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 Dunlea

Resources

Visit the Exhibition:

https://www.museum.ie/en-IE/Museums/Country-Life/Exhibitions/Mary-Anne-Fanning-Remembering-our-Community-Midwiv

Read Emma's book Woman of the Knee Midwife & Handywoman for free

https://skehana.galwaycommunityheritage.org/content/people/an-bhean-ghluine/an-bheanghluine

Find out more about Irish community midwives

https://skehana.galwaycommunityheritage.org/content/category/topics/an-bhean-ghluine

Watch this interview with community midwife Bina Kelly interviewed in 1983

https://skehana.galwaycommunityheritage.org/content/people/an-bhean-ghluine/an-bhean-ghluine

iCAN: Irish Community Archive Network

https://www.ouririshheritage.org/

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory.

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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/

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory.

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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.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.