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04 Nov 2025

Five historians and a Laois Quaker film in one fascinating night by Rosenallis Tidy Towns

Roots and Revelations experts include Professor John Feehan, Dr Ciaran Reilly and Dr Michael Loughman

Five historians and a Laois Quaker film in one fascinating night by Rosenallis Tidy Towns

Rosenallis church and village, The Light Within film by Denis McCardle, Capard book by Dr Ciaran Reilly, historian Roy Meredith and Prof John Feehan.

The rich history of a Laois village nestled in the Slieve Bloom mountains will be celebrated in one special winter night this November.

Rosenallis: Roots and Revelations is an exciting event hosted by the newly formed Rosenallis Tidy Towns.

It promises a deep dive into the rich history of Rosenallis and its surroundings, its stories, landmarks and insights into events.

Five expert speakers will share some of their vast knowledge of the area, followed by a screening of The Light Within, An Irish Quaker Story.

It takes place on Friday evening, November 29 inside the pretty St Brigid's Church of Ireland in Rosenallis.

The expert gathering includes Maynooth University history lecturer Dr Ciaran Reilly, author of "Capard: An Irish Country House and Estate" who will deliver a talk on the history of Capard House.

Reknowned geologist, botanist and author, Professor John Feehan will explore the history of Rosenallis, drawing from his extensive work on the Slieve Blooms.

Next Generation Historian Dr Michael Loughman will add further insights into the area’s history.

Sean Flanagan, author of "The Lost Village", will discuss the history of Cones Village near Glenbarrow Waterfall.

Local expert Roy Meredith will share his knowledge on St. Brigid and the Quakers' history in Rosenallis, afterwards complemented by the short film, shot in Rosenallis and directed by Denis McCardle.

Rosenallis Tidy Towns is chaired by Linda Shaw. The night will be MC'd by the vice chair Larry O'Loughlin. Secretary Daniel McDonald told the Leinster Express / Laois Live why they are hosting it.

"We formed Rosenallis Tidy Towns as the start of the renewal of Rosenallis, to bring life into it so we thought this history night for everybody was a good idea. We are very proud of our history here. I don't think anything like this has been done in a long time. We are very lucky to be bringing together a group of such experts together on a winter's night. They all really know their areas of expertise.

"The film was shot in Rosenallis but many people haven't seen it, so its a good time to showcase it. It promises to be a very entertaining night

The evening begins at 7.15pm, with light refreshments served afterwards at 9.30pm.

Tickets cost €10. They are available on Eventbrite, on Revolut (085 1847390), and at local shops: Hanlons & Emmet Stores in Mountmellick, Hogan’s Shop in Clonaslee, Laura's Hair Studio & The Falls Glenbarrow in Rosenallis.

For further details, contact: 085 1847390 / 089 4850809

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