The late Tessie O'Brien, Cloneen – in her 103rd year
The death has occurred on Wednesday, April 29, 2020, of Teresa 'Tessie' O'Brien (neé Cantwell), Cappagh, Cloneen, in her 103rd year, peacefully at South Tipperary General Hospital, under the loving care of Mary O'Connor and her staff at Acorn Lodge Nursing Home, Cashel.

Tessie, predeceased by her loving husband Michael, is sadly missed by her loving son Denis, daughter-in-law Margaret, grandsons Niall and Ronan, niece, nephews, relatives, neighbours, a wide circle of friends and especially Mary Morrissey and her carers at Acorn Lodge Nursing Home, Cashel. May She Rest in Peace.

A private family funeral will take place, in keeping with government guidelines and HSE advice on public gatherings in relation to Covid-19. Please use the online condolence page CLICK HERE to offer your sympathies.


Sr. Monica Kevin (left), formerly from Barrack Street, Fethard, is photographed above with her school friend, the late Tessie O’Brien, on Wednesday, October 13, 2010, on the occasion of their first meeting since their early school days at the Presentation Convent Fethard from 1932 to 1935. 

At the young age of 15, Monica Kevin left Fethard on August 8, 1935, to join the Ursuline Sisters of Tildonk in New York City – one of four young local girls, the others being Nuala O’Brien, Kitty McCarthy and Nellie Carey. Sr. Monica, a three-time Fordham graduate, former biology professor and dean at the University, died at the age of 99, on March 24, 2019, in Brentwood, New York.

Died recently in Australia
The death has occurred on March 4, 2020, of Fr. Joseph Walsh, OSA, Brisbane, Australia, and formerly of Kilconnell, Fethard, peacefully at Marycrest Care Centre, Kangaroo Point, Queensland, Queensland, Australia.

Fr. Joseph, predeceased by his parents John and Ellen, his brothers Jimmy, Tom, Michael and his sister Peggy O’Dea, is deeply missed by his brothers John and Christy, sisters-in-law Nancy and Margaret, nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, great-grandnephews, great-grandnieces, relatives, the Augustinian community, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.

Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. James Church, Coorparoo, on March 11, 2020, followed by interment at Nudgee Catholic Cemetery, 493 St. Vincent’s Road, Nudgee, Brisbane, Queensland. A memorial Mass for the repose of his soul will take place at a later date. May his gentle soul rest in peace.


Fr. Joe Walsh OSA, photographed with family members on the ocassion of his Golden Jubilee celebrated in the Augustinian Abbey, Fethard, on July 11, 2010. Back L to R: Brothers Michael, Christy, John and Jimmy Walsh. Front L to R: Peg O'Dea (sister) and Fr. Joe Walsh OSA.

Taking the Reins at Fethard Horse Country Experience

Fethard Horse Country Experience

Tori McMorran has joined the Fethard Horse Country Experience (FHCE) as its new manager. Tori has over 25 years, involvement in the management of cultural heritage assets and brings extensive experience as an archaeologist and museum specialist.

"I’ve been working in The Hunt Museum, Limerick, on the collection and international collaborations. Growing up on the Dingle Peninsula I became familiar with the relationship between tourism and heritage and later studied archaeology and economics focussing on community development. As a founding member of the Thomas MacDonagh Museum, Cloughjordan, I advocate the concept of community being the best stewards of their own heritage.

The last 12 months working on a pan-European project, aiming to increase access to archaeological resources, has been exciting. Working in collaboration I see we all have the same struggles and shared goals.

Fethard is well known in the heritage sector in Ireland, having the longest extant portion of enclosing town wall, Síle-na-Gigs and a wealth of other heritage resources. I’ve seen work that’s going on in Fethard through attending a few Heritage Group activities and visiting the Centre. I’ve sensed how inspired the community is by the area’s rich heritage.

The horse appears in every type of museum across the world. It’s such a significant aspect of our evolution and is now an intangible aspect of our cultural heritage. It is also a shared story which gives opportunity to create connections. Fethard is unique in focussing on the horse within a landscape where that relationship is still very visible. The digital experience tells this story in a very relevant way.

Going forward, I am committed to delivering the next step for the FHCE. Developing educational resources will offer another side to the centre. Creating new user engagements, but also continuing to ensure the community is using the centre as a heritage resource is vital. The townpark development is an exciting opportunity to reflect the heritage of Fethard in new ways and to embrace its beneficial impact in community health and wellbeing."

A visit to the FHCE is a real destination experience. You learn about the horse, but you really get a view of Fethard and its beautiful surrounding. Even looking out the window you can see Slievenamon and you realise how much is on offer by a stay in the town. The Centre is housed in a wonderful heritage building with a fascinating history.

The impact of Covid-19 on the tourism sector has been catastrophic and the effects will be felt for some time. However, the Heritage community is resilient and has seen many cycles of hard times. Tipperary County Council and the tourism sector have activated supports focussing on advice and guidance and building knowledge of what the sector needs going forward.

The FHCE will be a place where the community can reconnect. We will be ready to welcome children and adults into a safe space to engage with art and culture. I expect overseas visitors will take time to return. In the immediate future they will be looking for a reassuring and low risk experience. Fethard is in a good position to capture the imagination. We can offer a distinct cluster of activities and facilities for all visitors.

The FHCE is supported by a dedicated group of volunteers who have a breath of knowledge which makes the visitor experience very personal. My predecessor, Laura along with these volunteers has done a fantastic job in building an engaging experience. I’m looking forward to building on the enthusiastic reception the Centre has had in its formative years.

New welcome addition to our Car Parks


In recent days people using the town's bottle banks will notice a colourful addition to the line-up that will accept your unwanted clothes, including sheets, shoe pairs, blankets, underwear and curtains. Please also note that NO duvets, pillows, carpets, toys, soiled or wet items are accepted. This new venture is in partnership with the Green School’s programme in 2020 to promote active recycling and reuse programmes in participating schools nationwide and proudly supports Tipperary County Council's, 'Sowing The Seeds of Sustainability' project.

Clothespod.ie is a Guaranteed Irish Company that’s been in business promoting and actioning the reuse and re-ware of used clothing since 1992.  They are fully permitted and insured to work in partnership with Local Authorities and Licensed Waste/Management Companies throughout the country to ensure that all your unwanted clothing and textiles can be collected in a convenient and efficient manner and that the items collected are recycled and repurposed professionally and correctly. Each Clothes Pod site is maintained efficiently and are serviced on a regular and professional basis.

As well as collecting from our distributed Pods, Clothespod also aims to support local communities by purchasing clothing from local clubs, charity shops and from school fundraising events. As the Number One Collectors and Exporters of second-hand clothing in Ireland we really wanted to collaborate with a nationally recognised project, which is why we are excited to partner with the green school’s programme in 2020. As part of our mission we want to promote active recycling and reuse programmes in participating schools nationwide.

Old Fethard Map creates a lot of interest


The above map, posted on the Fethard Facebook site by John Kenrick (Burke Street) recently, has generated a lot of discussion with reference to the date of the map and its origin. One reader, Joan Hayes, observed that Red City is missing. Others noted that there was no railway line.

Tommy Healy gave a more elaborate comment saying, “This map seems to have been constructed before the 1890s as the railway line does not appear on it. What does interest me is the 'Race Course'. This was the course where the Tipperary Hunt Point-to-Point races were held as listed on the programme which was displayed in Lonergan's Pub in the recent past. It would appear that the course was part of the Coolmore Estate, an interesting link with the business carried on at Coolmore today. I wonder if there is any evidence on the ground at Coolmore that such an activity took place there so long ago.”

John Kenrick replied, “Map was printed in 1977 by John Bartholomew & Sons Edinburgh. The stone standhouse and a fabulous double bank 1/4 mile long gone without a trace.”

Tommy Healy replied to John, “Thank you for the information. I often wondered where the racecourse might have been when I was growing up. My granduncle, Mick Healy (1879-1966), often took part in the running of the race meeting there at the end of the 19th/beginning of the 20th century as whipper-in for the hunt. Along with the British Army regiments then stationed in Fethard they took turns in clearing the course at the end of each race."

To which John Kenrick replied, “It was owned by the Henehans of The Square, before being purchased by the present owners. A lot of locals used to gallop their horses there when Henehans had it. The standhouse was similar to one that still exists at Cashel, but bigger."


This photograph of Kilnockin Races, one of the few known to exist, was taken in 1900 and supplied some years ago by Michael Smith (junior), Coolbawn.

Fethard Newsletter articles mentioning Kilnockin Races
The above comments prompted me to do a quick search in some past Fethard & Killusty Emigrants’ Newsletters for any information on the Kilnockin Races. The first, published in 1979, was an article by Miss Phyllis O’Connell, entitled 'Days to Remember'. One of her memories was 'The Kilnockin Races' – as follows:

“This was a great occasion. Our house was full of bustle and preparation. I remember one occasion specially - in the morning there was an eclipse of the sun and we were out in the garden looking up to the sky through smoked glass. Father told us all about what was happening and calmed our fears when things grew dark. The other members of the household were in the kitchen quite oblivious of the Eclipse, preparing our picnic basket for 'The Races'.

Then the eclipse was over and the sunlight was back. We hurried to get ready for Kilnockin, but my sister was in tears. She said she was uncomfortable in her best clothes and she was not interested in the races; she really only liked the Ham Sandwiches! I think Mother must have sympathised and she was allowed to stay at home with a large plate of sandwiches and a bottle of lemonade.

The rest of us set off enjoying the crowds and the general excitement of the drive to the Racecourse. This was in the fields between the Killenaule and Rocklow Roads. Cars and traps of all kinds were tied up at a ditch some way from the Stand. We got a lot of exercise running from ditch to Stand to general enclosure. The Bookies fascinated us.
We really knew nothing of the horses except as flying shadows, guided by men in brilliant caps and shirts. But it was all very exciting, and we shouted with the crowd.

Excitement did not end with the races. Father was driving his beautiful chestnut mare, she had one particular habit - If she did not like a situation, she stopped dead and would not budge. As we came to the final gate from the fields she became displeased, stopped dead and would not move. People rushed to her head but that only made matters worse. After much persuasion Father succeeded in getting the would-be helpers to let her alone, then a few encouraging words from Father and a flick or two of the reins and off she went at speed down the road quite unrepentant for causing such embarrassment.”


Race Card for Tipperary Hunt and 'Fethard Steeplechases' over the Fethard Course (Kilnockin) on Wednesday, April 8, 1891.

Tipperary Hunt Races – Fethard September 1865
The second article was published in the 2015 Emigrants’ Newsletter and featured this report on Kilnockin Races was published in the Tipperary Free Press newspaper dated Friday, September 15,1865, from which the following excerpts are taken:

The weather was most favourable and from an early hour the people thronged from every portion of the surrounding country to the beautifully situated course in Kilnockin, where mirth and fun dispensed their cheering influences amongst the masses assembled and intent on a day of thorough enjoyment.

The course at Kilnockin could scarcely be excelled, the ground even at the present season was admirably adapted for steeple chasing, the fences, walls, brooks etc., are well placed and of a quality to test the stuff of the bits of blood competing, and the view from the stand-house or the hill of the entire round is not in a single instance interrupted. The falling off in numbers of the peasantry was painfully apparent, and it was evident that the exodus which is gradually draining the country of its young, strong, vigorous blood had made sad ravages amongst the bright luxuriant valleys that stretch away towards Killenaule, Ballingarry, New Birmingham, etc.

On Wednesday morning there was scarcely an unusual stir in the old historic town of Fethard, save in the vicinity of the Hotel, where a few vehicles were drawn up while their freights were doing refreshers under the auspices of sparkling Bass. A few long-haired, short whiskered boys prematurely grey from the effects of dust enacted the role of nuisances to perfection as they importuned every one they met to take a true and correct card or bill of the races, while mendicants armed with ‘dissolute’ orphans besought alms with an earnestness specially got up to suit the occasion.

Nearing the course the crowds began to grow dense, and all seemed animated by a spirit of the most unqualified good humour. Though we missed the vehicles of many of our local gentry, etc., yet the carriage stand was well occupied, and presented a brilliant array of beauty and fashion in keeping with the high reputation universally accorded in this respect to the ‘Ladies of Tipperary’.

The stewards present were: Thomas B. Barton, Esq., John Going, Esq., master Tipperary Fox Hounds, Henry W. Briscoe, Esq., master Curraghmore Fox Hounds, William Quinn, Esq., Robert Cooke, Esq., Southcote Mansergh, Esq., Major Kellett, Major Frend, John M Bushe, Esq., and Henry Langley, Esq., all of who appeared to be most solicitous to promote the sport of the different events in the programme.

The splendid stand house which commanded a view of the entire course and the magnificent country surrounding, was largely availed of and in the ring we noticed: The Earl of Bessborough, Sir Richard Musgrave, Mr Ralph Osborne, Captain McCraith, Lieutenant Quinn, Captain Quinn, Mr Richard Phillips, J.P., Mr Clem Sadleir, Mr R.W. Cotton, Mr J. Smithwick, Mr D. Smithwick, Mr L. Power, Mr R.G. Annesley, Mr Harry R. Sargint, Mr Wheeler Cuffe, Mr Long, Mr H. Blackmore, Mr De Courcey, Mr George Malcomson, Mr Thomas Power, Mr W. Ryan, Mr W.L. Hackett, Mr Richardson, Mr J.J. Scully, Mr Darby Scully, Mr Lloyd, Mr Percy Gough, Mr Godfrey Phillips, Mr John Lane, Mr St. George Mansergh, Mr S. R. Fitzgerald, master Union Harriers, Mr Gerald Fitzgerald, Mr M. Guiry, Mr Thomas Power, Mr Charles Minchin, Captain D.D. Purcell, Mr Robert Purcell, Mr Charles Langley, Mr J. Millet, Mr J. Hanrahan, Mr J. Cooney, Mr P. Walsh, Mr James O’Donnell, Mr Samuel Perry, Mr Fennelly, Mr Cleary, Mr W.L. Byrne, Mr P. Walshe, Mr R. Crean, Dr Crean, Mr James J. Shee, J.P., Coroner Mr J. Hayden, Mr A.F. Shee, Dr Mulcahy, Mr R. Power, Mr C. O’Donnell, The Hon Martin J. Ffrench, RM, Mr Warburton, RM, Mr J. Blackmore, Mr James Sullivan, Mr R. Tennant, Mr Feehan, Mr P. Coughlan, The Messrs Quinlan, Captain Massy, Mr Reidy, Captain Gough, Mr P. Walsh, Mr W. O’Donnell, Mr Dalton, Mr M. Hammerton, Captain O’Donnell, Captain Bell, Mr Kenny, Dr Murphy, Officers 4th Dragoon Guards, Mr St George Mansergh, Captain Mansergh, etc., etc.

Mr R.J. Hunter filled the judges’ chair with his wonted efficiency, and his decisions, in all cases, gave the most unqualified satisfaction.
Mr Frederick Sayers, hon. sec., was also most active in completing all the necessary arrangements towards the successful carrying of the meeting. At half past one o’clock, the bell sounded, calling the horses to the post for the first Race –about one mile and a half over the steeplechase course.

Message to the 'Green Party' from local supporter


Dear Eamon and Green Party elected representatives,

I hope I fully understand the huge dilemma facing the Green Party at present about the hazards of sharing power.  I agree with the broad thrust of the Green Party's demands in their response to the FF/FG Framework document.

However, as a Green Party member and voter in the last election, I strongly believe that provided there is a reasonable degree of agreement on the main demands especially carbon emissions that we should now enter government. Because the alternative scenario, ie a FF/FG/Independent/whatever, government will almost certainly mean even less chance of averting a climate catastrophe. To use yet again that hackneyed truism, perfection must not be the enemy of the good.

Within my own 'bubble' of friends and acquaintances, Green Party members, recent election Green voters, and beyond, I am getting a very strong message along the above lines:  We don't have time to wait in Opposition. Thank you for reading. – Alan Moore, Fethard.

Child's Bicycle Found
A small child's bicycle was found on Sunday evening, April 26, at Fethard Ballroom. Someone may have forgotten to put it back in their car after exercising. Owner is asked to please phone the following number for details: 086 8437400.

Remembering Fr. Abe Kennedy
Remembering our good friend Fr. Abe Kennedy, who died unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, and whose first anniversary we celebrate this week. This video tribute prepared by Bill Ahessy is a fitting reflection of the colourful life Abe lived and the many lives he touched in a special way . . . never to be forgotten! May he rest in peace.

A Day in the Life: Tipperary 2020 within 2km


Yes, life in lockdown is necessary. It is also historic. Tipperary County Council Library Service wants to record it using the old saying ‘A picture paints a thousand words’. Through Tipperary Studies, its designated history department, the library service invites you to get involved in its photographic project ‘A Day in the Life: Tipperary 2020 within 2km’.

The May Bank Holiday weekend is approaching – a weekend which traditionally sees Tipperary roads, streets, hotels, parks, playgrounds, sports grounds and more all teeming with life . . . people out and about enjoying themselves. What a contrast this year!

Tipperary Studies invites you to go out with your camera over the May weekend – within 2km of course. Take a picture of your area in all its stillness. Submit it to Tipperary Studies with your details, saying where and when the picture was taken. Why? Tipperary Studies will add it to both its photographic and digital archive collection, thus creating a record for the future.

We aren’t finished yet! Tipperary Studies aims to replicate the photos at the next possible opportunity, when life returns to what we know as ‘normal’. Whilst, we might like to forget life in lockdown, history dictates that we remember even the worst of times. Please help Tipperary County Council Library Service record this for future generations. For further details, www.tipperarystudies.ie; Email studies@tipperarycoco.ie ; Tel 0761 06 6100.

Contact local Garda if you need help
If you have any concerns for the elderly or vulnerable people living alone or yourself, please contact An Garda Siochana at Clonmel at any time Tel: (052) 6177640. You may also contact local Garda Shane O’Neill at Fethard Station on Mobile: 085 8859244.

Fethard Rocks!


If you have recently noticed some colourful rocks laying around in unusual places, they are the results of a delightful project, 'Fethard Rocks!' by Joseph and Kate. The children created a trail of colourful rocks and had a rock hunt where others could join in the event on their Facebook page.

Basically, the children pick a flattish stone, or shells decorate them and leave out for people to find out walking. Then when you find a stone/ shell they photograph it. Then display them on the group's Facebook page. Then they can move them, and all see how far the stones/shells travel. Hopefully they can make people smile while out walking and give the kids something to do.



Happy hunting everyone and remember to tell your friends about this group. 'We Rock together!' Well done to the Facebook page administrators Sorcha King and Marieclare McNicholl and all the participants. It definitely cheered up many people as they took their daily exercise and were greeted with a friendly colourful stone – Fethard Rocks!

Faces and Places from the Past
The following are a selection of photographs of faces and places taken in our locality that may bring back memories to many of our readers and visitors to fethard.com Please send any comments or photo information, names and event, to fethardnews@gmail.com


Cloneen Squash Club Home League Winners 1984.


Cloneen Squash Club Home League Runners-Up 1984


Fethard GAA Club’s ‘Player Of The Past’ trophy presented to Jack Gunne in 1984. L to R: Sean Gunne, Mary Gunne, Jack Gunne and Kathleen (Gunne) Connolly.


Fethard GAA Club’s ‘Player Of The Past’ Dinner Dance 1984.


Fethard GAA Club’s ‘Player Of The Past’ Dinner Dance 1984


Fethard GAA Club’s ‘Player Of The Past’ Dinner Dance 1984


Fethard GAA Club’s ‘Player Of The Past’ Dinner Dance 1984

Fethard News
Comments or items for inclusion on this website can be emailed to fethardnews@gmail.com or delivered by hand to Joe Kenny, Rocklow Road, Fethard.