A popular Facebook page and four published books later, Dermot is now regarded as the preserver of Carlow’s history.
Lady with accordion: An image of Annie Brien, who lived on Staplestown Road in Carlow
Dermot’s passion for photography was sparked by his late father-in-law, Tony Corr, who introduced him to the technical aspects of the craft and recommended Canon cameras, which Dermot has loyally used for over 40 years.
As the driving force behind the Facebook group Old Carlow Photos, which now has nearly 14,000 members, Dermot has meticulously collected and curated photographs of Carlow from decades gone by.
Mrs. Kirwan outside St. Dympna’s Lunatic Asylum in Carlow in 1954
Following the success of the Facebook group, Dermot decided to launch his first book in 2014, filled with old photos of Carlow that he collected over the years.
Now Dermot is gearing up to launch his fourth book titled Old Carlow Photos Book IV on November 8, which will also be filled with a selection of old photographs that capture the essence of Carlow’s past, showcasing the town’s evolution through the decades.
Captured by Fr. Finbarr Corr in Carlow, this photograph features Dan and Kathleen Shanaghy with Ned Broughan looking on, illustrating the transition from horse-drawn carts to motor cars
“Ten years ago in 2014, the first book was a ‘once-off’ publication,” explained Dermot. “I decided to empty out my attic and it turned into a much bigger project than I had anticipated.”
After the first book was published, Dermot soon realised that he couldn’t stop there. The interest he sparked in Carlovians about their past was not going to dwindle any time soon
“The reaction from Carlovians at home and abroad was humbling, and I never expected to produce another book, how wrong I was. The fourth book is now here, and the buzz from these publications gets better and better.”
Leighlinbridge in 1931: A nostalgic look back at this picturesque Co Carlow village
The photographs and short stories in Old Carlow Photos Book IV offer a window into Carlow’s past, from the everyday lives of its residents to significant events that shaped the town.
Dermot is extremely grateful to all the Carlow people who have entrusted him with their “precious memories”, as without them, this book would not be possible and Carlow’s visual histories would not be preserved for future generations to come.
“Who would have thought that Dermot’s hobby of collecting and recording thousands of photos would result in not just one but four books of nostalgia?,” said local businessman, Seán Swan.
“Dermot’s commitment to documenting Carlow’s history is truly commendable.”
Carlow Castle: A poignant reminder of the castle that is now obscured by modern apartments, with the historic walkway over the river also gone
Dermot also thanked his wife, Kathleen, for her support and added that Kathleen and the enthusiasm of his grandchildren, Róisín and Darragh, has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.
From November 8 to 10, Dermot will be hosting an exhibition in the Carlow Parish Centre to celebrate the launch of the book. Everyone is welcome to attend and experience Carlow’s history through Dermot O’Brien’s lens.
This post was originally published on here
