Launch of fourth Silvermines history book
Acclaimed author Donal Ryan’s marvellous sense of place takes a new twist this Friday, November 6th, when he returns to part of his own roots as guest of the Silvermines Historical Society to launch the fourth volume of the Society’s annual journal, ‘Mining the Past’.
The multi award winning novelist, short story writer and Booker nominee, who has just published his latest work, ‘A Slanting of the Sun’ to enthusiastic reviews, has many connections with the parish, particularly with Kilmore and Boultheeny where his maternal grandfather, the late Bernard Sheary of Kilmastulla, was born.
Mr Ryan is currently writer in residence at the University of Limerick.
Mining the Past 2015/16 is once again a veritable treasure chest of local history, lore and verse, with an interesting sprinkling of old photographs from the society’s archives. Contributions have come from near and far, including Australia, the US and Britain, and contain some new and significant insights into the history, people and places of Silvermines district.
Fans of the great 20th century American writer Flannery O’Connor will be intrigued to learn of her indirect connection with Silvermines through the man she was named after, Captain John Flannery, a hero of the confederate army in the American civil war. Birdhill man David Gleeson, Professor of American History at the University of Northumbria tells the fascinating story.
The impact of agrarian reform in Kilmore civil parish between 1870 and 1911 is recounted by local genealogist Nora Gleeson O’Meara, while Anthony Collins writes about his father’s memories of working in Kilboy in the 1920s. Michael O’Brien recalls the suspension in 1953 of the Silvermines hurling club from all GAA activities by the man who, ironically, was later to become parish priest and president of the club.
This is just a small sample to whet the appetite from a collection of nearly 40 articles and interviews that make up this year’s journal. Printed by Guardian Print & Design and produced by a society that was founded only four years ago, and which has grown from strength to strength since, it should prove a welcome addition to any collection of Silvermines memorabilia.
The launch of the book takes place at 8pm on Friday, November 6th, at the Eagle’s Nest in Dolla.
'Mining the Past 2015/16' is priced at just €10, with a special deal on launch night of five books for €40. It would make an ideal gift for friends or family at home or abroad. Refreshments will be served afterwards and everyone is welcome. The event is usually a great night for meeting old friends and acquaintances.