About the Group:
Claregalway is a rural parish rich in history and tradition. In 1991, the Clareglaway Cultural and Historical Society was founded. The group aimed to collect the local history and publish a book from the information gathered. The group initiated a FÁS sponsored scheme which began the enormous task of documenting the local history. Although alot of information was gathered, there was never a finished publication from that initiative.
Committee Photo : Back Row (L to R): Sean Concannon, Michael Hession, Brendan Noonan and Michéal Ó’Heidhin. Seated (L to R): Gearóid Hartigan, Tom Lenihan (chairman) and Seamus O’Connell (treasurer)
In 1996, the Society once again took up the work and added some newer research. In 1999 produced a 300 page hardback book. It sold in excess of 2000 copies, and has since been reprinted. While gathering the information, the group found that there were alot of good quality pictures from long ago, and decided to publish a second book purely of these pictures along with captions. This book has sold in excess of 700 copies. This history section of this website is an extract the publications of the Society.
- Claregalway Parish History - 750 Years (Pub. 1999)
- Claregalway Parish History - Pictorial (Pub. 2002)
Both books are available for purchase from the committee members. You can also email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Both books are priced at €20. Worldwide postage prices are available on request.
Present Committee:
Chair Tom Lenihan,Secretary Brendan Noonan,Treasurer Seamus O'Connell; Gearoid Hartigan,Sean Concannon, Michael Hession,Miceal O hEidhin, Gerry Glynn Jack Hession, Malachy Qualter
Contact Name, Number etc:
Brendan Noonan or Seamus O'Connell
Becoming Involved / Joining:
Contact any committee member using the contact details above.
Events:
- Current Project is restoration of local Blacksmiths Forge - Due To be opened December 22nd 2007
Previous things:
Publication of two books on local history :
- Claregalway Parish History - 750 Years (Pub. 1999)
- Claregalway Parish History - Pictorial (Pub. 2002)