‘Co-operators of the Free State’
A new book, written by Fermoy native Mick Sheahan who now lives in America, features the North Cork social reformers and the history of the co- operative movement through the birth of the Irish Free State.
During the Celtic Tiger, Mick moved from his homeplace of Fermoy to America, first to California before settling in Utah where he now works in I.T.
“Being from Fermoy had a strong impact on this book. In the early 1900s, the Dunlea family from Fermoy set up two co-operative creameries in the area,” Mick told
TheAvondhu.
‘Co-operators of the Free State’ was recently published by the Utah Research and Miscellaneous Press and also features the stories of two
North Cork men, Robert A Anderson, Vice President of the IAOS and early TD Timothy Quill, who are both regarded as key social reformers during the period of the Irish Free State.
“I have had an interest in history regarding the formative years of the State post independence. We hear a lot about the colours of the flags and the different sides during the conflicts, but the socio-economic developments of the era are discussed very little in comparison.
“We have a fascinating history on the topic of the co-operative movement which is admired by historians all around the world,” Mick added.
Despite being located across the pond, Mick notes that thanks to the internet, research and compiling references from abroad has been made much easier.
Research for ‘ Co-operators of the Free State’ was carried out by accessing digital newspaper archives of Irish publications going back to the 1800s and through other online databases substituting for physical libraries.
The book aims to give a thorough and well-documented examination of co-operative economics during the early 20th century.
“I think the ideal readership for this book would be anyone with a passing interest in Irish history who may also have an interest in business affairs.
“People based locally may like it as the book has a strong North Cork element with dedicated biographies on R A Anderson and Timothy Quill. Horace Plunkett was very active in the area too,” Mick said.
It is intended for the majority of proceeds from the book to
be donated to the Irish Cancer Society who Mick says he has a ‘strong affinity for’ and used to volunteer with back in the 2000s.
‘Co-operators of the Free State’ is available to purchase online at www. Lulu.com