Books

History, Memories & Folklore from the Finn Valley

Step back in time and discover the Finn Valley as it was remembered by one of its own.

A Long Journey in a Short Time, by local historian Tony Gallinagh, is a fascinating collection of history, memories and folklore from the Finn Valley. Born in Cappry, Ballybofey, Tony draws on a lifetime of memories and stories to record a way of life that has changed dramatically over the generations.

From farming and transport to the arrival of electricity, the first radios and rail journeys, the book captures the everyday details of life in times gone by. It also explores the history of Ballybofey and Stranorlar, local landmarks, characters, traditions and stories that might otherwise have been lost.

The second edition has been expanded to 54 chapters and 276 pages, including four new chapters exploring subjects such as castles and landlords in the Finn Valley, the birth of the Twin Towns, local murders and curiosities, the burning of Ballybofey, and local fords and bridges.

Warm, fascinating and packed with local stories and photographs, this is a wonderful book for anyone who grew up in the Finn Valley, has family connections here, or simply enjoys discovering the history of the place they call home.

A must-have for anyone interested in the people, places and stories of the Finn Valley.

Available from Alexanders Bookshop, Ballybofey.

Behind the Wooden Counter by Pearl Hutchinson

Step back in time and discover the charm, characters and stories of life behind the counter of a traditional country shop.

Behind the Wooden Counter by Pearl Hutchinson is a delightful celebration of country shop life — a world of familiar faces, daily routines, local characters, community gossip and the simple pleasures of days gone by.

With warmth, humour and nostalgia, Pearl brings to life the unique role the country shop played at the heart of rural communities. More than just somewhere to buy your groceries, the local shop was a meeting place, a source of news, a place to catch up with neighbours and, quite often, the centre of village life.

A wonderful read for anyone who remembers the old-fashioned country shop, or who simply enjoys stories of rural life, community and a bygone Ireland.

A charming and nostalgic book that will bring back memories of days gone by — and perhaps remind you of a few characters of your own!

Available from Alexanders of Ballybofey.

Volume 12 – Stories From Our Past

There’s something special about discovering a story about a place you know.

The Ballybofey, Stranorlar & District Historical Society Annual – Volume 12 is a wonderful collection of local history, memories and photographs, bringing together stories from the people and places that have helped shape our community.

From sporting memories and familiar faces to old photographs that take us back through the generations, this annual offers a fascinating glimpse into life in Ballybofey, Stranorlar and the surrounding district.

One of the features in this volume looks back at Drumboe Castle & Estate, including the fascinating story of the estate being offered for sale in 1857. The original sale notice gives a remarkable insight into the Drumboe estate of the time, describing its lands, gardens, plantations, river boundaries and even the opportunities for fishing and shooting.

It’s these details that make local history so interesting — discovering how the places we pass every day looked, felt and lived many generations ago.

Beautifully illustrated with historic photographs, Volume 12 is a chance to explore the people, places, events and memories that form part of our local story.

Whether you’ve lived in the area all your life, have family roots here, or simply enjoy discovering the history on your doorstep, there’s plenty to enjoy between its pages.

A fascinating piece of local history — and a lovely addition to any Donegal bookshelf.

Available from Alexanders of Ballybofey.

Homegrown is an inspiring and beautifully presented book by Barrie Quinn of Portnoo Market Garden.

Drawing on his own experience of growing food in Donegal, Barrie shares his knowledge and enthusiasm for producing fresh, seasonal food from the ground up. With practical growing advice, beautiful photography and guidance on crops including everyday favourites such as lettuce, Homegrown encourages readers to reconnect with where their food comes from and discover the satisfaction of growing their own.

More than simply a gardening book, Homegrown is about a way of living — slowing down, working with the seasons and appreciating good food grown close to home.

A wonderful gift for gardeners, food lovers and anyone interested in growing their own produce, with an especially lovely Donegal connection.

Author: Barrie Quinn
Hardback