The rich history of the river Corrib is explored in a new guide by Galway author and historian William Henry.
The Corrib is among Europe’s shortest rivers, at only six kilometres from the lake to the Atlantic, but has Ireland’s second largest flow rate after the Shannon.
The guide, divided into two sections, charts the river extending upstream from the estuary on the Claddagh towards Lough Corrib.
It documents locations and buildings along the riverbank extending from Wood Quay to Friar’s Cut - so named for giving members of the Franciscan order easier access to their friary in Claregalway.
William Henry, Galway historian and author of a new guide and history of the river Corrib
The history of Menlo castle, Terryland castle, the Dangan ring fort and the 19th century Martin “tea house folly” on the grounds of the University of Galway are explored by the author, and the book combines themes of prehistory and archaeology with a history of the various boating craft which plied the river.
National Geographic books author and editor Jack Kavanagh has paid tribute to the guide, stating that “William Henry’s River Corrib Guide takes readers on a geographic, historical, and cultural journey into the heart of the Galway region”.
“It is as entertaining as it is educational. Readers will warm to the stories in this book,” Kavanagh has said.
“ A seanchaí as well as an astute historian, you’ll find no better literary skipper to spirit you into Galway’s wonderful waterways,” Kavanagh has said of Henry.
River Corrib Guide by William Henry is available in a number of Galway bookshops, including Bell, Book and Candle, Charlie Byrne’s, Kenny’s Books and Dubray Books, or by emailing [email protected]
