Fethard Culture Night focused on historic Augustinian Abbey
Culture Night 2024 saw Fethard’s historic Augustinian Abbey come to life with music, poetry and stories galore. Almost seventy people came along to explore the history of this church which has played such an intrinsic role in the life of the people of Fethard through the ages.
Michael Mallon, Chairperson, Fethard Historical Society, speaking.
Photographs supplied by Ms Pat Looby.
In his opening address, Michael Mallon, Chairperson, Fethard Historical Society, said, “On this glorious, splendid evening it gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to the Abbey grounds and to the Abbey itself for Culture Night”. He went on to outline the programme for the event before handing over to Tim Robinson.
Tim relating the story of the Augustinians in Fethard right up to the dissolution of the monastery in 1540.
Tim declaimed Lord Byron as he introduced listeners to the history of the Augustinian Church founded outside the Town Wall in 1305, explaining that the title of Abbey has been conferred by tradition rather than based in fact; the foundation was, in fact, a friary of mendicant friars who literally begged for their daily bread at the town gates. Tim related the story of the Augustinians in Fethard right up to the dissolution of the monastery in 1540.
The next part of the walking tour of the 13th century church and its grounds was different in that it showcased the east range of the building which is usually hidden from public view.
The next part of the walking tour of the 13th century church and its grounds was different in that it showcased the east range of the building which is usually hidden from public view. This is where the friars had their chapter house on the ground floor with dormitory above. People had the chance to go inside and view one of the original vaulted rooms, lamplight and candles highlighting the various architectural features. It is worth noting that the Augustinian Abbey in Fethard is the oldest Augustinian foundation in the English speaking world still in use.
Mary Hanrahan taking a moment of poetic reflection, reading ‘For Now’, by Andrew Motion
Then it was time for a moment of poetic reflection. “I chose to read ‘For Now’, by Andrew Motion,” explained Mary Hanrahan, “Because I believe it resonates, not just with the church surroundings in which we find ourselves, but also with the times in which we live.”
Pat Looby speaking at the Síle-na-gig, one of two to be found in Fethard
Proceeding through the garden around to the north of the church, Pat Looby led the group to the Síle-na-gig, one of two to be found in Fethard, the other located at Watergate. Pat gave a fascinating insight into the lore surrounding Síles, much of which is conjecture so that, even today, they remain a mysterious link to an uncertain past.
Originally, this chapel was full of monuments and memorial slabs commemorating the Butlers and their connections but most of them were removed and put outside in the ruins of the Lady Chapel in the late 19th century.
The principal patrons of the Abbey church in medieval times were the Butlers of Dunboyne, who lived in Kiltinan Castle. The Dunboyne Chapel, in the aisle to the right of altar, was in fact their chantry chapel, where the priests were paid to say Mass and offer prayers for the salvation of the souls of the Butler family. Originally, this chapel was full of monuments and memorial slabs commemorating the Butlers and their connections but most of them were removed and put outside in the ruins of the Lady Chapel in the late 19th century.
Fr. Henry McNamara OSA, gave a comprehensive and scholarly overview of the Dunboyne monuments
In those very ruins, Fr. Henry McNamara OSA, gave a comprehensive and scholarly overview of the Dunboyne monuments, some of which have survived surprisingly well while others have been severely impacted by a century or so of inclement Irish weather. Emphasising the importance of these monuments on a national and local level, Fr Henry pointed out that it is vital that they be properly preserved for future generations.
Dusk was falling as people filed into the church to the strains of Mozart’s Ave Verum played beautifully on the organ by the very talented James Clooney. Terry Cunningham then told the story of the notorious Bishop John Butler and Fr. Iggy O’Donovan OSA, recounted the return of the Augustinians to Fethard in the late 1700s, culminated in its reopening on July 3, 1823.
Dusk was falling as people filed into the church to the strains of Mozart’s Ave Verum played beautifully on the organ by the very talented James Clooney. Here Michael Mallon recounted the tale of Blessed William Tirry, the Augustinian martyr, interred in an unmarked grave somewhere in the church grounds, and beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1992.
Photographed at Fethard Culture Evening at the Augustinian Abbey Fethard are L to R: Michael Kenrick, Assumpta Coffey, Carol Kenny and Linda Furnell.
Photographed at Fethard Culture Evening at the Augustinian Abbey Fethard are L to R: Kay Walsh, Pat Whyte, Tina Whyte and Paul Shanahan.
Terry Cunningham then told the story of a very different prelate, the notorious Bishop John Butler, who scandalised his Catholic flock first, by becoming a Protestant and marrying in order to secure the Butler dynasty, and then, secondly, his Protestant brethren by recanting on his deathbed and bequeathing part of his fortune to the Catholic Maynooth seminary. It is said, he was interred at midnight on Christmas Eve, December 1800, in the Dunboyne Chapel alongside his infant daughter whose death put paid to his dynastic plans.
Photographed at Fethard Culture Evening at the Augustinian Abbey Fethard on Friday, September 20, are L to R: Rory O'Connor, Tommy O'Brien, Marion Fenton, Rosemary Ponsonby and Edwina Newport.
Photographed at Fethard Culture Evening at the Augustinian Abbey Fethard on Friday, September 20, are L to R: Ian O'Connor, Margaret O'Donnell and Josie Fitzgerald
Fr. Iggy O’Donovan OSA, recounted the return of the Augustinians to Fethard in the late 1700s, the subsequent purchase of their former church, now in ruins, and the heroic efforts that culminated in its reopening on July 3, 1823. At this stage only half the church had been restored so there was much still to do.
Fr. James Anderson, came to the Abbey in 1887, and during his short four years as Prior, he focused his dynamic energy on completely refurnishing and beautifying the interior of the Church. He installed a new marble altar, stained glass windows and converted the Dunboyne chapel into a shrine to Our Lady of Good Counsel. Removing the Dunboyne monument, which cut off the Dunboyne Chapel from the main body of the church, he uncovered the two wonderful medieval arches visible today. Fr Anderson also formed a choir, built an organ gallery and installed a new organ.
Photographed at Fethard Culture Evening at the Augustinian Abbey Fethard
Fr Iggy also mentioned the medieval wooden statue Our Lady of Fethard that once graced this church but now resides in the National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street, Dublin. He pointed out too the beautiful Harry Clarke Studio stained-glass window depicting Our Lady of Fatima on the southern wall of the building.
Photographed at Fethard Culture Evening at the Augustinian Abbey Fethard
In conclusion, Mary Healy, on behalf of the Fethard Historical Society thanked Fr. Iggy and Fr. Henry for hosting the event. She also thanked everyone for coming along to celebrate the history of the Abbey and for being such an attentive audience.
In conclusion Mary Healy added, “I would also like to thank James Clooney for the lovely music he played as we came into the church. Please note that this very talented young man is only fifteen years old. He will now play How Great Thou Art and then Handel’s Passacaglia as the recessional, as we leave. Slán abhaile”.
Died Recently in England
The death has occured on September 20, 2024 of Helen Fitzpatrick (née Shine) Birkenhead, England, and formerly Monroe, Fethard. Pre-deseased by her grandson Callum. Deeply regretted by her husband, Maurice; daughters Bernie and Mel, Pauline and Paul); grandchildren Molly, Mike and Jamie; brothers Johnny, Michael, Jimmy, Dinny, Paddy and Tommy; sisters Mary, Tina, Ann, Diane, Angela and Bernadette. Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Funeral service and cremation will take place on October 4, in Birkenhead, England. May she rest in peace.
Died Recently
 The death has occurred on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, of Trevor Gough, Rathcoole / Coolmore, Fethard and formerly England, peacefully in the Palliative Care Unit Waterford. Sadly missed by his loving wife Joan, sons Anthony and Ian, and daughter Louise, all of their partners, grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family in England.
Reposing in McCarthy's Funeral Home, Fethard, on Friday, September 27, from 5pm to 8pm. Funeral Mass in the Augustinian Abbey Church, Fethard, at 11am on Saturday, September 28, following by cremation at the Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy, Co Cork at 2pm. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired to the Palliative Care Unit, Ardkeen, Waterford. House strictly private. Trevor's Funeral Mass can be watched online at fethardabbey.com
Messages of condolence can be left online by CLICKING HERE
Soul Food Made with Hands Exhibition
'Soul Food Made with Hands' Exhibition opens on Thursday, September 26, at 7.30pm at the Narrow Space Gallery, 14 Mitchell Street, Clonmel (E91 RW24), and will run up to Saturday October 12. Open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm.
The exhibition features displays of Tapestry, Weaving, Ceramics, Papercut, Felting and Rush Work, from the following featured artists: Ruta Ivanauskaite, Gerardine Wisdom, Patsy Cahill, Elke Wilson, Paul Bokslag, Grainne Zannis, Eileen Singleton and Lucy Moore.
All are invited and more than welcome to come along at 7.30pm to the official opening at the Narrow Space Gallery, on Thursday, September 26.
Submissions invited for Annual Emigrants Newsletter
Fethard & Killusty Emigrants Newsletter celebrate its 65th year in operation this year. The first Newsletter (one single page) was published in 1959 by the Legion of Mary and posted to emigrants throughout the world to help keep them in touch with life in Fethard parish.
Today, 65 years later, we have kept the tradition alive and in doing so, have captured the opinions and memories of many of our community, old and young, that will enhance generations to come, in particular the huge amount of emigrants that have now discovered their long lost Fethard roots with the help of family tress, internet searches and in particular, relatives with DNA connections to local families. Exciting times for those embracing new technology.
Submissions invited for this year’s issue
Work has begun in compiling this year’s issue and club secretaries and organisations have been notified of this year’s deadline for articles, which is Friday, October 11, 2024. This invitation also applies to any individual at home or abroad, who feels like sharing their memories or family photographs for publication in this year’s issue. We really appreciate the regular contributors and would love to have many more if possible. It is these articles that help make the Newsletter special and unique. It doesn’t matter if the articles are short or long, you will have the support of the editorial committee to help and tidy up and loose ends if required. We encourage you to give it a try . . . you won’t be disappointed. Articles and photos (with captions) can be submitted by email to emigrantsnewsletter@gmail.com or by hand or post to Joe Kenny, Rocklow Road, Fethard, Co. Tipperary E91 XR26.
Parish Church Lotto Draw Results
There was no jackpot winner in this week's Parish Lotto on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The numbers drawn were 2, 8, 15, and 22. The winner of the weekly draw for €30 was Catherine O'Connell. Next week's Jackpot for Thursday, October 3, will be €4,525.
We are delighted with the support shown for our Parish Lotto, it is a fundraising initiative that is of great benefit to the parish. Please pass the word on and invite friends and family to take part. You can join, see the draw results, and details of how your support is making a big difference at: https://www.ourfundraiser.ie/org/fethardkillusty
GAA Sports Development Lotto Results
Fethard GAA Sports Lotto draw results for Tuesday, September 24, 2024, are as follows: the numbers drawn were: 3, 10, 23 and 27.
We had no Jackpot winner and three Match 3 winners, who received €50 each: William Fogarty, Eilleen Maher, and Aisha Tobin. One lucky dip winner received €100: Laura Foudy. The next draw takes place on Tuesday, October 1, when the jackpot is €30,000. The committee of Fethard GAA Development Lotto would like to thank all our supporters for the continued support.
Deirdre Royce rises to the challenge 
The Quest Lough Derg challenge took place on Saturday September 21, 2024. Lough Derg is famous for its Pilgrim Path around the shore of Lough Derg. Following in the steps of the Lough Derg pilgrims in the Middle Ages.
This Quest event offers stunning views of Station Island from a number of vantage points. The Quest was a challenging event with a 10k cycle, 1k kayak, 10k run, 4k cycle and 1k run to finish. Fethard Athletic Club member, Deirdre Royce, took on the challange of the 26k total Quest in her usual quiet manner
Deirdre’s training is paying off dividends and she came home a comfortable winner of the women’s over-50 section in 1:09:50. Well done Deirdre. – (Susan Laste, Fethard AC.)
Social Dancing at Fethard Ballroom
Social Dancing continues at Fethard Ballroom on Sunday, September 29, to the music of ‘Michael Collins Band’. All are welcome to come along and enjoy us for a terrific night’s social dancing from 8.30pm to 11.30pm. Admission is €10, which includes tea and cakes and raffle.
Goldie's American Tea Party!
The Newport Family look forward to welcoming you to an American Tea Party on Saturday, October 12, in Fethard Ballroom. This event, in memory of Goldie Newport, is to raise funds for the refurbishment and restoration of the organ in the Parish Church.
There has been a great response so far. Individuals, families and groups are invited to host a table of 8 to 10 people, and those attending that table, are asked to provide and bring their own food items – sandwiches, scones, cakes, buns, tarts, or whatever takes your fancy. The required delph and cutlery (tea, coffee, sugar, milk also) will be provided at the venue but should people wish they can bring their own tea sets, table cloths and other adornments for their table. It might be advisable for hosts to arrive from 2pm to have sufficient time to set-up in advance.
For those unfamiliar with how an ‘American Tea Party’ works . . . there is no admission fee, funds are raised by each person in attendance putting an anonymous donation in the envelopes provided. There will also be a raffle on the day with an array of prizes available. A feature of the event will be a community table which will welcome individual attendees.
It is worth saying that this will be a 'Cash Only Event' and there won’t be any card facilities available on the day. For anyone who might not be able to attend but would like to make a contribution, an online facility will be available soon and publicised in the coming days.
Free Circuit Training Taster Session!
Join us for a fun and energising workout session at Fethard Town Park on Thursday, September 26, 2024, starting at 11am. Get ready to sweat, burn calories, and challenge yourself with a variety of exercises designed to improve your strength, endurance, and overall fitness.
Our circuit training event is suitable for all fitness levels, whether you're a beginner looking to kickstart your fitness journey or a seasoned athlete wanting to push yourself to the next level. Our experienced trainers will guide you through each station, ensuring proper form and technique.
Learn how to use the outdoor exercise equipment in a safe and fun way. Come prepared with comfortable workout clothes, a water bottle, and a positive attitude. Don't miss out on this opportunity to get fit, have fun, and meet like-minded individuals. See you there! Book Your Free Place
One Hundred Years Ago in Fethard – 1924
This is snippet of life from Fethard 100 years ago. Many readers will remember the family names mentioned and relatives still living in the area. The following report was published in January 1924, following the death of Mary Walsh, Moore Street, aged 90 years. We would love to learn more about our past citizens of Fethard, lest we forget! So comments or memories are always welcome by email: fethardnews@gmail.com or on our sister Facebook page: Fethard Faces and Places from the Past and Present
Mrs Mary Walsh, Fethard RIP
It is with regret we chronicle the passing of the above estimable lady which occurred at her residence, Moore Street, Fethard, on Sunday morning last after a prolonged illness. She was one of the real old stock (a member of the widely respected St. John family of Cramps Castle) and her kindly and charitable disposition gained for her host of friends. A gentle and loving mother she lived to see her sons and daughters grow up around her happy and prosperous. Throughout her useful life she was a devout Catholic and her death was peaceful and holy. May her soul rest in peace.
On Monday evening the remains were removed to the parish church and on Tuesday, after Office and Requiem Mass, the interment took place at the Augustinian Abbey. There was a large attendance.
The chief mourners were: William, James, and Daniel Walsh (sons); Mrs O'Connor and Miss K. Walsh (daughter), James and Michael St. John (brothers); James, Edward and Dennis St John (nephews); Mary and Margaret St. John (nieces); Kitty, Alice, Maisie, Chrissie, Eileen, James and Stephen O'Connor (grandchildren).
Follow-on information from local sources
Mary Walsh (age 90) died on Sunday, January 6, 1924. Her death record mentions that she was a shopkeeper from Moore Street, Fethard. Cause of her death was old age, probably with no medical attendant. Her son Daniel Walsh was present when she died.
Her family grave, is in the Augustinian Abbey Grounds and has a marble top on a limestone base, surrounded by iron railing. The headstone bares the following inscription of family members interred there: “Sacred heart of Jesus have mercy on the souls of William Walsh, Fethard, who died 8th February 1891, aged 67 years; also his daughter Alice Walsh; who died 21st June 1896, aged 17 years; and his wife Mary Walsh; (nee St. John) who died 6th January 1924, aged 90 years; William J. Walsh; died 26th November, 1946; Daniel Walsh, died 29th June 1951; Ellen O’Connor; died 8th August 1951; Catherine Walsh; died 28th September 1958, aged 88 years; Stephen O’Connor; died 11th March 1982, aged 68 years. Deeply mourned by all his family, May God have mercy on their souls.”
Fethard Bridge Club back after summer break
Bridge resumed on Wednesday, September 11. after the summer break and we were delighted to welcome some new members to the club. We continue to play in Fethard Ballroom every Wednesday at 7pm. The results of our game last week were:
- 1st Nett Betty Walsh and Tadhg O’Connor
- 2nd Nett Carmel Condon and Margaret Greene
- 3rd Nett Margaret Slattery and Kathleen Maher
- 1st Gross Tony Hanrahan and Bill O’Sullivan
- 2nd Gross John Woodlock and Marie Holohan
- 3rd Gross Monica Anglim and Nora Ryan
Hike to Everest Base Camp fundraiser for the Suir Dragon Paddlers
Local girl Aobh O'Shea, The Valley, Fethard, is going hiking to Everest Base Camp at the end of the month and would love to raise some funds for the Suir Dragon Paddlers in the process!
The Suir Dragon Paddlers is a Breast Cancer Survivors group in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, who train and compete together. My mam joined the group after beating breast cancer and has loved every second. It is so important for women who have experienced breast cancer to meet and chat with others who know what they have gone through or are going through, while also getting active and having some fun! Suir Dragon Paddlers provides this opportunity to my mam and all of their other members.
They train and compete regularly, which is an expensive feat so I would love to be able to help out. It also means I can t back out of completing Everest Base Camp!!The physical exercise of dragon boating is great for people who have survived breast cancer. The team fund their own trips but this money will help with registration fees and upkeep of the boat. Suir Dragon Paddlers are getting ready to compete in France in 2026.
I've already climbed Mount Fuji and Mount Hallasan –– the highest peaks in Japan and Korea as preparation But nothing will compare to Everest Base Camp I'm sure! I would appreciate your support for this great cause and any donation amount would be greatly appreciated! Please CLICK HERE to go to Donation Page.
Fethard Community Playschool AGM
Fethard Community Playschool will hold their Annual General Meeting on Monday, October 14, at 8pm in the Playschool. all are welcome.
Open Evening at Patrician Presentation Secondary School on Wednesday October 2.
A Musical Extravaganza on Friday October 4
A Musical Extravaganza - An Evening Of Music & Songs featuring:
Irish Tenor - Ronan Tynan;
The Strappe Family;
Joe Roche;
Patrice Davern;
Fethard Secondary School Choir;
Paul Hayes; and
Fethard Choral Group will take place on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 7.30pm in Holy Trinity Parish Church Fethard. Tickets €25 available at O'Sullivan's Pharmacy, Fethard & District Day Care Centre, and online at www.gr8events.com
All proceeds go to Fethard & District Day Care Centre.
Big Picture - Fethard Juvenile GAA Cúl Camp 2009
Tipperary hurling star, Paul Curran, photographed with local budding GAA stars at the Fethard Juvenile GAA VHI Cúl Camp on August 27, 2009.
You can zoom in closer to see more detail by clicking the photograph to zoom-in and double-clicking the photograph to zoom-out. If you can help with names or further information please let us know. Your comments, names or corrections are always welcome to: fethardnews@gmail.com
Faces and Places from the Past
This week we have a selection of some photographs taken in 2009 from our archives. There may be someone out there with further information that we can add to our files, so if anyone can help us, please do. Please send any comments, photo information, names, to fethardnews@gmail.com
Fethard Athletic Club team photographed at the Tipperary AAI even-age cross country championships at Mary Willies on Sunday 4th October 2009. L to R: Eoin Healy, Alex Davis, Louis Rice, Pat Heffernan, David Heffernan Rachel Prout, Mark Heffernan (front), Lyuba Novikova, Hannah Harbich and Miceál McCormack.
Teresa 'Ronnie' Meagher (right) delighted to hear her name being called out to participate in next week's 'Winning Streak' while watching TV on Saturday night, October 3, 2009, in McCarthy's Hotel. Ronnie, photographed above with Lizzie Burke Purcell, will appear on the TV game show on Saturday night October 10, 2009.
Fethard Players photographed at rehearsal for their oncoming comedy production of 'Any Number Can Die' which was staged in the Abymill Theatre from Friday 6th November to Wednesday 11th November, 2009. Standing L to R: Marian Gilpin, John Fogarty, Jimmy O'Sullivan, Ann Connolly, Colm McGrath. Seated L to R: Pat Brophy, Mia Treacy and Deirdre Dwyer. Also in the cast are Gerry Fogarty and Matt O'Sullivan. The play is produced by Austin O'Flynn.
Two sets of twins starting school at Nano Nagle National School on September 2, 2009, were L to R: Gráinne Murray, Thomas Murray, Ciara Spillane and Daragh Spillane.
Starting school at Nano Nagle National School on September 2, 2009, were L to R: Shane Lawrence, Luke Allen, Jason Thompson, Jake Dorney, and Leanne McGarry Croke.
Starting school at Nano Nagle National School on September 2, 2009, were L to R: J.J. Stokes, Tamara Doyle and Dawn Cuddihy.
Starting school at Nano Nagle National School on September 2, 2009, were L to R: Kelly Ryan and Sophia O'Brien.
Starting school at Nano Nagle National School on September 2, 2009, were L to R: Sophie Hahessy and Abby McGrath.
The GAA €10,000 Lotto Jackpot was won and congratulations to Martha Williams, Killusty, Fethard, on winning. Photographed at the presentation of cheque on September 1, 2009, were L to R: Gus Fitzgerald, Jim Williams, Martha Williams, Nicky O'Shea, Denis O'Meara and Mary Godfrey.
Please send any comments, photo information, names or stories, to fethardnews@gmail.com
Fethard News for inclusion on this website
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.
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