offalyhistoryblog

Tullamore in the Sixties launch – pictures capturing the period. Blog No 678, 7th Dec 2024

Tullamore in the Sixties was launched to great acclaim on 6 December. Most of the contributors living in Ireland participated in the proceedings with three to five minute talks. The book was launched by architect, town planner and artist Fergal MacCabe. A few of his own watercolours grace the contents of this 450 page book with extensive essays (from 18 writers) and 350 pictures. The book is available from Offaly History Centre, Bury Quay, Tullamore and Midland Books and the pop up at Bridge Centre. It can also be ordered on line.

Some of the contributors to Tullamore in the Sixties

Some of the pictures capture the period:

Fire and garda station up to 1990 and 2000.
The first women’s football team (of four) in Tullamore played in carnival atmosphere in the town in 1967.
The wonderful Miss Savage beloved of many young children starting school in the 1950s and up to 1962.
Farewell to the old St Brigid’s school in 1961. It had been in use since 1875. Most of those present are named in the new book. The statue still sits outside the new school at Kilcruttin. Fr Carey presided.
The new St Columba’s school of 1960 built with economy in mind by Bantile. Modular before anyone heard of such a thing. At the time there were no state grants for second level schools owned by the religious orders – not until 1964.
The famous Gorry’s newsagency was carried on for at least 100 years up to 1998.
Converted to a DO’S supermarket in 1965 and the first Dunnes Stores in 1968.
A big win in the golden years of Tullamore soccer – 1965
Mary Byrne’s in William Street
Great shops and personalities
The great band of the Keeley Brothers when dancing was to five a.m. and generally alcohol free.
Italian chips, a juke box and Christy Maye’s Disco Dancing – to the right was the Livio Fusciardi cafe. In the Square, below, was the Capri and the Sunshine Cafe. Egg and chips 1s 9d. was it?
The Order of Malta marching out in 1964.

The new book was supported by Offaly County Council and Creative Ireland.

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