New book uncovering Tipperary's forgotten land war stories will be launched in Cahir

A new book that uncovers Tipperary’s forgotten land war stories is set to launch in Cahir at the end of November.

Local historians Josephine O’Neill, Paul Buckley, Karol DeFalco, Neil Donovan, Michael Peters, Máire Ó Dhómhnaill, Ristéard Ó Dhómhnaill and Annette Condon have compiled a new book titled ‘Defying The Landlords: Tipperary Land Agitation 1879 – 1903.

The launch takes place on Saturday, November 28, 2026 in Cahir House Hotel at 8pm. Special guest Brian Clancy will launch the book. Charity representatives on the night are Embrace FARM Charity (All profits from this publication will go directly to "Embrace FARM" a charity that provides invaluable support to the families of the victims of farm accidents.)

This powerful new history is an account of local rural resistance. The book brings to light a forgotten chapter of our local area and the local communities that stood at the heart of Ireland’s Land War, which spanned from 1879 to 1903.

Drawing on local and national newspapers, local testimony, and long-forgotten accounts, a group of local writers reveals how ordinary men and women confronted eviction, exploitation and injustice, reshaping the future of land ownership in Ireland.

Defying the Landlords traces dramatic episodes of dispossession, boycotts, demonstrations, and organised resistance across Cahir, Ballylooby, Duhill, Burncourt, Clogheen, Ballyporeen, Bansha, Skeheenarinky, Newcastle, Ardfinnan, Ballybacon and Grange.

The public are invited to the launch event to celebrate the publication of ‘Defying the Landlords’. The event will feature a pictorial timeline presentation of key local and national events, musical performances, and reflections on how these stories continue to shape Tipperary’s identity today. Admission is free and all are welcome.