American President Laois link among the 101 curious connections explored in novel new book

The Laois Heritage Society are delighted to bring you “101 Historic Curiosities of County Laois”.

101 Historic Curiosities of County Laois” takes the reader on a historic journey from the boyhood deeds of Fionn Mac Cumhaill, knowledge from the Christian monks, wisdom from the warrior kings, visit sites of ancient pilgrimage to tales of conquest, plantation, new settlements, and migrations of Laoisonians, who travelled to the far-flung corners of the world.

There is a story for everyone inside with a focus on some of the lesser-known places and personalities which form our shared County history. Stories within, include Laois connections to the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, inspirations for Gulliver’s travels, illuminations from ‘The Book of Leinster’, an enigmatic 19th Century Laois murder, the artist Francis Bacon, World War II heroes and villains, the oldest bog body ever discovered and, even an Irish Pope!

Sean Murray is the Chairperson of Laois Heritage Society.

“This publication will add to the Laois compendium of heritage, with a story of interest that will tickle the imagination of not just the history buff but also the general reader.

“ It’s a collection of tales, sites, personalities, and curiosities which gives us that distinctive Laois cultural identity. It was a privilege to edit the book and bring communities together under the banner of heritage and embedded in its pages.

“On behalf of the Laois Heritage Society, I wish to extend my gratitude to the contributors and the support given by Laois Heritage Office, Creative Ireland Laois, and Laois County Council,” he said. READ MORE BELOW IMAGE.

This heritage project began just before the dark clouds of lockdown came on the horizon, when a subcommittee at the Laois Heritage Society managed only to meet once or twice in person.

County neighbours Offaly had undertaken a similar project a number of years ago, which was very successful. The Laois Heritage Society subcommittee set the wheels in motion, reaching out online for anyone who wanted to pen an article of historic interest from their area.

Over 60 submissions from the far-flung corners and niches of the county were received and edited, with the remaining articles collated by our chairperson and local archaeologist Seán Murray.

The Laois Heritage Society has been at the forefront of local research and promotion of our natural and built heritage in the county since its formation in September 1976, blossoming from the Old Society which had meetings for some years earlier.

It is always looking for new members from all ages who have an interest in the heritage of the County. The Society produces a local journal every two years and hosts several talks around the County annually. It has initiated local projects such as the Conservation Management plans at Portlaoise, Ballyadams and Dysartgallen, and many of its members have contributed towards a diverse range of literature on interesting heritage topics throughout Laois.

One of its main goals is to secure a County Museum space in Portlaoise which would be a live and interactive testament to the value of Laois’s heritage for now and into the future.

“101 Historic Curiosities of County Laois” is supported by Creative Ireland Laois as part of the Creative Ireland Programme in partnership with Laois County Council Heritage Office, and Laois Heritage Society.

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Local historian and acclaimed writer on the joys and tragedies of 120 minor country houses of Laois and the families that lived in them, Mr John Colclough launches “101 Historic Curiosities of County Laois” on Thursday, February 9 at 8pm at the Dunamaise Arts Centre in Portlaoise.

All are welcome to join in this celebratory event. The new book is available in all good book stores and via the Heritage Society at laoisheritagesociety@gmail.com.