Fethard Historical Society was founded in march 1988

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Fethard Historical Society's first committee elected 20 years ago on Tuesday 23rd March 1988.

A committee of fourteen was elected as follows: Peter Grant (Chairman), Joe Ryan (Vice Chairman), Mary Hanrahan (Secretary), Denis Burke (Treasurer), Joe Kenny (PRO), Marie O'Donnell, Pat O'Shea, Christy Mullins, Michael O'Donnell, J.J. Keane, Jimmy O'Connor, Vincent Doocey, Diane Stokes and Mary Healy.

The late John Bradley (right) giving a walkabout in Fethard in June 1993
The late John Bradley (right) giving a walkabout in Fethard in June 1993 John will be fondly remembered in Fethard as the first historian, Director of the Urban Archaeology Survey at the time, to promote Fethard’s medieval significance when speaking at the ‘The Norman Festival Weekend’ held in Cahir Castle in August, 1986, said, “Fethard is, I would think, probably the most important small medieval town in Ireland without any doubt. Its preservation and its proper development as a historic town is a matter of national importance.” Following the lecture, attended by Fethard locals Pat O’Shea, Martin O’Shea and Joe Kenny, John was approached and invited to speak in Fethard. This he did in June 1987 when he educated a large attendance on Fethard’s medieval importance and tourist potential during a walkabout of the town. John’s talk was instrumental in setting up a Fethard Historical Society the following year, 1988.
We thank John for his inspiration and may he Rest in Peace.

Ref/ Fethard News - Monday 10th November 2014 Fethard.com Current News
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The late John Bradley (right) giving a walkabout in Fethard in June 1993
Site of the Norman invasion of Ireland, Wexford 1169
Mary Hanrahan give a tour of medieval Fethard.
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