The object of the project is to publish a history of the Tourmakeady area from approximately 1820 to 1970. The first part of the book covers the evolution of land holding in the district, in particular the establishment of the Toormakeady and Drimbawn estates, their ownership by different families, including the Plunkets and the actor Robert Shaw and the development of the village. The second part focuses on the economic and social history of the locality and includes chapters on the parish, education, law and order, the Irish Church Missions Society, evictions, the Congested Districts Board, emigration and the effect of events such as The Great Famine, The Land War and The Tourmakeady Ambush (2021 marks the centenary of the ambush). The book concludes with chapters on the locality in the 20th century and famous persons associated with it.

This book, containing approximately 500 pages and 300 illustrations, will provide an in-depth social and economic analysis of the Tourmakeady locality over 150.  It will be of interest to those living in the area and also to the large diaspora with Tourmakeady roots now living in the UK, the USA and other parts of the world. Many persons living locally and abroad have provided information and images for this project.

Tourmakeady is at the heart of the Joyce Country & Western Lakes Geopark and the book will provide a history of aspects of the locality’s heritage which can be used by the staff to promote the area.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.