Kieran McCarthy – författare

Cork Harbour is the second largest natural harbour in the world. It is a historical wonder, surrounded by villages, forts, towers and churches, all of which combine to tell the colourful story of Ireland’s largest county. A reliable reference book and a quirky guide, this book by author and historian Kieran McCarthy can be dipped into time and again to uncover new landmarks, people and stories from this stunning part of the world.

One hundred years ago in Ireland marked a time of change. The continuous rise of an Irish revival, debates over Home Rule and the idea of Irish identity were continuously negotiated by all classes of society. In Cork City Reflections, authors Kieran McCarthy and Daniel Breen focus on the visual changes that have taken place in the port city on Ireland’s south-west coast. Using a collection of historic postcards from Cork Public Museum and merging these with modern images they reveal how the town has changed over the decades. Each of the 180 pictures featured combines a recent colour view with the matching sepia archive scene.The authors have grouped the images under thematic headings such as main streets, public buildings, transport, and industry. Readers will be able to appreciate how Cork City has evolved and grown over the last century but also how invaluable postcards can be in understanding the past. In an age where digital photography and the internet have made capturing and sharing images so effortless, it is easy to forget that in the decades before the camera became popular and affordable, postcards were the only photographic souvenirs available to ordinary people.This book, which vividly contrasts Cork past and present, will evoke many memories and appeal to residents and visitors alike.

Place matters in Cork. From its marshy foundations at the lowest crossing point of the River Lee, the city spread across its steep suburban hillsides. Journeying from the south of the city to its north prospects reveals a rich range of historic spaces. The urban landscape is filled with stories about its past. Some sites one would pass and stop and contemplate whilst many others one would not give a second look. But a second and even a third look reveals some very historical nuggets about Cork’s development.Cork: A Potted History takes the viewer on a walking trail of fifty sites and takes a line from the city’s famous lake known just as The Lough across the former medieval core and ends in the historic north suburbs of Blackpool. Starting at The Lough – a Cork gem – which once hosted everything from duels to ice-skating and its own tree nursery, the trail then rambles to hidden moats, ancient hospital sites, lost meeting houses, legacies of medieval remnants, across ancient streetscapes to exploring forgotten industrial urban spaces. This book reveals the city’s lesser-known heritage and hidden urban features.

Cork is often described as Ireland’s southern capital. The city’s history goes back to a monastic then Viking settlement in the early medieval period to become Ireland’s second largest city. During the War of Independence in the early twentieth century the city was often at the forefront of fighting, the city centre being burnt down by British forces, and was again the focus of fighting during the ensuing Irish Civil War. The city has always been open to the world, as an Atlantic port, and today the city is a vibrant cultural, industrial and economic centre for south-west Ireland, where the past is in evidence while the city looks forward. Corkonians draw on rich heritage through the city’s history, from sports, maritime traditions, commerce and education to festivals, literature, art, music and the rich Cork accent. A–Z of Cork reveals the history behind Cork, its streets and buildings, businesses and the people connected with the city. Alongside the famous historical connections are unusual characters, tucked-away places and unique events that are less well-known. Fully illustrated throughout, this book will appeal to all those with an interest in this historic city.

Cork City, Ireland's southern capital, is a place of tradition, continuity, change and legacy. It is a place of direction and experiment by people, of ambition and determination, experiences and learning, of ingenuity and innovation and a place of nostalgia and memory. The pictures within this book provide insights into how such a place came into being and focuses on Cork one hundred years ago. Cork's urban landscape is filled with messages about the past. As a port town, Cork was and still is strongly connected to the outside world - this small international city is ambitious in its ventures and links to a world of adventure and exploration. The photographs within the book help to show the human experience and sense of place and pride in the city, one hundred years ago and today. Views of streets, public spaces, churches, the docks, and an international exhibition to name a few, capture the energy and drive of a city - the legacies of which still linger on in the southern capital of Ireland.

One of the most famous and popular road circuits for tourists in the southwest of Ireland, the Ring of Kerry traverses the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula, with a great many tourist sites along the way from Killarney’s lakes to Waterville’s coast. A century ago, the Grand Atlantic Tour emerged as one of the essential travel itineraries by horse-drawn and motor bus tours on the island of Ireland. For the landscape lover, postcards were produced for visitors to remember their visit and to send to loved ones. These beautiful, colourful postcards showcased the region and framed the visitor’s memories.The magnificent scenery, with unspoilt coasts and rugged mountains, makes the Ring of Kerry a top tourist destination. Dramatic panoramas, majestic mountain shapes, ancient sites and heritage towns are found along the winding route of the N70 through the southern tip of Kerry. The 180-km route is much travelled, especially by coach tours. Along the coast are picturesque little towns such as Sneem, Caherdaniel and Waterville. Kenmare Bay to the south, Dingle Bay in the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west surround this peninsula, which boasts 75 miles of beaches.

Cork City History Tour is a unique insight into the illustrious history of Ireland’s second city. Local author Kieran McCarthy guides us through the streets of the ‘Rebel City’, showing how its famous landmarks used to look and how they’ve changed over the years, as well as exploring its lesser-known sights and hidden corners. With the help of a handy location map, readers are invited to follow a timeline of events and discover for themselves the changing face of Cork.

Cork City, Ireland’s southern capital, is a place of tradition, continuity, change and legacy. It is a place of direction and experiment by people of ambition and determination, experiences and learning, of ingenuity and innovation, and of nostalgia and memory. Cork’s urban landscape is filled with messages about the past, and the nearby harbour and surrounding towns hold many secrets. Well-known local author Kieran McCarthy takes the reader on a fascinating journey through Cork’s history, unearthing tales of double-crossing and infighting and introducing us to many nefarious characters along the way.

Situated in the south-western corner of Ireland, the region of West Cork attracts millions of visitors each year to discover its spectacular coastline and dramatic landscapes. It is known for many aspects: its scenery, its serenity, its culture and its people. 50 Gems of West Cork takes the reader from Bandon to Castletownbere, through the changing and unspoilt landscapes and seascapes, and provides an insight into the uniqueness of the region. The necklace of towns and villages are all linked together through a striking section of Ireland’s coastline, encompassing a raw coastal wilderness with expansive inlets. Together with the exquisite coastal scenery are undulating inland landscapes criss-crossed by mountains, hills, streams and rivers, imposing old-world villages and wonderful discoveries at every bend in the road. In this book, local author Kieran McCarthy seeks out the essence and the character of the area to show how special it is.

Situated in the south-west of Ireland, the port city of Cork is right on the very edge of Western Europe and has always been open to influences from Europe and the wider world. The amalgamation of these influences has created a vibrant and historic twenty-first-century city. It is no surprise that, with such a wide range of influences, Cork has developed a very distinct culture. Corkonians have an immense variety of strong cultural traditions, from the city’s history to its sports, commerce and education. Then there is its maritime heritage, the festivals, literature, art, music and the rich Cork accent.In Celebrating Cork, local author Kieran McCarthy highlights the wealth of the city’s heritage and its citizens’ diverse achievements. The book explores some of the reasons why Cork is so special in the hearts of Corkonians and its many visitors. It takes the reader through the familiar and lesser-known layers of Cork’s importance in Atlantic Europe. Different chapters focus on the history of its port; the documents and maps which defined the city’s sense of identity; the Arts and Crafts movements, which can be viewed within the cityscape; its key institutions and charities; its engineering feats; and perhaps why Cork is known for its rebel nature.Illustrated throughout, Celebrating Cork will be of great appeal to residents, visitors and all those with connections to the city. It will be a source of civic pride as well as a valuable contribution to local history.

Olympic rowers Gary and Paul O’Donovan may be the face of Irish rowing and Skibbereen Rowing Club, and have enormously increased the popularity of rowing in Ireland, but they're just one piece of a much larger jigsaw. Without their club and the people behind the scenes, they wouldn’t be Olympic silver medalists, 2018 world champions, former European champions and, in Paul's case, a three-time world champion.Almost one hundred Skibbereen Rowing Club athletes have represented Ireland at various regattas over the years; a staggering figure when viewed in light of the size of the club. Founded in 1970, it is now the undisputed most successful rowing club in the country, producing five Olympic rowers since 2000 and four world champions between 2016 and 2018. It is the characters involved in the club, the coaches, members and the athletes themselves, who come together to make Skibbereen Rowing Club what it is. Something in the Water reveals what goes on behind the scenes to create an environment that allows locals to excel on the national and international stages. The story is told through the people and families involved, showing how relatable they are to people around the country.

County Cork is the largest county in Ireland, with a heritage that has been recorded, celebrated and commemorated over many centuries. This book explores the historical curiosities within the county’s sweeping river valleys, epic mountainous locations and sprawling coastline.There are many sites and stories to discover that whisk the reader off through ancient underground worlds, myth-making landscapes and ghostly tales. From apparitions to zoomorphic images, Cork possesses a myriad of tales to stop the explorer in their tracks, all of which enhance County Cork’s strong sense of place.

Did You Know?Cork’s Lord Mayors still annually perform the traditional ‘Throwing the Dart’ ceremony to signify their authority over the port and harbour. On the corner of the Grand Parade and Tuckey Street, embedded into the pavement, is a cannon that was reputedly used during the Siege of Cork. In November 1930 a world speed record was set by Joseph S. Wright when he rode his motorcycle at 150mph up the Carrigrohane Straight Road in Cork. The Little Book of Cork is a compendium of fascinating, obscure, strange and entertaining facts about Cork City.Here you will find out about Cork’s buildings and businesses, its proud sporting heritage, its hidden corners and its famous (and occasionally infamous) men and women. Through its bustling thoroughfares and down winding laneways, this book takes the reader on a journey through Cork and its vibrant past, recalling the people and events that shaped this great city.A reliable reference book and a quirky guide, this can be dipped into time and again to reveal something new about the people, the heritage and the secrets of Cork.

The name Faberge has long been a byword for luxury. Combining an entrepreneurial vision for craftsmanship with innovative material sourcing and technical ability, Carl Faberge created an astonishing array of bespoke jewelled and enamelled objects at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century. This beautifully illustrated book explores the history and legacy of the House of Faberge, from its origins in Russia - and its role in the glamorous world of the Romanovs - to global recognition. Much of the story is familiar, but less well known is the important part played by the London branch. Opened in 1903, and the only one outside Russia, it became a choice destination for Edwardian high society and an international clientele. Featuring over 120 pieces, from delicate flowers to Imperial Easter eggs, and with contributions from leading experts Faberge: Romance to Revolution celebrates the enduring fascination with this master craftsman's works.

McCarthy gives a fascinating insight to the Volunteer Movement in Cobh, how they extended and built up a potent guerrilla movement throughout East Cork, and played a pivotal role in earning Cork the title of the Rebel County. He documents the evolution of the local volunteers post civil war, and the progress of the republican struggle.

"Inheritance" explores the parishes of Aghabullogue, Inniscarra and Ovens on the northern valleyside of the Inniscarra Reservoir, Co. Cork. Through fieldwork and interviews with local people, Kieran McCarthy focuses on several aspects of the region's cultural heritage, providing insights into place-making, community roots and identity. This work dabbles in the architecture of heritage and its interaction with life in an Irish river valley. The book is focused on the beauty and structure of 'things', which highlight, debate and celebrate our cultural heritage not only from the past but also what we have inherited in the present. The book is a study of the rich language of images and symbols that are so inherent in rural environments. In fact, the many monuments on the local landscape could be described as part of a vast and varied open-air history book just waiting to be read.