The River Brosna is one of Ireland’s hidden rivers, glimpsed over bridges and for short stretches as it travels through Mullingar, Ballinagore, Kilbeggan, Clara, Ballycumber and Ferbane on its journey from Lough Owel to Shannon Harbour.  Until now very little has been written about it yet few rivers have a more fascinating and varied story to tell.  In this beautifully illustrated book John Feehan brings his long experience as an environmental scientist and historian to bear on all aspects of the natural, cultural and industrial heritage of the river and its catchment.  Successive chapters review geological origins, the biodiversity of the river and its tributaries as well as the great area of bogland it drains.  The history of the mills along the course of the river, and of the two great arterial schemes that so altered the river are reviewed and particular attention is devoted to the extraordinary stories of Mesolithic Lough Boora and the Bronze Age Dowris hoard. 

The launch is being hosted by Clara Heritage Society in the Star (GAA) hall in Clara on Friday 22 March at 7.30pm. Clara Heritage Society have been working with other towns and villages along the Brosna developing a ‘Connecting Communities’ project to celebrate and mark the importance and connection of the river. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.