Final request for photos for local man’s book

For the past seven years Raymond Daly from Tullamore has been compiling a historical songbook, Ten Faithful Years in Song and Story, which tells the true story of the Irish heroes and their brave and daring deeds in events leading up to, and participating in the Great War and the Fight for Irish Freedom between the years 1913 to 1923

The writings deal specifically with key historical events which took place in Offaly and Westmeath, which was also mirrored throughout Ireland during those turbulent years.

In order to complete his book, Raymond is now making a final request to contact families from Offaly and Westmeath who have photos of relatives who took part in the Irish Volunteers (1913-1918), Great War (1914-1918), and War of Independence/Civil War (1919-1923)

“My overall goal for this book is to inform and educate the reader about the courage, bravery and commitment shown by the forgotten men and women who were involved in key historical, social and cultural events in Ireland's Revolutionary period during the most tumultuous decade in Irish history,” he said.

Ireland's strong musical, heritage and culture is included throughout the book with over 120 songs and ballads from before and during the revolutionary period 1913-1923, plus songs and ballads from the Great War of 1914-1918. Among the many songs included are The Foggy Dew, Grace, Banna Strand and The Ballad of James Connolly, plus songs ballads from the Great War such as Pack up your Troubles, It's a Long way to Tipperary, Daisy Daisy and Danny Boy.

Many families throughout Tullamore, Clara, Birr, Edenderry Kilbeggan, Tyrrellspass, Rochfordbridge (Offaly and South Westmeath) have relatives who were involved in the revolutionary period.

Raymond Daly has encouraged anyone who would like photos of any of their relatives included to contact him by email raydaly1969@gmail.com or by mobile 086 8722204.