Explore Glenary in the Comeragh Mountains — a place of poor land but rich history

On this hike you'll pass a stone-built farmstead. Known as Park Grub, it was once the upland home of the Ireland family. Ironically, William Ireland, the head of the household, was in the early part of the 20th century the only non-Irish resident in Glenary

Sequestered amidst the Comeragh Mountains, this was a place of poor land and a way of life that carried many challenges. Pictured, the ruined homestead of the Ireland family. Pictures: John G O'Dwyer

Beginning the 20th century, Clonmel was an affluent town. At the most upstream navigation on the River Suir and with a prosperous agricultural hinterland in South Tipperary, it developed into a major manufacturing centre.

Flour milling, brewing and textiles were the main industries. These were mostly Quaker-owned, with much of the product exported through the thriving port of Waterford.