River Brosna theme for September Offaly History lecture

The Offaly History lecture for September will focus on the River Brosna, in particular its course and hinterland.

The lecture will be given by John Feehan, a geologist and botanist from Birr, and will take place at the Offaly History Centre on Monday, September 30.

The River Brosna is one of Ireland’s hidden rivers, glimpsed over bridges and for short stretches as it travels through Mullingar, Ballinagore, Kilbeggan, Clara, Ballycumber and Ferbane on its journey from Lough Owel to Shannon Harbour.

Until now very little has been written about it, yet few rivers have a more fascinating and varied story to tell.

In his highly illustrated book, 'The River Brosna: An Environmental History', John brings his long experience as an environmental scientist and historian to bear on all aspects of the natural, cultural and industrial heritage of the river and its catchment area.

Successive chapters review geological origins, the biodiversity of the river and its tributaries as well as the great area of bogland it drains.

The history of the mills along the course of the river, and of the two great arterial schemes that so altered the river are reviewed and particular attention is devoted to the extraordinary stories of Mesolithic Lough Boora and the Bronze Age Dowris hoard.

John has dedicated much of his life to studying and communicating the evolution of the Irish landscape and how people have lived in and changed it.

His previous Offaly-focused publications have included books on the Slieve Blooms, Croghan Hill, the 'Landscape of Clonmacnoise', 'An Atlas of Birr' and, more recently, Killaun Bog and the Camcor River.

Tea and coffee will be available after the talk. Admission is €5 for non-members and €2 for members.

This is a public lecture and non-members and those who might wish to join and get involved are welcome.