John McCullagh

History Tomorrow

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We have recently highlighted the release of “History Tomorrow” a new collection of short stories and poems by local writer Sean Maguire.

Sean has informed us that he has received a favourable response to the book. The book contains short stories and poems which focus heavily on the ‘troubles’ and the peace process.

 
The book is now on sale at Easons in the Buttercrane Centre in Newry.

The book retails at

Tommy Makem

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Tommy Makem was born in Keady, South Armagh. His mother Sarah Makem (opt. cit.) born 1900 was one of the Singing Greenes of Keady and a song collector. From her – and his father Peter, a famous fiddler, Tommy acquired his love of Irish music. He learned to play the war pipes, whistle, banjo, drums, piccolo and guitar. 

Read moreTommy Makem

St Bridget

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Saint Bridget was closely associated with our area. Saint Patrick, said to have planted the yew trees that lent their name to our town also trod our paths. And of course Saint Moninna of Killeavy. The latter too we have already extolled. Now follows a pen portrait of the life of our second National Saint, Bridget!

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Tears for Winter Island

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I have just returned from the very successful launch of Sean Maguire’s new book, History Tomorrow.  The author has permitted one more poem to be reproduced here.

It’s entitled, “Tears for Winter Island”.

Tears drench sombre faces

as trees bear summer fruits;

mothers scrimp and save to pay

for dead men’s suits.

Solitude takes hold whilst empty

chairs fill lonely spaces.

Read moreTears for Winter Island

Sarah Makem

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Those of my generation experienced enormous pride when South Armagh favourite Tommy Makem took the world stage by storm in the 60s. He has, of course, gone from strength to strength in the succeeding decades and the pen-portrait that follows merely summarises some of the highlights of his illustrious career.

Read moreSarah Makem