Song and stories to mark Offaly author's book launch in Belmont

On Friday, October 9, Tullamore author Raymond Daly will launch his book Ten Faithful Years (1913-1923) in Song and Story in Belmont. After launching the book in Offaly towns of Clara, Tullamore, and Edenderry, Raymond brings his songbook to Belmont in an evening steeped in songs and stories from the most turbulent and transformative decade in Irish history.

In his historical songbook Raymond has compiled more than a 100 songs and ballads from a most pivotal period in Irish history – 1913 to 1923 – encapsulating sentiments from the Great War, Easter Rising, War of Independence and Civil War.

At the book launch, the author will share the story behind the book's genesis. “I will talk about what inspired me to undertake the project, the nine years of research that shaped the book, the many stories I discovered along the way, and the local people and families whose experiences became part of the book,” said Raymond.

The book's launches in other towns have garnered a reputation for the songs and ballads performance. The Belmont launch will continue the tradition with Michael Middleton lending his voice to the songs.

Raymond shares that the book tells the true story of the Irish heroes and their brave and daring deeds in events leading up to, and participating in the Great War and the Fight for Irish Freedom between the years (1913-1923). The writings deal specifically with historical events which took place in Tullamore, Offaly and South Westmeath, which were mirrored throughout Ireland during those turbulent years.

Songs featured in Ten Faithful Years include The Rising of the Moon, The Wearin’ of the Green, Down by the Glenside, It’s a long way to Tipperary, Pack up your Troubles, The Ballad of James Connolly, Grace, The Foggy Dew, The Ballad of Michael Collins, The Galtee Mountain Boy, The Patriot Games, Four Green Fields, Only Our Rivers Run Free and more.

Ten Faithful Years (1913-1923) in Song and Story will be launched on Friday, October 9, in Belmont Community Hall, High Street, Belmont, at 7:30pm. The event welcomes all to attend and enjoy an evening of history, stories, music and song.