Lest we forget them - the invisible women of Nenagh

At 6.30pm on Tuesday 18 August at Nenagh Library, a commemorative booklet about significant women who have contributed to the life of the Nenagh area will be launched by Ms. Siobhan McGowan. This year's selection of women reflect how the educational, economic, political, social and cultural life of the district was enhanced by their contributions.

The timeline covered extends from the work of the Mercy sisters who arrived in 1854 to the recent death of GAA stalwart Elizabeth Howard. Unique women like the Hon. Mrs. Juliana Roberts or the Rohan sisters or Mary Bridget Ryan (Lacken) are all remembered, women who challenged the stereotype and defied the expectations of their time. Maggie Ryan is included because she represents the 'Everywoman' who endured the struggles of single parenthood to successfully raise her family while Nora Butler Swan's voice was celebrated on a national and international stage.

The aim of our event and commemorative booklet is to pass to the next generation information about the life experiences of another generation, lest they be forgotten. We hope that an interest in sharing memories and knowledge of other women will be triggered for next year's project.