William Henry is a historian and author from Galway City. His first children's book is called Tír na nÓg: A New Adventure
He has also written many other books about Irish history. BestBooksCast did an itnerview with him, which is on booKCast (old format) Episode #8, but which we are going to publish again once the new BestBooksCast starts.
Here's the bio he sent us:
William Henry Profile
William Henry is a local historian, archaeologist and author from Galway City. He is a committee member of the Galway Archaeological & Historical Society and a former committee member of the Old Galway Society. He is also a former director of Galway Civic Trust. He was the Mayor’s Award Winner for Heritage, Environment & Conservation for 2007. Over the years he has written ten books and twelve booklets, and was co-author in another book. He has also written many articles for local magazines and journals and he has also been a contributor to a number of other books. He lectures to various groups on the history and archaeology of Galway and at one time gave the evening course on the subject at the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology. He has also worked on a number of archaeological digs throughout Galway city and county. Some of his work has led to the discovery of a number archaeological monuments and artifacts, including the remains of an Early Christian Church at St. Clerans, Craughwell, County Galway. The following is a profile on his work to-date:
(1) The Shimmering Waste, The Life and Times of Robert O’Hara Burke: On 15 November 1997, William Henry published his first book. It was a biography of the renowned Australian explorer Robert O’Hara Burke who led the famous Victorian Exploring Expedition of August 1860. It was the first expedition to successfully cross the Australian continent from south to north, from Melbourne to the Gulf of Carpentaria. Burke split his expedition in order to take a smaller group across the continent, leaving a base camp at Copper’s Creek to await his return. However, the crossing of the continent took longer than expected and the base camp left on the return journey to Melbourne on the morning of 21 April 1861. Burke and his group arrived at Cooper’s Creek that evening missing their salvation by just nine hours. He died in July 1861 after a series of unfortunate mishaps which left him and three members of the expedition trapped on Coopers Creek. It is a tragic but true story of courage and death in the Australian Outback. During his research, William Henry became aware of connection between the Burke family of St. Clerans, Craughwell, County Galway and the former British Prime Minister, Neville Chamberlain. William contacted Neville Chamberlain’s grandson Francis Chamberlain, regarding the book, and he immediately became interested in the project. Together with his aunt, the Viscountess Selby of Argyll, Scotland, they allowed William access to the personal family documents and records. Francis Chamberlain subsequently unveiled a plaque to Robert O’Hara Burke at Dominick Street, Galway and launched The Shimmering Waste in the Aula Maxima, University College Galway on 15 November 1997.
(2) St. Clerans, The Tale of a Manor House: Following the publication of the The Shimmering Waste, the American entrepreneur, Merv Griffin, contacted William Henry with a view to writing a book on the history of the St. Clerans Manor House near Craughwell, which he had just purchased. He was having the house restored and renovated as a luxury hotel and named each of the twelve suites after various Irish historical figures. He also requested twelve booklets on these historical figures, one for each suite. St. Clerans, The Tale of a Manor House informs the reader of the history, archaeology and also the very important folklore attached to this old house. The manor house at St. Clerans was designed by Sir Richard Morrison and built between 1784 and 1811. This neo-classical style of architecture arrived in Ireland in the mid-eighteenth century. The popularity of this style was partly influenced by excavations of Greek tramples, and the discovery of decorative frescoes at Herculaneum and Pompii. Much of the historical material contained in this book has not been previously published and a number of otherwise unknown archaeological monuments are mentioned, including the remains of a very important Early Christian church, adding to the importance of this work. The initial planning and meetings for the publication of the book and booklets listed below all took place in the Great Southern Hotel, where Merv Griffin’s people were staying at the time. This book was launched on 11 September 2001 by Tom Kenny of Kenny Books & Art Gallery.
(2A) Historical Mini-Series: This series of booklets included: The Chamberlain Family Connection with St. Clerans, The Eyre Family Connection with Galway, An Old Irish Clan Mac Donagh, Griffin in History and Mythology, John Huston and St. Clerans, The James Joyce Story and his Galway Connection, The O’ Hara Family connection with St. Clerans, William Butler Yates Ireland’s Greatest Poet, The Burke Family of St. Clerans, Robinson, Son of Robin, An Ancient Distinguished Irish Surname O'Draigneain (Thornton), and Youthful Days at St. Clerans.
(3) Role of Honour; Mayors of Galway 1485 – 2001: This was a major book written for Galway City Council, under the guidance of Galway City Manager, John Tierney, who also wrote the preface for this magnificent book. This book began life as a simple list of all the Mayors of Galway since 1485. However, at a meeting with officials of Galway City Council in August 2000 the possibility of publishing a book on the subject was discussed. The idea was warmly embraced by all, and William Henry was encouraged to broaden the subject matter so that it covered not only the history of the Mayoralty but also the history of Galway City and the Corporation. One will find a wealth of information in this book tracing the tribal mayors, cromwellian mayors, penal period mayors and the modern mayors. In his preface, John Tierney said of the author: ‘Having met William Henry on a number of occasions over the past year to discuss progress on the book, I could only marvel at his commitment and enthusiasm for the project. His perseverance, his research and tremendous attention to detail has ensured that this book will be a treasured possession not only for the many people associated with the Mayoralty and those interested in the history of the city but also for many of the general public.’ This book has been widely acclaimed as one of the best local histories written to date, and it graces many important libraries throughout the world, including the White House. It acts a presentation piece for visiting dignitaries and heads of state. Because of this work, William Henry has been equated with two of Galway’s most eminent historians, Roderick O’Flaherty (1684) and James Hardiman (1820). The book was launched by Mayor of Galway, Councillor Val Hanley in City Hall on 4 November 2002. Following its publication, William Henry was given reception in the council chambers, where the Mayor of Galway, Councillor Val Hanley, representing the people, and City Manager, John Tierney, representing the council, thanked and made a presentation to him for his immense contribution to the heritage of Galway.
(4) The Lynch Family of Galway: This was a privately published book for Dr. Aleida Guevara, daughter of the famous revolutionary Che Guevara, whose mother was descended from the Lynch family of Galway. This family are one of the most noted tribal families of Galway. William was contacted by members of the Cuban delegation prior to her visit and asked if he would compile a private book for Ms. Guevara. Her visit to Galway was part of her countrywide tour in 2002. She spoke to packed houses and various venues, including a press conference held in the Great Southern Hotel. It was there that William Henry presented her with the book. He was also requested to show her around Galway, which he did taking her to the Lynch Memorial Window in Lombard Street. They were also made welcome in Lynch’s Castle by the Manager, before being invited to Cuba in Prospect Hill for a meal. That night she spoke to a packed Town Hall, where she publicly thanked William Henry for his kindness and support. He was later presented with a signed image of Che Guevara.
(5) The History of Mervue 1955 -2003: This book covers the ancient history of the Mervue area and also the modern history. The subjects include the religious, educational and sports histories of Mervue, as well as individual achievements etc. The bonus in working on this publication was the sheer amount of new information and photographs that was made available to the author. All doors were open to the compiler and nothing was a problem when interviewing or collecting information, which indicates the strong sense of community amongst the Mervue people. The book was launched by Mayor of Galway, Councillor Terry O’ Flaherty on 20 June 2003. This book sold out in one week.
(6) Galway Arms Golfing Society: A History: This book contains a history of the oldest Pub Golfing Society in Ireland. The book full of personalities from the local golfing world. It contains a brief history of golf and its introduction to Galway. It is also a record of the society’s achievements, prize-winners, past presidents and captains, many of which were lost to history. It was launched in 22 October 2003 by the renowned historian, Donal Taheny.
(7) Fields of Slaughter The Battle of Knockdoe 1504: This book is well-researched and illustrated covering profiles of the main personalities involved in the famous battle. Profiles of the armies with a special mention of the Gallowglass, the famous axe-men of the period. The causes, aftermath and the folklore associated with the battle are also included in this unique book, the first to be written on this bloody encounter. The book was produced to commemorate the 500th Anniversary of the famous battle. On 19 August 1504, this major encounter took place at Knockdoe about eight miles northeast of Galway City. The great protagonists in this encounter were Gerald Fitzgerald, Earl of Kildare and Ulick Burke of Clanrickard. Both men could trace their ancestry to the powerful Norman families of Fitzgerald and de Burgo, who had arrived in Ireland with the twelfth century Norman invasion. The Norman conquest of Ireland was never really completed and over the following centuries many of them had become gaelicised. The de Burgo family became known as the Burkes and by the sixteenth century had allied themselves with many Gaelic clans. The Earl of Kildare also had many allies among the Irish. There was also the continuing feuding between the various Irish clans, which by 1504 was about to explode. Knockdoe saw Anglo-Irish, native Irish and Gallowglass on both sides of the battlefield. The battle is famous for many reasons, the use of the Gallowglass, introduction of guns in Irish battles for the first time and it signalled the death of Gaelic Ireland. The book was launched be a descendant of Ulick Burke, W.A. Miailhe de Burgh on 19 August 2004
(8) Supreme Sacrifice The Story of Éamonn Ceannt 1881-1916: William Henry’s biography on the Irish Rebellion leader, Éamonn Ceannt has proved a tremendous success. At first glance, Éamonn Ceannt seemed to be the most elusive of the 1916 Rebellion leaders, but through intensive research an extremely clear picture of Ceannt emerged. The book is the subject of an individual about whom no previous book has been written. In fact very little has been published about Éamonn Ceannt, even in specialist books regarding the 1916 Rebellion and Irish Nationalism. The book also covers his very important contribution to the Irish language, music and dance and the author has made use of some very important previously unpublished archival material. This very important material was made available by members of the Ceannt family and includes various private diaries, letters, documents and most importantly, his wife’s journals, which leads one through those crucial years in Irish history from 1905 – 1922 in a very personal manner. Other important sources included the archives of the National Library of Ireland; RTE archival interviews with survivors of the 1916 Rebellion; archives of the Allen Library and many other libraries and institutions. The Irish Republican Brotherhood Military Council meetings were held at the Ceannt home at Dolphin’s Barn, Dublin, which has also been identified for the first time since the 1920s. His court-martial and subsequent execution is dealt with in an incredible personal manner again through his wife’s and his brother’s diaries. Mercier Press, Cork published the book. It was launched at four different venues, the first being the Great Southern Hotel on 22 July 2005. Minister Eamonn O’Cuiv did the honours at this venue. It was also launched on 2 September 2005 by the Irish military authorities in Ceannt Barracks, Curragh by Colonel Con McNamara. A very successful launce also took place in Kilmainham Jail on 4 November 2005 when David Ceannt did the honours. The last launch took place on 25 November 2006 in Ballymoe, the birthplace of Eamonn Ceannt. Councilor Michael Mullins, Mayor of County Galway launched the book at this venue. Since its publication, William Henry has been requested to speak at various venues throughout the country. Dublin City Council requested him as one of their speakers on the 90th Anniversary of the Easter Rebellion. The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Catherine Byrne unveiled a plaque to commemorating Eamonn Ceannt on 18 May 2006 at 16 Castle Street following a function in Dublin City Hall. William Henry was also invited to speak before a group of Ulster Unionists, as part of a cross-border reconciliation programme. This proved extremely successful and he was congratulated on having the best-attended lecture in the 1916 series. At the moment a screen-play based on his book is being written.
(9) Galway and the Great War: This is the first of two books on the subject of the Great War. This first book is written in two sections, the first dealing with the outbreak of the conflict, and Galway’s involvement. The chapters in this section explore the various effects that the war had on Galway under the following categories: Mobilisation, Recruiting, Conscription & Home Rule, Opposition, Rumours & Suspicion, Sea War, War Industry, Support and Aftermath. Each chapter covers its particular topic from 1914 until 1918. This story could reflect any town or village in Ireland. The effects that the war had on Galway, is in a sense a forgotten, or even a hidden history. Very little has been written on the subject from a Galway perspective and while there are accounts of the Easter Rebellion and indeed other events that took place during this period, the war is, for one reason or another ignored. Because of this the author has had to relay mainly on contemporary newspaper accounts. The second section of the book contains a brief account of the main battles and campaigns in which Galwaymen fought. The book concludes with an appendix of monuments, memorials and mementoes associated with the Great War. This book gives an extremely good account of the horrors of trench warfare and appalling casualties. Many of the wounded died in no-man’s land awaiting medical attention. The war cemeteries bear testament to the shocking death toll, but thousands of others were literally ‘blown to pieces,’ thus no remains could be found for burial. These men are remembered on the various war memorials spread across the Western Front. The battlefields of World War I have become infamous, and names such as the Somme, Ypres and Gallipoli can still strike terror in those with a knowledge of the conflict. Europe was no stranger to war in 1914, as it has a bloody history stretching back centuries, but the slaughter of the Great War had never been witnessed before, or indeed since. This book was launched on 30 November 2006 in Monroe’s Tavern, Domnick Street by Lieutenant- Colonel Eamonn Cololough O.C. Renmore Barracks. It was ground-breaking book from an Irish Context. This book proved an immediate success and went into second edition in March 2007. It received book of the week from the Irish Independent and the Daly Mail, receiving four stars.
(10) Forgotten Heroes; Galway Soldiers of the Great War: This is the author’s second book on the subject of the Great War of 1914 – 1918. This book will complete a very important record of photographic profiles of the Galwaymen who fought and died. However, its only a fraction of what has been lost or discarded over the years. The book also includes a Role of Honour, i.e., a list of the Galway soldiers who lost their lives during the war. The records explored for this book included Commonwealth War Graves Commission; Soldiers Killed in the Great War CD; Great Way Memorial Books; Military Records. A complete investigation of the contemporary newspapers, which included The Connacht Tribune, The Galway Express, The Tuam Herald and the East Galway Democrat were all explored for the years between 1914 and 1918. This painstaking research took some three years to complete. Appeals were also made through the media for members of the public to come forward with any personal documents and uniformed photographs of family members who had fought in the war. The horrendous casualties, and age of some soldiers, leaves one numb with shock and disbelief. Most sources indicate that between 112,000 and 150,000 Irishmen fought in the war. However, this is a conservative estimate, the true figure may never be known, but it is likely that it could have been as high as 300,000. The larger numbers would seem more realistic given that almost 50,000 Irishmen never returned, may God have mercy on their souls. This book was launched on 20 September 2007 by Councillor Tom Costello, Mayor of Galway City. As with his first book on the subject, this book was also extremely well received by the public.
(11) Galway’s Great War Memorial Book 1914 – 1918: Co-author’s William Henry & Jacquline O’Brien. This book was published on 3 November 2007 by Galway City Council and Galway County Council. The book contains an introduction to the Great War and the Roll of Honour of Galway servicemen who died in the Great War. It is very important limited edition and was not on general sale.
(12) Tir na nÓg; The New Adventure is a book with a totally new concept of the Celtic legend of Tir na nÓg and Niamh and Oisin. It is aimed at children between nine and fifteen years old. However, it is also a good book for people with an interest in Irish mythology, legends and folklore and of course the general public with an interest in the story of mysterious islands. According to folklore this island can be seen once ever seven years, and for centuries men have tried to reach its magical shores, but have always failed. Some call it Atlantis, others call it Hy-Brasil, after an ancient chieftain whose daughter, Gaillimh, was drowned in the river at Galway hundreds of years ago. However, most call it Tir na n-Og, the Land of Eternal Youth where time has always stood still. This is a magical island of dreams, the dream of eternal youth, sought by people since the beginning of time. For centuries, Naimh kept vigil over the ocean and wondered what had become of the great love of her life, Oisin. On the night before she sets out on her quest, she goes to highest point of the her island and there, while the waves rest themselves on the shore, she sings a spirit calling song out over the ocean to awaken the spirit of her beloved Oisin. This is a ceremony she has preformed many times over the centuries and sailors who have heard her song, believed that it was the sound of a mermaid and were enchanted, but like Tir na nÓg itself, it can never be traced.
The story includes three children from the Aran Islands who visit Tir na n-Og under the care of Princess Naimh. While in Tir na nÓg the children become prisoners of time and, it is because of their quest to return home that they meet other powerful Irish folklore characters. It becomes the story of the re-union of Oisin, the great warrior poet of the Fianna and Princess Naimh of Tir na n-Og. This re-union has never been recorded and the story is unique to the Irish folklore and tradition. The story of Tir na n-Og normally ends with the death of Oisin, but this book brings him back to life and returns him to Tir na n-Og. It the first time in the history of Irish folklore or legend the Oisin, the great warrior poet of the Fianna survives and is reunited with Princess Naimh of Tir na n-Og. It is also unique as it introduces the old chieftain Brasil and, gives him life and a personality. Another character from ancient times, Cian of the Tuatha de Danaan, plays a role in the story. Other mythical heroes that are brought to life include Manannan MacLir, the great Celtic guardian of the sea and, Janus, guardian of time and the gateway to other worlds. It is a story of adventure in Tir na n-Og, of passing back through centuries and visiting ancient Ireland, before finally returning to present times. The book was officially launched by James Harold, Galway City Arts Officer, in the Galway City Museum, on Saturday, 2 August 2008 at 2.30 pm. Councillor Padraig Conneely, Mayor of Galway City represented Galway City Council. Just prior to the launch, Niamh and Oisin returned to Galway, taking the three lost children to Galway City Museum where they will be reunited with their parents. Galway Early Music provided the costumes and musicians and a number of their members also took part in the event.
Profile of Events:
(A) Forgotten Galway Heroes of the Great War Show & Exhibition: (Organisers: William Henry & Jacquline O’Brien). On 20 October 2005 the show was held in the Town Hall, Galway. It was produced by William Henry & Jacqueline O’Brien, who has worked with the author from the very beginning of his writing career. The show proved a huge success, and played to a packed house. File footage from the Imperial War Museum with images of local men who fought in the war superimposed on the footage gave the audience a feeling of just how close the war was to Galway. Various guest speakers read poems and letters from soldiers at the front. The exhibition included weapons, uniforms and many other artefacts from the Great War were on display. It concluded with the singing of The Green Fields of France and the sounding of the Last Post.
(B) Ecumenical Remembrance Service: Remembering Galway People Who Died in the Great War. (Organisers: William Henry & Jacquline O’Brien). Venue: Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven & St. Nicholas (New Cathedral). Date: Saturday 3 November 2007. Time: 11.00 a.m. (Approximately one hour service). The Ecumenical Remembrance Service began with an Irish Army piper leading a procession, which included an Irish Army colour party; followed by the Sword and Mace borne before the Mayor of Galway City, Councillor Tom Costello and Galway City Councillors; followed by Councillor Sean Canney, Mayor of County Galway and Galway County Councillors; and Civic Officials. The Irish Flag is mounted in the Sanctuary. The second procession was led by a Cross bearer; children carrying (Galway’s Great War Memorial Books 1914 - 1918) related to soldiers who were killed in the Great War; followed by clergy of various denominations, Church of Ireland (Patrick Towers); Methodist (Cloadah Yambasu); Catholic Church (Monsignor Sean Flaherty, Fr. Eamonn Monson, Fr. Alan Burke & The Most Rev Dr. Martin Drennan, Bishop of Galway. Both processions received an Honour Guard form the Irish Army as they proceeded up the main aisle of the Cathedral. Galway Youth Orchestra played "Nimrod" by Elgar as the second Procession proceeded towards the from the Sacristy. The Memorial Books were placed on a table before the High Altar. The Presiding Minister welcomes all; says a brief word of introduction and pronounces the Opening Collect. This is following by the Hymn: All people that on earth do dwell with organ accompaniment. The service with the sequence as follows:
Poem: Gethsemane. Jacqueline O'Brien.
Song: My Youngest Son Came Home Today. Don Stiff. (sung unaccompanied).
St. Patrick’s Band: Even Tide.
Letter: From Corporal John Walsh: Reader: Shane O’Brien (Great-grandnephew).
Poem: To my Darling Daughter Betty. Brian Smith.
(Readers approach the Sanctuary together).
St. Patrick’s Band: Fonn Sollunta (Solemn Air).
Song: The Green Fields of France. Donal Ward (sung unaccompanied).
Poem: An Irishman Foresees his death. Dicky Byrne.
Hymn: Make me a channel of your peace.
Scripture Readings: Ecclesiastics and St John’s Gospel
Prayers for Peace:
Prayer for Peace: Ger Silke.
Prayer for Irish Peacekeepers: Councillor Tom Costello, Mayor of Galway.
Prayer for Members of Irish Defense Forces: Army appointed Reader.
Prayer for the Bereaved: His Excellency, David Reddaway (British Ambassador).
Prayer for the Great War Dead: Sean Canney, Mayor of County Galway.
The Lord’s Prayer: Concluded by pronouncing the Closing Collect. Bishop of Galway Prayer.
The Exhortation: William Henry.
When The Exhortation concluded the Army Honour Guard took their place before the Altar. Irish Flag lowered and when all are in position the Last Post & Reveille was sounded by Peter Rabbitt.
One minute of Silence was observed. The Silence was broken by St. Patrick’s Band drummer.
Irish Army Officer lead the Honour Guard out of the Cathedral.
When complete: Galway Youth Orchestra: Performing Largo from the New Symphony, Dvorai. (Going Home).
Hymn: How Great Thou Art with organ accompaniment during which the Clergy exited the Sanctuary.
The Director of Operations was Eamonn Howley. The service was covered by RTE Nationwide and many members of the local and national media. The Cathedral was awash with the colour parties of the various regimental military and civil associations attending. The feedback from all who attended the event, individual, and organisations both military and civil was absolutely fantastic. The Ulster contingents were seriously impressed, so much so that some of them stated that for them, it was another step forward for the “peace process” given that the service was held in one of the finest Catholic Cathedral’s in Ireland. This combined with the overwhelming support of both the City and County Councils and the Irish Army gave them much to think and talk about. It was announced on the “air-waves” over the border that “Galway leads the way.” The following extract is from a letter written by a student of theology attending the event, it states: “The liturgy was the best I have ever attended anywhere, including Rome itself.” The complements were also extended to Galway City Council and Galway County Council and the Irish Army for the foresight in supporting this event and the associated projects. Congratulations were also received from the Garda, the University and the Irish Army. Brig.-General Padraic Callaghan, (GOC 4th Western Brigade) has extended his personal congratulations to all concerned and stated that it was the “finest service” that he ever attended. The Lieutenant of the Honour Guard stated the he has commanded Honour Guards for the President and other visiting Heads of State, and while he was proud of them, the Cathedral on Saturday was his proudest moment. Soldiers, both young and old wept; the outpouring of emotion was such in parts of the service. The service was followed by the unveiling of a memorial stone to all Galway soldiers and sailors who fought in the Great War.
(C) Great War 1914 – 1918 Stone Memorial: (Organisers: William Henry & Jacquline O’Brien). 3 November 2007. This memorial stone was erected to commemorate all Galway soldiers and sailors who served in the Great War 1914 – 1918. It was unveiled by Councillor Tom Costello, Mayor of Galway City and Councillor Sean Canney, Mayor of County Galway at County Hall, Prospect Hill, following the Ecumenical Remembrance Service, held in the New Cathedral. The Irish Army Honour Guard took their place before the memorial stone. Again the Last Post & Reveille was sounded by Peter Rabbitt. This was followed by a reception held in County Hall. William Henry and Jacqueline O’Brien first submitted the proposal for this monument in 2001. The overwhelming emotion felt in visiting the graves and memorials of the Great War caused William Henry to compose a poem of remembrance for the occasion, which is being translated into Irish, French and German. He feels humbled by the enormity of the tragedy and his work over the past number of years has now culminated with the planned publication of these books on the war. A monument dedicated to the memory of those who never came home, would in a sense be bringing home spiritually, all those who lost their lives on the bloody battlefields of the Great War.
Additional Biographical Notes:
Lecturer: On local history, archaeology and folklore to local, national and international historical and archaeological societies. The host lecturer in the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology on local history and archaeology for the evening course. Guest speaker at local and national events and festivals.
Tour Guide: For Galway city & county for local, national and international historical and archaeological societies and other organizations and tourists. Official Historical Guide for the annual Galway Early Music Festival.
Television & Radio Interviews: On many local and national radio shows on the subjects of history, archaeology and folklore, including RTE 1 & 2; RTE Lyric FM; Ryan Tubridy and Galway Bay FM numerous times. Appeared on TV3 on the very controversial destruction of the medieval house at Abbeygate Street Lower. Appeared on Nationwide during the Ecumenical Remembrance Service, Remembering Galway People Who Died in the Great War 1914-1918.
Societies: Former committee member of the Old Galway Society. Former Director of Galway Civic Trust. Committee member of the Galway Archaeological & Historical Society. Former Secretary and Public Relations Officer of this society.
Archaeology: Worked on various archaeological excavations and geophysical surveys. Compiled reports on monuments and artifacts.
Others Areas: Designed the official club crests for Mervue United AFC, and Mervue GAA Club. Produced and presented (along with Jacqueline O’Brien) a show on the Great War in the Town Hall Theatre. Served three years in the FCA (Supply & Transport).
Sports: Played soccer with Mervue United & Mervue Celtic. Won Clubman of the Year 1988. Served on the Mervue United Committee for ten years. Former Secretary of Mervue Celtic. Compiled the match reports for both clubs and had them published in the local newspapers. Played football for “98’s Football Club.” Former licensed Shotokan Karate holder.
Film/Documentary:
The Shimmering Waste: Is being used by an Irish Film Company for the production of a Film/Documentary to for release late 2008. (Burke & Wills trail followed 2007)
Supreme Sacrifice: This book is being used by an Irish Film Company for the production of a Film/Documentary to for release late 2008. A screen play has also been written based on this book.