From Tuam’s bell to its family bakers — stories of the past ready to be explored
Launch takes place this Saturday
THE Old Tuam Society will launch its 22nd edition of the Journal of the Old Tuam Society (JOTS) this weekend.
This year's edition presents a rich and diverse collection of articles spanning centuries of Tuam's history, from the town's iconic landmarks to the family businesses and individuals who shaped the community.
Among the highlights is Seamus Kenny's exploration of the Tuam Steam Motor Scheme of 1903, when this innovative but ill-fated venture briefly brought mechanised travel to north Galway roads at the turn of the 20th century.
Peter Ryan delivers a wonderful family history of the Lydon family from Ballygaddy Road, who were generational bakers of renown, while 'Echoes of the Phoenix 1966–1970' by Mary Burke captures memories of music and 'hops' which are still vivid for many readers.
Barbara Barclay presents comprehensive research on the iconic Tuam Chair, a distinctive three-legged design crafted in the area for well over a century and now featured in the National Museum of Ireland's collection.
Other articles include Declan Maher's exploration of Tuam's clock and bell and Maurice Laheen continues his articles on the history of Shop Street businesses with a history of Heyworth’s Calendars. Readers will enjoy Noel Carney reminiscences along the old River Clare, Rosaleen O'Connor’s fascinating account of Rishworth’s Match Factory in Tuam, and Brendan Whyte writes about The Nolans of Ballinderry.
The edition also features contributions on the removal of the High Cross of Tuam, the Egan Family Photo Album, the Western Rail Corridor, CIÉ workers and the evolution of the coat of arms of the United Diocese of Tuam, Limerick and Killaloe.
This year's cover features Dr Tony Claffey, a remarkable scholar and gentleman whose deep knowledge of Tuam's history was freely shared with all. David Burke shares a wonderful tribute to Tony, whose passing is a reminder of the importance of preserving community memory.
Speaking about the new edition, the Editor Brendan Higgins said: “The Journal of the Old Tuam Society serves as our community’s permanent record, but we can only preserve what is shared with us. This 22nd edition demonstrates the extraordinary depth of knowledge within our community, from nationally significant events to intimate family histories. The society continues to welcome contributions from the public. Photographs, recollections, family documents and artefacts are always needed to ensure that the knowledge and memories of previous generations are not lost.”
The launch takes place at this Saturday, November 22 at 2.30 pm at Tuam Library by long-time contributor Kevin O’Dwyer. Kevin has also written an article on Sun Street recording studios run by Kenny Ralph.
Copies of JOTS22 will be available for purchase on the day for €15 and afterwards at Sharkey's Spar, Bishop Street; Supervalu, Bishop Street; Quinn's Confectionery, Bishop Street; and O'Brien's Newsagents, William Street, Galway.
Shipping is also available in Ireland and to international destinations.