Martin Neary’s book is a rich tapestry of vivid east Mayo memories
PAST lives and lifestyles in a small village in east Mayo have been brought to life in vivid detail by Martin Neary.
Martin’s book, Madogue Memories, is available locally and can also be purchased online, via Amazon Books.
Madogue townland is tucked into the landscape, alongside the new N5, between Charlestown and Swinford.
Martin Neary, now 81, was born there in 1943.
His book lovingly chronicles his own life and that of his local community from the early 1940s to the mid-1970s.
As the promotional blurb for the book explains: “Long dead neighbours and relations come to life as he (Martin) relives his experiences and expresses his child's perception of them.
“He brings us on a journey which includes school days, local defence force training, emigrant experiences, land purchase and farming activity.
“In the process a host of unique characters is introduced so that we feel we also are part of the rich tapestry of Madogue Memories.”
Martin made national and international headlines in recent times after generously bequeathing his farm to Mayo County Council for the enjoyment of the community.
With the official support from the county council, the Martin Neary Woodland Park was established.
Planning permission has been sought and granted for Martin to be buried in a plot on his own land.
A second book by Martin, outlining the idea of his woodland park and his philosophy in life - he is an atheist, following like his father before him - is in the planning stages.
Martin says the late Margaret Kirrane was the driving force which inspired him to write his memoir.
His leafy woodland park is now a busy place, especially on summer evenings, when people visit to enjoy the fresh air, the birdsong and the foliage.
As far as life in Madogue is concerned, all has changed utterly in Martin’s lifetime. He laments: “In the 190I Census there were over 20 families in the village. Now there are no kids in the village at all and the school (Cortoon) is closed.”