Mince Pies, Tea and History at Wicklow Library with James Scannell Wednesday 15th December @ 11.30 am

‘Christmas in Wicklow 1947’ with historian James Scannell

In 1947, most of Europe still lay in ruins. The unity between the wartime Allies had disintegrated, Communism dominated Eastern Europe, India gained its independence from Britain while, at the same time, Britain attempted to stop mass Jewish emigration to Palestine, the later known State of Israel.

Within Ireland, rationing was still in operation for many goods and commodities, tuberculosis was rampant, and emigration to Britain was the only option for thousands of skilled and unskilled workers needed to rebuild Britain’s war ravaged cities and towns. Locally Christmas was ‘make or break’ for traders who prided themselves on the quality of their goods and services, while for many families, the arrival of funds from family members working in the United States of America or Britain decided the manner in which they celebrated the festive season.

In his talk ‘Christmas in Wicklow 1947’, historian James Scannell will use historical newspapers to explore how Christmas was celebrated only two years after the end of The Emergency.

Mince pies, tea and coffee will be served and a selection of historical newspapers will be on display.

To book your place contact Wicklow Library on 040467025 or email Wicklowlocalstudies@wicklowcoco.ie