The Life and Legacy of George Lynch

Early Life and Family Background

George Lynch, my grandfather, was born into a close-knit family in Glasha, Athea, Co. Limerick. His father was James Lynch and his mother was Bridget Culhane. James Lynch was baptised in Athea RC Church, November 4th 1846 his sponsors being John Flavin and Maria Lyons. The baptismal record shows that his parents George and Mary Lynch were living in Clounleharde. James died of a back ailment, August 4th 1893 and is buried in Templeathea Cemetery with his mother Mary Flahavan who died on January 24th 1908 at the age of 90yrs. He got married on February 23rd 1878 at Moyvane Church to Bridget Culhane 1858-1930, Leitrim Middle, Moyvane, Co Kerry. Bridget’s father was Thomas Culhane and her mother was Margaret (Peg) Hegarty. The witnesses were John Lynch who was either his uncle or his younger brother who later emigrated to New Zealand and Patrick Culhane, Bridget’s brother.

George Lynch was baptized in Athea Church on June 9, 1883, his baptism was witnessed by his paternal granduncle, John Lynch, and his maternal grandmother, Margaret (Peg) Hegarty. George inherited the family farm from his mother, Bridget Lynch nee Culhane. Known for his keen intellect, George was a learned man, particularly gifted in arithmetic, often helping us with our schoolwork. Although he was offered a teaching position in his youth, he chose not to pursue it.

Journey to America

On July 27, 1911, at the age of 28, George embarked on a journey to the United States, sailing from Queenstown aboard the SS Adriatic. His destination was Kansas City, where he intended to stay with his aunt Mrs. Hannah Kinsella at 807 West 13^th St, Kansas City. It is likely that Hannah was his mother’s sister, the daughter of Thomas Culhane and Margaret Hegarty of Leitrim Middle, Newtownsandes, Co. Kerry. After initially staying in St. Louis with his sister Ellen (Sr. Dominic), George moved to Kansas City, where he worked for the railway company. Despite being highly regarded and offered a promotion, he returned to Ireland after a year or so.

Marriage and Family Life

George married Nora Barrett on February 14, 1914, at Athea Church. Nora, born on April 15, 1883, the daughter of John Barrett from Lr. Dirreen and Johanna Thornton from Kilbaha, Moyvane, Co. Kerry. George and Nora built a life together in Glasha where they raised a family of 8, six sons and two daughters.

The Meadow in the Mountains

George Lynch had a charming meadow of hay nestled in a 3-acre field over in the mountain. This picturesque field had a section that was fenced in, fondly referred to as ‘the half acre’. In a bygone era, either the Government or the Land Commission had enacted a law requiring all landowners to lease a half-acre of their farm to any family who had built a house on their property. In the year 1868, George Lynch’s grandfather who was also called George invited Mick Faley and his wife Ellen Sheahan from Templeathea to a corner of this meadow in Glasha. Mick was born circa 1834. George was a road contractor and by having Mick Faley nearby, he knew he could expect the new labourer to work in his employment, which he did as did his sons, Denis Faley and Dan thereafter.

The rent for this half acre was set at no more than one pound per year, making this a thoughtful provision for families like the Faley’s. George Lynch’s meadow in the mountain was a testament to nature’s beauty and the camaraderie of community. The half-acre, a remnant of a time when the government sought to support families, had become a cherished part of the landscape for the Faley family. It was more than just a piece of land; it was a gathering place, a backdrop for laughter, and a canvas for the memories of summer.

Paddy Faley, grandson of Mick Faley, informed me that James Lynch was an educated intelligent man. Says Paddy – ‘one day he called to the meadow where he had Jack Aherne, my father Denis and my uncle Dan mowing hay with scythes. He said to them, ‘tis the last time you’ll be mowing it boys the horses will be cutting it next year. There was no appearance of mowing machines then and he left the three men very puzzled.’

Following James’ death, his wife Bridget took up the mantle so to speak and took on the responsibility of ensuring that the task was completed, which it was.  In the words of, Paddy Faley – ‘His widow Bridget Culhane of Leitrim, Moyvane did not despair. Being the determined woman that she was, possessing an indomitable spirit, she carried on the business as efficiently and successfully as her husband and reared and cared for her family single-handed’.

A Tale of Loyalty: Flora the Collie

The Bond Between Denis and Flora

Paddy Faley often heard enchanting stories from his father Denis, about a remarkable collie dog named Flora. This dog resided at Lynch’s, where Denis worked. Over time, Denis and Flora developed a profound attachment to each other, a bond that transcended the usual relationship between man and animal. Denis’s daily routine involved a walk of approximately one mile from his home to Lynch’s. This journey, taken each morning and evening, became a familiar ritual not only for Denis but also for Flora, who eagerly awaited his arrival each day.

Denis’s Illness and Flora’s Devotion

Life, however, has its unexpected turns. Denis fell victim to an influenza outbreak, confining him to his bed and making it impossible for him to attend work. During this period of illness, Flora’s loyalty and affection for Denis shone through in an extraordinary manner.

Every morning, without fail, Flora would make the journey from Lynch’s to Denis’s home. The door, always left ajar, allowed her to enter and make her way to Denis’s bedside. There, she would gently lick his outstretched hand, offering comfort and companionship in his time of need. After a short visit, she would depart, only to return the following morning to repeat her comforting ritual.

A Remarkable Connection

The connection between Denis and Flora was a testament to the astonishing affection that can exist between man and beast. It was a bond that left a lasting impression on all who witnessed it, including my mother, who remembered Flora fondly. Flora’s daily visits provided not just physical comfort to Denis but also a reminder of the enduring power of loyalty and love. This story remains a cherished memory within the Faley family, highlighting the remarkable and sometimes surprising ways that animals touch our lives.

The Jovial Neighbour: George’s Adventures

George was well-loved in the neighbourhood, known for his warmth and companionship with both his family and neighbour’s. His affinity for creating joyous moments was evident in the way he engaged with everyone around him.

One of the most cherished spots in George’s home was his spacious kitchen. This was not just a place for cooking, but a hub for laughter and playful antics. Paddy Faley recounted how George would dive headfirst into every frolic and caper that the youngsters devised. These lively gatherings took place especially when his wife, Nora, ventured next door to chat with Bridget Dalton.

Nora, albeit loving and supportive, had her hands full with George’s antics. She was often found darning the heels of George’s socks, worn thin from his energetic hopping around the kitchen with the lads. These tales of sock-mending became almost legendary, each stitch a testament to George’s spirited personality.

An Unexpected Black Eye

One particularly memorable incident involved a game of balloons, which took an unexpected turn. George, ever the enthusiastic participant, ended up with a black eye, courtesy of a well-aimed right hook from Sonny Reidy. Of course, Sonny insisted it was an accident, adding a humorous twist to the evening. The Reidy family lived on the mountainside, nestled between the Lynch and Faley homes, and their presence added to the vibrant community spirit.

In essence, George was a beacon of joy and lightheartedness in his neighbourhood, creating lasting memories with his family and friends through his playful nature and boundless energy.

The Adventures of Nora and Bridget

In the lively tales of yesteryear, George Lynch was not the only one known for antics and frolics. His wife, Nora Barrett, and her friend Bridget White Faley, affectionately known as Noan and Bridge, added their own spirited adventures to the mix. Their playful competitions and closeness brought joy and laughter to those around them.

Nora and Bridget shared a unique bond, often racing each other across the open fields that stretched beyond their homes. These races were not just about speed but were a testament to their enduring friendship and competitive spirits. It was widely known that Nora had a knack for winning these races. Her swift strides and unyielding determination often left Bridget trailing behind. Yet, it was all in good fun, and the races were more about the joy of the challenge than the outcome.

Bridget’s Playful Strategy

Bridget was not one to easily concede defeat. Known for her clever tactics, she had a playful strategy to keep the competition lively. Whenever she felt fatigue creeping in and knew victory was slipping away, Bridge would dramatically fall to the ground, declaring the race null and void. This playful act ensured that the outcome was always up for debate, and the races could continue without one side dominating the fun.

A Nod to Tradition

In those days, it was common for women to be addressed by their maiden names, a tradition that added a personal touch to their identities. Thus, Nora was known as Noan Barrett, Bridget as Bridge White and Bridget Dalton as Bridge ‘Martin’ (Liston). This practice not only honoured their heritage but also highlighted the close-knit nature of their communities.

The tales of Nora and Bridget’s races serve as a charming reminder of the joys of friendship and the simple pleasures found in life’s playful moments. Their spirited escapades across the fields are cherished memories, capturing a time when laughter and togetherness were the true treasures of the day.

Passion for Gaelic Football.

George had a profound passion for Gaelic football and greatly admired Co. Kerry and the legendary Mick O’Connell. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that he attended the 1953 All-Ireland football final between Kerry and Armagh. His son, Dan, was home from Chicago for a holiday, and Dan, along with his brother James, Pakie Geoghegan, and his wife May from Glin, all set off in Pakie’s car for Croke Park, Dublin.

That memorable day, Sunday, September 27th, Kerry emerged victorious with a scoreline of Kerry 0-13, Armagh 1-6, making it an unforgettable experience for the traveling party.

The Joy of Summer

For Paddy Faley, there was no sound more delightful than that of George’s horses and the rhythmic mowing bar when he arrived each summer to cut the meadow near their house. Paddy would excitedly recount, “We hurried home from school to witness the beautiful sight of the two horses stepping out together, with the long shaft of the machine stretching between them, harnessed with traces and quins’’. Paddy’s heart swelled with joy as he watched these powerful animals work in harmony, a dance of strength and grace.

The Art of Mowing

George, with a practiced hand, took command of the horses with ease. The long reins allowed him to communicate with them, a silent conversation that only he and the horses understood. The whip, not a tool of harshness but rather a gentle reminder, ensured that everyone was pulling their weight in the task at hand. For Paddy, the rhythmic sounds of the mowing machine were a symphony, each click and clatter igniting his imagination and filling his heart with excitement.  The melodious sound of the clicking ratchet wheel as it was turned out of gear to reverse and line up at the end of each row was music to Paddy’s ears.

A Lesson in Sharpening

After the initial flurry of mowing, George would turn his attention to the maintenance of the machine. Paddy observed with keen interest as George carefully placed one of the long knives of the mowing machine on two boxes over a tub of water. With a scythe-stone in hand and dipping it occasionally in the water, George skillfully sharpened each V-shaped section of the blade, ensuring the machine was ready to tackle the next swath of grass. This careful attention to detail was a testament to the skill and dedication required in the art of mowing, leaving a lasting impression on young Paddy. For Paddy, these moments spent with George Lynch were not just about mowing hay; they were lessons in life, community, and the simple joys of summer in the mountain. Each summer day spent in that meadow would become a cherished memory, a part of his own story woven into the fabric of life in their small corner of the world.

Living with Lynch.

Sadly, George’s wife Nora passed to her eternal reward on July 13th, 1955, and following her passing, George moved to the ‘Glen’ to live with us at my father’s request. This gesture reflected the open-handedness of my father, welcoming his father-in-law into our home. George frequented Athea every Friday to collect his old age pension and spent afternoons at his son Mick’s pub. Although being just a moderate drinker, George believed in supporting family businesses. One memorable incident involved George getting a lift home from the pub, only to misjudge the entrance and end up in a cluster of briars. My father had to fetch him with a flashlight, leading to a humorous and cherished family story. There was a programme on Radio Eireann at the time namely – ‘Living with Lynch’ and it was often jokingly referred to in our house, in such instances ‘that’s what you get when you’re living with Lynch. 

George’s Passion for Gardening

An accomplished gardener, George’s dedication to sowing and tilling was admirable. Rain or shine, he would work tirelessly in the garden, much to my mother’s distress as she urged him to take shelter. Her care for him was unwavering, always ensuring he was well looked after.

George Lynch passed away on April 3, 1971, at the age of 88. His life was characterised by his intellect, kindness, and dedication to family. His legacy continues through the stories and values he passed down, reminding us of his contributions to our family’s history.