Tributes paid to the author of a book that won the Tipperariana Book of the Year Award

The presentation of the Tipperariana Book of the Year Award took place on Thursday, March 27in the ICA Hall, Fethard.

This year’s recipient was Dr. Noreen Higgins McHugh for her wonderful book ‘Revolutionary Women of Tipperary 1914-1924’, a comprehensive history of the women of Cumann na mBan in Tipperary and East Limerick during that period.

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On arrival, people were greeted by the melodious harp music of Fiana Ní Chonaill, who herself hails from Castleconnell, Co. Limerick.

Just as Michael Mallon, Chairman, Fethard Historical Society, began his speech of welcome proceedings were rudely interrupted by much clamour from the adjacent room. The precipitous entrance of a uniformed figure, slouch hat rakishly askew, revealed Thomas J. Clarke (aka Colm McGrath) who proceeded to declaim the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic.

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Equilibrium restored, Michael resumed his opening address: “Ladies and gentlemen, you are very, very welcome here to our gathering to recognise and honour the Tipperariana Book of the Year Award 2024 recipient Dr. Noreen Higgins McHugh. Her dedication, determination and driven love of history earned for her this award for her wonderful work ‘Revolutionary Women of Tipperary 1914-1924’ which also features an index to the Cumann na mBan Pension and Service Medal applicant.This evening we also wish to remember the late John ‘Ger’ Long on this the first anniversary of his death. We welcome in particular Ger’s sister Patricia Wilson, her family and friends. Ger Long, as you all know was a good friend and valued member of the Fethard Historical Society, and what a book man he was! He was also a close friend of Noreen Higgins McHugh, our recipient of the Tipperariana Book of the Year Award 2024.”