Launch of 175th Anniversary Publication of 'The Nation' Journal

The launch in Mallow Library on November 30th, of ‘The Nation 1842 – 2017’ by the Heritage Committee of Mallow Development Partnership commemorates the 175 years past since the first edition of the newspaper in Dublin in 1842.

‘The Nation’ was suppressed in 1848 by the then ruling authorities but in its six years of existence it was recognised as the most influential newspaper of its time. As stated by Dr Sean Ryder of University College Galway, its programmes for political change, education, economic development, language preservation and cultural revival set the agenda for all subsequent varieties of Irish nationalism.

Speaking at the launch, Heritage Committee Chair Tim Sheehan emphasised the importance of recording historic events of the time, their impact over the subsequent years and their relevance for future generations.

It was important also that Mallow, the birthplace of one of ‘The Nations’ founding fathers, would launch a commemorative journal which contains a number of significant articles from noted historians both national and local. The publication also records the unique Mallow involvement over the years, including the Urban District Councils commemoration in 1942, the Thomas Davis celebrations in 2014, and the present 2017 Anniversary commemorations.

Mr Sheehan thanked the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs for their financial support in compiling the 162 page document which has a copy of the ‘Spirit of The Nation’ on its front cover and a photo of the Thomas Davis statue and the historic Clock House on the back cover.

The journal printed and published locally has a foreword by the President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, and was launched in Mallow Library by the Heritage Officer of Cork County Council, Mr Conor Nelligan who complimented the Committee on their vision and hard work in producing such an important historical document.

The journal is available in Mallow outlets at a price of €10.