History through a Cork townland

Some time back, I was writing about the Aubane Historical Society in north Cork which has a number of publications dealing with…

Some time back, I was writing about the Aubane Historical Society in north Cork which has a number of publications dealing with local history to its credit. Now it has added to that list with Aubane - Where in the World is it?

A townland about three miles from Millstreet, Aubane has a population of about 200 people. The lively historical society describes the latest publication as "a microcosm of Irish history in a Cork townland".

The author, Mr Jack Lane, says the recorded history of the area began in a dramatic way more than 1,000 years ago.

"On Mushera, the mountain overlooking the area, King Mahon, the first of the Dal Cais to rule Munster, was kidnapped and treacherously murdered by his enemies. This was the occasion for his younger brother, Brian Boru, to enter history.

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"Brian set out to avenge his brother's death and did it so effectively that he ended up as the first High King of Ireland," he says. He believes Aubane is an appropriate location from which to look at a millennium of Irish history through the experiences of a particular area and townland.

"This book deals with all aspects of life in the area for as long as records exist - stretching in effect from Brian Boru to the Blueshirts, and it details all local involvement as fully as possible." In the pure air and delightful scenery in this part of Cork, ramblers will find much to enjoy. In the foothills of Mushera, you will probably encounter a member of the Aubane Historical Society. If you don't, someone in the area will know one who is.

That should make the experience even more enjoyable.