that Liam was a gentleman at all times gravesides; to all the South Board offi- with tremendous commitment and cials for their presence; and to the advice. In junior football he was a families of the deceased honoured for member of the Killusty 1956 South their kind words of thanks and appre- and County winning team. He held a ciation. Go ndeana Dia trocaire orthu. unique record when he won South minor hurling and football titles in Liam Connolly 1952 with Fethard as a 16 year old, It was with great and another minor South football sadness we learned of medal in 1951 as a 15 year old. the passing of one of Hurling was his great love and he Fethard’s finest Gaels, holds a south senior medal with Na Liam Connolly. Liam Piarsaig 1957 and a Group B South spanned a playing title in 1956 with Padraigh Pearses. He career of 25 years with was part of the Coolmoyne Junior A club and county from 1951 to 1976 as South winners of 1959, and later in life a dual player. No other person in the was honoured with a Hall of Fame in club won such honours in senior hurl- 1994, and a Cumann na Sean Ghael ing — All Ireland 1958, 1961 and 1962 Award in 2006. (sub). Liam also won Munster medals Liam will be sadly missed for his in 1958, 1960, 1961, 1962, Intermediate guidance on the field and his ability to All Ireland and Munster Medals in read the game. His presence will also 1966, and won a Minor All Ireland be a void on the sideline. To his family title in 1953 with Munster in that we offer our sincere condolences at grade in 1953 and 1954. this time. In football Liam wore the county Go ndeana Dia trocaire orthu. senior jersey for 11 years from 1956 to 27 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Mick Ahearn Killusty 1956 Junior Football Team The parish was Fethard GAA Club hosted a most shocked at the untime- enjoyable social evening in the Fethard ly passing on 10th Arms on Friday 30th March 2007. The August 2007 of Mick evening was organised to honour the Ahearne at a relatively members of the Killusty Junior young age. His work Football Team, winners of the 1956 and commitment to South and County Tipperary Junior many organizations within the parish Football Championships, and to pres- will be sorely missed. He gave freely ent the 2005 South Tipperary Senior of his time to the Fethard GAA Club Football Championship medals and and served as Club Chairman 2002 the 2006 South Tipperary Intermediate –2004. It was a pleasure to work and medals to the respective Fethard win- serve under his guidance to his wife ning teams. Club chairman Michael Monica, sons P J, Gerry, Michael and O’Dwyer first welcomed each and family we offer our sincere condo- everyone with a special Cead Mile lence. Failte for the guests of honour, South Tipperary Chairman, Miceál John O’Riordan McCormack, Secretary Sean Nugent Our sincere sympathy to the and Jimmy Ryan, Carrick, recipient of O’Riordan family the South Tipperary player of the past (Kerry Street and award 2006. Barrack Street) on the Jimmy O’Shea, a member of the ’56 death of John in team, was a most capable MC for the America. John played presentation of a beautiful memento of with Fethard in the the occasion to the 1956 veterans. All 1950s, winning a south and county of those in attendance looked fit senior football medal in 1954. enough to go out and play next Sunday. Four members of the panel Joe O’Dwyer were unable to attend, and especially Our sincere sympathy to the remembered were the six members of O’Dwyer family (St. Patrick’s Place) the panel, Mick Byrne, Mick on the passing of Joe at O’Riordan, Ned Sheehan, Brian the great age of 97. Joe O’Donnell, Gus Danaher and Tom was a man who played McCormack, who are no longer with for the club winning us. It was an evening of remembering, honours at senior foot- matches won and lost, and worthy ball in 1942, both south opponents of the day. More than one and county, and was also the last sur- of the old timers remarked, “what a vivor of the Killusty junior side of pity we do not have more such nights 1932. Go ndeana Dia trocaire orthu. when old friends could meet and 28 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

St. Augustine’s Senior Hurling Team (Kilsheelan and Fethard), South Tipperary Champions 1982. Back L to R: Joe Ahearn (selector), John Kehoe, Noel Byrne, Matt Cahill, Jim McGrath, Maurice Harrington, Davy Fitzgerald, Gerry Kehoe, Stephen McCormack, Jim Kehoe, Cyril Robinson, William Robinson, Michael Kehoe, Liam Stokes, John Donovan (selector). Front L to R: Liam McCarthy, Peter Moore, James Downes, A.B. Kennedy, Pat Larkin (captain), Sean Nugent, Pat O’Neill, Davy Morrissey, Pakie Harrington, John Larkin, Liam Corcoran, Michael Keane (selector). Mascot in front is Liam Robinson. Inserts L to R: John Keyes (selector), Ray Reidy (selector), Brian McNally and Dick Strang. recall past glories”. Morrissey, Pakie Harrington, Maurice Very welcome refreshments were Harrington, A.B. Kennedy, Davy provided by the ladies of the club. The Fitzgerald, Liam McCarthy, Noel evening concluded with a terrific sing- Byrne, Jim McGrath and selector song, many of the guests contributing, Michael Keane. Unable to be present and local talented accordionist Joan on the night were James Downes and O’Brien at her brilliant best. Joe Ahearne (selector). With Paddy Finnucane of Tipp FM radio looking St Augustine’s 1982 Team Reunion after MC duties for the evening, a St. Augustine’s, South Senior great night of chat and music was had Hurling Champions 1982, were hon- by all. oured at a function in Hotel Minella We would like to thank the organis- on 26th October 2007. A presentation ing committee of Noel Byrne, Michael of a framed photo was made to mem- Keane, Gussy Fitzgerald – Fethard’s bers of the team, from Fethard and representatives on the committee – for Kilsheelan, honoured and present on a wonderful event that was much the night. The Fethard recipients were: appreciated by all those present. > Stephen McCormack, Davy 29 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Killusty Junior Team 1956 South and County Champions Back L to R: Gerald Mackey, Brian O'Donnell, Jim Williams, Johnny Ferris, Tony Newport, Jack Prout, Mick Byrne, Vincent Allen, Tom Ryan and Dick Allen. Middle Row L to R: Nicholas O'Shea, Gus Danaher, Liam Connolly, Sean Connolly, Jimmy O'Shea, Alfie Brett, Gus Neville, Mick O'Riordan. Front L to R: Ned Sheehan, Liam O'Flaherty, Tom McCormack, Seamus Hackett and Sean Moloney.

Tipperary Football Team 1927 Back L to R: J Ryan, E Connolly, J Phelan, M Spillane, M Gunne, E Cummins, E O'Shea. Middle L to R: P Dwyer (sec), M Cleer, W Rouse, P Landy, T Armitage, P McGrath, P Dwane, Jack Quane (trainer). Front L to R: S Grant, W Barrett (jnr), Billy Barrett (capt), J O'Connor (jnr) and J O'Connor (vice capt). 30 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER First Irishman at the Dutch Open istory was made this year as HDan Morrissey (photographed on right) was the first Irishman to rep- resent the country at the Dutch Open Sheepdog Trials held in July. The pres- tigious event is one of the highlights on the continental sheepdog calendar with ninety-six of the top dogs from eleven countries competing. The com- petition was decided over two days with each dog competing twice each day. Dan and his dog ‘Gem’ showed great consistency and despite stiff competition took home the honours for Ireland securing a very credible fourth place overall. > Sheepdog Trials in Killusty t was a busy year on the sheepdog ‘Shan’, third to Kilkenny’s Richard Icalendar as Ireland hosted the Butler with ‘Glen’ and fourth to local Supreme International Sheepdog man Dom O’Driscoll with ‘Jack’. Trials in Burnchurch, County The intermediate competition was Kilkenny, in September. won by Dan Morrissey with his On the local front the Killusty young blue dog, ‘Toss’. Martin Walsh Sheepdog Trials were held once again took second place with ‘Nell’ and this year in glorious October sunshine third place went to Norman Deacon — climate change has its benefits! Five with ‘Jim’. competitions were held over two days There was an extra edge to the dou- covering novice, intermediate, doubles bles competition as competitors and an open competition on both fought it out to win the new Maurice days. O’Connell Doubles Trophy. It was a The novice competition proved local derby with the trophy going to interesting with the young dogs Kilcash man Martin Walsh with ‘Cap’ demonstrating what they had learned and ‘Vic’ and Dan Morrissey taking or not as the case may be! The compe- second place with ‘Gem’ and ‘Flash’. tition was won by Wexford’s Bill Seale Third place went to Cork man Tom with ‘Ben’, second place went to Quirke with ‘Spot’ and ‘Nell’. Tipperary-man John O’Brien with The local trend continued in 31 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Saturday’s Open Competition with with ‘Rose’ and sixth to Denis O’Brien Dan Morrissey taking the first and with ‘Jim’. second places with ‘Toss’ and ‘Flash’. The organisers would like to thank Third place went to Bill Seale with all those who helped in making the ‘Ben’, fourth to Tom Quirke with event a success, to the sponsors, ‘Spot’, fifth to Dan Morrissey with judges and of course, the competitors ‘Kim’ and sixth place to Jim and their dogs for providing a most McConnell with ‘Nan’. enjoyable two days of excellent tri- Sunday’s Open Competition for the alling. Paddy Morrissey Cup was keenly In other news, Dan Morrissey hav- contested by competitors from all over ing served three busy years as the country. The cup was retained Chairman of the Irish Sheepdog locally this year as Martin Walsh from Society, during which time Ireland Kilcash continued his winning streak hosted both the World and the with ‘Cap’. Second went to Toddy Supreme International Sheepdog Lambe with ‘Sam’, third to John Trials, was recently elected as Brennan with ‘Cap’, fourth to Brian President of the Irish Sheepdog Casey with ‘Ben’, fifth to Bill Seale Society. >

Killusty South Junior Football Champions 1932. Back L to R: Ned 'Buz' Lawrence, Connie Ryan, Paddy Keating, trainer (hat), Mick Hayes, Bill Nagle, Dan Davis (hat), Eddie Walsh, Jim Lee, Dick Hayes and Jim Pollard (president). Middle: George Williams, Paddy Maher, Frank Byrne, Mick or Tom Maher, Mickey Holohan, Billy Ahessy and Pat Sheehan. Front: Jimmy Davis (boy), Joe Lee, Mick Byrne, Jack 'Sprig' Nagle, Ned 'Cab' Holohan, Mick Condon, Paddy Ahearne and James Byrne. Boy in the front is Johnny Sheehan. 32 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Killusty Pony Show

L to R: Thomas O'Connell, Killenaule; Jim O'Connell, Silverfort; and Mattie Ryan, Buffana, watching the Killusty Pony Show in 1980 arlier this year the committee The FitzGerald family have been Edecided that any show in its 44th coming to Killusty since its inception year and held on 7/7/07 would have to but although they had won the Welsh be lucky with the weather, and so it Championship in the past the In-hand transpired. One short sharp shower Cup had eluded them until this year. showed us what we were missing as Rosie FitzGerald’s Zulu Warrior won we went about the business of judging the 2&3-year-old Hunter Pony Class to ponies. Claremore was looking superb go forward to the Championship as no one had taken a vehicle onto the which he also won. Jenny O’Driscoll’s field for a week. The setting-up had Amesbury Bumble Bee, the yearling been done by an army of volunteers Show Pony winner, was a good and the rings were a credit to their reserve champion while Ann Grimes’ work. The rain both before and after Lambay for Fun took the Tansy Taran this year’s show was of deluge pro- Cup for the best filly in the portions and only a scorching wind Championship. Mary Hayden’s on the Friday and a fine day on show Tullocussane Maybelle won the Lydon day made it possible to go ahead. The House Cup for the Best Local in the landowner showed great courage in Championship for the second year in persevering and was rewarded. As the succession. season went on, 14 major shows were Isobel Reynolds’ Roodlebats cancelled including Tullamore (not to Sinnitta ,whose name appears on the be rescheduled) and Clonmel Show Ridden Show Pony Championship on 1st July, while held, was a washout. Cup several times, has now staked her 33 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Ann Lalor leading children Jill and Liz Lalor to the Fancy Dress competition at Killusty Pony Show in 1986 claim for a mention on the Broodmare reserve. Numbers for the mini Championship Cup. Patrick Championship certainly did not disap- Geoghegan’s Dangan Patricka, also point and from nearly 100 entries in known for her efforts in the ridden the various classes Sean Scallan’s rings, has graduated to the paddocks Millay Margarite came from the Open and was a worthy Reserve. The Welsh Lead-Rein Hunter Pony to pip Shane Championship for the cup in memory McNamara’s Upacott Xotica for the of Gus Keane was won this year by championship. The Lismortagh Mary Moore’s Rookery Sugar Mouse Stables Open Show Hunter with Liz Freeman’s Moelgarnedd Championship went to Basil Bendith in reserve. The Butler Brindley’s Lovely Ludlow with Sarah Connemara Championship went to R. Collen’s Inspector Morse in reserve in Fallon’s Cashelbay Prince with a repeat of last year’s championship. Dangan Patricka again in reserve. The GAIN Novice Show Hunter The Coolmore Stud Killusty Show Championship went to S. Garrigan’s Pony Championship went to Miss Penni Farthing with Orla Hayes Claire Wall’s Glenhuntley Hoity-Toity Lismakeera Shadowlands in reserve. with Majella Scully’s Broteifi Local ponies may not have been quite Vivacious in reserve although num- so prominent in the lists this year but bers in this division continue to disap- in the Novice Working Hunter point. The Side Saddle Champion was Championship they truly came into Jill Poole’s Whitehouse Chorister with their own. Yvonne Casey’s Snowbelle David J. Byrne’s Brookvale Skylark in was pulled in champion ahead of 34 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Barbara Murphy’s Master Mozart, unteers Killusty could not happen and both with addresses in the Parish of it is all credit to them that yet another Fethard and Killusty. The Open great day was had in the valley of Working Championship and the Slievenamon. They are looking for- Captain Curtin Cup went to Ann ward in anticipation to the 45th Show Stanley’s great old campaigner Bob on the first Saturday in July as always. Marley with Inspector Morse again in Our sponsors, as ever, came up reserve. The Intermediate trumps. Classes were sponsored in the Championship went to Whitehouse names of long-term supporters Chorister to add to his side-saddle Michael Coffey and Paddy and Ann honours with Julie Brindley-O’Brien’s Maher who are no longer with us but Beechfield Bircari Breezer in reserve. were remembered fondly on the day. Bob Marley came out on top again in Since the Show, Killusty has lost the Performance Working Hunter another long-term supporter. Sarah Championship with Sarah Collen’s Miller, who took the minutes at the Ardfry Rivendell in Reserve. To round first ever Killusty Show, was due to off the day, Avril Breen won the Tate receive a presentation for her help and Croome Carroll Memorial Equitation support over the 44 years as judge and Championship with Patricia Ryan in adviser but due to illness was unable reserve. She went on to be Reserve to attend the Show. She died peace- Champion at Peterborough Show. fully in early September. > Without the help of the many vol-

Emily (Croom-Carroll) Graafland and daughter Emily 'Tempe' at the 1986 Killusty Pony Show Fancy Dress 35 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Badgers Over 30’s Soccer

Badgers Soccer Team Front L to R: John Bermingham, Seanie Bermingham, Liam Meagher, Bryan Steedman, Mick Tyllier, Liam Harrington, Michael Ryan, John McClain, Kevin O'Dwyer. Middle Row L to R: Colm McGrath, Mikolaj Kwasek, Dominik Grydziuszko, Philip Furnell, Tom Hogan (referee), Pat O'Donnell, Kevin Ryan. Back L to R: Mateusz Machulski, Richard Thompson, Owen Roach, Noel O'Dwyer, Andy Donovan.

hat a year it has been. Let us was a visit to John and Monica Wbegin with the weather. This Bermingham's farm retreat of ‘Croc an year was the wettest on record with Óir’, Mullinahone. The Berminghams the country experiencing over fifty provide self-catering accommodation days in which it rained some part of and workshops for groups of up to 20 each day. Yet by some miracle every or more. But on the night in question Wednesday night at eight it cleared it was a game of soccer away from away and the sun shone down provid- home with an international flavour. A ing perfect playing conditions. This group of Polish visitors took part in a year I don't think we had to cancel friendly game with the Badgers and one game because of inclement weath- afterwards there was great celebration er. In fact all the rain provided a fan- with food and wine of plenty. Music tastic playing surface of lush green was provided by ‘Wahoo’ and there grass and a nice spongy soft turf. was no end to the talent with Mick One of the big events of the year Tillyer giving a spectacular perform- 36 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER ance that was on par with the likes of name. The choice of colours was a Dean Martin or any of the rat pack. contentious issue but in the end it was John McClain brought the house our new chairman and assistant secre- down with his very authentic tary (see below) who made the final Proclaimers number while Bryan choice. So you would be forgiven if Steedman gave us all a good laugh you thought that it was Fethard play- with ‘Stand by Your Man’. Over all it ing Ballingarry every Wed night as we was a fantastic night enjoyed by all, don our maroon and blue. thanks again to John, Monica and At the AGM, which took place on Seanie. 30th March this year a new committee Coming into the new premiership was elected which comprises of: season the talk is of new players’ Owen Roche (Chairman), Bryan transfers and new sponsor and change Steedman (Treasurer), Colm McGrath of management. Well, the Badgers will (Secretary) with Kevin Ryan (assistant not be out done there either. Thanks Secretary, to take full post next year). to the ‘Magic’ Michael Ryan who is a Andy Donovan volunteered to take man of action on and off the pitch, we on the secretary's job in 2010, we look have new jerseys sponsored by Philip forward to it. and Ann Butler of Butlers Sports Bar, Congratulations to all on their elec- Main Street. Thanks to the Butlers’ tion to office and to all our members generosity two sets of jerseys were we wish a fit, happy, healthy and fun purchased with crest and sponsors year ahead. > Conor Maher remembered by a friend any of us in Fethard shed a and why he wouldn’t choose to live Mtear while listening to John elsewhere. Fitzgerald pay a final trib- It started with playing ute to the late Conor cards in the Fr. Tirry Maher at his funeral Mass Community Centre, held in Holy Trinity where Conor was wel- Church on Sunday 22nd comed at an early age by September 2007. John was Michael O’Dwyer. At the his employer in Clonmel age of eleven he was a and Conor worked in his familiar face at the card auctioneering firm, games, volunteering to Dougan & Fitzgerald, for serve teas and biscuits at nine years. John reminded break time. During this us of Conor’s good way period Conor created life- dealing with people, his interest in long friendships with a generation of Fethard Ballroom, his love for Fethard, people far beyond his years. 37 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Easter Sunday night, 19th April 1995, saw the Fethard Mayoral Election come to a close when David O’Donnell, Coleman, was elected as the new Mayor of Fethard. The two other candidates, Paddy Hickey and Mick Ahearne, were gracious in defeat saying, “The better man won!”. David is pictured above with his cam- paign crew and country singing star, Trudy Lawlor, who played for the ecstatic large crowd at the dance which fol- lowed the election. Proceeds of the Mayoral Election went towards the Ballroom Renovation Fund. Back L to R: Patricia Byrne, Derry O'Dwyer, Ann O'Dwyer, Chris O'Dwyer, Sheila O'Donnell, Pat Byrne. Front L to R: David O'Donnell, Trudy Lawlor and Conor Maher. From the early nineties, Fethard & ran the local lotto to raise funs for the Killusty Community Council set about restoration of the Abbey Church. In purchasing and renovating the old 1997 Fethard Ballroom was in financial ballroom, which had been derelict for difficulty and Conor was once again years and was put up for sale. Conor out canvassing support for the was introduced to the Fethard Sunday night dances which were Mayoral fundraising project at the age being established and have since of sixteen by candidate David become the mainstay of the hall’s O’Donnell. Canvassing the country- social and financial success. side with David, Conor and the team Conor touched many in Fethard and succeeded in raising nine thousand beyond with his out-going personality, pounds as part of the Mayoral his ever-present smile, and always Election. From this point on, Conor helping others when he could. Conor, became involved in other voluntary you will be greatly missed and always activities in the town, including his remembered by your friends in work with Fr. Ben O’Brien OSA, who Fethard. > 38 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Fethard Ladies Football Club

Fethard under-10 ladies football team who played in the blitz in Fethard on 15th September 2007. ethard Ladies Football Club com- and refreshments on the day. Fmenced this year with our under- The junior team had great success age players. We had some very good winning the Junior C League final games in our under-12 age group with against Boherlahan. We went on to a mixture of under-10s used to make play Mullinahone in the championship up the team. We hope next year will be who eventually were easy winners. better. Our under-14 team reached the We found it very hard to get 15 county semifinal against Aherlow who players in the end as some of our were much stronger and finished easy minor players do not want to play on. winners in the end. This is a great pity after providing We held a very successful under-10 training and coaching for them. blitz in Fethard in August where we Special thanks to coaches Marie lost one and won one game. We Holohan (underage) and Dinny Burke would like to thank Mark Tynan of (juniors) for all the time they gave to MT Construction for presenting the the club and to anyone who helped club with a set of jerseys for underage the club in any way. > level and all who presented medals

Photographed at training L to R: Áine Proudfoot, Aileen Butler, Annie Prout and Alana Coady. 39 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Photographed at training are L to R: Jade Pattison, Laura Ryan, Áine Phelan and Amy Pollard.

Fethard Ladies Football Coaches L to R: Michael Ryan, Denis Burke and Joe Keane.

Photographed at training are L to R: Jane Kenny, Áine Phelan, Jean Anglim, Emma Hayes and Hanna Daly. 40 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Fethard Senior Citizens Club ethard Senior Citizens Club is played and judged by the hotel staff. Ftwenty-five years old this year Our summer outing was to Kinsale and going as good as ever. As usual where we had refreshments at the our meetings are held on the first Trident Hotel. Later we headed back Tuesday of the month in the Tirry towards home to the Fairways Community Centre where all present Restaurant at Slievenamon Golf Club are served with tea, sandwiches and for dinner. cakes, followed by a guest speaker, In August we went on our annual music or bingo. Last December we trip to Tramore and all were delighted had Mass for our senior citizens in the with the lovely summer afternoon, Augustinian Abbey Church after again finishing up at The Fairways for which everybody boarded the bus for dinner. the Anner Hotel in Thurles where we Preparations are now underway for held our Christmas Party. A very this year’s Christmas Party and we enjoyable day was had by all. take this opportunity to thank all Our Easter outing was to Kilkenny those who helped us in any way, either where we had ample time for shop- financially or otherwise, to keep our ping and then on to the Springhill club going. Court Hotel for dinner. Of course, the A very Happy and Peaceful ladies were resplendent dressed in Christmas to all our friends at home their Easter Bonnets which were dis- and abroad. > Fethard & Killusty Community Games his year brought further success Harrington, Conor Clancy, Jack Tto the Fethard and Killusty area. Pollard and Darragh Lynch. U-10: Tim The same hard-working committee Hurley, Connie Coen and Harry organised various events in the area Butler. U-12: Charlie Manton, Colin commencing with Art and Model- Grant and Kevin Shine. U-14: Cathal making where the following children Hurley, Gerry Horan and Mattie won medals at area level: Girls U-8: Holohan. Roisín McDonnell, Carly Tobin, The County Final of the Art Chelsea Kenny and Aoife Sheehan. Competition took place in Fethard U-10: Ciara Hayes, Aine Proudfoot Ballroom and we achieved a double and Sadie McGrath. U-12: Leah gold when Róisín McDonnell, daugh- O’Donnell, Jennifer Rice and Aobh ter of former competitor Pat, won the O’Shea. U-14: Nicole Looby, U-8 event and Laura Rice, Aoibhlinn Delany and Lucy Butler. U- Everardsgrange, completed a hat-trick 16: Laura Rice. Boys U-8: Conor qualifying for the National Finals in 41 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Fethard girls Under-16 Volleyball team who received their HSE Community Games Certificates and brought the Tommy Butler Shield back to Fethard once more are pictured in University of Limerick. Back L to R: Igor Naginsky (referee from Ukraine), Kelly Coady, Kelly Fox, Gráinne Horan, Katie Coen, Anthony Fitzsimons, Chairman of Munster Council who presented certificates and shield. Front L to R: Aisha Tobin, Sarah O’Meara, Kelly Fogarty, Jean Anglim and Jane Kenny.

Mosney for the third time. Leah Pádraig won gold and Aobh and Kate O’Donnell won silver and Nicole won silver medals. Gary and Pádraig Looby won bronze. both won silver medals at HSE The U-14 Quiz was contested in Community Games National Finals in Thurles and the Fethard team com- Mosney. prised of Jane Holohan, Faye Manton, In Athletics the following children Deirdre Dwyer and Mary-Jane Kearney. qualified for the County finals in Radika Jannickova, Kevin Hayes and Nenagh. U-8 60m: Laura Butler, Ciara Tillyer were our representatives at Rebecca Kenny, Darragh Lynch and the Swimming Championships in Mark Heffernan. U-8 80m: Isobel Nenagh where Radika won gold and Kennedy, Aisling Gorey, Eric Fogarty Kevin won silver. and Jack Ward. U-10 100m: Annie In Judo Aobh and Pádraig O’Shea, Prout, Nicola Thompson, Jack Kate Delahunty, Lorraine Feery and Gleeson and Luke Grant. U-10 200m: Gary Bradshaw all won county titles. Megan Hayes, Chloe Burke, Dean They travelled to Tralee for the Dorney and Matthew Lynch. U-12 Munster finals where Gary and 100m: Hannah Tobin, Kate Quigley, 42 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

David Heffernan and Darren Maher and Damien Morrissey. Girls Needham. U-12 600m: Karen Hayes Team: Gráinne Horan, Kelly Coady, and Clodagh Bradshaw. U-14 100m: Sarah O’Meara, Kelly Fox, Jane Kenny, Aine Phelan and Shannon O’Brien. U- Aisha Tobin, Jean Anglim, Fiona 16 100m: Kevin Hayes. U-16 1500m: Crotty and Kelly Fogarty. Adam O’Donnell and Eoin Prout. Aobh O’Shea was presentation girl This was a very successful event for on the first weekend while Helena Fethard’s com- O’Shea and petitors as they Patricia Bradshaw came home from both acted as the county finals Judo officials and with three gold supervisors for medals — the county. A big Darragh Lynch, ‘Thank You’ and Coolmore; Eric very well done to Fogarty, Barrack all. Street; and Adam We advise that O’Donnell, skittles is a new Redcity; — all event on the pro- winning their gramme for 2008. events to qualify Anybody who for the National would like to get finals. Mark involved in this Heffernan won sport can contact silver, being the Community defeated by the Games Office narrowest of mar- Róisín McDonnell at the Community Games (Phone: 052 gins by team mate Art & Model Making County Finals. 31906) for further Darragh Lynch. information. In the team events both Mini and Due to changes at headquarters Tag Rugby teams were defeated in the there will be three National Finals in county finals and in volleyball, both 2008, one in May and two in August boys and girls teams qualified for and an extra Munster Final in March, Mosney where they were awarded so all events will be earlier next year. certificates having finished in fourth Anybody interested in any event or place. Well done and thank you to who would like to join the committee Damien Byrne, Killusty, who under- please make contact with the took the task of coaching and looking Community Games Office. We would after these teams. Boys Team: Darren like to take this opportunity to wish a Thompson, Dean Sharpe, Garreth Happy Christmas and Prosperous Lawrence, Tony Myler, Andrew New Year to all our readers. > 43 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

County Athletics Finals of the Community Games at CBS Nenagh on 27th May 2007. L to R: Darragh Lynch winner of the U-8 60m race, and Eric Fogarty winner of the U-8 80m race. Both qualified for Mosney.

Winners of the 1500m race at the County Athletics Finals receiving medals. L to R: Joe Keane (vice-chairman Tipperary Community Games), 2nd Ciarán Purcell (Gortnahoe), 1st Adam O'Donnell (Fethard), 3rd John Crowe (Tipp Town) and Peggy Colville (PRO Tipperary Community Games). 44 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Do You Remember . . . 1980 he summer of 1980 was a dread- their social services. Yes, the rain fell Tful one. Rain, rain, rain, with no and the sun shone on little everyday end in sight. Hay making and harvest- actions and on shops and public ing had been most difficult, making places that are no longer a part of the task of the farmer nigh to impossi- Fethard life. ble. By September the Clashawley had In this year the County Council had such a depth of water as had not been completed the first stage of the plan known in living memory. And this for the development and landscaping year was a different age in other ways. of the Clashawley river bank between There were still enough nuns in the the Convent bridge and Watergate convent to make the holding of a Street bridge. This, and the later work seven-thirty Mass in their chapel. And of 'The Friends of Fethard' led on to Mrs Joe O'Connor of The Green was the lovely vista of today and to the still tapping her way briskly down to startlingly beautiful photograph which the Abbey to ring the bell for eight graces the 2007 Coolmore Stud cata- o'clock Mass which she had done day logue which has gone around the in day out for years. Cars and trailers world. And in all of this we should not still converged on the creamery in The forget the Fethard Town Valley with their tankers of milk. Commissioners who were first elected Sherrards Engineering were still oper- in the 1840s, were much enhanced and ating on the Rosegreen Road; Whyte's broadened by the Local Government Garage still gave a service on the Main act of 1898, and continued to function Street; the Forge Tavern and John down to the mid 1930s. They too, with O'Shea’s Lounge were still offering little money, gave their best for the

Fethard from Cashel Road taken from a postcard published in the 1960s

45 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 town. All patriots and lovers of their vice-chairs were occupied by Mrs town. Annie O'Brien and Jimmy McInerney; The big event of 1980 was also a the secretary was Peter Colville; the renewal. This was the renovation of treasurers were John White and the old Tirry Social Club into the Austin O'Flynn; and the committee Tirry Community Centre and new were, Tommy Butler, Percy O'Donnell, Community Hall. The lovely old Michael Ahearn, Sean Spillane, Mrs Georgian building had begun life Nellie Donovan, Mrs Carol Kenny, about 1800 as a Protestant school and Timothy Slattery, Brother James older readers will recall the place as Moran, Vincent Doocey, Paddy the Tirry Club and as the local library. Broderick, Gabriel Horan and Michael By the late 1970s the building had O'Dwyer. The drive and public com- been abandoned mitment of each of and had begun to those people should decay. So that when be remembered in the Community time to come. Council took over The work on the the structure as part old building began of its 'town renewal' about 1978 and the projects the mem- restoration was bers placed a consid- under the general erable burden on Old Tirry Social Club, Barrack Street. direction of Michael their shoulders, a burden that was to Stringer, an architect then living at become in total £20,000 (a consider- Tullamaine. The work was part of the able sum of money in 1980, perhaps AnCO youth training project, which somewhere between a quarter and a supplied and paid the labour, though half a million euro in today's money) the Community Council choose and before it was finished. The festivals, purchased all the materials being used the walks, the furniture auctions, the and paid for them. As well, many local sale of produce all helped to reduce people helped in the clearing of the this burden. The County Council paid half-acre site on which the building the sum of £2,366 for the installation stood. When the building was taken of various amenities. And those men over by the Council (who will write a and women of courage were: Father detailed account of this project which John Stapleton of Clonakenny near is the warp and woof of local history) Roscrea who was then curate in it was in such a bad condition that the Fethard and national president of upper story had to be demolished. Muintir na Tire; Father John was also What should not be forgotten is that president and driving force of the local members of the Council had to be Community Council; the chairman of available week in week out to make the Council was Jerry Skehan and his decisions and to fetch and carry. 46 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Tomás Roseingrave from Muintir na Tire cutting the tape at the official opening 29 September 1980. Also in the picture are Jerry Skehan, Chairman of the Community Council, Fr John Stapleton C.C. and Austy O'Flynn who took over as chairman of the Community Council after the AGM held in November of the same year. Incidentally, all the new doors and and turbulent times. Soon after it was partitions in the building were made opened the six-roomed centre was by local man Billy Kenny. estimated to have had a value of A wonderful voluntary project, but £100,000. When the centre opened Jim then Fethard people have had for so Allen was appointed as the new care- long a commitment to voluntary work taker. and local government in its best sense. Another notable event in the year The centre was officially opened on was that Fethard served as the venue Monday 29 September and the cere- for the county senior and minor finals, mony was performed by Tomás which were held on 31 August. Ahead Roseingrave, National Director of of the event much work was being Muintir na Tire, and the blessing was undertaken on the sportsfield. This by Father Philip Noonan, late parish was the showpiece of the GAA year in priest of Fethard. As noted, the centre the county and quite a coup for the bore the name of Father William Tirry, local club to be given the honour of a member of the Augustinian order, fielding such events; and the task of who was hanged at Clonmel on 12 refereeing was given to local man Joe November 1654 because he refused to Keane. The minor game was between abandon his Fethard people in dark Arravale Rovers and Ballylooby and 47 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Match officials before the County Football final played in Fethard on 31st August 1980. L to R: Jim Keane, Maurice Harrington, Larry Maher, Loughmore team captain, Joe Keane (referee), Galtee Rovers team captain, Michael Keane, Martin Cuddihy and Tom Kearney. the senior contest had Galtee Rovers period when the 'Big Five' ran the local pitted against a Loughmore/Castleiney club: Richie Fitzgerald, Tommy side. The local club made every effort Hogan, John Keating, Tim Tierney, to have the sportsfield immaculate on and Brother Albert Small. what was a special occasion. Extra Fethard deserved their big day. In sideline seating was put in and a band the eighty-seven finals held between was on hand to lead the pre-match 1887 and 1980 Fethard were senior parade. And a special souvenir pro- football champions on fifteen occa- gramme had been produced for the sions. day. How many are still to be had The Fethard football team started today? One of them would enhance out well, being the south champions any Fethard man's collection of local from the previous year. On Sunday 27 memorabilia. As well, a stand was April they faced Moyle Rovers, but provided for the press and commenta- without two of their leading players, tors which was much appreciated by A.B. Kennedy and Pierce Dillon. the sports scribblers. The stewarding Though on that day Fethard won by and traffic control on the day gained one point the reporter noted that they much favourable comment. squandered many chances for further Incidentally, Galtee Rovers were win- scores and he was of the opinion that ners by a point on that beautiful sum- the final score should have been a mer's day. Perhaps this is a good point draw so as to reflect the level of play to record that the sportsfield was pur- on both sides. The Fethard team were, chased sometime in the early 1950s (I Michael Kenrick, Joe Allen, Davy think); it had been on lease for years Fitzgerald, Pakie Harrington, Paddy previously. The purchase was accom- Kenrick, Joe Keane, Paschal Hanrahan, plished in hard times and during the Michael O'Riordan, Dave Williams, 48 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Michael Healy, Michael Downes, Noel cry of 'Come on Coolmoyne' was Sharpe, Joe Keane, Maurice heard again on the sportsfield. A hurl- Harrington and Richie Hayes who was ing team, selected in the main from substituted by Noel Byrne. But on that area, beat a Clonoulty/Rossmore Sunday 18 May Fethard were beaten side by two points in a challenge game by one point by Galtee Rovers, who which was held on Sunday evening 22 were described as worthy winners. June. Many old-time Coolmoyne Though the senior team had done well hurlers and supporters must have felt Fethard did have a very active and the sun on their backs as they stood recently formed under-fourteen foot- and watched such a victory. ball club which was under the guid- Incidentally, hurling in Coolmoyne ance of Brother James Moran. The probably owes its foundation to the club had as its chairman Ned famed Denis Walsh of Tobberadora Sheehan, Brother James was its secre- who came to live in the area; and to tary, and Mrs Margaret Hackett and his two sons Denis and Eddie. Mrs. Sheehan were its treasurers. This Coolmoyne teams continued to play encouraging of young people augured under that name up to about 1960. well for the future of Gaelic football in In hurling Fethard had united with the town. The football club did not Kilsheelan to form St. Augustine’s forget its social side. On Friday night club. This combination was perform- 29 February it held its annual dinner ing well and by mid-June was heading dance in Clonmel. towards winning the semi-final place. After many years of silence the old On Sunday 15 June they beat Eire Óg

Fethard Football team, South Champions 1980, Front L to R: Joe Keane, A.B. Kennedy, Noel Sharpe, John Keane, Paddy Kenrick, Michael 'Buddy' Fitzgerald, Philly O'Connell, Pakie Harrington, Michael Healy. Back L. to R: Danny Kane, Noel Byrne, Pascal Hanrahan, Maurice Harrington, Waltie Moloney, Joe Allen, Michael Downes, Richie Hayes, Michael O'Riordan, Dinny Burke, Davy Williams. 49 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Group of Fethard supporters at the South Final in 1980 included Joe ‘Duffy’ Barrett, Eamon Butler, Timmy O'Riordan, Dick Fitzgerald, Mick Keane, Michael Fitzgerald, David Kane, Danny Kane, Sean Moloney, Derek Walsh, Alfie Brett, the two children in front are Johnny Barrett's son and Michael Fitzgerald's son William. by one point under wet and demand- Ireland with his county. Sadly, this is ing conditions. In a hard-fought fame the case with many a good hurler and St. Augustine’s were described as footballer. Pat began his sporting lucky. The local team were Stephen career with Coolmoyne, but he then McCormack, Dick Prendergast, Liam moved to Solohead/Arravale Rovers McCarthy, Dave Fitzgerald, Pat Larkin, with whom he won south junior hon- Sean Nugent, Pat O'Neill, Pakie ours in 1926 when he was twenty- Harrington, Mick O'Riordan, Cyril eight. In the late 1920s he played with Robinson, Dick Strang, A.B. Kennedy, junior and senior sides and won a John Kehoe, Noel Byrne, Michael Munster junior medal. He was playing Healy, and the sub was W. Walsh. But with the Killenaule team that won on Sunday 6 July St. Augustine’s lost south titles in 1931 and 1932. In 1934 their bid for the senior hurling cham- he was playing with Moyglass (in the pionship when they were beaten by 1930s other great Moyglass men well- nine points by Carrick Davins, a game known in Fethard were: Pat and Ter that was played in appalling condi- Guiry, Mick Hayes, Dick Hayes and tions. John Tynan). In 1937 and 1938 he was Towards the end of 1980 the south a member of Fethard's senior champi- GAA Board announced its sports onship teams. And in 1942 he played stars and its hurler of the past. The lat- a leading role in Coolmoyne's junior ter category was won by Pat O'Keeffe triumph. Pat generally played at left of Kiltinan. Pat O'Keeffe had graced half-back, but he was a man who the playing fields of south Tipperary could fit in elsewhere on the field and for well over twenty years, though he at the end of his hurling life he played was never lucky enough to win an All- in goal. In short, Pat played hurling 50 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER skilfully and enthusiastically in the On Sunday 2 March the Munster years between 1918 and 1940 and was cross-country championships were a dedicated supporter of GAA games. held at Tulla, Co. Clare. St. Patrick's Pat was also an athlete of note and in participated in what was the last cross- his day was Munster pole vault cham- country fixture of the season. The pion. He had, as well, considerable Fethard Club did well on the day in merit as a greyhound trainer. Pat some team events. In the under- O'Keeffe was presented with his elevens the winners were locals Regina award at the Board's annual social Foley, A. Fox, A. Flannery and J. held at the GAA Centre, Clonmel, on O'Dwyer. And in the boys’ under sev- Wednesday 10 December. enteen event the winning side were Pat But in the Fethard of 1980 other Heffernan, J. Hickey, J. Croke and J. sports held their places. Fethard had, Quinn. A number of boys under nine for example, two athletic clubs: St. years had a good day. County track Patrick's Athletic Club, which incorpo- and field events were held at Nenagh rated the national B.L.E and B.L.O.E. on Sunday 20 April in extremely poor systems (which had affiliated in this weather. Among the locals who did year); and the Fethard Athletic Club. well were Pat Heffernan who came Among the St. Patrick's officers were second in the 5,000 metres, and Kay John Looby, Tommy Butler and O'Riordan who won the high jump. Brother James Moran. The trainer for However, better performances were the club was Brother Raymond. The expected on Sunday 27 April when Fethard Athletic Club had Dick the competitors met on the all-weather Cummins, Steven McCormack, Pat track of the Presentation Convent, Ryan and Tom McCormack. Thurles, at 2.30pm, especially from

Photograph taken at AGM of St. Patricks Athletic BLOE Club 1980. Front L to R: Frances Burke (Treasurer), Tom Butler (Secretary), John Looby (Chairman), Maureen Guiry (Vice Chairperson), Bro Raymond (Trainer). Back L to R: Chris Looby, ?, Margaret Hackett, ?, Diana Stokes, ?, Jenny Fogarty, Mrs O'Riordan, Anne Connolly, Mary Looby, Johnny Carey, Breda Walsh, ?, William Guiry, Lolo Trehy and Dr. Paddy Stokes. 51 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Group of young NACA athletes photographed at a social in the Fethard Arms in 1980. Back L to R: Alice Ryan, Rena Sheehan, Vera Sheehan. Middle L to R: Sharon Connors, Georgina Mathews, Ann Bradshaw, Lorraine McCormack, Cathy O'Donnell, Brendan Morrissey, Declan Morrissey. Front L to R: Corina Morrissey, Maureen Connors, Darren Bradshaw, Adrian Bradshaw and ? Lawrence Willie Guiry of Fethard who had been miserable weather conditions. All of performing well in training. The juve- which made her wins the more memo- nile athletes from St. Patrick's per- rable. In the Dublin City Marathon formed well at a meeting held at held on the October Bank Holiday Pat Limerick on Saturday and Sunday 28 Heffernan turned in a fine perform- and 29 June in the Munster and All- ance when, out of about 2,000 starters, Ireland track and field events. Very he came 28th at a time of two hours worthy of mention were Jacqueline and thirty-seven minutes. A truly Stokes and Kay O'Riordan of Fethard great performance from the seventeen- and Pat Heffernan of Ballyvaden. year-old. Another local man who did Thirteen-year-old Jacqueline Stokes well in the Marathon was Pakie Ryan was one of eight girls who represented of Curraghtarsna. He came in at a very Ireland in the Celtic International creditable 228th place. Pakie had been Women's Athletics held at Coalbridge a runner in the 1950s with the near Glasgow on Sunday 3 August. Ballynonty Club. Jacqueline, a member of the The new cross-country season for Fethard/Clerihan BLOE club, emerged St. Patrick's opened on Sunday 5 as a winner in the high jump and the October on the lands of Mr Tommy long jump. She came second in the Butler of Coolenure with a large card relay race. This event had attracted of events and an attendance of about athletes from the UK and Ireland, but 200 athletes from Munster and south had the drawback of being held in Leinster. The meeting comprised both 52 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER juniors and seniors. The course on the music and beer. During their three-day day was described as being in excel- stay in the town a mayoral reception lent condition and the fine dry day was held in Clonmel as was a visit to made the four-mile cross-country run the County Council, but it was among a splendid one. About sixty runners the people of Fethard that the teams started out in that event and the dry spent what was for them a wonderful day and excellent conditions meant weekend. The course at Coolbawn that a fast pace was set. It was won by was five laps on a 2,000 metre course a runner from Grange A.C. and was extremely testing as the day Hardly had the New Year settled in was wet. The event was won by an when the Fethard Athletic Club held Irish runner in almost thirty-four min- an international cross-country event at utes. For the same club Jimmy Michael Smyth's Airfield at McCarthy had a distinguished year. In Coolbawn. The meet began at 2.30pm the veterans’ section of the Rás na on 6 January with teams from Ireland, hEireann held at Dunleer, Co. Louth, Poland, France, Belgium, Italy and on Sunday 20 January he finished first Portugal (though none from the UK). in the over-50s category. But then In all there were about 300 competi- Jimmy had been winning honours tors. The teams arrived in Fethard on since 1939 when he won an under- the Saturday afternoon and were eighteen tennis championship. And in given an official welcome by the Rás his day he won a Munster singles bad- Mumhan officers in the Fethard Arms. minton title and a Munster junior This was followed by an evening of football medal. Jimmy also gained var-

Photographed at NACA Social L to R: Jimmy McCarthy, Dick Cummins and Paddy McCormack 53 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 ious tennis honours. At Mount court during which John Woodlock, Pleasant near Dundalk in February he, representing Tipperary, beat the Kerry together with Tom Nugent of Clerihan contestant in the minor singles. And in and Tom Lawrence of Clonmel, won the county junior singles semi-final the over-45s cross-county team cham- Willie O'Donnell beat Noel Ryan pionships. And throughout 1980 from Ballypatrick. The same Willie Jimmy was still winning trophies. O'Donnel later qualified for the finals And Fethard enjoyed the benefits of of the Munster games. As the New other sports. In January the Fethard Year opened Killusty were doing well Open Coursing Club cele- in soccer. Their first win of brated twenty-five years of the year placed them at existence, and marked the the top of the First occasion by honouring its Division; among their founders: P.J. Henehan, scorers on that occasion Jack Kenrick, William were Noel Sharpe and Byrne, and James Kevin Ryan. But as the Heffernan. On 20 January season advanced they a large contingent of fans began to slip to the bot- and participants travelled tom of the Division. to Fethard from the Badminton, too, had its Blackrock (Cork) coursing place in the life of Fethard. club to mark the anniver- The local club had been sary. In ideal coursing shaky over the previous weather there was an few years, but with an abundance of hares which influx of new members in gave a most enjoyable day 1980 it seemed to be firm- to visitors and locals. That ly back on its feet. At the day the perpetual 'Tommy Pat Heffernan competing in the annual general meeting Ryan' cup was won by World Cross-Country Race held in held on 6 October the local man Michael Fethard in 1980 officers elected were, Tony Flanagan. The Club officers for the Newport, president, Gemma Kenny, season were, Tim O'Riordan, chair- secretary/treasurer, and Catherine man, John O'Donovan, secretary, and Newport, assistant secretary/treasurer. Michael Keane, treasurer. Hunting Keeping up an old tradition the with beagles was also popular and in Tipperary Foxhounds held their open- late January the Maryboro Farmers' ing meet in Fethard on Monday 9 Beagles paid their annual visit to the November. However, a small field of town where they had a good Sunday only fifty mounted followers turned afternoon of hunting. In February the out on the day. It was the smallest Munster handball championships opening meet over the previous twen- were being held in the Fethard ball ty years. Some very enjoyable hunting 54 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER was had in the Rocklow area. The Others who did well on that day were published photo does not show the Jack O'Donnell, Jim Ryan, John hounds rushing eagerly under the Martin and Tom Sayers. arch at Sparagoleith, rather the pho- As well as sport the town also kept tographer choose the railway bridge up its tradition of a summer festival. on the Rocklow Road about a mile out The Festival, which was organised by of Fethard for his scene which showed the Fethard Community Council with the Master, Michael Higgins and the the hope that whatever profits were First-Whip Michael Flanagan with the made would be used to pay for the hounds as they came over the narrow final touches to the new Community bridge. On St. Stephen's Day the Hall in Barrack Street. It ran from hounds had the internationally Monday 23 June to Sunday 29 June famous equestrian artist Peter Curling and opened with a gala concert in the riding out with them. Peter Curling Country Club on the Monday night at will be well-known to those who like which the Fethard Players performed their Christmas cards with a 'horsey' an amusing revue to the great delight flavour. The Hunt held its dance in the of all present. This was the 'Tavern in Country Club ballroom on Friday 28 the Town' which was devised by Billy November and the music was sup- McLellan with music direction from plied by the wonderful dance band of Don Byard of Fethard, and produced the late Mick Delahunty. by Michael O'Donoghue of Clonmel. On Sunday 13 April the Ponsonby Among those who trod the boards family opened their lands at Grove that night were old stalwarts, Ned where a one-day jumping and horse- Maher, Jackie White, Sean Hanrahan dressage event was held. The jumping and Jimmy O'Shea. On Tuesday night course was described as excellent, but the ICA sponsored a cookery demon- testing; and a number of young riders stration. In the GAA field on participated in the events. Among the Wednesday evening Bansha played winners were Desmond O'Connor of Cashel in senior football, and at the Knockelly, Gillian Maher of same time a tug-o-war with eight com- Ballybough, and Jacqueline Stokes of petitions was taking place. And these Fethard. And the nearby Killusty Pony sports continued on Thursday night. Show was held on 12 July. There was a On Friday night the summer festival big turnout on a day which was great- dance was held at which a festival ly marred by heavy rain. queen, Mary Morrissey of Tullamaine, And fishermen, too, had their days was chosen; and a turkey supper was of sport. The Fethard/Killusty anglers' provided by the ladies’ committee. summer competition was held on And throughout the week a poker Saturday 5 July. Cly Mullins was an classic had been running in the overall winner having both the heavi- Country Club. The highlight of est catch and the heaviest trout. Sunday was the fancy-dress parade 55 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Billy Treacy and his son Liam taking part in the Fethard Festival Parade 1980

Fethard Festival 1980 L to R: Gerry Aherne, P.J. Aherne, Patricia Morrissey and Pamela Morrissey

L to R: Barry Connolly, John Ward, Edmund O’Neill, Ted Connolly, Jimpy Connolly and Michael Whyte. 56 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER and for this the organisers were offer- under the very sure hand of Austin ing £100 prize to the best individual O'Flynn; and the actors were, Jimmy and best group on display. O'Shea, Rita O'Connor, Angela Incidentally, the first carnival in Dillon, Carmel Rice, Marion Fethard goes back to the mid 1920s. It Mulligan, Billy McLellan, Paddy was established to raise funds for the Kenrick, Catherine Newport, and Joe building, in 1926, of a parochial house Kenny. And keeping up the tradition (which is still in use) for of other years they Father John Russell who played to a full house served as parish priest each night. A special from December 1924 to performance was given April 1930. The high- for the senior citizens of lights of that first carni- Fethard during the run val was the fancy-dress of the play. At the end parade and the 'Sodality of the show all who Band' led by Tom attended were given a Hickey. The 1980 parade nice tea which had been started out from Kerry provided by Sister Peter Street at 2.0pm and was from the Presentation led by the Templemore Convent and friends. Brass band. From there Janice Carroll, daughter of Jim and Mary The Players society had it made its way to the Carroll, St. Patrick's Place, winner in the as its officers, Austin GAA field where a Fethard Festival Baby Show 1980 O'Flynn, president, number of side events were laid on. Jimmy O'Shea, chairman, Paddy Among these were a bonny baby Kenrick, secretary, and Angela Dillon, competition which was won by baby treasurer. Janice Carroll the daughter of Mr and But people, too, made an impres- Mrs Jim Carroll of St. Patrick's Place, sion on that year. At the annual gener- Fethard. And bigger children were al meeting of the South Tipperary entertained by O'Sullivan's County Council held on Monday Amusements which had set up in the night 30 June Councillor John field. Holohan of Ballinard was elected As well as their enjoyable contribu- chairman. John farmed at Ballinard. In tion to the summer Festival the 1967 he had been approached to put Fethard Players also presented a three- his name forward as a Fine Gael repre- act comedy, 'The Late Christopher sentative in the County Council. Bean' by the British playwright Emlyn However, in that year he did not gar- Williams, from Wednesday 26 March nish enough votes to be elected; seven to Sunday 30 March. The venue was years later he was elected without the Town Hall and the admission was reaching the quota, but when he £1. As always the production was became known and his work admired 57 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 he was elected on the first count in was £400. In 1980, also, John's broth- 1979. In this last election he received er, Father Patrick of the Holy Ghost 1,455 votes when the quota was 1,270. Fathers, was appointed president of This was, I think, the highest first-pref- Rockwell College. Father Patrick had erence vote given to a County Council been educated at Rockwell and later at candidate up to 1980. This vote well UCD and Rome. He spent thirteen showed that people admired his years in Nigeria and returned to impartial efforts on their behalf. And Rockwell in 1971 where he served as we should remember that John dean until his appointment as presi- worked well for his people in difficult dent. financial times. For example, in Another individual who, rather than 1975/76 the roads grants for south moving into the limelight, slipped qui- Tipperary was cut by 50 per cent; and etly out of it, was Patrick Lynch who around the same period Killusty had retired as principal teacher at great need of a footpath which it was Moyglass. He came first to the little estimated would cost £1,200 to com- village in 1944 and in his thirty-six plete, yet all that the county engineer years of educating the children from could lay his hands on for the task the area he never spared himself. He

Moyglass School pupils photographed with Mr Patrick Lynch on the occasion of his retirement from teaching in 1980. Also included in photograph is Mrs Eileen Horan who took over as Principal. 58 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

John and Dympna O'Donovan with Raymond, Mary Morrissey, Tullamaine, who was elected Adrian and baby Maura at Fethard Festival 1980. Festival Queen at Fethard Festival in 1980.

Pauline Morrissey with pupils from the Danny Ryan School of Music’s accordion band taking part in the Fethard Festival Parade in 1980. Standing L to R: Pauline Morrissey, Catherine Fleming, Marina Gorey, Bernie Power, Catherine Morrissey, Elaine Woodlock, Tom Power, Ann Bradshaw. Sitting L to R: Myles Tobin, Michael Power, Joan Fleming, Fiona Butler, Aisling Horan and Marie Horan. 59 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Fethard Festival 1980 L to R: Denise Maher, Josie O'Dwyer and Edwina Newport

Fethard Festival 1980 L to R: Assumpta Coffey, Fethard Festival 1980 L to R: Roseanne Flanagan Claire Coffey and Ailish Kenny and Elaine Gleeson 60 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER was the first teacher in the district who and a concert in the Country Club prepared his pupils for County ballroom on Friday 9 November. In Council scholarships year after year July the new president had the task of until that offer ceased. His encourage- presenting a trophy to a young stu- ment and drive had enabled many a dent, John Croke, who was chosen as student to find a worthwhile niche in the best student of the year. Tommy life. Carey made the presentation in the Along the fringes of the education presence of Brother John, the school system in Fethard the Patrician principal, and Mr Timmy O'Connor, Brothers Past Pupils Union was still the well-known and very respected active. Its president was Tommy Carey teacher. And due to the fund-raising of The Green and the chairman was efforts of the union books to a value John Whyte of Main Street. The com- of £480 had been purchased for the mittee were: Brother John, Brother school library. James, Michael O'Sullivan, Grove, In church matters the great event of Jimmy McInerney, Burke Street, Paddy this year was the presentation of the Lonergan, The Square, Joe Hayes, site of the old Coffey store and bakery, Rathcoole, Timmy O'Connor, Main through the generosity of Mrs Pauline Street, Joe Kenny, The Green, and Pat Coffey of Burke Street, to the White, Derryluskin. The patron was Augustinian Fathers. The old bakery the late Father Philip Noonan. The and shop had closed in 1936 and the annual dinner-dance was held in the mill was forced to close in the 1940s. Clonmel Arms Hotel on 14 March The site had been part of the old pre-

Past Pupil of the Year 1980 L to R: Bro James, Paddy Broderick, Deborah Conway, Vincent Doocey, Tommy Carey (President Patrician Brothers Past Pupils Union), Michael Dalton, John Croke (Pupil of the Year), Bro John, Timmy O'Connor, Dick Prendergast, Paddy Maher and Michael O'Gorman.

61 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Reformation friary and so its 'coming- secular societies which throughout the home' to its old owners was an event year conferred much social benefit on of note. A partial restoration and the local community. Macra na Feirme cleaning of the plot was immediately brought together the young people of carried out which revealed the western the rural community. On Saturday 15 aspect of the original friary house. It March they fielded a team which par- also exposed to view what was once ticipated in a debating contest held in the cloistered front garden and the the Drangan Community centre. The original doorway of the friary, dating team on the night were Tom Delany, back to the 1300s. The upper structure Gay O'Connell, John Heffernan, and of the old store was made safe by hav- Liam O'Connor; they defeated ing its floor covered with asphalt. Carrick-on-Suir and then went on to However, as we advance into the debate with Drangan in the south final twenty-first century we can but won- which was held at Boherlahan Hall on der as to the future of this ancient and Sunday 30 March. To mark the thirti- historic structure. For all who have an eth anniversary of the local club a interest in the history of Ireland three-act play was produced and Fethard, with its visible proof of that staged. This was John B. Keane's historical past, has been a place to 'Many Young Men of Twenty'. visit. One such visitor was Canon Generally, the club's repertoire had William Carrigan, the eminent histori- been one-act plays so this was an an, who shyly and quietly came to innovation. The producer was Paddy Fethard in 1894 in his pony and trap to Maher who had previously won two enjoy its medieval aspects. He was awards in the south Tipperary Macra entertained by the Augustinian Fathers. drama competitions. The play ran in He was but one of the many who came the Town Hall from Friday 19 over the past one hundred years. In December to Sunday 21 December. In 1980 the Old Waterford Society came the cast were, L. O'Connell, S. and were enlightened on the local his- Kennedy, J. Aylward, A. O'Connell, S. tory by Father Sean O'Doherty, then O'Dea, N. Fahy, S. Delahunty, P. president of the Kilkenny Quinn, L. Heffernan, P. Fahy, F. Archaeological Society, and now parish McGivern, A. Harrington, J. O'Meara, priest of Durrow where Canon T. O'Connell, C. Harrington and T. Carrigan served his final ministry. Phelan. Elsewhere in religion some 200 peo- Another such of long standing was ple walked in pilgrimage to the Holy the Council of the Blind. At its annual Year Cross on Slievenamon on general meeting of the south Sunday 10 August. The group were Tipperary branch of the National led by Father Cunningham who was Council of the Blind held in May well- then a curate in Fethard. justified tributes were paid to some But Fethard also had a number of wonderful south Tipperary people 62 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

The Fethard Padraig Mac Piarais Commemoration Committee erected a plaque to the 1916 martyr on 9th November, 1980. The plaque was unveiled by Fr. Philip Noonan P.P. (left) also included is Austin O’Flynn.

Group at Commemoration L to R: Jack Purtill, Tom Neill, Pat Whyte (back), Carrie Acheson (Mayor of Clonmel), Michael Crean (back), Jack Wall, Chris Mackey, Fr. Philip Noonan P.P.

63 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 who devoted much of their spare time of Jossestown, Lisronagh, and the sec- to helping the blind. The great friend retary was Mrs Bitsy Carrigan of of the blind who came to Ireland from Clonacody. In this year the main Yorkshire was Dr. Thomas Armitage achievement of the guild, apart from of Noan near Ballinure whose grave is educating and entertaining the mem- to be found in Magorban Church. His bers with monthly talks, was the re- good work was continued by his only roofing of the ICA Hall which was daughter Doris Armitage, by Olive accomplished through the wonderful Hughes of Fethard and by Mrs Dolly efforts of the members. The result O'Keeffe of Fethard (a short account meant that the Hall, which had been and a photo of them appeared in the purchased second-hand sometime in 2006 Newsletter). Those four, who the 1950s, would be good for many were honoured and remembered at years to come. In December the ICA the 1980 meeting of the Council, had sponsored their annual Christmas selflessly laboured to support and help party which was held at the Fethard blind people when state aid was no Arms. The older people of Fethard more than basic. were entertained to a lovely meal and But in another case a state institu- afterwards to a variety of entertain- tion (a hospital in this case) was of ments. Traditional music was played great help. All of us have at one time by John Shortall and Phil Shee and or another gone out without a care to this was coupled with recitations and enjoy ourselves on a warm summer's ballads. There were also games and day. In August a young man from the contests which had been invented and Coolmore area went to Tramore to supervised by Mrs Cecilia Byrne. The enjoy the day, the sea and the beach. ladies who made that night such a While swimming he got into difficul- wonderful success were, Annie ties in the sea, had a narrow escape O’Brien, Mrs Alice Quinn, Sister Peter, from drowning and when he was Mrs Ann Lucy, Mrs Ann Lynch, Mrs taken from the water did not recover Donovan, Ann O'Riordan, Mrs Kathy consciousness for about a quarter of Aylward, Mrs Margaret Keane, Mrs an hour. He spent four days in Walsh, Mrs Nora O'Riordan, Mrs Ardkeen Hospital where with good Morrissey, Mrs Biddy Trehy, Mrs care he made a full recovery. Aggie Barrett and Mrs Maher. And mention of Olive Hughes In this year the country market was brings to mind the local guild of the still a popular venue on Friday morn- ICA which at their January meeting ings for anyone seeking fresh produce. elected their officers for the coming The market opened at 9.30am in the year. The new president was Mrs morning to sell vegetables, flowers, Breda Smyth of Milestown with Miss plants, eggs, cakes, butter, cream and Phyllis O'Connell as vice-president. goat's milk. Every Friday morning the The treasurer was Mrs Phyllis Wyatt rush for the stalls was strenuous, but 64 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER the treasurer (Ned Maher) and the houses served on each delivery run men and women (the producers) sell- was eighteen. This service was offered ing the produce were endlessly patient to those who, for one reason or anoth- and had a kind work for everyone. er, had difficulty in preparing a hot The country markets first began in main meal for themselves. In June the Fethard in 1947 and it was the first of society was presented with a cooker its kind in the direct selling between by the Clonmel Rotary Club, a present the producer and the user. The whole which probably much appreciated by concept of direct selling was innova- the hard-working cooking ladies. The tive in those years and many looked at officers of the Meals society were, Dr. it suspiciously. For the country market J.B. Maher, Main Street, president, in 1980 the big event was the coming Sister Agatha, Presentation Convent, to Fethard of a television team to do a secretary, and Mr Tim Slattery, Allied 'shoot' on a morning of selling. I don't Irish Banks, treasurer. know if the end result ever appeared Another organisation that was still on TV. active and still beneficial to the people Throughout the year the local of Fethard was the Credit Union Meals-on-Wheels delivered some which in this year was in its eleventh 2,808 meals from the Social Service year of existence. Not alone was its centre; and the average number of membership firm but it was increas-

Clonmel Rotary Club presenting a cooker to Fethard Meals-on-Wheels in 1980. L to R: Tim Slattery (Allied Irish Banks, treasurer Meals-on-Wheels), Paddy Lonergan (Clonmel Rotary Club), Ned Maher, Phyllis O'Connell, Aggie Barrett and Sr. Agatha (Secretary Meals-on-Wheels). 65 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Fethard Bridge Club members playing in the Tirry Centre 1980 L to R: Kathleen Harrison, Sean Henehan, Moira McInerney and Dick Gorey. ing. The chairman was Sean Henehan Incidentally, the president of the local with Tommy Carey in the vice-chair. branch was Mr Paddy Whyte of Main The secretary was Angela Dillon and Street who had served the Pioneer the treasurer Sean O'Callaghan. And Council for some forty years. the annual reunion of Fethard people And the town had its Bridge Club with their friends and relatives in which ended its 1979/80 season in England took place on Friday 3 May, and the new season began in October. The organising locally of the September with several new members event was in the hands of Tommy joining. As the new season opened the Carey, The Green, and Christy members had the comfort of a room Williams, Killusty. in the newly opened Tirry The Pioneer Total Abstinence Community Centre. At the end of the Association was still active in the old season the president's prize was town. In 1980 it carried out a census of won by Brother John and Mrs Kitty members and former members who Hayes. still observed abstinence. It was dis- A small flavour of what prices were covered that the branch had five in 1980 can be gleaned from the sale Golden Jubilarians, fifty-two Silver of a house on the Cashel road just Jubilarians, forty full Pioneers and fif- outside the town. The family, who teen Probationers. In October a rally were moving to Melbourne, placed was held at Holy Cross and forty-two their bungalow, which was finished to members travelled there for the occa- a very high standard and stood on sion. One of the Golden Jubilarians, one-and-a-half acres of land on the Mrs T. O'Flynn, of Derryluskan, car- market. It fetched £38,000 (some- ried the Fethard banner on that day. where between €45,000 and €50,000 in 66 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER modern terms). How prices have rock- parish priest of Cappamore, Co. eted since. Limerick. Another remembered priest But for many life was ending; their was Father Thomas Hand, OSA, allotted span closing. Just as the old whose death occurred in August at year of 1979 ended we read of the Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo. Father unexpected death of Father Thomas A. Thomas was long after his time in Cooke who was a well-known curate Fethard recalled as a fine preacher. In in Fethard between 1955 and 1969. July the death occurred in England of Father Thomas was born at Mr Joe Leahy who in former times Knockaney, Co. Limerick in 1921 and lived on the Rocklow Road. Joe was was educated at St. Patrick's College, involved in the old Fethard Rugby Thurles and later at the Irish College Club of the 1930s and was popularly in Rome where he was ordained a known as 'The Gunner'. He served as priest in 1943, at a time when Europe occasional player and managed its was gripped in terrible war. At the end equipment. Who, someday, will give of that war he returned to Ireland us an account of old clubs and forgot- where he spent until 1947 on loan to ten organisations? In September Denis the diocese of Kildare and Leighlin. He Shine of Monroe died. Without doubt served as curate in New Inn from 1947 there are readers of this who will recall to 1954 and in Kilbehenny from 1954 that Denis was one of the founders of to 1955. In 1969 he was appointed as Fethard's dance-band, 'The Twilight parish priest of Clerihan and in 1977 Serenaders'. He was a talented musi- he transferred from there to being cian who specialised on the banjo and

Pat O’Shea, born in 1888, was Fethard’s oldest citizen in 1980. Pat is photographed above with his wife Kathleen (Farrell) whom he married in 1924. They had four daughters Joanna, Mary, Nellie and Peggy. 67 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Large group of children at the Killusty Field Day held in 1980 mandolin. The band is deserving of place of three Archbishops of Cashel, some account of its days and perhaps James Butler, Thomas Bray and Patrick a photo or two. A connection with old Everard, and Archbishop John J. Fethard passed away when Minnie Cantwell of Los Angeles was born Maher of Coolbawn died. She was the here. last of those who worked at Grove And the year, as always, ends with House with the legendary Richard Christmas and the Christmas holiday. Burke. Minnie, who was a cook there, In 1980 midnight Masses were still was buried in Moyglass cemetery. On being celebrated and had large atten- 2 November Dr. Patrick O'Donnell, dances in both the Abbey and the the former Archbishop of Brisbane, parish church. The Abbey had its crib died and was buried in his cathedral in its lovely medieval setting. On the of St. Stephen in downtown Brisbane. Saturday night before Christmas Day He was a little short of his eighty-third a group of adult carol singers toured birthday being born in Fethard on 2 the town bringing joy and entertain- February 1897. He was the youngest ment to all and sundry; what money of sixteen children of Thomas they collected went to the local St. O'Donnell, draper, Main Street (now Vincent de Paul society. And on St. O'Sullivan's Pharmacy) and Johanna Stephen's Day it was noticed that Sheehan, The Quarry, Thurles. Dr. there had been a great increase in the Patrick never forgot the town where he number of wren boys and the quality was born and the school, long since of the performance given by some of razed, where he received his early edu- the senior groups was very good. And cation. Perhaps it's a good time to for many the year of 1980 came to an recall that Dr. O'Donnell was not the end in Fethard with song and good only native son to be ordained an cheer. > Archbishop. The parish was the birth- — Michael O’Donnell 68 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

'Tavern in The Town' rehearsal in Country Club Ballroom 1980. Front: Marian Gilpin, Ned Maher, Billy Kenny, Mattie Bradshaw, Paddy Kenrick, Michael McCarthy, Jimmy O'Shea & Brendan Kenny. Middle: Ann Woodlock, Kathleen Bradshaw, Eddie Sheehan, Catherine Newport, Gemma Kenny, Angela Dillon, Rita O'Connor, Geraldine McCarthy. Back: Frances Morrissey and Mary Morrissey.

'Tavern in The Town' rehearsal in Country Club Ballroom 1980. L to R: Ned Maher, Jackie White, Sean Hanrahan, Eddie Sheehan and Jimmy O'Shea.

69 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Fethard Community Sportsfield

Committee members organising ticket sales for the community field clubhouse draw. L to R: Paul Kavanagh, Valerie Colville, Mary Kelly, Gerard Manton, Pat O'Donnell, Niall O'Connell, Sean Devaney and Jimmy O'Sullivan. Also on the committee were: John Hurley, Joe Burke, Colm McGrath, Fintan Rice, Jerome Casey, Peggy Colville and Suzanna Manton. ethard Community Sportsfield is ly the application will be successful. Fgoing from strength to strength. Earlier this year Jimmy O’Sullivan There is a huge demand on the pitch, and Paul Kavanagh mooted the idea of which is being used each evening of a major draw to secure funding for the week and all weekends. developing the club. A finance com- Groups using the facility are: mittee was formed consisting of mem- Fethard Athletic Club, Fethard and bers of the field committee, and repre- District Rugby Club, Juvenile GAA sentatives of clubs using the facility. Club, Badgers Soccer Club and This draw was a great success and the Community Games. It has also been committee would like to express their used for coaching courses. To date sincere thanks to the people of Fethard floodlighting has been erected on the and Killusty and indeed neighbouring pitch and the Athletic Club have their areas who put their heart into this ven- own sprint, throwing and long jump ture. Proceeds from the draw were in area. Demand has grown so much that the region of €78,000. There was the group have been given the use of €20,000 in prize money won by the the adjacent area by Mr John Halley, following: First prize €10,000 to MRCVS, who has a magnificent Frances Harrington, Railstown; 2nd equine surgery next door. Plans are prize €5,000 to Michael Hayes, currently being made to erect a club- Coolmore; Third Prize €2,500 to house, which will include changing Anthony Hayes Burke Street. Five rooms, showers, meeting room and prizes of €500 each went to Michael gym. Capital grant aid will be applied Conway St. Patricks Place; David for in respect for funding and hopeful- Tierney, Ballydoyle; Fethard Branch of 70 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

IFA, c/o David Tierney Bannixtown; here and we hope to have a lot of Ellen Morrissey, Barrack Street; and progress made by this time next year. Lucy, Sally, Harry and Katie Butler, Thanks to everybody who spent a lot Kilknockin. of time selling tickets, those who pur- The field was also sanctioned the chased tickets, especially to Jimmy sum of €40,000 from South Tipperary O’Sullivan, Paul Kavanagh, Sean County Council Amenities Grant in Devaney, and everybody else who respect of the development. helped in any way. There is a lot of work to be done but Wishing everybody a holy and there is wonderful community spirit Happy Christmas. >

Members of the Fethard Community Sportsfield draw committee photographed at the open draw for €20,000. L to R: Valerie Colville, Fintan Rice, Jerome Casey, Suzanna Manton, Sean Devaney and Peggy Colville. Fethard & District Rugby Club he annual general meeting of PRO were returned unopposed. TFethard Rugby Club was held The chairman thanked all those on Tuesday 22nd May 2007 in the involved, the players, the parents and Tirry Community Centre. The club is particularly the coaches for their now a limited company and this unselfish service throughout the year, affords protection to all involved in sacrificing 2–3 nights weekly plus a the promotion and playing of rugby in game or two every weekend. He also the area. The outgoing officers, Mr thanked the secretary for her tireless Jimmy O’Sullivan, President; Mr Paul commitment to the club throughout Kavanagh, Chairman; Ms Polly the year. Paul also paid tribute to Murphy, Secretary; Ms Valerie Valerie for the professional manner in Colville Connolly, Treasurer; Ms Mary which she organised the finances of Kelly, Youth Officer; Mr Liam Hayes the club. 71 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

The secretary in her comprehensive Sports Lottery funding, but that it will report paid tribute to all the parents probably be late 2008 before building for their support, particularly for pro- commences. viding the transport to all the matches, The meeting also decided that the and for their great support in organis- protocol for the allocation of interna- ing the end of season barbecue. She tional / inter-provincial tickets will be also thanked the Community Field as follows: (a) the coaches in recogni- Committee for their support and help tion of their unselfish work will have throughout the season and Mr John first call on the tickets; (b) the remain- Hally for allowing the club use of his der will be allocated on a rotational field during the season. basis to paid-up adult members by the The treasurer’s report showed that Chairman and Treasurer; (c) a list of the club cost € 18,000 to run last year all those who receive tickets will be but due to the successful fundraisers circulated to members prior to the and parents taking the responsibility AGM each year. of organising the transport we are showing a credit balance of €7,500 but First Munster Cup in a ‘Scrooge’ like fashion she warned Sunday 22 April 2007 — Oh what a that this was needed to upgrade the day, when Fethard Juvenile Rugby lighting and install temporary show- Club won their first Munster title in ers. Mr Jerome Casey on behalf of the Carrick. Our under 14-team, cap- field committee stated that plans were tained by Daniel Hickey, produced a being advanced to make a planning scintillating display to bring home the application and an application for under-14 East Munster Cup.

Fethard Rugby Club’s under-14 team who won the under-14 East Munster Cup beating Kilfeacle in the final played at Carrick on Sunday 22nd April. Back L to R: Paul Ronan (coach), Jack Brett, William Croke, Aaron Conran, Colm Shanahan, Thomas Nolan, Alan Casey, Robert Hall, Daniel Hickey (captain), Ciarán Power, Michael John Murphy, Timmy O'Donovan, Declan Fanning, Craig Dorney, Frankie O'Donovan, Paul Kavanagh (coach). Front L to R: Conor McGuire, Shane Power, Ciarán Hayes, Stephen McGuire, Danny Gerard, Conor Kavanagh, Joe Morgan, Colin Meagher, Kevin Hall and Stephen Tierney. 72 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Our gallant band of young men The Fethard team were now firing started nervously and gave an easy on all cylinders and the attacking runs ball to Kilfeacle who punished them from the backs was amazing to see. with a well taken penalty in the first Thomas Nolan, Ciarán Power and half to leave the score at 3 points to nil Aaron Conran broke the defensive in favour of Kilfeacle at half time. All line so many times it lifted the entire the parents, mentors and supporters team. The Kilfeacle side resorted to were on tenterhooks, as stout Kilfeacle kicking out of defence, but our young defence had kept our team scoreless full back Joe Morgan handled every- for the first half, despite having the thing they threw at him with the matu- bulk of the possession and playing the rity of a professional. best rugby. The forwards at this stage were The half-time talk from the coaches dominating the bigger Kilfeacle pack was direct and inspirational, with and Robert Hall and Michael John young Paul Ronan giving one of the Murphy were now winning all the line most concise and motivational half outs and any one they missed, time talks ever heard. The captain ‘Bomber’ Shanahan contrived to win it brought them into a huddle and the back for Fethard. This pressure from players prepared themselves for the Fethard yielded a penalty which battle of the second half and again lis- Daniel Hickey converted to leave the tening to them as they roared out, score at eight points to three. “Fethard, Fethard, Fethard”, one could From the kick off Kilfeacle attacked not but feel that something special was with purpose which was very well going to follow. defended by Fethard, but at a cost, as From the start of the second half every parent present groaned with when Kieran Power claimed the kick anxiety, as two of our stars, Thomas off and took route one, to gain fifty Nolan and young Frankie yards with all the forwards in support, O’Donovan, lay prostrate on the field. Fethard showed its intent. Daniel Thank God both young men were fine Hickey, who produced another best with Thomas continuing and almost personal performance, began to play breaking way for a try on the restart, the corners and with Colm Shanahan gaining all of 50 yards. Frankie, having played the best rugby of his career. He played very well, had to retire with an conspired with Michael John Murphy egg size bump on his forehead, but and Robert Hall to win a line out on within minutes, this brave young man Kilfeacle’s 25 and with a quick ball was cheering on his team mates as he from Conor Kavanagh, who again held an ice-pack to his bump. excelled at scrum half, released Kieran Frankie’s spirit epitomizes the spirit, Power for the first and only try of the purpose, commitment and dedication game. Daniel’s conversion attempt shown by these young men all season. went wide off the post. The victorious team were paraded 73 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

through Fethard and arrived back at the blaring out from our DJ Jack Kenny, Community Field at 3.30pm for the end the games played were great craic and of season barbecue, where our club the food tasted so sweet, with loads president Jimmy O’Sullivan welcomed for everyone. A big thanks to all the them back and their coach and our club parents who donated so much food; chairman, Paul Kavanagh, thanked to Conor Murray for sponsoring the them for their sportsmanship and the beautiful burgers; and to all the cooks sense of pride he felt for their success. on the day led by super chef Ger God smiled on us as the threatened Manton and that turned head grill rain never came and with the music chef, Tony Fitzgerald. >

Jack Kenny and Mark Sullivan providing the disco for the Fethard Rugby Club 'End of Season Party'. 74 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Fethard Rugby Club 'End of Season Party'

75 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 The Life and Times of Canon Patten

Canon Patten's grandson, Richard Welch, and his wife Janet, photographed in Fethard on 27th July 2007

he only one of my grandparents of my mother’s childhood home and Tthat I never met is the one who were met by the new owners, Larry is best remembered by all those with and Rosena Kenny. We were given a whom he came into contact. He was real Irish welcome and stayed the Canon Cecil Patten, Church of Ireland night. I promised that one day I would rector of Fethard from 1904 to 1942. dig into the Patten family archives He served almost his entire ministry in (actually two cardboard boxes) and the town, dying in office. He loved his write a few lines about my grandfa- rectory, with its wonderful view over- ther, hence this piece. Larry took us for looking Slievenamon, he loved Holy a quick tour of Fethard the following Trinity Church and he loved the peo- morning and we met people who still ple and town of Fethard. Long gone, it have clear and happy memories of seems, are the days when the clergy Canon Patten, not least Hannie Leahy, took on a job for life, without thought who had worked for him all those of promotion. That my grandfather’s years ago. service in Fethard is still remembered, Richard Cecil Patten (RCP) was born 65 years after his death, and over 100 in Dublin in 1872, one of five children years since it began, was brought born to William Patten and Agnes home vividly to my wife and me when (née Kirkwood). I have found out a lit- we called by in July of this year (2007). tle about his forbears. If you happen We drove up the Rectory (The Glebe upon that marvellous book, House) drive, wanting to take a photo ‘Woodbrook’ by David Thomson, you 76 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER will learn a lot about the Kirkwoods of 1803 for High Treason following the Connacht, from which stock Agnes abortive uprising of that year. It was came. Mention is made in the book of Robert’s speech from the dock, his RCP’s great-grandfather, William death sentence having been pro- Kirkwood, who, in the rebellion of nounced, that is said to have inspired 1798, took up arms against General Churchill’s wartime masterpiece – “We Humbert and his French force during shall fight them on the beaches . . . We that brief invasion. The invaders had shall never surrender!” Robert Emmet early success and were joined by was telling the court that he would many downtrod- never have sup- den and hungry ported the French Irish peasants. as invaders, only William was cap- as saviours – “[if tured and put they come as under house invaders you arrest but escaped should] meet in order to find them on the his wife, who had beach with a fled in terror. sword in one Having broken hand . . . immo- the terms of his late them in their ‘bail’ he was a boats . . . dispute wanted man. In Cecil and Ida Patten every inch of the end, the intervention of the bishop ground . . . raze every house . . . burn saved his skin. every blade of grass . . .” It is stirring There is some interesting history on stuff indeed. the Patten side too. In 1791, RCP’s Canon Patten had another worthy cousin, Jane Patten, had married kinsman in one James Patten, his great, Thomas Addis Emmet, a founding great uncle. As Surgeon James Patten member of the United Irishmen. For he saved the life of Captain Cook on his part in that same rebellion of 1798 the second of his three round-the- he was exiled to Scotland and eventu- world voyages. In early 1774 Cook ally left for America where he became was stricken with a life-threatening Attorney General for New York. So intestinal complaint. At first he RCP had family ties on both sides in a ignored it but eventually was so ill he conflict. Of course, there is nothing allowed James to ministrate. Stomach new here; in any study of history coin- plasters and hot baths were employed cidences of this sort abound. And Jane to good effect and a nourishing soup Patten’s brother-in-law was none other made from dog-meat aided convales- than the renowned Robert Emmet, cence. Cook later acknowledged that hanged and beheaded in September James’ round-the-clock efforts had 77 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Rectory House in the 1920s undoubtedly saved his life. What like to know that my dear old church would the map of the world look like was in your charge and that our today if Cook had perished then? happy house was being occupied by Cecil Patten had graduated from our good friend.” I suspect the depart- Trinity College Dublin when he was ing rector had told his churchwardens ordained deacon in 1898. A year later to snap up his friend Cecil if they pos- he was priested and after a curacy was sibly could. briefly incumbent at Mogorban, Little is known of Canon Patten’s whence he was poached by Fethard. early life. He was brought up in the When he was offered the job he wrote Dublin area and money was always to the bishop twice on the matter, tight. His father, William, is believed to wondering whether it was right to have committed suicide whilst his move after so short a time at mother, Agnes, was a restless and Mogorban. I have letters from his demanding woman. I am told she con- friends encouraging him to take the tinued in this vein until her death in job. “It is a very nice parish indeed. If 1914, making life difficult for her ever a man was called to fill a place, daughters-in-law and scaring the wits you can surely consider you have out of her grandchildren. been. You have not sought them, they The Reverend Cecil Patten was have sought you,” wrote one friend. determined that his own family life His predecessor, The Rev. Basil Chastel would be happier. He was married, de Boinville (now there’s a fine sur- amidst much celebration, in St. Mary’s name) wrote, “My very dear friend, I church, Clonmel in April 1906 to Ida need hardly say how much I would Fitzgerald Grimley (1877-1966) from 78 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Queensland, Australia, whose mother was attended by 20 direct descendants was a Phelan, originally from and their families, a grand party of Clonmel. Presents were sent from all almost 50. corners of the globe and, as was the In the early days, in spite of the custom at the time, a full list was given splendid list of wedding presents, in the Clonmel Chronicle. Woe betide there was little money to go round. At any skinflints who gave less than the that time it was pot luck as to whether going rate for their station in society! your parish provided a good ‘living’. Most presents were items of silver. Fethard’s was, emphatically, not such a Fethard Hockey Club gave a silver parish. Indeed as late as 1938 his salver for instance, but his sister Daisy, income was only £335 per annum and in Canada sent a bearskin rug. It is one was supposed to run a large astonishing to think that, with the time house with several staff on that. Not involved in long-distance travel in that Canon Patten ever grumbled those days, after Daisy left Ireland in about his lot. I can remember my 1900, I believe they met only once mother ticking me off one day for say- more in their lives, when she came to ing that something was unfair. She Europe in the 1930’s. said how her father would never allow To mark the centenary of the wed- that to be said in the house. He was ding, Cecil and Ida’s descendants well aware that his family’s lot was arranged a party in April 2006 that vastly better than that of so many of

Staff who worked in Canon Patten's Garden at the Rectory c1937. Back L to R.: Mattie Tynan, Bob Hally, Danny Mullins, Dick Allen, Tom Walsh, Jack Hally, Connie Fitzgerald. Front L.to R.: Mick Boughe, Pat Butler, Paddy Daniel, Jimmy Hally, Christy Allen, Jim Halley (Senior) and Jimmy Slattery. 79 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 those in the locality. For my mother, cans and my aunt recalled a service however, as a child, it must have where prayers were punctuated by seemed a little harsh. She will have shots being fired from the church mixed with children from landed tower. During the same period a lad Anglo-Irish families who wanted for with a gun stood threatening at the nothing. Financial hardships were rectory door. My grandmother, a such that, on at least two occasions the somewhat fearsome, tall woman is family moved out of the Rectory in reported who have said to the would- order to let it and later they took in be attacker “Come on now, [Jimmy], paying guests. put that gun down and step inside and A year after the wedding my aunt, have a cup of tea.” The matter ended Ruth (Duthie) was born. In 1913 came there! William and in 1921, my mother All through the troubles, and Patience (Welch). throughout his ministry, there is no Life continued on a regular pattern doubt that Canon Patten was a man through the decades. But they were way ahead of his time in terms of momentous decades in Irish history. developing and understanding The civil war brought strife to the between the different branches of the locality with the murder of several Christian faith. His ecumenical out- protestants and the flight of many look was a beacon for the develop- such families who were given an hour ment of better relations between the to clear out before their houses were catholic and protestant communities. torched. On one occasion Holy Trinity For many young people today it will church was taken over by the republi- be hard to imagine what a great,

Canon Patten’s gardens in the 1920s 80 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Rectory staff on steps Back L to R: Kitty Owens, Margaret Browne. Phyllis O’Connell. Front L to R: Mary Clancy and Hannie Leahy almost intractable divide existed ticulture. Not only did he provide the across society in Ireland in those opportunity for people to beautify times. His own brother in Belfast had their gardens with all sorts of bedding had difficulties because he had mar- and other flowering plants, including ried a catholic and life in a mixed mar- alpines, he also sold brassicas in their riage was proving fraught. 100s. An advert in 1921 states Canon Patten sought to improve his ‘Quarter Million Cabbage plants for family’s lot by growing as much food sale. Per 100 1s 6d, 1000 12s.6d.’ for the family as he could. Self-taught, These were wrapped in wet newspaper he became an expert gardener, not and sent by train all over Ireland. He only in the kitchen garden but also was providing work at home and the when it came to flowers. Before long it opportunity to grow food for count- occurred to him that he could develop less thousands of families, many of this passion of his to the great benefit them poor and hungry. Fethard station of the unemployed of Fethard and to was not only kept busy with his bun- hundreds of hungry families across dles of plants, he saw to it that it was a Ireland. He set up Patten’s Gardens floral masterpiece and regularly won and gradually built up a staff of 18 best-kept station awards. full-time, permanent gardeners, with He didn’t stop at gardening. He was more taken on in high season. He involved in the whole of town life. He taught them gardening skills and sev- helped to lay out the first golf course eral moved on to full time jobs in hor- and played himself. Is that where my 81 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Pictured at the Harvest Festival held in Holy Trinity Church of Ireland, Fethard on 6th October 1991 are L to R: Kate Charmant, Richard Welch, Meg Owen, Ruth Duthie and Dr. Robert McCarthy. sons get it from, I wonder? They all and full of comfort for the bereaved. play off low handicaps - I am pretty In spite of his innate humility he hopeless! He was highly involved became a canon in 1923, rural dean in with the setting up of the milk depot. 1927 and chancellor of Cashel It is hard to imagine it, but there was a Cathedral in 1935. crying need for a reliable supply of When Canon Patten himself died good, clean milk. The relief of the there was an enormous outpouring of poor was a priority throughout his life grief from the whole town, irrespective and his favourite charity was the St. of creed. My mother proudly told me Vincent de Paul Society. He never that his coffin was carried by six turned away a beggar. catholics, large numbers of whom Amidst all these other activities he attended. On his gravestone is the was a much loved parish priest. He simple inscription ‘For God Loveth a would visit the sick on a daily basis, Cheerful Giver’. A fine and apt epi- travelling by his push-bike – he never taph. I wish I had known him. > owned a car. His sermons were — by Richard Welch thoughtful and thought-provoking, and short! I have one, written for the [I am indebted to Kieran McGovern of Dublin for the Sunday following the death of information on Surgeon James Patten and for providing the family link to the Emmet family.] General Kellett in 1931. It is touching 82 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Fethard Flower Show and Fête — Thursday 31st July 1913

83 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Fethard Flower Show and Fête 1912 For the £10 Sweet Pea Prize there Annual Report for 1912 were 48 entries, representing the he Show was held, by kind per- majority of the counties in Ireland. Tmission of Col. and Mrs Cooke, Unfortunately, owing to the havoc at Kiltinane Castle, on Thursday, 1st wrought by the terrible weather of the August 1912. preceding days, only 23 exhibits were In spite of the bad weather experi- actually staged. With anything like enced up to the day before the Show, propitious weather at our next Show, the entries showed a very gratifying the Sweet Pea display should be even increase, numbering upwards of 700, better worth seeing. whereas there cannot have been more The balance brought forward this than 200 at our first Show. year, we regret to say, is not as large as The attendance also showed a the previous one, but we have now a marked increase, as the gate money complete set of staging trestles, amounted to nearly £47, as against besides other equipment, which will £23 the year before. It was estimated effect a saving in future Shows. As that over 3,000 persons were present. against this, however, we shall have to

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face in the future a considerable outlay The entries for the Dancing on tent hire. It is hoped, therefore, that Competitions were not as numerous the supporters of our Show will not as might be expected. Should there be relax their generosity. sufficient entries at next Show special It is hoped to make efficient provi- prizes will be given, open only to sion this year for the protection of those who have not previously won fruit, cakes and sewing, so that the prizes at public competitions. public will not be able to touch the It is felt that apology is due to the exhibits. public for the somewhat crude The Sports which were organised arrangement of the Show, which was and carried to a successful conclusion due to the fact that the preceding day by a special committee — the secretari- was the wettest day experienced for al duties of which were in the ener- many years, necessitating the post- getic and capable hands of Mr J. ponement of a great deal of the prepa- Moran — were a great attraction and ration till the morning of the Show. source of pleasure to the public. There The Committee wish to express were 80 entries for the different events, their grateful thanks to Col. and Mrs. many of which resulted in exciting fin- Cooke for the use of their picturesque ishes. grounds, and they regret that more 85 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 than usual damage must have been The Committee have great pleasure done owing to the inclemency of the in announcing that Mr Richard Burke, weather. M.F.H., has most kindly granted the In conclusion, the Committee wish use of his convenient and spacious to sincerely thank the Judges for their grounds at Grove for next Show, services, and all the ladies and gentle- which will be held on Thursday, 31st men who, by their help, contributed July 31. so greatly to the success of the Show.

General Committee 1913 Mr. and Mrs C. R. Barton, Marlfield. Miss Landers, Fethard. Mrs. Baker, Bank House, Fethard. Mrs. Lonergan, Fethard. Mr. Richard Broke, M.F.H. Mr. and Mrs. C. Morel, Tullamaine Rev. Father Burke, C.C., Lisronagh. Castle. Mr. Tobias Burke, Donoughmore, The Misses Murphy, Coolmore. Lisronagh. Mrs. R. McCarthy, Hotel, Fethard. Mrs. Buggy, Fethard. Mrs. J.G. O'Brien, Lakefield. Rev. Father Byrne. P.P., Clerihan. Rev. Father O'Brien, P.P., Drangan. Mrs. Carroll and Mr. Clement J. Carroll, Dr. and Mrs. O'Connell, Fethard. Rocklow. Mr. Richard O'Connell, Rathvin. Mr. P. Carroll, Thorney Bridge. Mr. Michael O'Donnell, Bannoxtown. Mrs. Church, Knockeevan. Mr. Con O'Neill, Lisronagh House. Colonel and Mrs. Cooke, Kiltinane Mr. Andrew O'Shea, Courthouse, Castle. Clonmel. Rev. and Mrs. A. Cooke. Mogorban Mrs. Patten, Fethard. Rectory. Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Pennefather, Rathcoole. Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Croome, Annesfort. Mr. Michael Purcell, Fortwilliam, Mr. Edmond Cummins, Brookhill. Lisronagh. Mr. Edward Cuthbert, Derryluskan. Mr. M. Quirke, Drangan. Mrs. M. Coffey, Abbey Ville. Mr. Frank Quinlan, Coleman, Lisronagh. Mrs. P. Coffey, Fethard. The Very Rev. Archdeacon Ryan, P.P., Mr. Thomas Fennelly, Prospect Hill. Fethard. Col. and Mrs. Hussey de Burgh, Mr. Darby Scully, Silverfort. Mobarnane. Mr. J. and Miss Shirley, Derryluskan Dr. Heffernan, Killenaule. Cross. Mr. Heffernan, D'Arcy's Cross. Mr. P. Stokes, Thorney Bridge. Col. and Mrs. Heffernan, Barrettstown. Mrs. Schofield, Fethard. Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Higgins, Ardsallagh. Mrs. Tennant and the Misses Tennant, Mrs. Hughes, Annesgift. Ballinard Castle. Mrs. Hughes, Ballyrichard, Drangan. Mr. W. Toppin, Fethard. Rev. Father Humphries, PP., Killenaule. Mr. and Mrs. R.D. Triphook, The Lilacs. Col. and Mrs. Kellett, of Clonacody. Mr. Michael Walsh, Newtown. Mr. P. M. Lindsay, Garronkyle. Mr. R. M. O'Hanrahan, Fethard. Mr. and Mrs. G. Lysaght, Kilbury.

86 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Shopping in Fethard in 1913

It is earnestly hoped that all the Cottagers and Farmers living near Members of the General Committee them in the Show, and that they will will do all they can to interest the try and induce them to exhibit. > 87 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Shopping in Fethard in 1913

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89 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Shopping in Fethard in 1913

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91 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Killusty National School Frances Harrington (Principal)

Pupils working on the Heraldry Project at Killusty National School for Heritage Day Parade which took place in Fethard on 26th August

t was another busy year in Killusty sixth class, enjoyed these swimming INational School. Once again we sessions for ten weeks. In January, have had a year full of variety, helping also, Marie and Ann-Marie, members us to implement our vision for Killusty of the staff of Clonmel Library, came National School, that each child to visit our school. Everyone, pupils would be developed intellectually, and teachers alike, enjoyed a story- socially, spiritually, physically and filled morning. Our visitors enjoyed morally. We had a coffee morning in the visit so much that they invited us September in aid of the Hospice to visit them in Clonmel, which we did Movement. €330 was raised for this in March. worthy cause. During the first term, After Easter, in the third term, the we had many extra-curricular activi- junior classes enjoyed ‘Cinderella’ in ties. We enjoyed Irish dancing and the White Memorial Theatre. The sen- football matches, we attended dramat- ior classes played three matches with ic productions of ‘Setanta’ and ‘Santa Cill Cais, Kilvemnon and Mohober in and his Magic Sleigh’. In December a sporting fashion. Our school was we had a Carol Service in the Sacred the venue this year for the annual Heart Church with many parents in Sports Day. The pupils of Cloneen attendance. Our Christmas Choir sang National School and Kilvemnon at both masses in Sacred Heart National School joined us and Church, Killusty. enjoyed a fabulous day filled with In January 2007, our swimming non-competitive games. Once again commenced. Children, from first to our Management Board and parents 92 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER did us proud. The refreshments sup- dren enjoyed a wonderful day and plied by them were second to none. once again the coordinators in the Our visitors were very complimentary institute were very impressed with our about the beautiful food supplied. We well-behaved and lovely mannered had very educational visits during this pupils. To finish the term we enjoyed term by a fire-fighter from Clonmel ‘Kool School’, an outdoor activity ses- Fire Department and from Gerry sion, with Karen and Nikki. Our three Tobin from ENFO. We also had the junior infants for September had their benefit of the expertise of local artist first day in school June 19th. It was a Pat Looby. All the children, under her busy year, academically and otherwise. guidance, and with the fabulous help The highlight of the year was once of Lory Kenny, prepared their shields again that beautiful summer Sunday for the Medieval Heraldic Parade, in June, when our seven second class which took place in Fethard, during pupils made their First Holy National Heritage Week in August. Communion. It was a very special day We all travelled to Waterford in the lives of those children and as Institute of Technology for our school always a very special day in the lives trip, where we had a day filled with of the school community. Our activities, which ranged from Bouncy Summer holidays commenced in June. Castles to Bungee Jumping. The chil- Another year over. >

Shannon Hickey , Killusty National School, presenting a cheque for €250, the proceeds of a coffee morning, to Sinaida Jansen, South Tipperary Hospice, on behalf of the people of Killusty. Also included with the pupils are Ms Frances Harrington (Principal), Catriona Morrissey (Teacher), Tracy Wallace (Special Needs Assistant), Ann Darcy (Office Staff) and Jim Bond (South Tipperary Hospice). 93 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 St. Patrick’s Boys’ National School

Heraldry Project at St Patrick's Boys National School for Heritage Day Parade in Fethard on 26th August. ollowing a very busy year we We had a very full and satisfying Ftake this opportunity to wish Ms year and came second in the Fethard Carmel Lonergan well on her travels Electoral Area Tidy Schools' over the next year and best wishes Competition. Thanks to Willie Ryan also go to Ms Aisling Ryan on her and Helena Delany for their hard marriage to Paul Fanning. We welcome work. Success was experienced in the Sarah O’Sullivan, Carmel Maher and local Credit Union Quiz with the Mary Hickey to our staff. school winning both the Junior and

St. Patrick's Boys School pupils photographed with Irish rugby stars, Alan Quinlan and Ronan O'Gara, who paid a surprise visit to our final rugby training session in June. 94 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Pupils pictured at the Discover Primary Science Awards in Kilkenny

Senior sections. County Cumann na mBunscol compe- The school was also awarded the tition and went on to win the ‘Lift and ‘Discover Primary Science School of Strike’ competition. Mark Andrews Excellence Award’. This involved a took rugby training every Thursday visit to the Young Scientists' Exhibition after school and our final training ses- in the RDS, a guided tour of the sion was interrupted by the surprise woodlands at Kilsheelan, a classroom visit of none other than Ireland’s visit by Gerard Tobin of ENFO rugby stars, Alan Quinlan and Ronan Ireland, numerous school-based sci- O'Gara! ence experiments and projects includ- Our Parents' Association was very ing the building of bridges and boots. active and supportive during the year We would like to thank the parents and our thanks go to them on the fan- who attended and participated in our tastic success of their Race Night Science Open Day. We were presented which raised €10,000 to supplement with this science award in the school funds and enabled us to buy a Springhill Hotel in Kilkenny. new set of jerseys for the school. Willie Ryan and Eileen Fitzgerald We wish last year's 6th class well in continued to train the boys in GAA their new schools as we look forward skills and the under-13 hurling team to another challenging and fulfilling reached the quarter finals of the year. Best wishes to all. > 95 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Photographed at the Race Night in McCarthy's Hotel in aid of St. Patrick's Boys National School are L to R: John Delany, Percy Butler, Paddy Wallace, Fr. Tom Breen P.P. and Eddie Croke.

Photographed at the Race Night in McCarthy's Hotel in aid of St. Patrick's Boys National School are L to R: Liza Ward, Áine Doocey, Fiona Lawrence, Patricia Treacy and Mandy Quigley.

St. Patrick's Boys School Parents' Association and Board of Management with the proceeds of their Race Night fundraiser for school renovations. L to R: Theresa Hurley. Mandy Quigley, Majella Hayden, Patricia Treacy, Liza Ward, Fr. Tom Breen P.P., Fiona Lawrence, Suzanna Manton and Caroline Brastock. 96 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Nano Nagle National School

Heraldry Project at Nano Nagle National School for Heritage Day Parade in Fethard on 26th August.

taff members at Nano Nagle very best on her travels. We would SNational School for the current like to take this opportunity to extend year are: Sr. Maureen Power our congratulations to Mrs Aoife (Principal) 5th Class, Mrs Maureen Moore, née Gleeson on the wonderful Maher (Vice-Principal) 1st & 2nd occasion of her marriage in June of Classes, Mrs Rita Kenny, 6th Class, this year. Ms Denise Kelly, 3rd & 4th Classes, Sr. Our Parents’ Association is involved Winnie Kirwan, Senior Infants, Mrs in various events throughout the year: Margaret Gleeson, Junior Infants, Mrs the annual cake sale in October, table Mary Hanrahan, Learning Support quiz, the sponsored walk and our ever- Teacher, Mrs Aoife Moore, Learning popular Fun Sports Day in June. Their Support Teacher, Mrs Peg McGarry, annual table quiz took place in The Resource Teacher, Ms Lorraine de Well, Burke Street on Thursday 15th Lacy, High Support Unit, Ms Ann- November. We thank the association Marie Harty, Special Needs Assistant, and very much appreciate all their Mrs Mary Morrissey, Special Needs efforts on our behalf. The generous Assistant, Mrs Anne D’Arcy, support of our parents is a major fac- Secretary and Mr Willie Ryan, tor in the success of all our undertak- Caretaker. We offer our warmest wel- ings and so we would like to take this come to our new teacher Ms Denise opportunity to thank them for their Kelly who replaces Ms Elaine Brady. continued support and co-operation. Elaine made a wonderful contribution The revised curriculum has now to our staff team during her tenure at been fully implemented and will be Nano Nagle. She has left us for for- enhanced this year through school eign shores and we all wish her the development planning days. 97 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Pupils from Nano Nagle National School photographed on their outing to Cahir Farmers' Market as part of their prizewinning ‘Live Simply that others may Simply Live’ school project. Confirmation will take place in Holy considerable success in their endeav- Trinity Parish church in 2008 and we ours. The older pupils have made a think of our 5th and 6th classes as number of visits to Clonmel Library, they prepare for this sacrament. and the County Museum and we also Sixteen 2nd Class pupils will make have the facility of the travelling their First Holy Communion in May library coming to our school. Local 2008. history also figures strongly on our Our pupils are going swimming curriculum with tours of the Town again this year and athletics has also Wall supplemented by visits to the figured prominently during the first Fethard Folk Museum, both Churches term with our pupils competing in of the Holy Trinity and, of course, the Thurles. Ceilí dancing will resume Augustinian Abbey. next term. Mark Edwards, I.R.F.U. Promoting environmental aware- introduced our pupils to Tag Rugby ness also continues with ongoing and the girls really enjoyed their foray recycling of cans, mobile phones and into this new sport. Our thanks to the computer ink cartridges, the promo- local rugby club for facilitating Mark’s tion of a litter-free environment and visit. the ‘planting-up’ of the courtyard. The Throughout the school year the grove of trees planted just below the children participate in a number of playground has matured and is now a local and national art, photographic great resource for the school as it con- and writing competitions and we are tains a wide variety of trees, with a pleased to report that they have had special emphasis on the native species. 98 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Mr. Liam Burke, naturalist, has taken tures. ‘Christmas Eve in the Toy Shop’ all the classes in turn on “nature” was ably performed by Junior Infants. walks around the school and teachers ‘Born In Bethlehem’ featured beautiful and pupils alike have enjoyed the singing from Senior Infants and ‘The experience. Liam has also taken the Night before Christmas’ performed by senior classes further a field to 1st & 2nd Classes, was a highly enter- Glengarrra Woods during the month taining musical based on the poem of of October. The sun came out for us the same name. The Senior Classes and a fantastic day was enjoyed by all. excelled in ‘The Snow Queen’ a chill- Our Christmas Show took place on ing tale of Gerda’s journey to rescue 13th, 15th & 17th December 2006 in her foster brother from the wicked the Abymill Theatre. This was one of Snow Queen. the most enjoyable of our school ven- Our sixth class took part in

Junior Infants Class at Nano Nagle National School. Back L to R: Cathal O'Mahoney (Tullamaine), Ryan Walsh (Kilnockin), Ethan Coen (Knockelly Road), Jennifer Phelan (Jossestown), Ciarán Moroney (Tullamaine), Matthew Burke (Sladagh Cross), Mrs Margaret Gleeson (teacher). Third Row L to R: Richard Robinson (Watergate), Josh Nevin (Killerk), Annica O'Connor (Northgate House), Jamie Webster (Barrack Street), Kaylin O'Donnell (Kilconnell), Rachel O'Loughnan (Grawn). Second Row L to R: Eve McArthur (Coolmoyne), David Cowlard (St. Patrick's Place), Shane Neville (Kilnockin), Kiefer Burke (Woodvale Walk), Ryan Butler (Woodvale Walk), Alison Conway (Tullamaine), Patrick Shine (Killusty). Front L to R: Molly Curran (Kilnockin View), Miceál Quinlan (Tullamaine), Oleg Novikova (Lakefield), Haley Kane (Abbey Court), Michael Conway (Kilnockin View) and Nell Spillane (Tullamaine). Missing is Michael O’Reilly (Barrack Street). 99 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Challenge to Change, an exciting Mulcahy Park while the rest of the learning opportunity developed by the pupils enjoyed an Outdoor Activity Presentation Sisters. Their project enti- Day in Roscrea College. Our 3rd and tled ‘Live Simply that others may 4th classes also travelled to Kilkenny Simply Live’ raised their awareness of where they visited Kilkenny Castle a range of issues: slavery, war and con- A great time was had by all! flict, the use of the world’s resources As we write this article for the and our responsibility as stewards of newsletter our pupils are once again the Earth. Our students visited Traas taking part in ‘Operation Christmas Farm and country markets in Fethard Child’. Each child fills a shoebox with and Cahir where they received a warm items suitable for either a boy or a girl welcome from all involved. They pre- (toys, educational supplies, toiletries, sented their project on completion in sweets, small items of clothing). These Kilkenny and were wonderful ambas- shoeboxes will be sent to children in sadors for the school. They will be Armenia, Belarus, Croatia, Lesotho, missed and we wish them every suc- Mozambique, Nepal, Romania, cess at second-level. Swaziland or Ukraine. It is a wonder- Our school tours took place as ful opportunity for us to reflect on usual in June with the Junior and how very fortunate we are here in Senior Infants going to a puppet show Ireland and, in some small way, to in Clonmel followed by a picnic in share some of that good fortune with

Fifth and Sixth Class Pupils from Nano Nagle National School photographed on their outing to Fethard Folk Museum. The pupils were delighted with the variety of interesting items on display from dolls to hearses and in particular the guided tour by Margaret Mullins.

100 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Happy Children in Nano Nagle School, Fethard, supporting Operation Christmas Child, bringing Christmas joy to many less fortunate children around the world. children in need overseas. Each year As we prepare for Christmas 2007, our pupils, and by default their par- we send seasonal greetings to all who ents, amaze us with their generosity read this newsletter, especially those and the children’s joy in giving serves who may find themselves far from to remind us all of the true meaning of home; Beannacht Dé Oraibh agus Christmas. Nollaig Shona Dhíbh go léir. >

This year’s Sixth Class at Nano Nagle National School. Back L to R: Svetlana Novikova, Emma Walsh, Tara Horan, Jade Pattison, Emma Hayes, Emma Morrissey, Leah O'Donnell, Christina Myler. Front L to R: Danielle Sheehan, Karen Hayes, Shannon Garrett, Robyn Tobin, Aobh O'Shea and Áine Phelan. 101 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Killerk Land Division by Tom Burke Give me land, lots of land, under starry skies above, Don’t fence me in. Let me ride through the wide-open country that I love, Don’t fence me in.

he popular ditty of the time radio (the odd house had battery set), Tcould be used to sum up the washing machine, dryer etc were miss- feeling of the people of Redcity, ing. Cooking was achieved by solid Market Hill, and Killerk during the fuel cooker or open fire. Lighting was late 1950s. What had whetted their by oil lamp and candle. No one in our appetites and stirred their emotions to area had central heating facilities, or a fever pitch previously reserved for indeed a phone. A visit to the Capitol perhaps the Tipp Hurling team in an Cinema, Fethard, once a week was All-Ireland or indeed the Fethard considered a real treat. Fifty thousand ‘Blues’ in a South Final? To understand of our young people left each year, not fully, we should go back to the begin- on holidays to Spain or the Canaries ning. as at present, but to ply their wares in places such as Kilburn or on the “It was the best of times, ‘Streets of Baltimore’. The ‘craic’ may it was the worst of times.” have been ‘good in Crickelwood’ but Dickens could well have been writ- the concrete jungle can be a cold for- ing about the 50s in Ireland. It would bidding substitute for the green hills be hard for those reared on the Celtic of home. It may as well have been the Tiger to appreciate the conditions 19th century. which generally prevailed at that time. But were people unhappy with their Almost all economic activity was agri- lot, not a bit of it, the people around culture based, therefore land was me growing up never seemed to be in important. Land provided all the a hurry, never seemed to be depressed, necessities of life; vegetables could be and were always ready to help out grown, cows could be grazed and pro- when called upon. Despite the eco- vide milk, butter and an offspring each nomic gloom they were content in year. The latter could be raised and Redcity, Market Hill and Killerk in sold for cash, which could then be 1955, even though Tipp had not come used to buy tea, sugar and flour. Pigs out of Munster since ‘51, but wonder and hens could be raised to provide of wonders, a Tipp minor football meat and eggs. The land supplied all team (which contained 5 locals) was the needs. It was indeed everything. beating all before it, even Kerry (pow- Rural Electrification, which had ered by a young midfielder called begun over 20 years previously, had Mick O’Connell) in a replayed not yet reached us. Consequently, the Munster Final. modern conveniences such as TV, Into this calm and contented setting, 102 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER an event occurred on June 29th 1955 of the following year, the structure was which would set in train events des- complete and ready for occupation. tined to disturb the peace and tran- But Mary was to never enjoy the quility for many years to come. modern facilities which the short The Killerk road forks away from move from the ancestral homestead the Cahir Road outside our house, would have allowed, for on June 29th, and climbs steeply the 400ft to the top in the 65th year of her life, she sud- of Killerk Hill, from where it drops just denly passed to her eternal reward. as suddenly to the valley on the south With no ‘close’ relatives, there was side. Dairy farming immediate agitation was the thriving indus- locally for the lands to try in this valley, and be ‘compulsorily pur- its importance had chased’ by the Land long been recognized Commission, and by the establishment of divided among the the Killerk Branch of locals, all of whom the Coolmoyne & imagined themselves Fethard Cooperative to be more deserving Creameries Ltd. The of extra acres than the Slatterys farmed 272 next. There was a mul- acres of good land in tiplicity of meetings: Killerk North, just a small meetings, large stone’s throw from the meetings, ad hoc meet- Killerk Creamery. ings, clandestine meet- When Patrick died in ings, and meetings 1952, the land then with public representa- passed to the only surviving member tives. Irrespective of this feverish activ- of the family, Mary, who had never ity, the law took its course, and the married. Mary’s house was off the property was taken over by one Mrs Killerk road at the bottom, accessed Mary A. Bradshaw, administratrix of by an old boreen. Now living alone, the Slattery Estate. But this only she decided to move closer to the stirred the local agitation to even high- Killerk road and built a modern bun- er level, as it was feared that the prop- galow, which could be further erty might now be disposed of before enhanced by the imminent arrival of the Land Commission could be electricity to the area. Contracts were induced to move. awarded to local builder, Michael Barrett, of Market Hill, which was a “The Powers and Functions under wise choice, as Michael’s diligence and which the Land Commission acquired attention to detail was legendary. lands were provided for in the various Work commenced in 1954 and by June Land Acts. The Land Commission 103 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 were allotted extensive powers to sum of £8,500 was lodged “To the compulsorily acquire land and divide Reps. Mary Slattery, deceased, per it locally for the relief of congestion. It Edgar J. Ryan, Esq, Solicitor, also bought land voluntarily where Killenaule, Co. Tipperary, who appear the owner was prepared to sell. In to the Land Commission to be the addition, it migrated farmers from Owners of the said Lands, and to all congested areas and provided them other persons, if any, interested in the with new equipped farms. It under- said lands.” (Record No. S 21031- Irish took schemes of rearrangement with a Land Commission) view to consolidating scattered and The locals had stood united and had fragmented holdings into compact won out. Division of the land could viable units. now proceed. Whilst the events of the The Land Commission did not have previous 18 months had forged them a Mission Statement as it was dis- into a strong, cohesive unit, it would solved in 1999 by the commencement not take long to fragment that unity of the Irish Land Commission and drive wedges between them, (Dissolution ) Act, 1992. In its latter which were in some cases taken to years, the basic aim of the Land their deathbeds. Commission was to create the largest Looking back over the years to that number possible of viable economic period, one could feel great sympathy small holdings. for those in the Land Commission (Definition of the aims and objec- charged with the responsibility of tives of the Land Commission as stat- preparing a Division Plan. Neither the ed in correspondence from Dept of wisdom of Solomon, nor the patience Agriculture & Food . . . dated 16/10/07) of Job, would have been sufficient to satisfy the myriad of demands which All Government Departments move were presented. slowly, and this situation would be no The problems were as follows: different, for many legal aspects had • Some would not concede small to be examined and the patience of the portions of their lands at one locals was tested to the extreme, for side to gain double and treble over 18 months in fact. Finally, they that amount in Killerk, which were to be rewarded when, on 12th bounded them on the other. February 1957, the Land Commission, They had sentimental attach- having completed all of their prelimi- ment to their own land, handed nary investigations, and pursuant to down through generations, and the Land Acts 1923-1954, vested in the who could blame them. said Commission the untenanted • Some would not accept certain lands of Killerk North in the Barony of areas of Killerk Land under any Middle Third, with an acreage of 272 circumstances. acres, 4 roods and 23 perches. The • Some would not move from 104 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Killerk Land Dispute public meeting in 1955 their own homes to occupy the their deliberations, the appearance (or new Bungalow. indeed a rumour) of a ‘suited’ individ- • Some would not even meet ual or individuals in the area was suffi- with the Commissioners to cient to cause havoc. There was one work on the possibilities. The occasion when a well-dressed man dilemma being presented was toured about, visiting houses in too disturbing for them. Redcity and Market Hill, and was wined and dined everywhere he Difficulties were also added by the touched. It transpired that the said criteria laid down by the Land individual was none other than a Commission for those qualifying for salesman for Kosangas Cookers, land in Killerk, or indeed anywhere which would of course been very pop- else where ‘Divided Land’ was being ular in an area that had not yet allocated — ‘One had to own some secured the services of the ESB. There land already’. This disqualified at least was at least one local who signed up two of our neighbours, who, whilst for the cooker, fully convinced that it owning no land, had actually rented was being sold to him by a part of the Slattery Estate in Killerk for ‘Commissioner’ who was double-job- many years, and were very successful bing. At least he was the only one dairy farmers. honest enough to admit it. The situation during those years was not without its humour. When the Then there was the poem ‘Commissioners’ were doing their A local family, who specialised in rounds in the preparatory phase of composing a verse or two to com- 105 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Killerk Land Dispute public meeting in 1955 memorate any noteworthy event, be it at every opportunity. Who could a county championship victory for blame him. My offer to ‘compose’ a Fethard, or a Grand National win for few lines on the neighbours candidacy Vincent O’Brien, were not found was eagerly accepted, and when I pro- wanting on this occasion. A ‘Satirical duced the following my father was Sonnet’ appeared, under estatic . . . ‘Anonymous’ of course, which poked fun at some of the locals who were “ ------is a very quiet man, actively pursuing extra acreage in But he is trying to acquire new possessions Killerk. as fast as he can.” I remember well when my father was advised of his inclusion in the Now that our neighbour believed poem, and he was not at all pleased. that he was also included in the poem, it lost a good deal of its earlier attrac- “Dinny will plough, and Dinny will sow, tion for him. He was even heard to say and Dinny will live in a new Bungalow.” that those people composing poetry about something which was none of That seemed innocent enough to us their business should be careful lest but to him it exposed publicly that his someone who had been offended (pre- hat was in the ring, not alone for land sumably himself) might seek redress in Killerk, but indeed as a contender by exercising the full rigours of the for the new Bungalow. His good friend law. and neighbour (a quiet, retiring man Whether due to the intransigence of who shall remain nameless), could not some of the locals, or perhaps politics resist giving him an almighty ‘ribbing’ taking precedence over policy, the final 106 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

‘Division Plan’ implemented was must have been like a breath of strange to say the least and certainly fresh air to the hard-pressed gave impetus to those who argued Commissioners. that no strategic plan was involved in • The local beneficiaries were all the allocation of the divided land. The from the North side of the Division Plan, when implemented in Slattery estate. 1958, could be quantified as follows: It was like as if an examination had • Two farms, both of approx 60 been held, to which some had not acres (one complete with new been permitted to enter at all; some Bungalow) were created and could not bring themselves to enter; assigned to applicants from 20 others entered and failed, and some miles away. These applicants passed. The celebration of the latter, if gave up holdings in their they were so inclined, had to be muted ‘home’ area. lest they give offence to their less for- • Two locals, married, of advanc- tunate neighbours. ing years and with no children, The impact from the Killerk Land were awarded 26 acres and 18 Division would last for many years. acres respectively, to make their Neighbours who had been close, existing holdings more viable. became estranged and barely spoke. This latter land (18 acres) was The community had been severely sold after short time as the traumatized by the events of the ‘55- owner scaled down due to ‘59 period and would take many years advancing years. to forgive itself for its weaknesses: • One local man, with four young • Inability to accept change dur- sons, was awarded 7 acres, to ing the initial preparatory bring his holding to a total of 13 phase. acres. • The anguish and disappoint- • Another local man, with four ment of the awards phase. young sons, was awarded 12 • And finally, the envy and jeal- acres, to bring his holding to a ousy generated during the post total of 20 acres. mortem phase. • A small plot of 1 rood and 10 In other words, it was hard to for- perches was allocated to the give itself for being human. Coolmoyne & Fethard Co-Op at Killerk Creamery. Postscript • The remaining 90 acres approx In producing this article at the was awarded to a local man, request of the Editor, I have tried, in who gave up his existing land deference to the good people of on all sides to facilitate his Redcity, Market Hill and Killerk, to be neighbours, and whose farsee- as factual as possible. Nothing can be ing and conciliatory attitude more offensive than misrepresenta- 107 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 tion. No names, other than those of consumption? No. But, then maybe it the Slattery family, their accredited is in everyone’s best interests that the solicitor, and the administratrix of the file is left to gather dust in some Slattery estate, are mentioned. Dublin basement. The protagonists I should point out that the Killerk would perhaps have wished it so. File is listed as existing in the Records The last word goes to a poet, not the Office of the Land Commission. It is local amateurs who provided such fun available for examination under the with their composition in 1955, but to FOI Act or so I was informed. I was a great English poet who died 20 years particularly interested in establishing before that. A.E. Housman probably from the file, if possible, why no divid- never heard of Killerk, but he captured ed land was awarded to farmers other the pessimistic mood that many of the than those to the North of the Slattery locals would have experienced by the estate (excluding the two non locals). Killerk Land Division. > When I came to examine the file it And how am I to face the odds, could not be located. Am I paranoid Of men’s bedevilment and Gods. enough to imagine that it contains I, a stranger and afraid, information not suitable for public In a world I never made.

This photograph, supplied by Gene Walsh, was taken in Fethard Tennis Court in the 1950s. L to R: Mary (Dwyer) Walsh, Carmel McSweeney, Main Street, and Sally (O'Brien) Finn, Burke Street. 108 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Killusty Soccer Club

Killusty team who beat Glengoole in the Statoil FAI Junior Cup 2nd Round played in Killusty. Back L to R: Jason Nevin, Declan Fanning, Barry Hanley, Noel Walsh, John Conway, Eoghan Aylward. Front L to R: Tony Shelly, Shane Aylward, Ross Aylward, Tommy Gahan and Martin Coen.

he promising start we made in Away from the playing field, the Tlast season’s league only flat- club organised a fund-raising golf tered to deceive. We were out of cup classic at Slievenamon Golf Club, competitions at the early stages, and which was very successful. In October, interest and results went from bad to clubman Declan Fanning from worse. We picked up only a few more Killenaule, was the deserving winner points, and ended up being relegated. of a GAA hurling All Star, a fitting The club is now in the second division award for a fine sportsman, whatever of the TSDL, our lowest position in code he plays. over twenty years. At our AGM which was held in July, On a brighter note there seems to the following officers were elected: be renewed interest in the club. Team Chairman Shay Coen; Hon. Sec. manager, George Williams, is getting a Sarah Shelly; Hon.Tres. Emma good turnout at training and although Fitzgerald; and Team Manager George results are mixed we are hoping for a Williams. > decent run in the league. 109 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Fethard Historical Society ethard Historical Society held apart from the walled city of Derry. Ftheir Annual General Meeting on There is now a very good working the 27th March 2007 and the follow- relationship between the Society and ing committee was elected: Dóirín all the interested government agencies, Saurus (Chairperson), Mary especially South Tipperary County Hanrahan (Vice-Chairperson), Council, the Heritage Council and Margaret Newport (Secretary), Peter Failte Ireland. Delaney (Assistant Secretary), In particular, The Irish Walled Catherine O’Flynn (Treasurer), Tim Network, which is funded by the Robinson (Planning Officer), Terry Heritage Council and covers all of Cunningham (Public Relations Ireland, has been the main force in Officer). Committee members: Kitty convincing the ‘powers that be’ that Delany, Marie O’Donnell, Ann Lynch, Fethard is a very special and unusual Frances Murphy, Mary McCormack place. and Pat Looby. This year, 2007, was a very good Grants for the Wall and Town year for the Historical Society. We This year, nearly €200,000 has been believe we have ‘turned the corner’ in agreed with the above agencies for terms of finally getting official recogni- both practical repair-work on the town tion for the uniqueness of the walled wall and for three major reports that town of Fethard - the best in Ireland will issue early in 2008.

Dóirín Saurus, Chairperson Fethard Historical Society, presenting the Tipperariana Book of the Year Award to Michael Ahearn, Clonmel, for his publication, ‘Figures in a Clonmel Landscape’. L to R: Deirdre Ahearn, Michael Ahearn, Dóirín Saurus and Niamh Ahearn. 110 Photographed at a preliminary meeting to form a Conservation and Management Plan for Fethard on 31st Jan 2007 are Back L to R: Terry Cunningham (Rural Tourism Adviser, Teagasc), Cllr John Fahey. Front L to R: Tim Robinson, Dóirín Saurus (Chairperson Fethard Historical Society), Damian O'Brien (Product Marketing Officer, Fáilte Ireland), Alison Harvey (Irish Walled Towns Network), Mary Hanrahan (Vice Chairperson Fethard Historical Society), Hugh O'Brien, (Forward Planning Section South Tipperary County Council), Eoin Powell (Fethard Area Engineer) and Joe Kenny (Chairperson Fethard & Killusty Community Council). One report will deal exclusively Preparing the groundwork for these with the wall itself. It will come up reports has taken up most of the time with a detailed conservation plan for and efforts of the Historical Society the full circle of the wall and the areas during 2007 but hopefully it will all be close to the wall. worthwhile when all the reports feed The second report is known as a into the next development plan for the public realm plan, and this could town that will be drawn up by the prove to be the most important docu- County Council. ment written about Fethard in recent The highlight of the year was ‘The times. It will deal with Fethard as a liv- Walled Towns Day’ festival that took ing place – where people walk, play, place in The Valley area on Sunday work, park, shop, socialise, etc., and 26th August. The Heritage Council, this should be a great help in planning County Council, County Museum, developments in the town for the next Failte Ireland, local clubs and individu- twenty years. als all supported the Historical Society The third report will deal with the in staging a wonderful Medieval Event Town Hall and will try to come up on what was the finest and hottest day with a plan to save the building and to of the summer. suggest a real sustainable working use Congratulations must also go to for the most central building in the Laurence Kenny who came second in town. the National Walled Towns Photo 111 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Competition and his picture will now when more research and consultation be made into a postcard by the has been carried out. Heritage Council and circulated The usual Tipperariana ‘Book of the nationally. Year’ presentation and the Book Fair Normal business did continue also (on the second Sunday of February) for the society with lectures and a very all went off very well and are set to enjoyable summer trip, with local continue into the future. artist Pat Looby, to visit the high cross- In 2008 it is planned to publish a es of the South East of Ireland. book on Heraldry in Fethard, by Members of the committee also Gerard Crotty, and finances are in joined Tim Robinson, resident in place to do this. Also the long awaited medieval Watergate, on an investiga- History of Fethard may come out late tive trip to South West France to see next year and ideas to finance this their walled towns which are called major undertaking are now becoming ‘Bastides’. These towns were founded a priority for the society. and walled at the same time and by We wish all Fethard and Killusty the same English/Norman kings who people a happy Christmastime and were carrying out similar ‘plantations’ more of the same for all of 2008. The in their other ‘lands’ here in Fethard society can be contacted, supported, and other parts of Ireland in the 12th or joined by email at histo- and 13th centuries. A ‘twinning’ [email protected] or by writing to: The arrangement may result with one of Secretary, Fethard Historical Society, these small French towns in the future Fethard, Co. Tipperary. >

Fethard Historical Society members celebrate the erection of new doors at the Mural Tower on Fethard Town Wall with tea and scones on Sunday morning 29th June 2007. L to R: Tim Robinson, Mary Hanrahan, Kitty Delany, Mary McCormack, Dóirín Saurus, Kate Corcoran with her son Richard, Terry Cunningham, Dot Gibson and Colm McGrath. 112 Winners of the senior and junior Fethard Walled Towns Photographic Competition accepting their prizes of €500 and €200 respectively from members of the Fethard Historical Society and Fethard Walled Towns Committee who coordinated the competition in conjunction with the Heritage Council of Ireland. L to R: Terry Cunningham, Angelico Bano (Junior Section Winner), Dóirín Saurus, Laurence Kenny (Senior Section Winner and runner-up in the national competition) and Pat Looby. There was a great response to the Fethard competition with over 120 entries. The Clonmel photographer, John Crowley, kindly took on the difficult task of choosing the winners. Larry Kenny won the adult section with his photograph entitled 'Light on the Past'. This photograph of the wall by moonlight went on to become a runner up in the national competition organised by the Heritage Council. The first prize in the under 18 section was won by Angelico Bano with her photograph, 'Incrocio' (Meeting Place). Four runner up prizes went to Aisling Dwyer, Xuan Wyatt, Andrew Phelan and Katie Butler.

The national runner-up photograph of Fethard Town Wall by Laurence Kenny

113 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

What’s the Forecast? by Tony Newport id you ever notice that when and radio days. Accurate weather Dtwo people meet their first forecasting was far more important remarks to each other usually refer to then. The most important farm work the weather? “Lovely day”, “Very such as hay-saving and corn-harvest- cold”, “Will it ever stop raining?”, are ing with horse and manual work took just a few of the greetings between days, if not weeks. Currently with friends. Perhaps Ireland being primari- balers, mowing-bars and up to eight- ly an agricultural country, with the een-feet combines, the work is done in weather having such an effect on day- a few days, weather permitting. to-day living, is the reason for our Time was when every farmer was an great interest in prevailing weather excellent judge of the weather, as conditions. indeed he had to be, being close to With very accurate weather fore- nature every day. Each district had its casts being given almost every hour own local weather experts whose on radio and television we might opinions were often sought and acted reflect on the ways and means of upon. Local signs such as behaviour weather forecasting in pre-television of animals, birds and even insects

Ardsallagh House c.1951, renovations of house by contractor Laurence Kenny, The Green. Front: Mattie Kavanagh (Clonmel), Dick Fitzgerald, Tom McCormack (Annesgift), Mick McCormack (Annesgift), Johnny Jacobs (Waterford), Johnny Littleton. Back: Dick (Reidy) Power, Tom Burke (Coolmoyne), Tommy Kenny (Baptistgrange), Paddy Fitzgerald, Employee of Jacobs (Waterford), Bill 'Uncle' Connors, Dan McCarthy (Coolmoyne), Tom Finn (Burke Street). 114 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER were watched and studied as a guide nearly full, it had a big ring around it to weather forecasting. Some of the or a small ring. When waning it had other methods used locally and natu- cloud above it, below it or around it. rally are now lost and gone forever. We often hear of a blue moon, but We will do our best to recall some of Neddy was the only man I ever heard them in order that the younger gener- speak of a red one. All these signs ation may keep them alive at least for meant something to Neddy. The prob- another generation. lem was he covered every eventuality Locally, our beloved Slievenamon and was seldom wrong! was regarded as an excellent weather With regard to the sayings and folk- barometer. Extraordinary is the only lore concerning the weather, some per- word to describe how accurate the tain to the weather itself, others to pre- short-term weather forecasts local cautions to be taken at certain times. farmers could give by studying what Many are as old as time itself. “Red they always referred to as ‘the hill’. sky at night, sailors delight. Red sky at Cloud formation played a very impor- morning, sailors warning”, is said to tant part. Were the clouds lying low date back to biblical times. “Oak on the hill or higher-up? Did they lift before ash, you are sure of a clash; ash slowly or quickly? Did they move east before oak, sure of a soak”, is another or west or straight up? All these signs one. “If cuckoo comes before foretold something concerning the whitethorn, sell the cow and buy the weather. Did the hill appear near or corn”, “If grass in January doth appear, distant? Did the top ‘Suidhe Fionn’ ‘twill grow the worse for the rest of wear a cloud bonnet, especially after year”. “Sun before seven, rain before being clear for some days? Did the eleven”. One relating to hunting, sheep stay on high ground or move where scent is all important, is “when down to lower pastures? All these the drop is on the thorn, huntsman were signs to be watched and studied. put away the horn” has been recorded Other locals truly believed that when as far back as the 17th Century and is the Presentation Convent Sisters cut still true today. their hay, it always rained. The bell of Enough blue, in an otherwise the Augustinian Church heard clearly cloudy sky, to make a cloak for the at the other end of town was consid- Blessed Virgin was taken to signal a ered a sure sign of rain. good day. “Button up to the chin while Our two local weather forecasters April is in”, “Don’t cast a clout ‘till were the late Tom Finn, of Burke May be out”, were mottos that moth- Street, and Neddy Wall. Tom kept ers of a previous generation strictly records and was most reliable. Ned’s adhered to. Now, at the first sign of a guide was the moon. The moon was bit of sunshine, shirts off for the boys either on its back or as straight as a and bare midriffs and backs are the candle. When waxing, when full or order of the day for the young ladies. 115 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Well known cyclist and weatherman Neddy Wall (left) brings news of a spell of good weather to a delighted Jack Ryan from Fethard. Neddy is well known in many towns around County Tipperary.

A cricket chirping on the hearth- the wind is from the North, wise men stone at night, cocks crowing and pea- seldom venture forth. When the wind cocks screaming at dusk were all is from the South, it blows the bait thought to be sure signs of rain. As into the fish’s mouth. But the wind children we brought seaweed from that is by far the best, is the gentle Tramore, hung inside a back-kitchen wind blowing from the West.” door and it was our weather clock. Fishing boat skippers will not allow Damp meant rain; dry, fine weather. A whistling on board, as they believe it saying widely known, “East wind is brings on a storm. Swallows flying not good for man or beast” comes high, good weather; swallows flying from a weather verse never quoted in low, rain. Seagulls coming inland, full. “When the wind is from the East, storms at sea; crows flying high and it is not good for man or beast. When tossing and tumbling, storms inland. 116 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Chimney smoke rising straight how about the old time country Parish upwards, good weather; turning down Priest who on receiving instructions towards the ground, rain. Sheep com- from his Bishop to pray for fine har- ing down from the higher mountains vest weather, said, “We’ll do as His to lower ground or cattle standing Grace asks but while the wind is from with their tail-ends towards a hedge the point it is coming from at present usually signalled rain or snow… and it is only a waste of time”, had got it on it goes, the list is endless. correct. We must never forget that Another one worth recalling refers nature has a way of balancing things to the three hard months of the year. out eventually. We must remember that these were Well, there you have it. There are from the days when electric blankets, dozens of other signs and symbols of central heating, double-glazing, etc., forthcoming weather but space does were never heard of and referred to not allow recording. Whatever the those of the community who were of forecast, as the Americans say, “Have a delicate constitution and dreaded the nice day”, and be sure to bring an approach of winter. “January searches, umbrella, just in case! > February tries and March decides if one lives or dies.” A bit morbid maybe, but if we look at the long lists of the dear departed in the papers in the months mentioned maybe they were not so far off the mark after all. Now, who are we to believe? The farmers and rural dwellers who read the signs and judged by them, or the ladies and gentlemen of the Met Office, with their University Degrees, satellites, weather ships, etc., who more than likely never spent a day working outdoors in their lives. The following quotations may be of assis- tance. One says, “Only fools are weather-wise and have not much knowledge otherwise”. We must also remember that, “The best of clerks (even clerks of the weather) make mis- takes”. Maybe the lady who, requiring a good day for a family wedding, puts the Infant of Prague outside the night Stephen Maher, St. Patrick's Place, with Sarah before has the best method of all. Or Cashman outside Kiltinan Castle. 117 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Fethard Scout Notes - 27th Tipperary

Fethard Boy Scouts and their leaders photographed at St. Patrick's Day mass at Holy Trinity Parish Church.

couts last meeting of 2006 was county, but the biggest thanks of all Sheld on 15 December. We hiked goes to the scouts themselves who to the Holy Year Cross on turned out in great numbers on the Slievenamon under cover of darkness, day. which was enjoyed by all. Reports that In preparation for the County the Cross, when illuminated by torch- Orienteering, the scouts went to light was visible from Fethard added Lyrnalea Wood, 18 February 2007, to the sense of fun and adventure. where a good training session was Fethard Group hosted the Mountain enjoyed by all, helped in no small part Pursuit Challenge on Slievenamon on by excellent weather and good condi- 21 January 2007. The day was enjoyed tions also under foot. A planned hike by all, helped no doubt by the mostly for the afternoon to the Punchbowl fine conditions and change of venue ended up as more of a leisurely stroll, (most groups in the county not having the lads feeling a bit tired after the hiked on Slievenamon before). Much training. thanks and praise goes Mr & Mrs County Orienteering, hosted by Jimmy O'Donnell who allowed the Cahir on 25 March 2007, was attended parking of so many cars in their yard, by Scouts. Despite not having had as thanks also to the leaders from the much training as we would have liked 118 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER prior to the event, we still got a result on. Roll on camp next year. — Brian Delahunty and Gerry Horan winning the U-14 paired event. Well Cub Brief done to them. Wind and rain failed to dampen the The Group attended the county hike spirits of cubs on a backwoods cook- on 28 April 2007, to mark 100 years of out in October 2006. In November we World Scouting. Both the Cub and participated in a County Activity Scout sections attended. The hike was Challenge. Other activities were the well attended by the groups from the County Swimming Gala, Sportsday county and scouts from foreign parts and Hike which celebrated 100 years who took in the Holy Year Cross over- of world scouting, and of course an looking Clonmel and Carey's Castle in enjoyable fun weekend at Mount glorious sunshine. Melleray Scout Centre. Unfortunately All the while preparations and train- this was the only weekend away for ing were taking place for the County cubs, essentially due to lack of leaders. Shield which took place in Melleray Our Sixers and Seconders, Tommy from 4th to 6th May. No trophies this Anglim, Paul Moloney, Donal Walsh time out but the weekend was enjoyed and Eoin O'Donovan did get an by all the Scouts who attended. overnight away on a Sixer Training Our 3rd hike to the Galtees this year Activity in January. At weekly meet- proved a huge success. Previous ings we worked on badgework, chal- efforts in reaching the summit were lenges and played lots of games. Early hampered by bad weather but, third May saw us move outdoors for most time lucky, we reached the summit of of our meetings which allowed us to Galtymore, and two of the Galtee’s expand our programme, i.e., following lakes were hiked in good weather, the course of the Clashawley River, albeit a bit windy! Memories are made stopping at different locations to fry a of hikes like this, a great day. few sausages. During the year we The highlight of the year was when invested Shane Quigley, Brendan we joined with the Clonmel, Walsh, Michael Halley and Alex Kilsheelan and Ardfinnan troops for O'Donovan. the Annual Camp which this year was We ended the year on Sunday 15 held in Fethard-on-Sea. The weather July with a hike on Slievenamon. We wasn't too unkind to us with only a took in the same route the bigger fel- few days’ rain, not too bad for two lows (Scouts) took on the Mountain weeks under canvas! Highlights of the Pursuit Challenge earlier in the year. fortnight were daytrips to Oakwood This proved no problem to the hardy Theme Park in Wales and a shopping Cubs and for good measure we took trip to Wexford, a packed games and in a huge backwoods cookout, a great evening entertainment programme, achievement for the Cubs, well done. numerous trips to the beach and so A great and exciting programme is 119 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 promised for 2008 as we celebrate 100 to all the parents who helped us, to years of Scouting in Ireland, and 21 our Chairperson Mary Healy, years in Fethard. However, unless we Treasurer Mary O'Donnell, Secretary get some growth in our leader Peter Grant, Scout Section Leader resources, the Cubs will be unable to Philip O'Donnell, and Cub Section enjoy the full extent of the planned Leader Sean Cloonan. Sean was one programme. of our first scouts back in 1986 and As per tradition, the group marched has been with us since without a to Mass on St. Patrick’s Day from the break. He moved through the ranks Tirry Centre to the Parish church for and is currently Chairman of the 11 o'clock Mass. The group, accompa- County Management Team. Sean is nied by moving to Ladybirds Ardfinnan and Guides, where he will looked well join the group on the day, there and I’m with most sure will be as now sporting big an asset to full uniform, them as he something was to us. We which was will miss him noted from enormously. the altar by He was very Parish Priest, dedicated, Fr Tom Breen. thorough and July saw the unstinting of group pur- his time, how- Scouts and leaders photographed on the summit of Galtymore chase a mar- ever, our loss quee and already it's being put to is their gain. We wish him well and we good use — three times for Horse thank John and Mikey McCarthy, Trials in Grove and once on the Dermot Culligan and Scout Section Annual Pilgrimage to the Holy Year Leader Philip O'Donnell (who is tak- Cross on Slievenamon. ing some well deserved time out), and Our Annual Flag day was held on Group Leader Robert Phelan. We 29th/30th June. A huge thank you to would welcome any assistance from the people of Fethard and beyond adults, especially ex-members. We who supported us so well and to the thank all who helped and supported Cubs and Scouts themselves who did us during the year, we wish all the the collecting. Many thanks also to people of the parish and surrounding everyone who supported our Annual areas a Happy and Holy Christmas Church Gate collection. Many thanks and a Peaceful New Year. > 120 Irish Girl Guides

Fethard Girl Guides and their leaders photographed at St. Patrick's Day mass at Holy Trinity Parish Church.

irl Guides in Fethard had a Slievenamon in May. On both these Gvery good year in 2007. For the activities we were joined by girls from first time in a number of years we had Cashel. We had several trips to five Guides, as well as our Brownies Catherine and Jim O'Donnell's farm and Ladybirds. This is a very welcome for cook outs, fun and games. Many development and hopefully one which thanks for having us out. will continue. We also had a new Our weekly meetings in the ball- leader Martina (Morrissey) Cowlard room continued as usual with games, who was one of the first group of Girl crafts, badge work and of course Guides enrolled back in 1988. This learning the Law and Promise. We coming year we will celebrate twenty were also involved in the Christmas years of Guiding in Fethard, and it’s shoebox appeal. amazing to realise how many girls and Many thanks to our leaders leaders have passed through in those Catherine O'Donnell, Teresa Hurley, years. Martina Cowlard, Catherine During the year we had various out- O'Connell and Judy Doyle. Also door activities including a lovely thanks to parents and to everyone sunny day in Dundrum Wood and a who contributed to our church gate cold wet Sunday climbing collection. > 121 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

John Joe’s Corner by John Joe Keane Ammo from Grove Wood Les Bleus ver the lane, near the creamery xcitement in the air, students Oor from Jesuits Walk, across Efrom France arrived. Stayed Stoke’s fields and the Boody Bridge, locally and mingled freely, a barbecue stopping to be engulfed in steam from organised on Slievenamon. Billy the Clonmel to Thurles train, down Holohan and family hosted. Home the wooden steps, through the wood- made buns, sausages, chops spiked en gate and Eureka, spears, bows and with spokes of bicycle wheels then arrows, catapults, poles for goals and cooked and consumed greedily. A vaulting, cap timber, a natural resource sing song, by the fire started. One for growing minds, the one stipulation French chap played the guitar and a was ash, was sacred. The long journey medley of songs were sung. My home afterwards meant we were Grandfather’s Clock, Swanee River, beasts of burden, cowboys and the latest hits and many more. Some Indians, gang warfare, football, hurl- French was learned amidst young ing, soccer, card playing, tents, vault- romance, wee wee, moujeu and Ce la ing with a pole, high jump, just some vie! of the uses we made of the timber from the natural wealth of the forest.

The Tirry Club Mining some time ago djacently, Tommie Barrett gar- athered at Bob Burn’s corner, Adened, upstairs a poker game Gladen with lunch box, overalls was held. When the old stone school and head light. The moans were few was knocked the Tirry Club, substitut- and far between, digging down the pit ed. Occasionally the youth club used for anthracite; water pumps, props, it for dances, games and meetings. buggies, shift work. Wages owing to The building, being aged was func- output and position. The pub trade, a tional and once a cat spent a fortnight slave for some, sometimes dangerous beside a chimney on the roof. and there were fatalities. In later life, Clonmel fire brigade wouldn’t cross lungs were affected by the conditions. the slates and so it took Paddy The rats leaving, was a sign it was time Morrissey of St. Patricks Place to coax to go. Tommy O’Brien, aka ‘Tommie it down with meat, as a lure. Coal’ to some, was the employer. Nowadays it is restored beautifully Collum balls were also made and the and houses the Day Care Centre and mines have been long since closed. various other events and it is wheel- The product was high grade. chair accessible. 122 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

In the 1970s L to R: Gerry Fogarty, Adrian Cashin, Thomas Barrett, Jimmy O'Shea and A.B. Kennedy. Ann’s Gift in Bloom conditions in the sheds. Diseased ulips were grown there annually, tulips were discarded, the ganger Ta great source of employment Willie Crean, the Leahy family and Mr for the youth during the summer Brown supervised the operation, lunch months. Work was back-breaking, but was consumed daily and everything the wages were good. During the that was topical was discussed Mr spring, when the tulips were in flower, Naundorf was the steward who drove it was like a multi coloured quilt over a Volkswagen and maintained it the countryside. When picked, the mechanically himself. > bulbs were cleaned, put in boxes and stored at different times, in various — J.J. Keane

In the late 1960s L to R: Ed Healy, Norma Hanrahan, John Joe McCormack and Marion McCarthy. 123 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

An unusual find at Watergate! by Sean O’Brien ean O’Brien, originally from packet within the opening, and on SKillenaule and now living in pulling it out saw a piece of tightly Portlaw, relates this interesting story rolled paper tied securely with sewing that happened while showing a U.S. thread! On opening it, much to their lady around Killenaule-Moyglass surprise, they saw that it was a photo- parish. The lady, Sue Connolly-Watt, graph of a group of people, and bore a from Andover, Massachusetts, was description in fine handwriting about seeking information on her ancestors those in the picture who were mem- in the parish from the Famine era. In bers of a family named 'Eager'. On the process, Sean brought her to the back of the photograph the follow- Fethard and showed her around the ing is written: town walls and then stopped to view “John, James Jnr, Marjorie, Nora, the Sheila-na-Gig at Watergate. Helen, Nana & Pop Pop, Dottie, Grace, While there and taking photo- Katherine and Robert. This is a family graphs, Sean drew the attention of his portrait of the Eager family from visitor to a tall narrow opening in the Worcester, Massachusetts, USA. Their corner of the wall (maybe for two nieces have been travelling Ireland archers?). The lady noticed a small as a pilgrimage to remember this love-

This photograph was found rolled up and placed in an opening in the Town Wall at Watergate with the follow- ing inscription on the back :“John, James Jnr, Marjorie, Nora, Helen, Nana & Poppop, Dottie, Grace, Katherine and Robert. This is a family portrait of the Eager family from Worcester, Massachusetts, USA. Their two nieces have been travelling Ireland as a pilgrimage to remember this lovely, kind, generous family, all of whom in this picture have passed on. Please embrace them in your thoughts, prayers and memory as brothers and sisters of this motherland. Pray for their wonderful spirits — they live in our hearts with the same spirit. Thank You.” 124 ly, kind, generous family, all of whom Blue cheese fame, and Barry Cleary in this picture have passed on. Please (am uncertain of surname) of embrace them in your thoughts, Sliverfort Stud, and some other local prayers and memory Church of Ireland as brothers and sisters parishioners. of this motherland. On the way back to Pray for their wonder- Youghal and Portlaw, ful spirits — they live in they were treated to our hearts with the refreshments and fur- same spirit. Thank ther lengthy conversa- You” If anyone has any tion at the Village Inn, information on the Moyglass, for which ‘Eagar’ family we they are most grateful. would love to hear They also wished to from them. thank Fethard Sean and his lady newsagent Edwina friend found no fewer Newport who kindly than five headstones in Sue Connolly-Watt and Sean O'Brien at a gave a copy of a Fethard Moyglass cemetery Heffernan ancestral headstone in Moyglass. local history book to with inscriptions re her ancestors, the visitor. On the trip they were Bergins (Silverfort) and Heffernans. accompanied by Eileen O'Callaghan, Visiting Magorban cemetery later they Youghal, daughter-in-law of the late had the pleasure of a lengthy conver- Dr. Pat O'Callaghan of Clonmel, sation with Louis Grubb of Cashel famous Irish Olympic sportsman. >

At Magorban Cemetery: L to R: Louis Grubb, Sue Connolly-Watt, Barry Lalor and Sandra Craik-White.

125 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Fethard Ballroom Ltd s the end of 2007 beckons, the and had an enduring sense of humour Ayear was a financially success with a fund of wit. He was widely with a bounty of bookings and known, had been involved with the dances. The committee were busy with local GAA and the equine industry at maintenance and taking care of opera- which he frequently judged shows tional matters. We are very lucky to from Wexford and Cork to as far as have a great FÁS worker in Shem our friends in Northern Ireland. Mick Butler, to whom we are very grateful. had a wish to be waked at his home in We suffered a tremendous blow Prospect where the door was always with the untimely loss of our open and then for a few hours in his Chairman Mick Aherne. Mick was a beloved ballroom. The number of great chairman, unafraid to make a people that attended Mick’s home and decision. He was instrumental in the the ballroom are testament to his pop- resurrection of the ballroom from a ularity. A great character, a fine a man debt to our present very credible posi- as you are ever likely to encounter, tion. He was thoroughly dependable, you always knew he was on your side, a stalwart member of the committee, especially, he was a great friend. His

Fethard Mayoral candidate, Mick Ahearn (back), photographed on 24th February 1995 at his ‘Bachelor of the Year’ fund-raising night in aid of Fethard Ballroom. Fethard bachelor Joe Hanly gets a big congratulatory kiss from competition organiser Catriona Stapleton after he beat stiff competition to win the ‘Fethard Bachelor of the Year’ award before a capacity crowd at Fethard Ballroom. Over twenty bachelors, young and old, were inter- viewed and put through their paces by a very capable Gerry Fogarty and Marie Crean. Pictured above are L to R: Jimmy Mullins (2nd); Joe Hanly (winner); Catriona Stapleton (organiser); Vincent Cummins (3rd). 126 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER absence is indescribable, especially to surrounding areas, the clubs, organi- his family, which he always spoke sations, dancers and individuals who highly of and loved so much. To support us, thank you, and, we wish Monica, sons PJ, Gerry and Mikey you a Happy and Holy Christmas and and extended family, our deepest sym- a Peaceful New Year. > pathy. We too, miss him greatly. Slán, For and on behalf of Ballroom Committee, a chara, ar dheis De go raibh a ainm. — R. Phelan, Hon Sec. To all the people of the parish and Fethard Knitting Group ethard Knitting Group meets at return visit, many of the group having F7.30pm every Tuesday night from been to the show a number of times September to June at the Presentation over the years. We hope to make it an Convent. We have ten or so members annual event. who get together We had our ever week to knit, Christmas Party at crochet, exchange the Cashel Palace ideas and chat. Hotel on 14th During the summer December at which some of the mem- we were joined by bers went on an out- our founder member, ing to the craft/wool Sr. Juliana. Sr. Juliana shop in Lismore moved on to pas- where there was a tures new in varied and interest- Castlecomer, Co. ing display of craft Kilkenny this year, items and wool. however, she still After lunch in makes an occasional Lismore we went on return visit to Fethard to the wool shop in Sr Juliana and Sr Winnie photographed with a on a Tuesday evening Dungarvan. selection of baby cardigans and blankets knitted. to check up on us! Sr. Everyone bought some yarn for winter Winnie now “looks after” the group projects. and provides a much appreciated cup The members were also busy during of tea and biscuits during the evening. the summer crocheting blankets for Sr. New members are always welcome. Winnie’s mission in Africa. In Don’t be put off if you haven’t picked November we visited the Knitting & up needles and wool for years — there Stitching Show at the RDS in Dublin. are lots of interesting yarns available For some of the group it was their first now which knit up in no time to make visit to the show, for the rest it was a a variety of simple projects. > 127 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Fethard Bridge Club

President's Prize winners: Marie Delaney (left) and Annie O'Brien with Mike Burke (President)

ethard Bridge Club is now in its Slievenamon Golf Club on 9th May F31st year and still going strong. 2007 the following prizes were pre- We play every Wednesday evening in sented: President’s Prize to Marie the Tirry Centre which has long been Delaney and Annie O’Brien; the home of the bridge club. It is a Committee Prize to Rita Kane and Kay warm and comfortable venue, conven- St. John; Player of the Year, for which ient for everyone and we break for a the O’Flynn trophy is presented, to cup of tea and a chat half-way through Alice Quinn; Club Champions, for the evening. Our numbers have which the Hayes trophy is presented, dropped a little in the last few years, to Alice Quinn and Berney Myles; so we would welcome new members Individual Champion, for which the and encourage as many as possible to Dick Gorey Trophy is presented, to take up the game. Alice Quinn; The Suzanne Opray We note the death this year of two Trophy was won by Breda Walsh as former club members, Maura Mullins the player who reduced her handicap and Tess O’Flynn. Both were popular by the most during the year. members of the club for a long num- We played for the free sub for the ber of years. Although they hadn’t coming year on 3rd October and 10th played bridge for the past few years, October and the winners of the gross both maintained an interest in the free sub were Brigid Gorey and Betty activities of the club and will be fond- Walsh, and the free nett sub was won ly remembered by the club members. by Tony Hanrahan and David Abell. At our President’s Prize dinner at On 14th November we held a charity 128 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER night and donated the proceeds for Rita Kane, Assistant Treasurer: Anna the evening to the Multiple Sclerosis Cooke. Tournament Directors: Alice Society. Our Christmas party was held Quinn, Betty Walsh, Frances Burke, in McCarthy’s restaurant on 19th and Gemma Burke. Partner Facilitator: December at which our Christmas Berney Myles. Committee: Mike prizes were presented. Burke and Marie Delaney. At our AGM on 16th May 2007 the May we take this opportunity to following officers and committee were wish all bridge players (and non- elected: President: Bernie O’Meara, bridge players!) at home and abroad a Vice President / PRO: Gemma Burke, very happy and holy Christmas and a Secretary: Anne Connolly, Treasurer: prosperous New Year. >

Our Town Walls for all to enjoy by John Cooney

Photographic Survey of the Town Wall at Burke Street in progress on 21st November 2007 istory is often made available future, help in the economic sustain- Hto us in what it leaves behind ability of its inhabitants. and nothing is more striking or imme- Crossing the Clashawley over either diately available than the buildings Madam's Bridge or Watergate, the that surround us. Coming into Fethard town wall is easily observed; coming from most roads, there is a structure in the Rocklow road you must pass to be seen that has hugely determined under the North Gate and pity the the town's shape, size and streetscape; poor drivers of the huge trucks who that contributes to a sense of pride have to slowly manoeuvre their way and place; that gives the town its par- under this archway; through Barrack ticular flavour and perhaps, may in the Street the wall can be easily seen on 129 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

South Tipperary County Council Manager, Ned O'Connor, photographed with representatives from Fethard Historical Society and Fethard & Killusty Community Council during his visit and tour of the Town Wall on 21st November 2007. L to R: Terry Cunningham (Rural Tourism Adviser, Teagasc), Joe Kenny (Chairperson Fethard & Killusty Community Council), Hugh O'Brien (Planning South Tipperary County Council), Cllr John Fahey, Chairperson South Tipperary County Council), Ned O'Connor, County Manager South Tipperary County Council), Dóirín Saurus (Chairperson Fethard Historical Society), Peter Grant (Fethard & Killusty Community Council) and Tim Robinson (Fethard Historical Society). the right hand side but through Burke allowed for the inhabitants of the Street you might pretend the wall was town to begin to build this fortifica- never there but a big stretch of it is less tion: in the following two centuries than ten feet away on the right hand there were further provisions made side. Huge sections of this imposing regarding taxes and grants for the wall structure that originally surrounded to be continued or to be rebuilt. For the old town have survived and it is about seven hundred years the wall now considered that Fethard is one of has hugely dominated the physical the very best examples of a small shape of the town, the market place, walled medieval town in the republic. the layout of the streets and, obvious- Just because that statement is repeated ly, the size of gardens. For many and, here, once again, does not make the one presumes, various reasons por- assertion less relevant. tions of the wall have collapsed, been It was a royal decree that signified dismantled and entrances broken the first official mark of the wall on through but what is most remarkable paper and this royal provision in 1292 is that so much has survived to the 130 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER present day whether by design or for- interest in the situation here. As a tune — the more economically minded national body, they are implementing might be prone to suggest ill-fortune. policies that are probably not too dis- In recent years, various groups within similar from the great work carried the town have taken an interest in the out by the Friends of Fethard who, wall, from the Friends of Fethard and through their restoration work, the Historical Society to many individ- adorned the panoramic view of the ual householders whose properties wall in the valley and defined it as a back onto and border the wall. great public space in the town. And it Legally, who owns it or has a claim to was this very space that was used to it is more a consideration for those such great effect this year for the who know the law or claim to know National Heritage Day in August the law but it might be best to view when several hundred people gath- this matter like the way the man who ered on a glorious Sunday afternoon was too poor to for celebrations. own a garden So what remains decided that all the of the wall is what flowers and trees we have and the were really a bless- wonderment of its ing for him from survival must now the earth and he give way to consul- learned to genuine- tation and deci- ly appreciate them sions as to how the all. So for those wall can shape our who live inside or outside the wall or imagination for the future. Other those whose property borders it or statutory bodies all have a powerful not, the wall is for everyone, a great say in what might happen around this historical medieval artefact that helps physical structure but they, as well as to give the town part of its appeal. the citizens of the town, have the With the increased prosperity of potential to maintain and improve this recent years and a peace settlement structure in order to mark the town on that appears to be holding between the historical tourist trail. It is not the dominant religious-political inconceivable that money might groupings on the island, there has become available to further enhance been a resurgence of interest in all various features. Recently, one of the matters pertaining to the peoples who towers on the wall by the Holy Trinity have lived here before us. The Church was restored in a fashion and Heritage Council has set up the 'Irish there is a possibility of more work and Walled Towns Network' which seeks grants to follow. It may prove possible to promote the appreciation of walled to lure just a small percentage of the towns and they have taken a particular many tourists that visit the neighbour- 131 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 ing towns of Cashel and Cahir to this ciation to the future generations with a small town in order to view it, pos- sense of pride, a sense of history and a sessed as it is with many historical sense of place. Whether it is for the buildings and artefacts. But no less existing residents or for those who important than luring visitors is the have lived here and left or for those preservation of the wall itself and cele- who will come to live in the new brating it as the iconoclastic feature of schemes planned for the town, all can the town. From its functional past, the share in the local heritage which links wall in its present charm passes on, us, even if in a tiny way, with the wider one hopes, through emotional appre- European Community. >

Spirits in the Bar by Vincent Murphy

don’t believe in ghosts, but I love a specializes in the paranormal. I have Igood ghost story. One that can lived there most of my adult life and send a tingle down your spine, raise have never seen a thing. But others the hairs on your neck and leave your claim to have seen ghosts while in my arms covered in goosebumps. I’m company, so who am I to cast doubt writing this story in the dark of the on their visions. night having just come home from my The first I heard of the paranormal place of work, the family pub, activities in the house was when I was McCarthy’s on the Main Street, which a teenager. My grand-aunt Nell was in earlier today I heard described on the her latter years (some would say that radio as one of the “most haunted she was scarier than any ghost), living places in Ireland”, by a writer who on her own in the then run down 132 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER hotel over the bar, and needed nurs- so inebriated that they saw visions ing. The lady who nursed her told sto- from the nether world. ries that would rivet you to your seat. Some of the visions could be put I heard of doors opening of their own down to winding people up by the accord upstairs or of locked doors disbelievers, but one incident stands being found unlocked the next morn- out as very believable. It was a quiet ing with nobody else mid-week night in the in the house. I heard bar, with only a scat- of pictures falling tering of customers from the wall for no about. As I collected apparent reason empty glasses from a before a member of table, three young the family died. I ladies sat chatting at a heard about the three table. One I knew, loud knocks on the one I had met before front door the night and the other was a before Beatty died. I friend of theirs on a had been told first first visit to Ireland hand by a gentleman from Wales. We chat- who was working in ted for a few minutes the hallway about an before the Welsh girl object that came fly- asked who the old ing down the stairs lady was behind the and landed behind bar. I told her that him in the middle of Kitty McCarthy there was no old lady the day. Upon investi- behind the bar unless gation, there was nobody found somebody had walked through from upstairs. And despite all of this, I still the back room. I looked into that don’t believe in ghosts. room. There wasn’t a soul in there. I Many years later, I was present on a told the girl that there was no old lady number of occasions when sightings behind the bar. Having been present at of people from beyond the grave took other sightings, I asked her to describe place. I never saw a thing, but the peo- the lady. She said that she couldn’t ple who saw what they saw are describe her as she hadn’t paid much adamant that something was there. As attention to her, but noticed that her the setting for the paranormal visits is attire was of a different era. a bar, many have jumped to the same Fearing that one of the family mem- conclusion . . . the visionaries were bers was harassing the public from the drunk! Not so! Dispute as I may the other side, I asked her to accompany visions that were seen, I can confirm me to the office. There are various pic- that none of the people involved were tures on the wall of generations of the 133 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Beatty and Nell looking at their brother's grave in Holy Trinity Church graveyard. McCarthy clan. I wanted the Welsh waited a few minutes before returning. girl to see the pictures in case her He was as white as a sheet when I apparition was one of them. She was came back. What he called me for dubious at first about retiring to the abandoning him with the visiting spir- office with a stranger, but she was it I shall leave to your imagination. assured by her friend that my interests Once again I saw nothing. were purely paranormal. We stepped The following morning, as I was in and looked at my dead relatives on hauling kegs in to the cellar, my moth- the wall. She scanned them and sud- er asked me to cover her shift in the denly pointed at one. “That’s the bar as my grandfather, Dick, had had woman that I saw”. She was pointing a stroke the night before. I then told at a photograph of my grand-aunt her about the strange vision in the bar Beatty, who had passed away almost the previous night. My aunt had thirty years ago. joined her in the meantime, so I Another night, a friend was home phoned my friend who had seen the from San Francisco, and as we hadn’t spirit. He described the attire of the caught up with each other for a while, man that he saw and both my aunt I asked him to hang on for a pint after and mother said the same thing at the work. About half-way through the same time, “Uncle Gus!” pint, he declared that he could see Numerous other sightings have someone beside him. Thinking that he been seen since then, some believable was winding me up, I decided to put and some a little bit out there. A num- him to the test. I went to the toilet and ber of people have turned up at the 134 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER bar looking for the spirits, as the sto- make contact with the other world if ries have gained extra credibility by they only left down their barriers. She being discussed on television and then opened her shirt and exposed published by recognized spiritual and most of her breast to the unsuspecting paranormal investigators and medi- customer who was sipping his beer. ums. One of the strangest visitors was She pointed to something on her a woman who walked in one day and ample bosom. There was a tattoo of a declared herself in contact with the witch on a broomstick flying across other side. She said that she saw a her breast. Her guarantee that she was man wearing a flat cap sitting in the in contact with the other side. The snug in the bar. She then told a cus- truth is out there. Somewhere! > tomer at the bar that anybody could Fethard and District Credit Union t the AGM in December 2006 land. Athe following officers were We would encourage more young elected: President, Marian Gilpin; people to join, and now is ideal Honorary President, Canon Power; opportunity at the beginning of the Treasurer, Katie Healy; Secretary, Credit Union year. In January 2007 Eddie O'Brien. Credit Committee: Jonathan Gilpin was elected as Vice- Jonathan Gilpin, Kate Spillane and President of the Chapter X — of which Jacinta O'Connell. Credit Control: Fethard is one of 16 Credit Unions. It Betty McLoughlin and Caroline is a valuable asset to have a voice at O'Connell. Supervisory Committee: Chapter level and our Chapter X con- John Barrett, Marion O'Connor and tains some of the biggest Credit Richard Nevin. Tellers: Phyllis Healy, Unions in the country, Waterford and Ann Nevin and Anne Healy. Clonmel. During the Credit Union year 2006- We would like to take this opportu- 2007 Transition year students David nity of offering our sympathy to any Gorey, Ida Carroll and Lisa Anglim of our officials or members who have operated as voluntary tellers. Since suffered loss or bereavement during August 2007 our opening hours have the past year. May you be safe and been extended to Saturday morning well this seasonal time and for the year opening – commencing at 10.30am. to come. Hopefully, this will attract the out-and- Opening hours are on Friday morn- about Saturday morning shopper, as ing from 10am to 12 noon; Saturday well as facilitate those who work dur- morning from 10.30am to 12.30pm; ing the week. Our aim is to provide a Saturday night from 7pm to 8.30pm. valuable, voluntary service to mem- Loan Applications taken on Tuesday bers of the Fethard area and its hinter- nights from 7.30pm to 8pm. > 135 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Patrician Presentation Secondary School

Award winners photographed at the Patrician Presentation Secondary School Awards Day on 19th October 2007. Back L to R: Rebecca O'Donnell (Writers Quill Award), Angelica Bano (Photography Award), Ida Carroll (Gradam na Gaeilge Award), James Cotter (Writers Quill Award), Colm Horan (Attendance Award), Kate O'Brien (Pupil of the Year 6th Year), Gráinne Horan (Paddy Broderick Perpetual Award), Jonathan Hall (Pupil of the Year Leaving Cert 2007), Melissa Wallace (Attendance Award), Eoin Condon (Sports Award), Aisling Dwyer (Photography Award), Alex Channon (Business and Enterprise Award). Front L to R: Jane Fitzgerald (Pupil of the Year 2nd Year), Laura Rice (Padraig Pearse Perpetual Award), Jonathan Gilpin (Fethard & District Credit Union), Mr Ernan Britton (Principal), Ms Marian Gilpin (Deputy Principal), Anne Marie O'Donnell (Guest Speaker and Past Pupil) and Fiona Crotty (Pupil of the Year 3rd Year).

fter the achievement of excel- December saw the staging of the Alent Leaving and Junior Cert school musical in Abymill and the results the year commenced on an production of ‘Grease’ as always was a enthusiastic and energetic note. real winner. Transition year, under the guidance of In January 2007 three international their co-ordinator, Ms Mary-Anne students arrived at the school – Vitor Fogarty, had a hugely successful year Viera Antunes from Brazil, Franzi Fritz crowded with activities — work experi- from Germany and Ricardo Caiazzo ence, mini-company, first aid, swim- from Italy. They adapted well to 5th ming, stage musical, Meals on year and Transition Year respectively Wheels, Credit Union, carol singing, and stayed until the conclusion of the Daffodil Day, as well as numerous academic year. outings, the final one to Delphi On February 5th 2007 the school Outdoor Activities Centre in Mayo in held its ‘Open Evening’. It was very glorious weather. Ida Carroll of TY well attended and parents and stu- entered a National Physics dents alike thoroughly enjoyed the Competition and got to spend a week wide variety of student displays and a in Trinity College, Dublin. chance to view the newly refurbished 136 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER state-of-the-art science rooms. A Mass and the Transition Year Evening. group of students treated the visitors On a sporting note we may not to home cooking and a 'cuppa' in the have won any All Ireland Finals as in Home Economics room under the the previous year, but we were in the supervision of Ms Marie Maher. 'shake-up' and plan to reassess the sit- Mr and Mrs Prendergast held two uation this year. very successful table quiz nights at the Mr Burke's lunchtime volleyball school — one for library funding and was a huge success, as was his chal- the second, the ever popular 'Lourdes lenge for Tanzania, which raised over Invalid Fund Quiz'. €1,000. One of our 5th year students, On 16th February 2007 approxi- Sarah Hayes, has now been chosen to mately forty students headed for the play volleyball for Ireland, and we 'ski slopes' with Mr Maher, Mr wish her the very best of luck. Leonard, Ms Mahon and Mrs Griffin. Under the careful eye of Ms The venue was Lavarone, Italian Alps. Sullivan our uniform looks very smart It was a new experience for all, but indeed, with the crested jumper and many took to the slopes as though school jacket, now extended to 5th they had been skiing for years. A trip year. to Verona, associated with Romeo and On a welcoming note for September Juliet, was on the itinerary on the way 2007 we extend a Cead Mile Fáilte to home. past pupil Damien Byrne, who is Easter heralded the beautiful sum- monitoring the School Completion mer weather and of course the last Programme, and Willie Quigley who term before exams. Congratulations to is Home-School Liaison. Margaret all our students who sat the state Barrett, also a past pupil, has joined examinations and who did so well in Special Educational Needs and we them. The academic year ended with have three new International students the usual Leaving Cert Celebration – Angelica Bano from Italy, Esther

Full cast of Fethard Patrician Presentation Secondary School Show 'Abbabuja' photographed on stage after their very successful show staged for three nights in the Abymill Theatre on 5th 7th and 8th December 2007.

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Patrician Presentation Secondary School 2nd to 5th year students photographed before they headed off on a skiing trip to Lavarone, Italy, on Friday 16th February. The group were accompanied by teachers, Ms Marian Gilpin, Mr Michael Leonard, Ms Marie Maher and Mr Noel Maher.

Müller and Anna-Marie Limpach Mass and the commencement of the from Germany, and Lyubov Novikova awards ceremony was devoted to our from the Ukraine have joined first up and coming 2nd Year group ‘Zero year, but sadly we said goodbye to Tolerance’. The band comprising of Xuan Wyatt, who has returned to San Noel O’Brien, Ted Barrett, Tony Myler Francisco with her family. and Gareth Lawrence treated us to a At 11am on Friday morning, 19th very professional ‘Simple Man’ com- October 2007, the Patrician / posed by Leonard Skinner. The Presentation Secondary School stu- Principal Mr Ernan Britton addressed dent awards ceremony commenced the assembly regarding the impor- with Mass. The celebrants Rev. Tom tance of this day for everyone and Breen and Fr. Gerry Horan welcomed how it had become a milestone in the all — the Principal and Deputy eventful year of the school. He Principal, staff, students, Board of thanked all those who had helped in Management representatives, Parents the preparation for the event, particu- Association, parents and family mem- larly Mr Michael O’Gorman, Mr bers of students, ancillary staff, busi- Denis Burke and Mr R. Prendergast. ness representatives and our special He then introduced guest speaker guest of honour, Ann-Marie Ann-Marie O' Donnell to all. O’Donnell, of Mockler’s Hill, a past Ann-Marie completed her Honours pupil of the school. Leaving Cert in 1991 and is now The choir, made up of seniors, involved in a legal practice in Wexford Transition Year, 5th and 6th Year stu- Town. Ann-Marie's address was clear dents was accompanied by Kevin and practical, offering the students Hickey. The interlude between the very sound advice on their future 138 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER careers and what road they should award to Ida Carroll. take. Ann-Marie went on to present The best school attendance awards the ‘Student of the Year’ Druid were presented to Ted Barrett, Fiona Cuchulainn awards to Jane Fitzgerald Crotty, Melissa Wallace, Colm Horan (2nd year), Fiona Crotty (3rd year) and and Alan O’Connor. Jonathan Hall (6th year). In September the Fethard Historical The Padraig Pearse Award for the Society had organised a Town Wall most outstanding Junior Cert went to Photography Competition in conjunc- Laura Rice. Ann-Marie presented the tion with the Heritage Council of Paddy Broderick Award to Gráinne Ireland and Ms Patricia Looby, Art Horan. Denis Burke presented the Teacher, presented the junior 1st Prize Sports Person of the Year awards to to Angelica Bano, one of our interna- Sarah Hayes and, amidst huge tional students from Italy. Runners up applause, Eoin Condon. Deputy were Aisling O’Dwyer and Xuan Principal, Marian Gilpin, introduced Wyatt whose family have recently the Vice President of Chapter 10 Irish returned to the United States, so League of Credit Unions, Jonathan Xuan’s prize was collected by her Gilpin, who presented the Credit grandmother Mrs Phil Wyatt. Union Enterprise award to Alex At the conclusion of the ceremony Channon. the Principal Mr Britton presented Mrs Gilpin then presented the Ann-Marie O'Donnell with a framed Credit Union Fethard Quill Writers photograph to commemorate her award to James Cotter and Rebecca return to the school as our guest on O'Donnell. Mrs Margaret Prendergast this very special day. And so, passed presented the Gradam Na Gaeilge another beautiful Awards Day on a

Members of the Parents Association helping at the Patrician Presentation Secondary School Open Evening. L to R: Marie McGrath, Maura Gorey, Valerie Rice, Veronica Fogarty and Helena O'Shea.

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Members of the Parents Association photographed at their stall at the Patrician Presentation Secondary School Open Evening. L to R: Rita Kenny, Judy Doyle, Mary Carroll, Finola Anglim and Joan Hayes. serene and sunny autumn day in stage of Abymill Theatre. May he rest October 2007. in peace. On a sad note, we would like to As the season of winter and extend our sympathy to the Maher Christmas approaches the Principal, family on the passing of Conor. So Mr Ernan Britton, Vice Principal young and so enthusiastic, Conor was Marian Gilpin and all the staff and a member of the cast of the First students would like to extend our Transition Year’s show ‘Temple Rock’. hope for a happy and peaceful Many of his classmates who heard of Christmas to all newsletter readers, his untimely death were exchanging wherever you may be, in far-flung memories of Conor and themselves at extremes of the world. > his funeral and that first step onto the

Ross Maher, Rathronan, Clonmel, with his parents, Seamus and Maureen, at his graduation with a Masters Degree in Civil Engineering from Strathclyde University, Glasgow, on 31st October 2007. 140 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Linda Corcoran, The Valley, Fethard, who graduated from U.C.C. with a First Class Honours Degree in Biomedical Science.

Evelyn O'Connor, St. Patrick's Place, Fethard, who graduated from the Institute of Technology, Carlow, with a Bachelor of Business (Honours) Degree in Marketing.

Miriam Carroll, Menlo, Fethard who graduated with 1st class honours degree in psychology from NUI Maynooth.

Rebecca Carroll, Menlo, Fethard, who graduated with 1st class honours degree in veterinary medicine from UCD.

Breda Kearney (centre), who graduated at Tipperary Institute, Thurles, with a Bachelors Degree (Honours) in Business Studies SME, is photographed above with her brother Tom and mother Biddy. Breda is originally from St. Patrick's Place, Fethard, and is now working for an Irish Engineering company based in Wembley, London. 141 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Abymill Theatre

Fethard Players cast of 'The Country Boy' who had a very successful run in the Abymill Theatre with full houses for the one week run in October 2007. L to R: Niamh Hayes, Anne Connolly, Pat Brophy, Mia Treacy, Joe Hanly and Jimmy O'Sullivan. he Annual General Meeting Christmas came Nano Nagle primary Ttook place on June 14th 2007. school girls with their Christmas con- The following officers were elected: cert. Chairman, Joe Kenny; Administrator, Fethard Abymill Theatre was awash Austie O’Flynn; Secretary, Marian with talent on Monday 19th March, Gilpin; Treasurer, Agnes T. Evans. To when twenty boys, whittled down the board: Eileen Maher, Jimmy from an initial entry of over 12,000, O’Shea, Carmel Rice, Vincent auditioned before a live audience for Murphy, Michael McCarthy, Mary the lead part in a new West End pro- McCormack and Bernard Walsh. duction of Joseph and His Amazing As usual, the winter/spring pro- Technicolor Dreamcoat. Only twelve gramme for the theatre was active and of these boys went forward to the final lively. The Fethard Players staged ‘12 live TV series of auditions, which Angry Men’ (mixed cast) in commenced on BBC1 on Saturday November 2006 under the direction of 31st March. Footage from the Fethard Austie Flynn. In early December the recording was shown on the second Patrician Presentation Secondary pre-recorded show on 7th April. School took the popular musical Martin Scott, Editor, Light ‘Grease’ to Abymill, under the direc- Entertainment BBC, was in charge of tion of Marion Gilpin. Closer to the production in the Abymill Theatre, 142 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER which went off without a hitch. boyfriend of pop queen Kylie The BBC television search show Minogue, Jason Donovan. called ‘Any Dream will Do’ came to Graham Norton used his free flow- Fethard at the invitation of Andrew ing humour to loosen any remaining Lloyd Webber. Andrew Lloyd Webber inhibitions that a well catered for audi- said, “There hasn't been a male rock ence may have had and then intro- superstar cast in a role for some time duced a series of very polished acts and that's what I'm looking for – where the boys performed in various somebody like Justin Timberlake.” He choreographed songs to display their chose Fethard as the final test that individual singing talents and stage would stretch the boys to their limit as presence. The audience were given he invited them to perform for his ballot papers to mark their choices friends, family and local people at the after the auditions. These votes were Abymill and Kiltinan Castle. also taken into consideration by the Andrew Lloyd Webber welcomed judges when choosing the eight final- the audience and Graham Norton ists to go forward. acted as MC for the night. Stars in the The evening concluded with refresh- audience included Westlife's and ments in the foyer where the artists Boyzone's manager, Louis Walsh, as chatted to locals, celebrities and well as a former ‘Joseph’ and guests. The artists then retired to

Photographed at 'Joseph' in the Abymill Theatre on 19th March 2007 are L to R: Bob Lanigan, Graham Norton and Andrew Lloyd Webber

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Photographed in McCarthy's after the ‘Any Dream will Do’ auditions were L to R: Annette Murphy, Graham Norton, Louis Walsh and Andrew Lloyd Webber. McCarthy’s to let their hair down and Will Do’. Young and enthusiastic relax. Some of these handsome and bands Autocrats, Rootless and Zero talented young men are going back to Tolerance took to the stage and they ordinary life once they are knocked are all Fethard based. out. That’s where reality TV bites. Thursday night Bingo, is as ever, a Louis Walsh said that he saw a poten- popular night thanks not only to tial group in a few others, so maybe Austie, but to Cinta O'Flynn and they will make it too! Gerry Fogarty, who are at the chalk Lee Meade was chosen as the new face every Thursday night. Christy Joseph, and making a very good job Mullins, Abymill’s caretaker, is ever of it. It was a wonderful opportunity present during these bouts. Thanks to ‘showcase’ Abymill to millions of also to Mary and Benny Morrissey for viewers in England and Ireland, and it ancillary work. The Fethard Players indeed looked well. staged this year’s production of Tom Majella Hewitt-Fortes Dance Murphy's ‘The Country Boy’ in Exhibition took its annual stand, and October and this was followed in on Friday June 8th Vincent Murphy early December with the school pro- gave all our young hopeful local duction ‘Abbabuja’, written and groups an opportunity to ‘strut their devised by Marian Gilpin and featur- stuff’ in the aptly named ‘Any Scream ing the music of Abba. > 144 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

The Autocats band on stage in the Abymill. Band Members Declan Doyle, Laura Rice, Matt O'Sullivan (guest), Kevin Maher, Fintan Maher and Lory Kenny.

Photographed in McCarthy's after the ‘Any Dream will Do’ auditions were L to R: Linda Shanahan, Susan Halley, Róisín Earls and Deirdre Lanigan.

Aidan Ward performing back in his hometown in the Abymill on 17th November 2007 L to R: Richard Dunkley, Eithne Hannigan, Aidan Ward and Tom Portman. 145 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 First Steps Playgroup irst Steps playschool is situated has previous experience in childcare. Fin the Tirry Centre, Barrack It is great to welcome back the old Street, Fethard. It is open Monday to faces along with the new boys and Friday from 9.30am to 12.30pm and girls. A really big ‘Thank You’ to Joan caters for children aged 2 years 10 O’Donohoe and all the staff in the months to 6 years. It is run by Cora Tirry Centre. If you have any queries (Breen) McGarry who has childcare please feel free to call into the Tirry qualifications as well as eight years Centre or you can contact us on Tel: working in the childcare sector. Cora 086 1686688. > is assisted by Mary Morgan who also Fethard ICA celebrating 80 years

Cutting the cake at the Fethard ICA 80th anniversary celebrations on 1st July 2007 are L to R: Aggie Barrett, Hannie Leahy (founder member) and La Curtin.

ur contribution to the for the betterment of the Guild at all ONewsletter this year begins on times, and her kindness and support a sad note, as two of our most dedicat- to all our members will always be ed members passed away in the past remembered. Mary Meagher, too, was twelve months — Nuala Delaney, Red a very faithful member, and could City, and Mary Meagher, Cloneen. always be relied on when a helping Nuala had been our President from hand was needed. Mary represented May 2003 to 2006, and then was elect- the Guild on many occasions, in golf- ed Hon. Sec. Nuala worked very hard ing and pitch and putt competitions. 146 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Committee members of Fethard ICA Guild photographed at their 80th Anniversary Celebrations held in Fethard on Sunday 1st July. Back L to R: Sheila O'Donnell, Rose Holohan, Breda Slattery, Kathy Aylward, Betty Lanigan, Kay McGrath, Marie Crean. Front L to R: Anne Horan (secretary), Ann Gleeson (president), Nora- Mai Kennedy (Federation President) and Phil Wyatt (treasurer). At our Guild meeting in January 2007 Mass we adjourned to our hall where many tributes were paid to both a beautiful meal was served and there ladies. We will miss them greatly. May was lots of opportunity for old friends they rest in peace. to have a chat and reminisce. We had We continue to hold our monthly a large attendance of present and for- meetings on the second Tuesday in mer members of ICA. Among our our hall at Rocklow Road. guests were Federation President Mrs On 1st July 2007 we celebrated a Nora-Mai Kennedy, Federation wonderful occasion in our long histo- President Mrs Mary Quinlan, and ry, the 80th birthday of the Guild in special guest La Curtin. La served as Fethard. We are almost the oldest President and Secretary and in many Guild in the country, Bree in county other positions within the Guild over Wexford being, we believe, the oldest. the years. It was wonderful to see La We were blessed with a beautiful entering the hall again, she received a sunny day, one of the few this year. standing ovation from all present. Our celebrations commenced with In place of the annual summer out- Holy Mass, celebrated in the ing this year, we had a lovely night in Augustinian Abbey. The celebrant was Brú Ború on 12th July, starting with a Fr. Timothy Walshe, and he was joined wonderful meal followed by entertain- by Rev. Barbara Fryday, who read the ment in their beautiful theatre. second reading. The ceremony was Twenty-four members attended. much enhanced by the beautiful We would like to wish all Newsletter singing of the Abbey Choir. After readers a very Happy Christmas. > 147 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

La Curtin photographed with some of her Fethard ICA Friends over the years at the 80th Anniversary Celebrations held in Fethard. Back L to R: Josie Casey, Phyllis McDonnell, Aggie Barrett, Celia Byrne, Kay McGrath. Front L to R: Kitty Ahearne, Kathy Aylward, Hannie Leahy and La Curtin. Country Market’s 60th Birthday n Friday 22nd June 2007, stringent, and no one had surplus OFethard Country Markets cele- flour. All the other towns in South brated its 60th birthday with founder Tipperary had been discussed as pos- member Hannie Leahy cutting a beau- sible sites for the venture, but the local tiful birthday cake, baked by Marie committees, for some reason or other Moclair, at their weekly market held in another thought that nothing could be the Town Hall. Hannie, the only sur- done. viving founder member, fondly Fethard Guild, spurred on by its remembered many of the people who members, and against the advice of were involved in the Country Market the chairman, who writes this report, throughout the years which prompted decided to open a weekly market, on us to republish this extract taken from the model of the markets run by The Farmer’s Gazette from sixty years Women’s Institutes in England, charg- ago when the Fethard Country Market ing one penny in a shilling for all pro- was founded. duce disposed of. “Our market started in most adverse We rented the bottom of the Town circumstances. Vegetables had never Hall, which is in a central position, and been scarcer owing to the bad weather we insured it against fire. This Hall has of 1946, and bread rationing, which wide doors which open straight off the had recently been introduced, was street. It was being used as a store for 148 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER empty packing cases and for a fire into the most efficient of moneyboxes engine, and part of it is being used as by getting a carpenter to divide it into an office for the town weighing scales. sloping compartments. We bought a The ancient fourteenth century walls lock-up case for our books and we are pierced with deep apertures, which had the loan of some egg packing make the hall very cold and draughty, cases. We had a few pounds which and we had before us had been subscribed two months of snow by sympathizers, and and flood. we had two jolly We put in plugs for posters which showed an electric fire and glorious cakes and kettle. Before many vegetables, and were months had passed headed, ‘The shape of the authorities decid- things to come.’ ed to block off a por- Some local opposi- tion of our abode for tion was to be expect- the fire engine, and ed, and to meet this, this was a blessing as we had circularised it made the room of every household more manageable explaining our plans proportions and got saying, “A Market rid of some of the should not conflict draughts. with shopkeepers or Some broken down Hannie Leahy cutting the 60th Birthday Cake traders, as the prices furniture was roosting in the hall, so charged will be current market prices, we arranged it to act as counters, and if the country women bring their when we had camouflaged it into produce into the towns they will respectability with some Hessian from spend their money in the town, and the country shop. Luckily, we had do their shopping there. Where these inherited from a previous adventure, a markets have been held, they have shallow and very long chicken run, proved a stimulus to business, and which had been used to protect eata- created a steady demand for high- bles at shows. This kept the bread and class produce. We hope we shall have cakes safe from too eager customers. your sympathy and support.” Our third possessions were, a weigh- The report goes on to tell of the ing scales lent by Miss Drury, and increase to trade in the town, also of some excellent steel-framed chairs and the opening of a brand new market tables, which were hired to the market. garden during the first year of trading. We bought an electric kettle and The pricing proved to be a problem, were lent an electric stove. We con- and the controller, May Quinlan, had verted a handsome Victorian workbox the ultimate authority of the task. It 149 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Members of Fethard Country Markets celebrating their 60th Birthday at Fethard Town Hall on Friday 22nd June 2007. L to R: Rena Kennedy, Marie Moclair, David Curran, Nellie O'Donovan, David O'Donnell, Hannie Leahy (founder member), Mai Kennedy, Christy Williams, Megan Sceats and Maura Meaney. was soon found to be increasingly dif- There were twelve to sixteen work- ficult to look at everything brought in ers and every one needed, as they had during the crowded half-hour in to cycle miles in all weathers, and be which the stalls were being prepared. punctual. There was to be a cup of tea To combat this problem the pricing and something to eat available. The was done by the stall-holders, who sellers were all but one, members of became expert with added experience. the ICA and loved the job. A Friday morning was chosen for From that first day when everything the day of the market, which proved had been sold, and the takings were to be a wise choice as it was a day for ten pounds, it was quoted, ‘We knew collecting the pensions, also for coun- we would succeed if we persevered!’ try people to go to the bank to get Fethard Country Markets was fea- money for wages. The streets were full tured on RTE Nationwide television of potential customers. Being a fast day, programme on Wednesday 31st there were more customers for eggs, October 2007 as part of their vegetables and savoury dishes. ‘Hallowe’en Special’ programme The market, as reported, went from recorded in Fethard. Hannie gave a strength to strength. More than one great interview and the town looked third of the total sales was in eggs and really lovely on the day. Also featured poultry, and a dealer’s license had to was Lonergan’s Pub where Cornelia be taken out to comply with regula- Ryan demonstrated how to make a tions, also a girl had to be employed seasonal Pumpkin Pie. > as egg packer. 150 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Soldiers Were We . . . by John Fogarty ears afterwards, when we’d all army barracks in Clonmel. They were Ygone our different ways in the members of the FCA (Fórsa Cosanta world and would only bump into one Áitiúil) - in English, the Local Defence other occasionally, and mostly by acci- Force. Every Monday evening they’d dent, we were never quite sure exactly report for basic training in arms drill whose idea it had been. I had always in the Nissen hut. We’d often hear thought it was Connie Coen’s - he them talk about the great crack they used to think it was mine. What I do had at training with Sergeant Scanlan, remember is how we used to talk who drove out in the jeep from about it as we leaned against the door- Kickham Barracks. They used to joke jambs of Moll O’Brien’s chip shop, no that FCA meant the Free Clothes money to play the juke box or the foot- Association and that they’d really only ball machine or to chance one of Moll’s joined to get the big overcoat and bags of chips. There were always some hobnail boots for the winter. The of us hanging around there in those greatcoat would keep them warm in days, looking up and down a mostly cold weather and on frosty nights it empty street, hoping that something would serve as a quilt for the bed. would happen, something different, Then one Monday night, as Connie something unusual – but nothing ever and I watched from Schofield’s corner, did. And so we waited. Sgt. Scanlan hauled a black, murder- I seem to recall that it was October ous looking machine gun and a tripod when we first began to talk about it, from the back of the jeep, as well as that the evenings were beginning to some rifles. We were intrigued. darken earlier and earlier, that wintry Afterwards we met the boys at breezes were beginning to sneak Moll’s in their greatcoats and hobnail down Barrack Street and across the boots. They told us that the black square of the old town. weapon was a Bren gun and could fire Most Monday evenings this nor- hundreds of rounds per minute. Of mal, uneventful routine was broken by course, they said carelessly, we have the arrival on the street of an old army been trained to strip it down and jeep. It would swing around assemble it again — blindfolded, in the Schofield’s corner and pull up at the dark. We were impressed. They also Nissen hut on the Rocklow road, usu- told us that the rifles were Lee Enfield ally at around half-past seven. We’d .303s and that soon they would be also see older lads like Billy Treacy given one of their own to take home. parading up and down the Main No ammo of course. Street in uniform, passing the time And, they said, in November you and showing themselves off as they can go to a training camp for a fort- awaited the arrival of the jeep from the night and be paid for it as well as 151 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 being fed. I can’t remember what the Billy Treacy and some others were amount was, except that it was almost standing around a table with the big treble what we were being paid at the Bren gun half-dismantled, big grins on time. their faces, expecting a good laugh. That did it. Connie and I decided Sergeant Scanlan looked us up and there and then that we’d approach Sgt. down, like a dealer sizing up horses at Scanlan the following Monday night. a fair. The only problem was we were both He asked our age. too young, even though we were a ‘Seventeen’, says Connie. long time left school and working. We ‘Seventeen’, says I. were both in our fourteenth year. The ‘Hmm’, says the sergeant. required age was seventeen. ‘We can show you our birth certs if ‘Sure you’d pass for twenty,’ Connie you want’, says Connie, managing to very kindly told me. sound hurt and offended that the ser- ‘What if they ask for our birth certs? geant should doubt our word. We’ll worry about that when the I looked at Connie – show him our time comes’ birth certs? Still we hummed and hawed about ‘What do ye think, lads?’ the ser- attempting to join. geant asked, turning to the others. When the following Monday ‘Oh, they’re dead genuine’, says evening came round we couldn’t keep Billy Treacy, grinning. still and walked up and down the ‘OK,’ Sergeant Scanlan said, ‘come street, smoking. Finally we saw the back next Monday and we’ll sign ye jeep swing round Schofield’s corner as up. I’ll take yeer sizes now for the uni- usual. We waited for a while until forms.’ everything had been hauled in and And that was it. We were practically everyone was settled inside. there. Connie marched up to the door and We were down to Moll’s like a shot rapped loudly with his knuckles. to tell the others that we were in. The door opened and Sergeant Every Monday night from then on Scanlan peered out at us. we were in the Nissen Hut saluting, ‘Well, Blossom what can I do for clicking our hobnailed heels, present- you?’ he said to Connie. ing arms, ordering arms, snapping to ‘We want to join up, sergeant,’ attention, doing left turns, doing right Connie announced, a little too boldly I turns, eyes left, eyes right – and all the thought. I fully expected the sergeant commands roared as Gaeilge: IOM- to run us from the door. PAIGH, IOMPAIGH THART, Instead he asked us to come into the GASRA, GASRA AIRE, ARDAIGH light so as he could have a look at us. AIRM, THAISPEANAGHI AIRM, I followed Connie, who stepped in CLE, DAS, CLE, DAS. with his chest thrust defiantly out. The uniform, when it came, consist- 152 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

FCA group taken at Kickham Barracks in 1965. L to R: Tom Ryan (Carrick-on-Suir) John Fogarty (Fethard), Pat Lonergan (Carrick-on-Suir), Connie Coen (Fethard) and Willie Moroney (Carrick-on-Suir). ed of a greatcoat, a beret, trousers, the free clothes and boots.’ jerkin with a white cord called a lan- Connie’s answer was unprintable. yard to be worn on the right shoulder, In mid-November Sergeant Scanlan some epaulettes to be sewn onto the looked for names for the winter train- shoulders, brooches for our lapels and ing camp which would be held at beret and a pair of hobnailed boots Kickham’s Barracks in Clonmel and and leather gaiters. Wearing all of that last for two weeks. Connie and I vol- regalia we began to imagine we were unteered, motivated by the prospect of members of some crack military unit the handsome wages that would be and strutted importantly up the Main paid. Street like a pair of Napoleons. On a bleak November evening we Outside Scully’s shop we met Mick arrived at the barracks. It seemed as ‘The Dust’ Ryan. He stopped and took though we’d landed in Siberia. We a long boozy look at us. were marched to a huge dormitory ‘Is there a war after starting, lads?’ with high ceilings and as draughty as ‘No.’ a hay-barn. It was furnished with ‘Well it’s nice to know we have sol- about forty beds and some lockers. diers like yeerselves to defend us,’ he There was an open fireplace at both said. ‘An’ I hope ye make good use of ends and a large skip filled with turf, 153 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 and a lively population of fleas. Most coat pockets to light a fag, or crack the of the other lads were either from occasional flea. Connie took out the Clonmel or Carrick, and from the way mouth organ he always carried in his some of them were sizing us up and top pocket and began playing, vamp- the way Connie was eyeing them back ing and stamping ‘The Banks of the I had a premonition that there could Roses’ which drew some colourful be an outbreak of some kind before responses from the Carrick/Clonmel too long. contingent-mostly to the effect that he The Carrick contingent comman- should shove that effin harmonica in a deered the beds close to the fire at one place where the sun never shines. end; the Clonmel lads the beds at the Time for lights out was signalled other end. Connie, myself and a chap when the door was kicked open by a from Grangemockler occupied a kind very angry looking individual wearing of buffer zone in between. As a pre- a greatcoat with sergeant’s stripes and cautionary measure we chose the a cap with two tassels. He stood in the draughty beds near the door, in case middle of the dormitory and roared we should have to evacuate in a hurry. that it was time to ‘get those ******* A severe frost fell that first night and lights out ye shower of *******’. the two turf fires were lit early. We sat We didn’t debate the matter. around them berets on our heads, When we’d been in bed about an only taking our hands from our great- hour the bombardment started. It was

FCA Group some years ago — maybe some reader will remember the day?

154 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER hard to know which side started it but preparations. within a short time sods of turf were The following days were spent flying from the Carrick to the Clonmel square-bashing in time to the bellow- end and vice versa — with the Fethard ing of the demented sergeant, and boys keeping their heads under the learning how to shoot using .22 rifles blankets in no man’s land as occasion- on a miniature shooting range in the al sods fell short onto our beds. barracks. Very early in the morning we were One morning we were introduced rudely awakened from our slumber by to the hazards of riding motorcycles. a terrifying crash. I jumped up in bed. The bikes looked like ancient museum The lights were on and the angry pieces and our suspicions were con- looking sergeant was back again, this firmed when the sergeant informed us time wielding a short stick and using it that they were ‘veterans’ of the Second to batter a row of decrepit lockers World War and had been built in 1939. positioned inside the door and bel- They were unbelievably heavy, cum- lowing at us to get the **** out of those bersome and difficult to keep upright beds straight away, get shaved, get let alone ride. The Grangemockler lad dressed, get the blankets folded in the was first to go. He went round the regulation way, get over to the can- square like an Irish version of Evel teen, get ready for parade, get an effin Knieval, wobbling at first, slowing move on. down jerkily, suddenly surging for- We scuttled through the frosty air to ward, gradually building up speed, the washroom which was about fifty swerving, veering madly, unpre- yards from the dormitory. There was dictably, the sergeant roaring himself no hot water and the mirrors were purple telling him to stop before he cracked and permanently misted over, effin well killed someone, preferably which made shaving a risky undertak- himself. ing. Finally he came careering round the In the canteen we were served what square towards where we stood wait- resembled a fry for breakfast. The ing our turn, bearing down on us in a puddings were as hard as hazel nuts. long swerving loop, forcing us all to The toast was like a piece of timber. flee for safety before crashing to the The tea was like tar. ground, the bike spinning and skitter- ‘Tis a hammer and chisel you’d ing one way across the square and want here not a knife and fork’, says himself the other. That ended the Connie. motorbike riding. A big sour looking soldier wearing The first week passed. Early on a huge white apron across his pot Wednesday morning of the second belly stood in the kitchen doorway week all of the FCA recruits piled into with folded arms, as if daring anyone a couple of trucks and were transport- to find anything wrong with his ed to the army firing range at Kilworth 155 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 in Co. Cork. Twice the trip had been upstairs room overlooking the quad- cancelled due to torrential rain. There rangle where the jeep was to pick had been a tremendous build up to Connie and myself up and bring us this trip Our abilities as soldiers, we back home. Connie sat into the game were led to believe, would be judged with four Carrick lads. I sat behind on how we performed on the firing Connie, innocently observing the play. range using live ammo fired from Lee The game unfolded without incident Enfield .303 rifles. We had been drilled with the pots being won variously in the techniques of firing rifles: around the table. Then Connie, adjusting the sights, allowing for through a combination of luck and recoil, lying spread-eagled at a certain astuteness, won three pots in a row. angle ‘oblique to the line of fire’. Two of the games had developed into That’s what Sergeant Scanlan said, a showdown between Connie and a repeating it like a mantra, ‘always lie thin faced, chain-smoking jumpy kind oblique to the line of fire’. of individual. He began muttering Unfortunately, I had developed a accusations and throwing murderous massive stye in my right eye in the glances in my direction and at the days before going to the range. When Grangemockler lad who was sitting I closed the left eye to look through quietly smoking behind him. I sat the sights with my right the stye sud- back taking in what was beginning to denly reared up before me as big as resemble one of those tense poker- the bloody Matterhorn blotting out playing saloon scenes from a Western: the target. Even though I couldn’t see smoke curling to the ceiling, stakes the target I squeezed off the first shot being raised, met, raised again, tem- when the command to fire was given. pers beginning to fray, hands hover- The rifle kicked back viciously catch- ing over gun butts. ing me on the chin, almost knocking When Connie won yet another pot me out. After five shots Sergeant he began to sympathise extravagantly Scanlan went around telling each with the thin faced, chain-smoking trooper what he’d scored. jumpy individual saying, ‘sure you’re ‘I don’t know where your bullets in hard luck there you’re just not get- went, Blossom’, he said to me, ‘but ting the right cards you sir.’ Well, it none of them went within an ass’s roar didn’t go down well with your man; of the shaggin target.’ after that things took a definite turn I spent the rest of the morning for the worst. The thin faced, chain- handing out bullets instead of firing smoking individual pointed furiously them. at me and the Grangemockler lad, On the last morning of the training accusing us of being in ‘cahoots’ with camp, after we’d handed our blankets Connie and of giving him ‘tokens’ and rifles back to the quartermaster, a whatever that meant. The other poker game got underway in an Carrick lads began to mutter agree- 156 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER ment with him and started throwing and landed, chair and all, onto the murderous looks at the floor with a crash. Grangemockler lad and myself. ‘Kill the ****** ‘, someone shouted. Things settled a little when the We didn’t need to hear anymore. We Grangemockler lad and I were ban- were gone, faster than rabbits at the ished from the table. Another hand sound of a gunshot. Down the stairs, was dealt. I began to pray that Connie Connie shoving coins into his pocket would throw in his hand. That we and shouting that the last effin pot was would get out of there in one piece. his and we should go back for it, me But no, he had to go seeing and rais- pushing him on and pleading with ing yer man again. I looked out a win- him to shut up or we’d all be killed, dow and saw with gratitude that the Grangemockler lad going head Sergeant Scanlan had pulled up in a over arse down the last three or four jeep ready to take us back to Fethard. steps and we trampling right over him Suddenly, in true Wild West fashion, and out the door in a panic, into the there was an eruption at the table. The jeep, me pleading with Sergeant thin faced lad dived across the table Scanlan to get going quick. The last and tried to grab Connie by the thing I saw as the jeep headed for the throat, Connie tumbled backwards gate was the Grangemockler lad being

Fethard First Communion boys class 1958. Back L to R: John Joe Napier, Ed Healy, Pierce Lyttleton, Thomas Keating, Austin Godfrey, Pat O’Brien and Michael O’Sullivan. Front L to R: John Fogarty, Tony Sayers, Jimmy Hayes, Thomas Barrett, Connie Coen and Gerry Nevin. 157 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 chased across the quadrangle by three (Years later, though, Connie did join Carrick lads. The thin faced fella was the regular army for a while.) running beside the jeep waving his fist We held onto the hobnailed boots and shouting abuse at us and and the greatcoats though. > demanding his money back. Then we were out the gate and gone. (Connie Coen and I went to school We never saw any of them again. together and were friends throughout We continued going to the training our teenage years until time led us in sessions on Monday nights and some- different directions. Connie was a live- times on Sundays we’d go off in a ly and generous character with a great truck to the firing range at Kilworth or sense of humour. He was always to the barracks in Clonmel for more ready with a quip or a witty remark to intensive training. But Connie and I keep us laughing during hard times: found that we didn’t have a true voca- he died tragically in England twenty- tion for the military life and gradually five years ago in February of 1982 stopped going to the Nissen hut. aged just thirty-one. — J.F.) Red Hills Farmers’ Market and the Beaverskin Hat by Jim Trehy

his story began on a cold winter security gates and high fences. Tmorning in Melbourne, Finally some open country with Australia. My daughter, son-in-law cherry orchards dotted here and there, and granddaughter had planned a trip the fruit recently harvested and the to the Farmers’ Market in Red Hills, trees dormant for the winter months. ‘down the Peninsula‘ from Melbourne. After almost an hour’s drive, we A Farmers’ Market, I thought – arrived at Red Hills village. The mar- could be an interesting outing. I imag- ket has a permanent site outside the ined a village marketplace with stalls village and on every first Saturday of selling farm produce and maybe hot the month, come hail or shine, it con- coffee and a cookup to take the edge venes from 7.30am till 12 noon. off a cold early morning. Just past the village, we came on Speeding down the Peninsula at lines of cars, jeeps and trucks parked about 6.00 AM, it was difficult to fig- on both sides of the country road and ure out where greater Melbourne we had to abandon our transport to ended and rural Australia began. First, walk the final half a kilometre to the it was all housing estates just like sub- market site. urban Dublin. Then came the stock- There was a nominal entry charge of broker belt with large houses hidden one Australian dollar — about 60 cents behind high eucalyptus trees, with in our currency and we were in the 158 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Jim Trehy, Donoughmore, on his way to visit his daughter Angela in Perth, Australia. Jim is photographed in Cork Airport with his daughter Gaye and grandson Jamie. thick of the action. There were lots of preserves, fresh carrots, Irish potatoes, people moving around the large field a merino wool fleece, (even) a Nubian on gravel footpaths between stalls that goat,” you name it, all was there. sold all kinds of articles - fresh farm In deference to my age, I suppose, produce, mostly labelled organic, my daughter bought me a pair of home-made leather goods, poultry merino wool slippers – more like alive and dead, farm implements, woolly wellies, I thought. And, while I flowers and herbs and even hand- scoffed at them at the time, I have to crafted violins. admit they are comfortable in winter. A couple of groups had taken up We got into conversation with one stands playing country music and the stallholder who made all sorts of inevitable Peruvian pan pipes which leather goods, belts, purses, wallets, seemed to be so popular around bags and brief cases in different styles. Melbourne at the time. Like a lot of the stall holders at farm- There were stalls selling steaming ers markets, he took time to chat and hot foods and you could feast on a to explain that in winter on his small- cooked breakfast of steak and eggs, holding (only about 150 acres) he and hot coffee, toast and pizza, all very his family worked with leather which welcome on this cold winter morning. he bought from a small tannery in his Because we were there during the local town. first hour of the market, there was My daughter made some purchases intense activity. “G’day mate, can we and on hearing that she originally interest you in a pot of home-made came from Ireland, he told her that his 159 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 name was Sean Barry and his great- quet for the princely sum of $5 – grandparents had come from Mallow about €2.50 – good value as a floral in Ireland in the late 1800s. His wife, decoration. Sally, was of French extraction and her By 11.30, the crowds began to thin family were leather workers over gen- out. Only the food stalls remained erations, hence the little industry that centres of brisk business as the stall the stall was based on. holders took a well earned break and While Sally attended to customers, relaxed before packing up their gear. Sean chatted with us about Ireland We went back to say goodbye to the which he had never visited but hoped, Barrys who were now unwinding with at some stage in the future, to do. their ‘stubbies’ and sandwiches and Enter the beaverskin hat! Next stall socialising with other stallholders to the Barry’s was one which dis- about the business of the morning. played beaverskin everything – jack- Sean explained that, after the market ets, full length coats, bags and hats, business was over, it became a sort of hats, hats of every shape and size. social occasion for an hour or so The elderly man sitting on a high before stalls were dismantled and the stool was almost a replica of his St. homeward trek began. So the market Bernard snoring at his feet. Both served two purposes really. First, it looked so sad that I decided to try on was a sales outlet for all kinds of rural a few hats, if only to cheer him up a activity, harvested crops and local bit. Almost immediately, the man crafts cultivated to supplement farm came to life and went into a sales speil income. But secondly, it was a social which finally resulted in my planking event for stall holders who often came a wide brimmed beaverskin hat on my from less populated areas and who head and shelling out 27 Australian had few opportunities to meet and dollars – about €13 – to appease the swop stories and information with salesman and, I must confess, my own other families involved. fascination with hats. Finally we headed back to our jeep Anyway, by now the sun had come laden with fresh vegetables, rye bread, out and I needed shade so the hat a cuddly toy for granddaughter, stayed put and we continued our tour Ashling, and, of course the beaverskin of the market. One of our calls was to hat that sparked off this memory of a a plant and flower stall where there holiday spent in the environs of were proteas of every colour and size. Melbourne a few years ago. Generally the protea is a massive That beaverskin hat has seen five or bloom that is grown a lot in the six mixed seasons since that time and Melbourne area and is in high it is wearing well and is better than demand because it is a long lasting any umbrella in an Irish summer decoration. We bought two blooms downpour. > that would be equal to one large bou- 160 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Community Employment Scheme ust when it seemed all was well and Monica Aherne in the Jwithin FÁS, once again things are Community Office, (deepest sympa- very unsettled. It is envisaged that thy to Monica on the recent sad loss more places may be lost by March of her husband Mick) and Linda 2008. It seems a great shame because Phelan, Melanie Ryan, Marie the work carried out by Community Hannigan, James Roche and Tony Employment Schemes is immeasura- Keating who look after the cooking ble. If this happens then the volun- and upkeep of the centre. Martin teers’ time and resources will be Bolger and Michael Morrissey are on stretched once again. Tidy Towns maintenance and Eddie On a brighter note a lot of training McCarthy in the GAA field. Emma courses were completed during the Wallace helps out in the Day Centre year — Classroom Assistant, ECDL, and Annmarie Buck is in St. Bernard Sage Level 2, Health & Safety Group Homes. Management, Start Your Own I would like to say a big thank you Business and many more. All our to our committee, Fethard & Killusty learners did very well and I congratu- Community Council, who are always late them on their achievements. very supportive, to all the staff who During the summer our three ladies, worked so hard during the year and Linda Phelan, Melanie Ryan and last but not least, Catherine Marie Hannigan, did great work McCormack FÁS. On behalf of all at painting the centre during the sum- the Fr. Tirry Community Centre a very mer break. We have 12 participants Merry Christmas and a prosperous on the scheme at present, Maura Ryan New Year to all. > — Joan O’Donohoe

Sr. Monica Kevin OSU, formerly from Barrack Street, Fethard, photographed celebrating 70 years with the Ursuline Order in New York in October this year. L to R: Sr. Monica Kevin, Sr James Frances McDonald (50 Years) and Sr. Margaret Golab (50 years). 161 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Marriages

Weddings in the Parish Michael Sheehan, Cahir, and Nicola Carey, Cahir Alan Connolly, Garrinch, and Valerie Colville, Spitalfield Francis Tyrrell, Árd Álainn, and Áine Doocey, Abbey Road Hugh Tierney, Inver (Donegal) and Victoria Roche, Strylea Austin Smyth, Dublin, and Laura Doyle, Strylea Mark Moloney, Redcity, to Edel Bradshaw, Congress Terrace John Ivory, Kilmacthomas, and Elizabeth Holohan, Abbey Road Mark Neville, Scotland, and Stacey Baker, Ayrshire, Scotland

Weddings outside the Parish Frazer Duffy, Grove, and Joanna Sharpe, Grove (Rosegreen) Martin Power, Portlaw, and Niamh Lonergan, (Rosegreen) Paul Murphy, Kiltinan, and Rachel Harwood, Terenure (Adare) Robert Lanigan, Tullamaine, and Judy Walshe, Kilmacthomas David O’Loughlin, Coolmore, and Treasa Melody, Clonmel (Holycross) Richard McCarthy, Monroe, and Sandra Lucaben, Clonmel (Marlfield) Kenneth Cleary, Ballinure, and Barbara Ahearne, Monroe (Italy) Tyrone Tobin, Kilnockin, and Edel Cryan, Frenchpark (Boyle)

Laura Doyle, Strylea, Fethard and Mr Austin Smyth, Firhouse, Dublin who were married on 23rd June in the Parish Church. Bridesmaids were, Mary Doyle, sister of bride and Sharon Lyons friend of the bride.

162 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Boys and girls who received the Sacrament of First Holy Communion in Fethard on Saturday 12th May. Also included are Fr Tom Breen P.P., Ms Maureen Maher (teacher) and Ms Carmel Lonergan (teacher).

Tony O'Donnell, Drumcondra, winner of the Easter Jimmy O'Donnell, Sandyford, Dublin, prizewinner Cup and Presidents Cup at Ierne Sports Club 2005 in the P. Mac Gill Literary Competition 2007 163 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Happy 50th birthday to Valerie O'Meara who celebrated her 50th birthday with family and friends at The Castle Inn, Fethard, on Friday 16th February 2007. Valerie is photographed above with Back L to R: Bill Carver, Tishy McCormack, Ronan O'Meara, Esther McCormack, Darren O'Meara, Valerie O'Meara, Peter O'Brien, Glen O'Meara, Gina Power. Front L to R: Russell O'Meara and Ricardo Caiazo.

Members of the ‘Lord of the Rings’ syndicate photographed celebrating in Butler’s Bar after selling the unbeaten Irish mare ‘Feathard Lady’ for 270,000 guineas at the Doncaster August Sales on 8th August 2007. The mare was bought by Howard Johnson for the Graham Wylie-owned Chesters Stud in England. ‘Feathard Lady’ daughter of ‘Accordion’, won seven successive starts before injury curtailed a highly-promising career. Trainer Colm Murphy had hoped to keep her in training for this year's Cheltenham Festival but a recurrence of a liga- ment injury led to her retirement in February. Feathard Lady is in foal to ‘Presenting’, whose progeny include Cheltenham Gold Cup winner ‘War of Attrition’. 164 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Playing for Life — Tanzania

Photographed at the Playing for Life project in the parish of Esso in Arusha, Tanzania, are L to R: Honor (Mulligan) Davern, originally from Fethard and now living in Cashel; Cathy Whyte, whose father is Noel Whyte originally from Fethard; Mary Cloonan, Killenaule Road, Fethard; Joe Kenny, Rocklow Road, Fethard; Nuncie O'Dwyer, from Clerihan and working in Fethard; and Adrian Dooley, New Inn, whose mother is Joan (Fergus) originally from Cashel Road, Fethard. laying For Life volunteers from community has to be experienced to PSouth Tipperary photographed be believed. Their desire to improve in the Esso Parish in Arusha, Tanzania. themselves and their sense of commu- They are part of a group of over sixty nity spirit is evident all around, and people who departed Ireland on assistance with building this centre September 26th for a fortnight’s expe- will give them a much-needed boost. rience in Tanzania, a magical place Playing For Life also provides short with amazing, friendly people, who courses to various sections of the com- are musical and colourful. munity in areas such as basic IT train- In co-operation with the Pallotine ing, sports and gymnastics coaching, Fathers and the parishioners and local account keeping, music and drama, community of the Esso parish, Playing and food preservation, such as jam For Life volunteers are building a making and pickling. Playing For Life much-needed Community Centre / is a registered charity and promotes Sports Hall. A vibrant local commu- self-development through education, nity group already exists in the Parish sport and health awareness. Directors of Esso and despite its situation in a are: Tracy Piggott, Paula Murray, very poor slum area in Arusha the Robbie O'Malley, Barney Rock, Peter spirit and the determination of the McCloone and Ossie Kilkenny. > 165 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Fethard & Killusty Community Council he past year has been quite a In June Fethard & Killusty Tbusy one for the committee and Community Council hosted a success- members of Fethard & Killusty ful public meeting to establish a Community Council. In addition to Community Alert Programme for the the regular, ongoing, activities 2007 Fethard area. This meeting was saw the organisation involve itself in a addressed by Margaret Quinn, number of new initiatives. These Community Alert Co-ordinator, include the establishment of two new South-East Region; Sgt. Sean groups in the Parish, namely, Fethard Sherlock, Crime Prevention Officer & Community Alert Group and the Community Alert Advisor; Garda Fethard Childcare Committee, the co- Liam Tobin, recently appointed Guard ordination of activities to celebrate to Fethard Station and Cllr. John Walled Towns Day and the arranging Fahey, newly elected Chairman of of a meeting for the residents of Árd South Tipperary County Council. Álainn. This meeting was Councillor Fahey’s

Fethard's new Community Alert Committee elected at a public meeting on Thursday 28th June. Back L to R: Margaret Slattery (joint-treasurer), Sgt. Sean Sherlock, Crime Prevention Officer & Community Alert Advisor, Geraldine McCarthy, Garda Liam Tobin (Fethard Station and Liaison Officer), Diana Stokes (joint treasurer). Front L to R: Margaret Quinn, Community Alert Co-ordinator, South-East Region; Cllr John Fahey, Chairman South Tipperary County Council; and Michael O'Dwyer (Chairman).

166 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER first official function as Council a substantial amount of the 2008 Chairman and his attendance was budget has already been allocated it greeted with warm applause. Margaret could be likely that the 2009 funds Quinn informed the meeting that would be applicable to Fethard. She Community Alert is for everyone, it is further advised that an amount of €1.2 incumbent on each person to play million should be sufficient to develop their part and that everyone can do a a multi-functional childcare building little in their own way. incorporating indoor and outdoor Neighbourliness is the key to play areas. Ger advised that getting Community Alert. On completion of involved in a committee would the presentations it was unanimously involve a considerable amount of agreed that a Community Alert Group work and that the involvement of would be established. The following skilled members would be highly ben- committee were elected on the night – eficial. Mr Gerry Hickey added that Chairman, Michael O’Dwyer; the strength of the committee would Secretary, Margaret Slattery; and be greatly enhanced by ‘networking’: Joint-Treasurers, Diana Stokes and people on the committee might know Geraldine McCarthy. someone who would be willing to Another successful public meeting contribute. Before the meeting con- was convened in November. The pur- cluded a committee was formed to pose of this meeting was to establish a progress the project. The following committee to co-ordinate the develop- Officers were elected – Chairperson: ment of a purpose-built childcare facil- Joe Burke, Secretary: Helena O’Shea ity in Fethard. Representatives from and Treasurer: Carmel Kiely. the South Tipperary County Childcare In recent months the Community Committee, Mr Gerry Hickey, Council has worked, along with Manager, and Ms Ger Boland, Fethard Historical Society and South Development Officer, were in atten- Tipperary County Council, in co- dance. The meeting was chaired by Joe operation with The Heritage Council Kenny. He informed the meeting that of Ireland and the Irish Walled Towns there was both a need and an oppor- Network in an effort to document and tunity in Fethard to develop a pur- promote our local treasure — The pose-built childcare facility in the Town Wall. The highlight of this town. Joe’s address was followed by a involvement was, undoubtedly, the contribution from Ger Boland who festival to celebrate Walled Towns Day expressed her delight at the large on Sunday, August 26th. A number of number in attendance. Ger informed events and activities, all free as part of the meeting that successful communi- National Heritage Week, took place in ty facilities had been set up in many various locations and culminated in a locations throughout the county from memorable, medieval-type fayre in the similar meetings. Ger advised that as area between the Town Wall and the 167 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Clashawley River. At present a num- the town. In July, the residents of Árd ber of archaeological consultancy Álainn, a recently completed develop- groups are at work in Fethard assess- ment at Killenaule Road, were invited ing and documenting the built envi- to such a meeting. While the turnout ronment of the town with a view to on the night was rather small the producing plans that will direct con- meeting certainly enabled neighbours servation and future development. to meet, some for the first time, and Draft copies of these reports – The mingle. It is hoped that the seeds have Public Realm Plan and The been sown for the establishment of a Conservation and Management Plan residents association in Árd Álainn have recently been made available. It sometime in the future. is envisaged that once the final docu- In May, we were sorry to have to ments have been completed an say “Goodbye” to Suzie O’Shea. Suzie Implementation Committee, which had commenced work as a Youth will include representatives from the Officer with the Fethard Community Community Council, will be set up. Youth Project in September 2006. In an effort to promote the establish- Unfortunately, due to the lack of ment of residents’ associations and to ongoing funding for the project it was encourage new neighbours to meet forced to cease. We hope that this situ- and greet, the Community Council ation is but for a short time. While the decided to organise an informal meet- project was in existence for a mere ing and to issue invitations to the resi- nine months almost eighty young dents of new housing developments in people were involved every week and

Photographed at the public meeting to object to the lack of funding and support from the government for the Fethard Youth Project in operation for the past year are L to R: Edwina Newport (Secretary Fethard & Killusty Community Council), Rachel Murphy (Area Manager Foróige), Peter Grant (Fethard & Killusty Community Council), Lisa Kavanagh (Youth Officer South Tipperary VEC), Gerard Manton (Fethard & Killusty Community Council), Maura Carey (Tipperary Regional Youth Services), Jimmy Connolly (Fethard & Killusty Community Council), and Suzie O'Shea (Fethard Youth Project). 168 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Walking Woodies Youth Group photographed at their Christmas party in the Woodvale Walk Community House with adult volunteers Teresa Roche, Delores O’Donnell, Cora McGarry, Patsy Lawrence and Suzie O'Shea (Fethard Youth Project) on 20th December 2006. approximately fourteen individual indebted to Joan O’Donohoe and her groups were activated during the lifes- staff for their involvement and contri- pan of the project. These figures speak bution towards the activities of the for themselves. The success of the Community Council, particularly in Fethard Community Youth Project was the Community Office, the Tirry due in no small way to the involve- Community Centre and other loca- ment, energy and enthusiasm of Suzie. tions. Joan is an unsung heroine of the As we go to print final preparations Community Council. Her official func- are being made by Foróige to secure tion is as supervisor of the adequate funding so that the youth Community Employment Scheme but project can be reinstated and that the in reality she does an awful lot more. badly needed provisions for youth can It seems, at times, that she carries out be put in place once more. It is hoped the roles of all the officers of the that 2008 will see the Convent Hall Community Council, all at once! being transformed into a dedicated Thank you Joan. We would also like to Youth Centre. Once planning permis- thank our two local County Council sion has been secured plans are ready representatives, Cllr John Fahey and to roll so that building work and reno- Cllr Jimmy O’Brien who are in atten- vations can commence. dance at almost all our meetings. The Community Council are The members of the Community 169 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Council would like to take this oppor- and Community Council are: Joe tunity to thank the people of Fethard Kenny, Edwina Newport, Jimmy for their ongoing and continuous sup- Connolly, Peter Grant, Thelma port. Your weekly commitment to the Griffith, Paddy McEvoy, Maria Community Lotto contributes greatly Murphy, Brian Sheehy, Diana Stokes, towards financial support to many Ger Manton, Liam Hayes, Very Rev. Fr. and varied activities in the town. Also, T. Breen PP and Rev. George Knowd. the funds collected locally help If you have any concerns in relation towards the cost of the Christmas to the development of Fethard & Lights, which add a festive cheer to the Killusty or you feel that you have holiday season. something to contribute feel free to The officers of Fethard & Killusty become involved in the Community Community Council, elected at the Council. Meetings are held monthly, Annual General Meeting held in usually on the second or third February 2007, are as follows: Tuesday, in the Tirry Community Chairman, Joe Kenny; Vice-Chairman, Centre. On behalf of the committee Peter Grant; Secretary, Edwina and members of Fethard & Killusty Newport; Treasurer, Jimmy Connolly; Community Council, I extend Seasons Public Relations Officer, Marie Greetings to all our readers at home Murphy and Scheme Participant and away and to wish you every Peace Development Officer, Peter Grant. The and Blessing for 2008 > Board of Directors for 2007 of Fethard

Liam Hayes, Fethard Heart Safe Committee, photographed erecting the new defibrillator boxes on Main Street, Fethard, with Paul Shanahan (right) on 3rd March 2007. 170 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Marie Smyth, proprietor of The Well, Fethard, presenting a cheque for €550 to Jim Bond, representing South Tipperary Hospice. The cheque was the proceeds of a pool competition run in the pub by the locals. L to R: Anthony Hayes (winner), John Hurley (runner-up), Marie Smyth (The Well), Jim Bond (South Tipperary Hospice), Tommy Gahan (organiser) and Michael O'Flaherty (organiser).

Presenting the proceeds of 'The Castle Inn' Benefit Night in aid of South Tipperary Hospice held on Saturday 21st July where a total of €2,025 was raised are L to R: Kathleen Coen, Jim Bond (South Tipperary Hospice Support Group), Denis Burke, Noel Sharpe, Irene Sharpe and Brud Roche.

171 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 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. Aherne, Mick, Prospect (Calvary) Napier, Peter, The Green (Holy Trinity Church of Ireland) Coffey, Michael, Mockler’s Tec & USA (Calvary) O’Dwyer (O’Neill), Breda, Farranaleen & Newbridge Connolly, Liam, St. Patrick's Place (Calvary) O'Connor, William, Ballyvaden (Moyglass) Conway, Peggy, Coleman (Clerihan) O’Donnell, Mary, Killusty (Killusty) Delaney, Nuala, Redcity (Calvary) O'Donnell, Willie, Monroe (Calvary) Donovan, Paddy, Fr. Tirry Park & Mullinahone O'Dwyer, Joe, St. Patrick's Place (Calvary) Fahey, Gerry, Coleman (Calvary) O'Flynn, Tess, The Valley (Cashel) Grant, Patrick ‘Paddy’, Fr. Tirry Park (Kilfeacle) O'Neill, Margaret 'Peggy', Main St. (Rosegreen) Heffernan, Johnny, Fethard (England) O’Riordan, John, Kerry Street and New York Heffernan, Michael, Lower Green (England) Owens, Kitty, The Green (Holy Trinity Church of Ireland) Holohan CSSp, Rev Fr Patrick, Ballinard (Rockwell) Prout, Kathleen ‘Kitty’, Killusty South (Killusty) Lawrence, Tessie, Fr Tirry Park (Calvary) Quinn (Barry), Kitty, Curraghtarsna & Dublin Madden, Patrick ‘Paddy’, Kerry Street (Canada) Shine, Alice, Crampscastle (England) Maher, Conor, Killenaule Road (Calvary) Tierney, Michael, Bannixtown (Killusty) Maher, Philip, Ballybough (Calvary) Wall, Tommy, The Green (England) Millet, Gus, St. Johnstown (London) Walsh, Pat, Fr. Tirry Park, Fethard (Calvary) Morrissey, John, Fethard & Cottage Nursing Home White, (Dineen) Marie, Leamington Spa & Kerry Street Mullins, Maura St. Patrick's Place (Calvary) Whyte, Tommy, Main Street (Calvary)

Joe O’Dwyer Liam Connolly John O’Riordan Mick Aherne

Newsletter 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

172 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Our dear departed 2007 from available photographs

Willie O’Donnell Kitty (Barry) Quinn Tess O’Flynn Philip Maher

Gerry Fahey Nuala Delaney Tommy Whyte Tess Lawrence

Peter Napier Peggy O’Neill Paddy Grant Paddy Donovan

Michael Tierney Michael Coffey Maura Mullins Marie (Dineen) White

Kitty Prout Kitty Owens Gus Millet Conor Maher

173 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 The late Catherine Quinn atherine Quinn (Kitty Barry, Catherine’s career began as one of CCurraghtarsna, Fethard) was by the state's first woman Garda and in any standards an exceptional person those days she was obliged to retire whose sudden and unexpected death on marriage. She then became active at the age of 64 on 18th April in her local Rathcoole commu- left family and friends with nity in Dublin. She responded deep sadness and an abiding with enthusiasm, was duly sense of loss. Catherine’s four elected and served with dis- daughters, Kristin, Jannine, tinction. The members of Adrienne and Micheline, Rathcoole church choir gave a have lost a wonderful mother magnificent tribute to their and friend. The massive beloved colleague at the funer- crowd of neighbours and al service. We will all miss her friends from so many walks of life greatly. We have lost a very special who filled Rathcoole Church to mourn person; a bright light has gone out in her loss was a testament to the respect Rathcoole. > in which she was held. — Mary Harney

Old Fethard School Group. Included are Mary O’Sullivan, Mella Cassells, Eileen Murphy (Rocklow Road), Elsie Ryan (Kerry Street), Vera Stokes (The Square), Molly O’Dwyer (The Green) and Noreen Cummins (Kilnockin Road). If any of our readers can identify others in the photograph or when it was taken we would to to hear from you. 174 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Traditional Gardener at Crampscastle

Bill Meaney photographed on 15th December 2007 harvesting his Brussels sprouts in time for Christmas s the emperor of ice cream out- Country Market which was recently Alives all other empires, the featured in the RTE television pro- increasingly, uncommon, common gramme, Nationwide. gardener may yet outlast all the fads, During the past decade, there have fashions and experts of the modern been great efforts made on a national food industry. If 'local' is to be the new basis to have farmers markets both in discovery in food production, perhaps rural and urban communities but the the vegetable gardeners will re-emerge Country Market in Fethard has been to be cherished in their rightful pivotal quietly undertaking a similar service in position as providers of nutritious and that it has provided for many years an healthy food. outlet for fresh vegetables and home- Bill and Maura Meaney live less made produce at a reasonable rate to than a mile from Fethard in the immediate community. Crampscastle and they continue to Daffodils begin the flower cycle in provide fresh tasty vegetables, gor- the Meaney's garden followed by geous flowers and soft fruit from a tulips and the wall-flower plants, then plot of earth that has been tilled for Sweet William, sweet peas, dahlias fifty years. Much of this and other and finally Michaelmas daises with associated produce is available each their purple pink flowers growing to a Friday morning as Maura is part of the height of four to six feet. Other vari- 175 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 eties grown are gladiolus, the occa- broccoli, parsley, Swede turnips and sional sunflower and nerines, which bulging heads of cabbage. Lettuce and have a slender pink flower and wait to scallions are grown all year round and bloom until October. The flowers are there is a plentiful supply of peas in mixed with vegetables and fruit bush- July and a variety of beans in es which makes the garden a luscious September; there are rhubarb and delight to look at. Gooseberries, chives and tomatoes from golden sun- blackcurrants, raspberries and straw- rise to money-maker. berries are the main fruits and already Needless to say, changes in lifestyles this November the new ranks of the have wrought changes in the garden; strawberry runners are well bedded in pumpkins have arrived though there is their fresh weedless patch of soil. a lack of variety in lettuce seeds, dried There is a tradition that it is moral flowers which were once so popular or sensible to have seeds sown by a are no longer in demand. Who's who certain date, for example, seed pota- in the parsnip prize winners have long toes should be in by 17th March, but been forgotten about in the now Bill will have none of it believing that defunct flower and chrysanthemum the casualty from late frosts in May show in Fethard and the supermarket does not make it workable or viable. shelves do not note food miles or our "Not too early and not too deep", is carbon footprints. Nevertheless, the the simple but effective and prudent Piltown show has survived and con- lesson learnt from many years of tend- tinues to expand and Bill and Maura ing the garden. And as for pest and have been the recipients of many acco- weed control, "there is the hand and lades there over the years for their gar- the hoe", a constant cultivation of the den produce. soil between the crops which allows The Meaney's garden plot is south air, water and earth to mix while hin- facing and is on a slight slope to catch dering and constraining the growth of the sun and there is a low shelter for unwanted intruders, sometimes, protection from the north wind. If you known as weeds. cannot buy at the country market Roosters are the preferred choice of early on Friday mornings then per- potatoes. Each seed potato is planted haps you could go for a walk to in a bed of farmyard manure and its Crampscastle and see, amidst a sea of yield and taste are regarded as most grass, a garden that nearly always has suitable for this well drained lime area. something in bloom and blossom and, Bill believes in sowing in late spring in its bountifulness, through the work and early summer; parsnips in May, of Bill and Maura, has an air of bless- carrots and turnip in June and in ing about it, if that is not too strong a November there are busy but proud word. > rows of lively leeks ready to be har- — John Cooney vested as well as Brussels sprouts, 176 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER Fethard & District Day Care Centre he Fethard & District Day Care clients did throughout the year. TCentre is now in its 11th year. Exercise is so important in all our The service is expanding all the time daily lives that it has become a daily catering for the needs of our senior cit- activity in the centre. Over the past izens as they arise. A daily pro- year we had weekly lessons in Tai-Chi gramme is set out to incorporate as which is very good for both body and many interests and hobbies that our soul. In the afternoons our clients clients might enjoy a relaxing enjoy. The activi- massage of their ties for each week hands and feet consist of: art, after a busy morn- crafts, weaving, ing. board games, We paid a visit cards, bingo, and to the discussions on the Slievenamon Golf daily newspapers. Club courtesy of Our musical the Clonmel Lions entertainment is Club. We enjoyed provided on a a lovely afternoon daily basis by of beautiful food Pauline Morrissey followed by music and John Pollard and dancing. who have been In March we playing their Tipp FM Radio 'Down Your Way' presenter Eamon held a table quiz in accordions on a O'Dwyer interviewing musicians John Pollard and Butler's Sports Bar, voluntary basis for Pauline Morrissey at the Day Care Centre. Main Street. Thank years. Our clients also join in with a you to Philip and Anne (proprietors) variety of different musical instru- for facilitating us, to all our sponsors ments, dancing and, of course, of prizes and all who took part and singing. who helped in any way to make this We are now getting ready for our night a huge success. Christmas Bazaar. The clients are busy For our summer outing we enjoyed sewing and knitting, making a variety a trip to Dungarvan via the beautiful of crafts including Christmas cards, scenic Vee. Afterwards we had a love- Christmas gift tags and dusters, all of ly meal at Slievenamon Golf Club. which will be on sale. As our bazaar Our Christmas party was held in the takes place in November we will Day Centre at the Tirry Centre. The shortly be decorating the centre with catering staff put on a fabulous meal an exhibition of the paintings our with all the trimmings. 177 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

The Day Centre Committee meet Kenny, Breda Nolan, Desmond once a month. Also once a month we Martin. Our employed staff are hold a ‘Senior Day’, where our elderly Geraldine McCarthy, supervisor of the neighbours who do not attend the cen- Day Care Centre and Michael Cleere tre can avail of a chiropody service. The our minibus driver. We would like to district nurse also attends and a hot take this opportunity to say ‘Thank meal is served. Thank you to staff, vol- you’ to Phil Wyatt and Megan Sceats unteers and transition year students. for their tireless work as committee The committee members are as fol- members for several years. Phil and lows: Thelma Griffith (chairperson), Megan retired from the committee this Jimmy Connolly (vice-chairperson), year. Fionnuala O’Sullivan (secretary), Liam A very happy and peaceful Hayes (treasurer), Marie Murphy, Joan Christmas to our families, friends and O’Donohoe, Carmel Rice, Nellie neighbours and to you our readers, O’Donovan, Nora Lawrence, Joe from all at the Day Centre. >

Presentation of a cheque of €2000 to Fethard Day Care Centre, proceeds from a Vintage Road Run and a Charity Horse Ride organised jointly by the Tipperary Vintage Motor Club and Premier Harriers. Back L to R: David Burke, Pamela Burke, Tom Shanahan, Nora Lawrence, Jimmy Connolly, Geraldine McCarthy. Front L to R: Eddie Murphy (Tipperary Vintage Motor Club), Tommy Griffin (Premier Harriers), Thelma Griffith (Fethard & District Day Care Centre) and Joan O’Donohoe (Fethard Community Employment Scheme).

178 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Three school friends meeting after 40 years at The Castle Inn L to R: Chris Mackey, Tommy Shea and Michael Mullins. The photograph was taken in August 1999. Michael Mullins died in 2006. Donal wins photographic competition he winners of the €10,000 graphs to him during the month of T‘Notice Nature’ TV3 Wildlife June. Photographic Competition were pre- Speaking at the prize giving ceremo- sented with their prizes by Mr John ny, Minister Gormley expressed his Gormley, TD, Minister for the delight at the public response to the Environment, Heritage & Local competition stating, "the interest in the Government at a reception campaign shows the in the Custom House. keen interest the Irish The second prize was people have in their nat- won by Donal Mullins ural environment". from Fethard for his pho- The judges' com- tograph of a longhorn ments on Donal beetle, entitled ‘The Lone Mullin's photo: “The Explorer’. Donal, an Lone Explorer is a employee in HSE Clonmel superb photo. With the won €3000 of the €10,000 animal shown as a small prize fund. The photo- Donal Mullins and Stephanie Pagliaccio part of a big picture we graph was taken at the Galtee moun- are invited into another world. The tains. The competition was run in con- pattern and form of the fern and the junction with TV3's weatherman contrast in colour between it and the Martin King who encouraged the beetle, make this a lovely and interest- public to send their wildlife photo- ing image." > 179 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007 Donations Received 2007 Acknowledged below are donations (€10 and over) received from readers and organisations up to 30th November 2007. We would also like to thank all those who wished to remain anonymous.

Ahearne, Bridie, Youghal Cross, Carl, Blackrock, Dublin Aherne, Joan (Murphy), Clondalkin, Dublin Crossman, Breda (McCarthy), London E4 Allen, Vincent, Edenderry Crowley, Maura (Butler), Ballyneale, Co. Tipp Anglim, Monica (Woodlock), New Jersey USA Cummins, Gus, Peterborough Arkell, Joan (O’Donnell), Warwick Cummins, Joan (Sayers), Cashel Armstrong, Monica (Dwyer), Northampton Cummins, Liam, Clonmel Aylward, Mrs. Mary, Bray Cummins, Michael, Yorkshire Aylward, Tony & Paula, Naas Cummins, Mrs. R., Hemel Hempstead, UK Barnes, Frances (O’Halloran), Kent, Curran, Timmy, Welwyn Garden City, UK Barrett, Angela (McCarthy), Ardfinnan Curtin, Jacqueline (Moloney), Stillorgan Barrett, Richard, Dublin Dalton, Aine (Tierney), Oakland, California Barry, Fr. Michael, Borrisoleigh Dalton, Claire (Morrissey), London NW10 Barry, Michael, Kilkenny Dalton, Michael, Howard Beach, NY Barry, Rose (Ryan), Lismore Danaher, Mary, Fethard Beavis, Pat (Finn), Herts., England Darcy, Mr & Mrs Phil, Kent, England Boulton, Valerie, Bristol, UK Davern, Honor (Mulligan), Cashel Bradley, Teresa (Fogarty), West Sussex, Davey, Catherine (O’Connor), Penzance, Cornwall Bradshaw, Mattie, Ardfinnan Davin Haran, Mrs Lois, New York Bramley, Anna (Skehan), New South Wales Dawson, Sheila (Cummins), Solihull, West Midlands Brett, Teresa (Leahy), Kilfeacle Delahunty, Steve & Kathy, Novato, USA Browne, Nora (Ryan), Rathdowney Delaney, Catherine (Bergin), Nottingham, UK Burke, Eamonn & Nora, Tralee, Co. Kerry Delguidice, Mick & Peggy (Bedford), London Burke, Joanne, Dublin Devlin, Rainy (Healy), Toledo, Ohio, USA Burke, Mary, Thurles Dixon, Patrick, Enniscorthy Burke, Richard, Monagarriff, Clonmel. Dodman, Gemma (Walsh), Eastbourne, UK Burke’s Bridge Bar, Fethard Doheny, Marion (Fitzgerald), Ealing, London Butler, Mike, Limerick City Douglas, Patsy (Quinlan), Sweden Byard, Dr. Donal, Cincinnati, USA Downes, Mary, Cahir Byrne Healy, Peg, New Jersey Duffy, Katherine, Batley, West Yorkshire Byrne, John, Ballincollig, Cork Dunphy, Deborah (Guiry), Dunhill, Co. Waterford Byrne, Michael, Wellington, New Zealand Dwyer, Geraldine (Fitzgerald), Newmarket-on-Fergus Byrnes, George, Texas, USA Everard, Leonie, NSW, Australia Cahill, Michael, New York Everard, Richard, Holland Caraher, Pat, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan. Fahy, Brigid (O’Dwyer), New York Carey, Johnny, The Green, Fethard Fennell, Kathleen, Middlesex Carroll, Brendan (Morrissey), Isle of Anglesey Fergus, Helen, Monaghan Town Casey, Fionnuala (Murray), Cork Fethard & Killusty Community Council Casey, Michael, Blackrock, Dublin Fethard Ballroom Casey, Rosemarie, Wimbledon, London Fethard Boy Scouts Clark, Rita, San Mateo USA Fethard Bridge Club Clear, Margaret (Gough), California USA Fethard Community Employment Scheme Coady, Johnie & Mary, Dorset, England. Fethard Community Games Coffey, Marie, Leeds, England Fethard Country Markets Collins, Olivia (Schofield), Templemore Fethard Folk Museum & Car Boot Sale Colville, Anthony, Essex, England Fethard GAA Club Colville, Tony & Maeve (O’Shea), Tullamore Fethard Girl Guides Comerford, Esther (Nevin), Kilkenny Fethard Historical Society Connolly, Sean, Kilsheelan Fethard ICA Connolly, Thomas, Essex UK Fethard Legion of Mary Cord, J., Sussx, England Fethard Sports Centre Crane, Tom, Illinois USA Fethard Tidy Towns

180 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

First Steps Playgroup, Fethard Leahy, Gerry, Kilkenny Fitzgerald-Ryan, Denis & Sheena, Middlesex Lee, John, Cork Fitzgerald, Con, Bradford Lonergan, Conor, Killiney, Dublin Fitzgerald, Jimmy, Fenit, Co. Kerry Lonergan, Thomas, Preston, UK Fitzgerald, Paddy, Wrexham UK Lonergan’s Bar and Restaurant, Fethard Fitzgerald, Patrick, Leicester UK Looby, John & Patricia (Halloran), Surrey Fitzpatrick, Jo Beatty, Long Island, NY Lovatt-Dolan, Elizabeth (Quirke), Dublin 14 Fitzpatrick, Thomas, Woodlawn, New York Lyons, Alice (McDonnell), Birkenhead Flanagan, Frank & Rita (Fitzgerald), Bristol UK MacDermid, Walt, Silver Spring, MD, USA Flanagan, Tony, London W5 Mackay, Ann (Murphy), Devon, England Flannery, James, Perrysburg, USA Mackey, Denise, London SW16 Flynn, Denis, Redhill, Surrey Maher, Bill, Dublin 6 Flynn, Mick, Bradford, England Maher, Geraldine, Kilkenny Flynn, Pat, West Yorkshire, England Mallon, Nuala (Kenny), Sandymount, Dublin 4 Fogarty, John & Veronica, Redcity, Fethard Mann, Bridget (Sheehan), London E6 Fox, Andy, Thurles Mannion, Cathryn (Byrne), Athlone Frewen, Willie, Fenor, Co. Waterford Marshall, Frank, Kilkenny Gibson, Mrs M., Tullaroan, Co. Kilkenny Marshall, Tom & Patricia, Portlaoise Gluck, Kathleen (Morrissey), Isle of Wight Martin, Lucy (Wyatt), Berkeley Lake, Georgia Greene, Laura (Cummins), Clonmel Martley, Sr. Margaret, Cork Griffin, Ena, Herts AL7 England McCahery, Monica (Kearney), Manchester Halley, John, Dublin 16 McCarthy, Don, Leixlip, Kildare Hanlon, Mary (Ryan), Dalky, Dublin McCarthy, Kitty, Main Street, Fethard Hannigan, Dorothea (Schofield), Cashel McCarthy, Tony, Clonmel Hanrahan, Alice (Phelan), London W4 McCarthy’s Hotel, Fethard Harkin, Jennifer (Cummins), Old Leighlin McCormack Sheridan, Eileen, Naas, Co. Kildare Harrington, Maurice, Cheshire, UK McCormack-Herkommer, Lorraine, Germany Hayes, Canon Matthew, Bath, UK McCormack, Fergus, Copenhagen, Denmark Hayes, Pat & Mary (Anglim), Queensland McCormack, Thomas, Gwynedd, Wales Hayes, Willie, Roscrea McLean, Arthur, Thompson, USA Heffernan, Austin, Wellford, N.Z. McNulty, Mary (Maher), Bedford, UK Heffernan, Larry & Inger, Oslo, Norway Meagher, Bridie (Phelan) RIP, Birmingham Heffernan, Michael, Richmond, USA Meaney, James J., London SW19 Henehan, Paddy, Dublin 20 Meaney, Michael, Ipswich, UK Hennessy, Paddy and Mary (Smith), Middlesex Meehan, Mrs Ellen, Oklahoma, USA Hetterley, David & Frances (Kenrick), Hereford Millett, Augustine, West Norwood, London Holloway PP, Fr. James, Pallasgreen Mohan, Breda (O’Donnell), Surrey, England Howard, John & June, New York Moloney, Patrick F., Bucks. UK Howes, David, Hampshire, UK Moloney, Tom, Northampton UK Hunt, Maureen (Mackey), Staffordshire, UK Mooney, Anna (Skehan), Belfast Jakeman, Rodney, Cheshire UK Moore, Mary (Gorey), Drogheda Johnson, Dr. Brian & Joan (Carey), USA Moran, Bro. James, Abbeyleix, Co. Laois Kane, Dermot, Dublin 8 Morrissey Owen, Brigid, Warwickshire, UK Kavanagh, Rena (Keyes), Waterford Morrissey, Billy, Herts. UK Keane, Joe, Portlaoise Morrissey, J. J., Tralee, Co. Kerry Keane, John, Tullamore Morrissey, Mamie (Murphy), Fethard Kelly, Lydia, Fermoy, Cork Morrissey, Mary, London N19 Kennedy, Fr. A.B., Portumna Morrissey, Patsy, Swords, Co Dublin Kenny, Carol & Billy, The Green, Fethard Morrissey, Pauline (Sheehan), Fethard Kenny, Larry & Rosena, Centra, Fethard Morrissey, Shaun, Kenny, Maura (Stokes), Dublin 6 Morrissey, Teresa (McCarthy), Ballymacarby Kenrick, John, Cashel Mulligan, Declan, San Francisco Kerr, Colleen, Ontario, Canada Mullins, Denis, New Jersey Kevin OSU, Sr. Monica, New York Mullins, Paul, London Kidd, Ethel (Whyte), Waterford Mullins, Vincent, North Yorks UK Killusty Soccer Club Murphy, Muriel (Mullins), New Ross Knight, Mai, Wantage, UK Murphy, Patrick, Braintree, Essex UK

181 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Nagle, Anastasia (Kelly), Bansha Ryan, John (Boxer), Kilsheelan Neville, Michael, Cork Ryan, Majella (Neville), Ballinure, Thurles Neville, Roger, Tullamore Ryan, Mary (Murphy), Cashel Neville, Seamus, Tramore Ryan, Michael J., St. Albans, Herts UK Nevin, Gerry, New York Ryan, Michael, Monasterevin Newport, Tony and Mary, Congress Terrace, Fethard Ryan, Noel, Surrey UK Nichols, Betty (Dineen), Warwick UK Ryan, Philip, Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow O’Brien OSU, Sr. Philomena, Blue Point, N.Y. Sgarlata, Patricia (Sheehan), Loudonville, NY O’Brien, Cathy, New York Shannon, Tony, Leeds, UK O’Brien, Margaret (Butler), Limerick Sharkey, Neil, Galway O’Brien, Mary (Kenrick), Limerick Sheehan, Patrick, London N17 O’Carroll, Lila, California Shine, Nessa (O’Donovan), London E7 O’Connell, Gabrielle (Hayes), Waterford Skehan CSsR, Rev. William, Philippines O’Connell, Katie, West Yorkshire, UK Skehan, Nicholas, Dublin O’Connell, Peg (Darcy), Basildon, Essex Slattery, William, Mitchelstown O’Connor OSA, Fr. John, Dungarvan Squires, May (O’Dwyer), Essex O’Connor, Mary, Westport, Co. Mayo Stapleton, Martin & Rita (O’Grady), Dublin 7 O'Donnell, James, Tuckhoe, New York Staunton, Rena (Stokes), London NW1 O’Donnell, Anna (Mackey), Niles, Illinois Sweeney, Carol (Delahunty), Westminster, USA O’Donnell, Jim & Betty (O’Sullivan), Minnesota, USA Szwarc, Agnes (Culligan), Kent UK O’Donnell, Jimmy, Dublin 16 Taylor Family, Saucestown, Fethard O’Donnell, Joe, Clonmel Tingley, Ellen (Culligan), Seven Oaks, Kent, UK O’Donnell, Mary (O’Meara), Ontario, Canada Tobin, Michael, Oak Lawn, USA O’Donnell, Michael, London N4 Tobin, Patrick & Ellen (Walsh), Clonmel O’Donnell, Tony, Dublin 9 Torpey, Kitty (Strappe), Cambridge O’Donovan, Gabrielle (Mackey), Tullow Road Carlow Totonchi, Louise (Kenrick), Illinois O’Dwyer, Chris and John, Strylea, Fethard Trehy - Halliday, Max, Sydney O’Flynn, Peggy, Ballincollig Tumpane, Breeda (Lucey), Naas O’Gorman, Paddy, Woking, Surrey. Voss, Eleanor (Morrissey), Surrey UK O’Hanrahan, Patrick, London W9 Wade-Palmer, Eileen (Doherty), Hampshire O’Hara, Catherine, Oxford, England. Wade, Monica (Lonergan), Cashel O’Hare, Patricia (Murphy), Limerick Waldron, Paul & Joan (Quinlan), Clonmel O’Keeffe, Larry & Helen (Cummins), Clonmel Walsh OSA, Fr. Joseph, Victoria, Australia O’Kennedy, Peggy, Waterford Walsh, Anne (Kenrick), Glenageary, Co Dublin O’Mara, Jimmy, New York Walsh, Gerard, Ontario, Canada O'Neill PP, Rt. Rev. Msgr. William, Savannah, USA Walsh, Mary (Fahy), Portlaw O’Neill, Hal, Cork Walsh, Pat, Leeds UK O’Reilly, Rita (Walsh), Dunadry, Co. Antrim Walsh, Pat, NSW Australia O’Rourke, Paddy, Dublin 6W Walsh, Tony, Ormskirk O’Sullivan, Brian & Edith, Ayr, Scotland Warren, Susan, Omaha USA O’Sullivan, Michael, Rathvin, Fethard Whelan, Anne (Schofield), Parkinson, Teresa (Hickey), Lancashire UK Whelan, Jimmy & Susan, Preston Pereira, Geraldine (White), Madeira, Portugal Whelan, Paddy, London SE13 Pond, Mrs P., Kent UK White, Eileen, Drangan Power, Ned, Wolverhampton UK Whyte, Michael, Leicestershire UK Purcell, Tom, Burke Street, Fethard Wilkins, Christine (Sayers), Taghmon, Co. Wexford Quirke, Joe & Hayley, Masterton, New Zealand Woodlock, Michael, Flancare, Clonmel Reeves, Maureen (Fogarty), Shrewley, UK Woodlock, Vincent, Fethard Robinson, Bridget (Smith), Dundalk Woodward, Sheila Aline, Warkickshire UK Roche, Peggy (Kenny), Thurles Wyatt, Frank, North Carolina, USA Russell, Rita (Leahy), Carrick-on-Suir Wyatt, Kathryn, Lausanne, Switzerland Ryan (Jnr), Mattie, Buffana, Killenaule Wyatt, Kevin, Phoenix, Arizona Ryan, Breda (Grant), Golden Wyatt, Paul, California USA Ryan, Donal, Kentucky, USA 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. 182 2007 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER

Group photographed at the Patrician Presentation Secondary School Class Reunion of 1980/1981 at the Fethard Arms on Friday 29th December 2006.

Some of the large group of children and adults that turned out for the Annual Christmas Carols on the streets of Fethard in aid of the CRC 'Santa Bear Appeal' on Thursday 21st December 2006.

Patrick Keating who died in London on 12th November 2006. Patrick was originally from Cashel Road and is buried in Kilbride, Callan.

183 FETHARD & KILLUSTY NEWSLETTER 2007

Members of Fethard Foróige Club photographed with leaders at their meeting on Friday 27th April 2007 before heading off for a trip to the cinema in Clonmel. The club hold their meetings every Friday evening in the ICA Hall from 7pm to 8.30pm.

Fethard Under-14 team, South Champions, photographed after beating St. Mary's 1-9 to 0-5 in the Under-14 South Hurling Final played in Clonmel on Monday 3rd September 2007. Congratulations to Fethard’s Under- 14 hurlers who put on a terrific performance against a physically stronger St. Mary’s side to win the South Final before a large attendance at Clonmel Óg GAA field. After a slow scoring start the team finally settled and com- manded the field in almost every area with some great individual displays of hurling. The final score was 1-9 to 0-5 and it was a particular proud day for Paddy Lawrence, who had three of his grandchildren on the team, Alan (captain), Garreth, and his great grandchild Dean Butler. 184 St. Patrick’s Boys National School Sixth Class 2007 L to R: Gary Bradshaw, Paul Norrby, Brian Healy, Adam Hall, Gerard Gorey, Kevin Shine and Colin Grant.

Long time foot-follower of Tipperary Foxhounds, Tony Newport, photographed above on his pony 'Minnie Gray' outside Lander's shop on Main Street while waiting for the off at the opening meet of the Tipps in 1937. Tony is also over sixty years a follower and supporter of t5he local foot pack, The White Heather Harriers', of which he is current chairman. Tony is also 50 years hunting correspondent with the Nationalist. Seventy not out, Tony says he intends to keep going as long as the old legs will carry him. National Heritage Day Festival in Fethard 26th August 2007

ISSN 1393-2721