Many of the Irish songs and ballads so commonly discussed here reflect a vision of particular events in Irish History. Short commentary on some of those events is included in my "Today In Irish History" calendar, gleaned from my readings over the years. A few 'Catters are on the recipient list, but others may have an interest in receiving such notes. I've copied today's notice below, as an example. If you would like to be added to the list, send me a PM with your addy & I'll add you to the list. There is no cost to recipients, and I try to get the notes out on a "nearly daily" basis.

I hope the New Year is kind and gentle to all of you. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

It's no secret that happy events get far less coverage in contemporary news (and in Today In Irish History) than the more sad and sober kinds of things. Thus, it's a special pleasure to be able to close the year with reference to what must surely have been one of the most positive events in all of Irish history. Here's hoping that the coming year and the coming millenium (or the part of it relevant to you)are happy and helpful to "all ya'll!"

31 Dec 1759 Thirty-four-year old Arthur Guinness paid 100 pounds down and signed a 9000 year/45 pounds per year lease from Mark Rainsford III for the then dormant Rainsford brewery at St. James' Gate. The brewery had been established at an outer defense to the old walled Gity of Dublin by Giles Mee in 1620, and passed down through his son-in-law Mark Rainsford I, to Mark Rainsford II, and thence to lessor Mark Rainsford III. (IE, LXX( ) @ 25) The rest, as the saying goes, is history!