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Book Launch – ‘Forgotten Lives’ with Rita McCarthy
28 September @ 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm IST
Free
In 1922, the County Clare Nursery, a state-supported mother and baby home for County Clare, was opened in part of Kilrush Workhouse. For the ten years of its existence it was owned and funded by Clare County Council. For the first six years it was managed by the Sisters of Mercy and thereafter by lay staff.
Rita McCarthy, a social historian, extensively researched original archives, newspaper reports and oral histories to recount the story of this unique institution, placing it in the historical context of how unmarried mothers and illegitimate children were treated in Irish society. Conditions in the Nursery were inhumane and the death rate of babies was described by the doctor in charge as ‘appalling’. Yet this is also a story of good people trying to do their best to help the women and children.
McCarthy offers an insight into the characters of the women from all parts of County Clare who spent time in the institution. Interviews with a survivor and descendants of some of the women recount life after the County Nursery.
This book ensures that the County Clare mother and baby home, and the women and children who were unfortunate enough to spend time within its walls, will not be forgotten.
Forgotten Lives was published by Banner Books in August 2025.
After the huge success of her launch at De Valera library, Ennis last month, Rita will be holding her local launch with a talk, readings and a visit to the Kilrush memorial for the mothers and babies of the County Nursery.
After the huge success of her launch at De Valera library, Ennis last month, Rita will be holding her local launch with a talk, readings and a visit to the Kilrush memorial for the mothers and babies of the County Nursery.