Local historian Pádraig LenihanLocal historian to launch 2026 Old Athlone Society programmeThe Old Athlone Society is excited to kick off its 2026 programme with a special lecture by local historian Pádraig Lenihan, on Wednesday, January 14. The Athlone native has a deep expertise in Irish military history, and will deliver a talk titled "Sieges without Guns: Athlone and the Midlands, December 1641 – February 1643." The lecture will explore the dramatic and often harrowing experiences of Athlone and surrounding areas during the early years of the Irish rebellion. His latest book, Siege in Ireland, 1641-53, examines the siege experiences through survivor testimonies, focusing on both soldiers and civilians. New members of the society are encouraged to attend, and early arrival is recommended to secure a seat.

Source: Irish Independent January 05, 2026 22:23 UTC