A new book by railway historian Dr. Alan O’Rourke titled ‘The North Kerry Line’, whose subject is the Limerick to Tralee railway along with the branch lines to Fenit and Foynes, was launched in the Lartigue Railway Museum, Listowel, Co. Kerry by Minister Jimmy Deenihan on Sunday 24th November and at the Library, Gortboy, Newcastle West, on Tuesday 26th November by Éamon Ó Cuív T.D. Dr. O’Rourke’s book is the result of several years’ research and contains a detailed history of the four railway companies who constructed these 90 miles or so of railway in west Limerick and north Kerry during the latter half of the 19th century. It also provides a fine description of the lie of the land and of the communities which were linked by the lines and their 22 stations.
The book, printed locally by Fitzsimons Printers, Shanagolden, is published by the Great Southern Trail [GST] which is dedicated to preserving the heritage of these lines and the conversion to a ‘Greenway’ of the Ballingrane (near Rathkeale) to Tralee/Fenit route.
The book retails at €15 which is exceptional value for a scholarly work of 275 pages including over 30 maps/diagrams and over 80 photographs (many previously unpublished). For all who were associated with the working railway, all who now walk/cycle the developed sections and all whose interest is local history this book should be essential reading.
The book is available ar various retail outlets or from Liam O’Mahony, 9 Bishop St., Newcastle West, Co. Limerick.