A new children’s book on the history of Connemara will help to raise funds for the Clifden RNLI lifeboat station.
Local author and youth worker Marie Feeney has produced ‘From Our Ancient Land to Bountiful Sea’, an informative and often humorous collection of local history and folklore tales with illustrations by Gary Kendellen.
These tales include accounts of the famous engineer Alexander Nimmo who designed many piers and bridges in the Connemara area and an educational yet entertaining blend of local history and myths that will appeal to locals and visitors alike.
Megan’s previous book, ‘The Cleggan Disaster‘ was a poignant look at the tragic drowning of 45 men from the fishing communities of Cleggan, Claddaghduff and Inishbofin and the Inishkeas, and also benefitted the local RNLI lifeboats.
“The coastline of Connemara, while exceptionally beautiful is also treacherous and mostly utilised by people who use it either for pleasure or their livelihood,” Marie said of her new book.
“Thankfully in our community, we have a dedicated RNLI volunteer team who provide an invaluable service by saving lives each year, sometimes in the most challenging environments.”
“The philosophy of the RNLI is astounding, the purpose to save lives; their vision to save everyone; their volunteer ethos, their charitable and community base. Every life matters and of course their maritime expertise is crucial.”
‘From Our Ancient Land to Bountiful Sea’ is now on sale locally in Connemara at The Clifden Bookshop, the Letterfrack Country Shop, Gala Cleggan, and Sweeney’s Claddaghduff.
The book is also available online at the inConnemara Bookshop at bookshop.inconnemara.ie.
image credit: Marie Feeney
