John Flannery, Ormond Historical Society and Tipperary in the Decade of Revolution, speaking at a Civil War tour of Nenagh. Photo: Bridget Delaney

‘Sean Gaynor: Life in Revolution and Beyond’

Lorrha Dorrha Archaeological & Historical Society’s next talk of our 2026 series is on Friday, March 6, at 8pm. ‘Sean Gaynor: Life in Revolution and Beyond’ will be given by well-known Nenagh historian John Flannery. This presentation will examine how Gaynor rose to prominence within the North Tipperary Brigade of the IRA during the War of Independence. It will examine his leadership role during the period and events he was involved in – the Coolboreen and Modreeny Ambushes.

It will also look at his involvement in the Truce period and the descent into Civil War, the capture of Crinkle Barracks by the Tipperary IRA, and the part played by them in events in Mullingar, Gaynor’s involvement on the Anti-Treaty side and his rise to Divisional Commander of the Third Southern Division, events at Dolla and Foilduff, his capture in 1923, along with Stack and Todd Andrews, while attempting to meet up with members of the IRA executive for discussions on ending the Civil War.

The talk will also look at Gaynor’s life following the Civil War, his role during the Emergency, 1939-45, and his efforts to settle into civilian life and raise his family. Also, his time in local politics as a Fianna Fáil member of the North Tipperary County Council

This comprehensive examination of Sean Gaynor's life is a talk not to be missed.

Date: Friday, March 6. Time: 8pm. Venue: The Shed at The Friar's Tavern, Lorrha, E45 V651. Entry: €5. No booking required.