New book celebrates rich heritage and history of rural west of Ireland town

A NEW book exploring the rich and often complex history of rural Tuam will be launched this September.

The Roots of Rural Tuam is the debut publication by local author Kathleen Treacy who has brought together historical research, archival material, local knowledge, conversations and personal stories to create an accessible record of the area’s heritage.

The book launch will take place at Cortoon Inn on Saturday, September 12, from 3 to 5 p.m., offering an opportunity to meet the author and hear more about the research, conversations and stories that contributed to the making of the book.

Beginning with Tuam’s ancient origins, the book traces the political, social and economic forces that have shaped rural Tuam across generations. It explores the institutions that have influenced the area, its mysterious pagan past, the impact of land ownership and access to resources, and the wider political contexts that shaped life in the west of Ireland.

The book also turns its attention to the lived experience of rural communities, including Tuam’s experience during the Second World War, the hardships of the 1950s and the significant social changes of the 1960s and 1970s. Alongside historical research, The Roots of Rural Tuam includes personal anecdotes and accounts that offer an insight into the realities of everyday life in the area.

For the author, the book has been an opportunity to gather and preserve stories and information that might otherwise remain scattered across archives, memories and individual accounts.

“I thought it was important to share this valuable information with others. The research started with me wanting to learn more about where I grew up, only to discover a rich past which was mostly unknown to the local community,’’ said Kathleen.

The result is both a historical journey and a deeply personal tribute to the resilience, resourcefulness and community spirit of rural Tuam.

By bringing diverse aspects of the area's heritage together in one accessible volume, The Roots of Rural Tuam offers long-time residents an opportunity to revisit familiar places and stories; while inviting new generations to discover more about the history of the place they call home.

“Local heritage groups and recording of local history is very important in nurturing community identity and creating connections with the past,’’ the author added.

The Roots of Rural Tuam is an engaging and accessible exploration of the heritage of the area and a celebration of the people and communities who have contributed to its enduring character.