by Rose Rushe
Photo: Liam Burke/Press 22
THE Thomond Archaeological and Historical Society, which now has more than 500 members, has appointed one of the country’s leading church decorators as its new president.
Randel Hodkinson, whose family has been in business in Limerick for over 140 years, said it was a great honour to be elected to lead the society which was founded in 1892.
He takes over from Liam Irwin, former head of the History Department in Mary Immaculate College. One of his first priorities is to liaise with other heritage groups in the city such as Limerick Civic Trust and the Limerick Chapter of the Irish Georgian Society.
“There is a huge appetite amongst the general public for history and heritage as was seen by the large attendances at the many events held in Limerick during the Year of Culture. We need to capitalise on the goodwill shown towards the heritage of our City in 2014 and continue it into the years ahead”, commented the low key artist businessman.
“We have a very historic city with the medieval area in King’s Island and one of the finest examples of Georgian Architecture in Europe in New-Town Pery, and these must be preserved for future generations”.
Thomond, as it is commonly known, has recently published its annual journal, The North Munster Antiquarian Journal which features articles on the turret clock in the Docks, another titled ‘In Search of Lola Montez’ and even an insight into Medieval Chimneypieces in Limerick.
For further information on membership, meetings, talks, outings and scoutings, contact secretary Mary Kenehan at 51 Rhebogue Meadows, Dublin Road, Limerick or public relations officer Pat O’Donovan, auctioneer based at Key House, Newcastle West.
