In 1833 the government of the day decreed that all premises that intended to continue to serve the public alcoholic drink would have to take out a special licence. Thus, what we know to day as the licensing laws were born. One such business that applied, and got that special licence was P.J. Lonergan, Main St., Fethard.
Paddy Lonerganis took over the family business in 1963 after spending some time in England training in the trade. This public house has played an important part in the life of Fethard through out the ages. It was in time a general store and a forge, it provided special stables for horses at the rear. In 1889 it was described as a General Grocery Tea Wine and Spirits Establishment. In the 1970s it was famous for ballads, The Clancy’s and the Dubliners were heard there on occasions.
New owners, John Carroll (left) and Rosanne Carroll (right) photographed with Ann and Paddy Lonergan on their last night after 172 years family association with the premises
On 3rd September 2005, Lonergan's Bar was taken over by John and Rosanne Carroll and this ended a 172 year business run by the Lonergan family in Fethard. To mark the occasion a special farewell party was held the night before. CLICK FOR PHOTOS
