The Life, Times & Demise of John Boyle O’Reilly

Tickets via Eventbrite-click here

Welcome to the Boyne Valley Trails September Festival; immerse yourself in our guided walks, hikes and trails and discover the beauty, history and nature of the stunning Boyne Valley region.

The Life, Times & Demise of John Boyle O’Reilly –A Presentation Talk by Community Historian Brendan Matthews.

Meeting at the old Graveyard at Dowth and starting at 2.45pm, hear the extraordinary tale of John Boyle O` Reilly, Irish Patriot, Poet and Newspaper Editor, who was born at Dowth in 1844.

O’`Reilly was convicted of Treason and being a member of the Fenian Conspiracy in 1866 and was transported to Western Australia from which he escaped and made his way to the United States where he became the most influential Irishman in America and a true champion in the cause of his fellow Irish/Americans.

He died in 1890 and his death was mourned across the United States.

Your guide Brendan will take you through the Life & demise of John Boyle O`Reilly in this fascinating Presentation Talk.

Things to note:

The meeting point will be at the entrance to the old Graveyard and the adjacent former Netterville Institution at Dowth located just 8km (5 miles) from Drogheda. The Presentation Talk will last around 50 minutes amidst the natural and archaeological beauties of the Boyne Valley. It is a laid-back presentation and easy under-foot but we reccommend wearing comfortable shoes and light layers. Photos and video footage may be captured during this walking tour.