On Friday afternoon last, a large number of adults and children attended our History of Cycling event in conjunction with the Séan Kelly tour and the start of the Heritage week. Darren Moynihan gave a power point presentation on the history of cycling and the bicycle. Helen Moynihan gave a talk about the importance of our Heritage and spoke about the history of women and cycling. The children took part in a quiz, with the winners receiving a Sean Kelly Tour jersey.
Museum President William Fraher spoke about the important place Dungarvan has in the history of cycling in Ireland. The first cycle club in Ireland- "The Dungarvan Ramblers" was formed in Dungarvan in 1869 by Richard Edward Brenan, the Postmaster. He won the cup for the first cycling challenge race in Ireland in September 1869, which can be seen on display in the Museum along with other cycling memorabilia.
William Fraher then introduced Mr. John O'Brien who spoke about how he acquired the penny farthing bicycle, originally owned by Canon Burkitt of Stradbally, and stated that he was delighted to give the bike on long term loan for display in the Museum.
Mr. John O'Brien & Mr.William Fraher |