Launch event for the latest edition of the Journal of the Old Tuam Society, JOTS 22

The Old Tuam Society is excited to announce the launch of the 22nd edition of the Journal of the Old Tuam Society (JOTS), taking place on Saturday, 22 November at 2:30pm in Tuam Library. We are delighted to welcome Kevin O'Dwyer to officially launch JOTS22. Kevin is a long-time friend and contributor to the Society, including an article on Sun Street Studios in this year's edition.

This year's edition presents a rich and diverse collection of articles spanning centuries of Tuam's history, from the town's iconic landmarks to the family businesses and individuals who shaped the community. Among the highlights is Seamus Kenny's exploration of the Tuam Steam Motor Experiment of 1903, when this innovative but ill-fated venture briefly brought mechanised travel to north Galway roads at the turn of the 20th-century.

Peter Ryan delivers a wonderful family history of the Lydon family from Ballygaddy Road, who were generational bakers of renown, whilst 'Echoes of the Phoenix 1966–1970' by Mary Burke captures memories of music and 'hops' still vivid for many readers. Barbara Barclay presents comprehensive research on the iconic Tuam Chair that distinctive three-legged design crafted in the area for well over a century and now featured in the National Museum of Ireland's collection.

Other articles include Declan Maher's exploration of Tuam's clock and bell, Maurice Laheen's continuing history of Shop Street businesses with a history of Heyworth's Calendars, Noel Carney's reminiscences along the old River Clare and Rosaleen O'Connor's fascinating account of Rishworth's Match Factory in Tuam. The edition also features contributions on the removal of the High Cross of Tuam, The Nolans of Ballinderry, the Egan Family Photo Album, the Western Rail Corridor, CIÉ workers and the evolution of the coat of arms of the United Diocese of Tuam, Limerick and Killaloe.

This year's cover features Dr Tony Claffey, a remarkable scholar and gentleman whose deep knowledge of Tuam's history was freely shared with all. David Burke shares a wonderful tribute to Tony, whose passing reminds us of the importance of preserving community memory.

Speaking about the new edition, the Editor Brendan Higgins said: 'The Journal of the Old Tuam Society serves as our community's permanent record, but we can only preserve what is shared with us. This 22nd edition demonstrates the extraordinary depth of knowledge within our community, from nationally significant events to intimate family histories.'

The Society continues to welcome contributions from the public. Photographs, recollections, family documents and artefacts are always needed to ensure that the knowledge and memories of previous generations are not lost.

The launch takes place at 2:30pm on Saturday, 22 November in Tuam Library. Copies of JOTS22 will be available for purchase on the day at just €15 and later at our usual stockists in Tuam and Galway. We hope you will join us for this special occasion.