Glenmalure & Memories of a Lost World - How Did Electrification Change Rural Ireland?

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=oddtdtcreator

Books on Glenmalure and the Wicklow Military Road:

Carmel O'Toole: Glenmalure: The Wild Heart of the Mountains

Michael Fewer: The Wicklow Military Road

Additional 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/

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From the Norman Invasion to the War of Independence, the Great Famine to the Troubles, the Irish History Podcast takes you on a journey through the most fascinating stories in Ireland's past. Whether it’s the siege of Dublin in 1171 or gun battles in the 1920s, the podcast vividly recreates a sense of time and place. Each episode is meticulously researched, creating character-driven narratives that are engaging and accessible for all.

Since the first episode was released back in 2010, the podcast has covered scores of captivating stories. Major multi-part series have explored the Great Famine, the Norman Invasion, and Irish involvement in the Spanish Civil War. If you are looking for standalone episodes, there are lots of great interviews with leading Irish historians covering topics from medieval sex magic to Irish connections in the Jack the Ripper murders!

Why not start with 'Three Days in July', an acclaimed mini-series from the summer of 2024. It explores the early years of the Troubles and the forgotten story of a young Londoner who was shot dead by the British Army in Belfast in 1970.

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• No. of episodes: 309
• Latest episode: 2022-11-09
• History

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