We Remember Maynooth: A College across Four Centuries

Maynooth College, founded in 1795, is a significant part of Irish Church and Catholic Church history. It began as a small seminary and has grown to become a Pontifical University, a constituent college of the National University of Ireland, and the largest seminary in the world. This book is a compilation of pen pictures, personal reminiscences, and sketches on aspects of the college's life and history, offering an introduction to a place many have heard about but never known, and evoking memories of those who journeyed with them.

Format: Hardback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2020
Publisher: Messenger Publications

Maynooth College, founded in 1795, holds a unique place in the history of the Irish Church and the Catholic Church worldwide. Its humble beginnings as a small seminary of thirty students and ten professors, many of whom were fleeing the ravages of the French Revolution, have evolved into a prestigious institution. Over the years, Maynooth has witnessed riots in the streets of London, hosted kings and popes, and created one of the most beautiful university campuses in Ireland. Its chapel, standing as one of the highest free-standing structures in the country, is a testament to its architectural splendor.

The college expanded rapidly, becoming a Pontifical University, a constituent college of the National University of Ireland, and at one point, the largest seminary in the world. It has educated countless students and pioneered numerous branches of the arts and sciences. Beyond its academic achievements, Maynooth holds a special place in the hearts of its vast alumni, scattered across all sectors of society internationally. It is a tapestry of rich memories, woven together by the experiences and connections shared within its walls.

This book is a tribute to that tapestry. It comprises a collection of pen pictures, personal reminiscences, and sketches that offer a glimpse into the life and history of Maynooth College. The contributors, who have all had connections with Maynooth in various capacities, have contributed their perspectives and experiences. Some have shared images of their time at Maynooth, while others have painted portraits of the characters and personalities they encountered there. These pages serve as a blend of history, folk history, and personal anecdotes. For those who have heard about Maynooth but never had the opportunity to visit, it provides an introduction to this historic center of learning. For others, it serves as a reminder of their time at Maynooth, evoking memories of their own journey and the stories of those who walked alongside them. For everyone, it opens the doors to this remarkable institution, revealing the tales of those who graced its Pugin-designed buildings.

Maynooth College, with its rich history and profound impact, continues to be a beacon of education and enlightenment, shaping the lives of countless individuals and contributing to the greater tapestry of the Catholic Church and society as a whole.

Weight: 1210g
Dimension: 190 x 256 x 51 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788122634