Irish History Podcast

In times past, childbirth was a profoundly communal and intimate experience, guided by the steady hands and wisdom of community midwives. Known as Bean Ghlúine—the Women of the Knee—these women were among the most important figures in rural Irish communities.In this episode, I’m joined by historian Emma Laffey to explore the world of birth and midwifery in a time before pregnancy tests or pain relief. Through the remarkable story of community midwife Mary Anne Fanning, our conversation uncovers the history of birth and the key role midwives played in Irish communities. They delivered not just babies, but in an era of high infant mortality, they were also called upon to guide families through loss and tragedy.*This episode discusses themes of childbirth and infant loss, which some listeners may find distressing.*Sound by Kate DunleaResourcesVisit the Exhibition:https://www.museum.ie/en-IE/Museums/Country-Life/Exhibitions/Mary-Anne-Fanning-Remembering-our-Community-MidwivRead Emma's book Woman of the Knee Midwife & Handywoman for freehttps://skehana.galwaycommunityheritage.org/content/people/an-bhean-ghluine/an-bheanghluineFind out more about Irish community midwiveshttps://skehana.galwaycommunityheritage.org/content/category/topics/an-bhean-ghluineWatch this interview with community midwife Bina Kelly interviewed in 1983 https://skehana.galwaycommunityheritage.org/content/people/an-bhean-ghluine/an-bhean-ghluineiCAN: Irish Community Archive Networkhttps://www.ouririshheritage.org/

Nestled deep in the Wicklow Mountains, Glenmalure was once a stronghold for rebels and a sanctuary from the outside world. But long after the echoes of rebellion faded, the valley remained a place apart, where the comforts of modern life arrived late. Glenmalure was only connected to the electricity grid and running water in the late 20th century, and the rhythms of daily existence were shaped by isolation, resilience, and community spirit.In this evocative episode, which concludes a series on the Wicklow Military Road, historian Fin Dwyer shares the stories of people who lived in this isolated and remote valley.Recorded in a 200-year-old inn, this episode weaves together personal recollections, local history, and the enduring landscape of Glenmalure. It is a tribute to a way of life that has only recently disappeared!The episode features the voices of Carmel O’Toole, Michael Fewer, Marion McEvoy, Hugh McLindon, and Pat Dunne. This episode would not have been possible by the hours of recordings with the Glenamalure Pure Mile Group.Thanks to the Glenmalure Lodge for faciliating this episode.A special thanks to Deirdre Burns, the Heritage Officer of Wicklow County Council.This episode was funded by Wicklow County Council and the Heritage Council.Sound by Kate Dunlea.200 Anniversary Events to mark the death of Michael Dwyer This year marks the 200th anniversary of the death of Michael Dwyer, the rebel who played a pivotal role in the history of the Wicklow Military Road. On August 23rd, 2025, a special event is being organised to explore Michael Dwyer, his life, and his legacy. Find out more here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/michael-dwyer-200-registration-1358221520129?aff=oddtdtcreatorBooks on Glenmalure and the Wicklow Military Road:Carmel O'Toole: Glenmalure: The Wild Heart of the MountainsMichael Fewer: The Wicklow Military RoadAdditional Sources:Marion McEvoy https://marionmcevoy.com/Glenmalure Lodge https://glenmalurelodge.ie/Glenmalure hostel (the former home of Dr Kathleen Lynn) https://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/p/15098/glenmalure-hostel-hostelling-international/

Glendalough is one of Ireland’s most iconic and picturesque destinations. Its medieval monastery and stunning mountain landscape attract around one million tourists every year. However behind the postcard-perfect scenery lies a history that rarely makes it into the tourist brochures.In this episode, I veer off the well-trodden paths to uncover the real stories of Glendalough: stories of violence, exploitation, and transformation that have shaped the valley for centuries. This includes its early medieval history as a 'military industrial complex' and a very special interview with Robbie Carter - a former lead miner in the area.This episode will change the way you see one of Ireland's most famous historic sites.The podcast features Frank Tracy, Graeme Warren, Margaret Duff Garvey Pat Reid and Robbie Carter. A special thanks to Deirdre Burns.This episode was funded by Wicklow Co Council and the Heritage Council.Sound by Kate Dunlea.

Vast, windswept, and seemingly untouched—the landscape around the Sally Gap in Wicklow is a place where history appears to vanish into the heather and mist. With no houses and few traces of human settlement, this moorland feels like a true wilderness.Yet, the story of this landscape is one forged by ancient forces, human ambition, and exploitation.In this episode, I continue my journey down the Wicklow Military Road into what some have called one of Ireland’s last great wildernesses, uncovering a hidden history that stretches back thousands of years.Written, Produced & Narrated by Fin DwyerSound by Kate DunleaFeaturing: Frank Tracy, Deirdre Burns, Faith Wilson, Michael Fewer, Graeme Warren & Margaret Duff Garvey.This episode was funded by Wicklow Co Council and The Heritage Council.This year marks the 200th anniversary of the death of Michael Dwyer, the rebel who played a pivotal role in the history of the Wicklow Military Road. On August 23rd, 2025, a special event is being organised to explore Michael Dwyer, his life, and his legacy. Find out more here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/michael-dwyer-200-registration-1358221520129?aff=oddtdtcreator

In 1800, in the wake of the 1798 Rebellion, the British military began construction of the Wicklow Military Road. Designed to bring control to the so-called “bandit country” of the Wicklow Mountains, this road now winds through some of the most remote and picturesque landscapes in Ireland. Its history is as dramatic as the scenery it traverses. Built in an Ireland still reeling from insurrection, the road has, over the past two centuries, borne witness to some of the most remarkable—and often dark—chapters in our history. From disappearances during the Irish Civil War to a German war cemetery, the Wicklow Military Road is a route steeped in intrigue and untold stories. This podcast explores this road through Ireland's bandit country.Thanks to Michael Fewer, Margaret Duff Garvey, Joan Kavanagh, Faith Wilson & Frank Tracy.Special Thanks to Deirdre Burns.Written & Produced: Fin DwyerNarration: Fin DwyerSound: Kate DunleaFunded by Wicklow Co Co & The Heritage CouncilThis year marks the 200th anniversary of the death of Michael Dwyer, the rebel who played a pivotal role in the history of the Wicklow Military Road. On August 23rd, 2025, a special event is being organised to explore Michael Dwyer, his life, and his legacy. Find out more here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/michael-dwyer-200-registration-1358221520129?aff=oddtdtcreator

Between 1911 and 1926, the Irish Protestant population fell by over 30%. This podcast explores why this happened, as well as how the majority who remained adapted to life in the Free State.

In 1925, nineteen IRA prisoners orchestrated a daring escape from Mountjoy Jail in the heart of Dublin. Join me and historian Sam McGrath as we delve into the history of the IRA following the Civil War and uncover the remarkable story behind this audacious breakout.Sound: Kate Dunlea

The history of the Great Hunger is often recounted through statistics and impersonal narratives. There are many reasons for this, but one significant factor is that many survivors were reluctant to share their stories of survival. In this episode, based on letters from the 1840s, I uncover a challenging chapter in our history. Among the stories recounted is that of widow Elisa Kelly, who was exploited by her neighbors, and John Molloy, who was left with no option but to beg for help. Their stories may be inglorious, but they reveal the harsh realities of life during the Famine.Additional Narrations: Aidan Crowe & Therese MurraySound by Kate Dunlea

Typhoid Mary has inspired books, movies, and even a Marvel character, but the history of the Irish woman behind the name is less well known. Mary Mallon was born in County Tyrone in the late 19th century before emigrating to the US. While she initially enjoyed a successful career as a cook, she became the central figure in a major scandal when she was accused of spreading typhoid. This podcast tells her story.This podcast is the first episode of Season II of "Transatlantic," a new show I make with historian Damian Shiels on Irish-American history. You can subscribe to Transatlantic https://linktr.ee/transatlanticpod