NOLAN, William (ed.). THE GAELIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION IN DUBLIN 1884–2000.

Dublin: Geography Publications, 2005. Three volumes. Large 4to. Vol. I: 1884–1959; Vol. II: 1960–2000; Vol. III: Records, appendices and index. Profusely illustrated throughout with photographic plates, maps and statistical tables. Complete pagination extending to p. 1431 (Vol. III). Original navy cloth, upper covers blocked in light blue with the Dublin GAA crest, spines lettered in light blue. Publisher’s navy slipcase. A fine set in a good slip-case.

A substantial and scholarly history of the Gaelic Athletic Association in the capital from its foundation in 1884 to the close of the twentieth century. Edited and compiled by William Nolan, with contributions by Jim Wren, Marcus de Búrca and David Gorry, the work traces the evolution of Dublin GAA through political upheaval, cultural revival, and the modern era of organised inter-county competition.

Volume I charts the formative decades, including the Association’s intersection with the Gaelic Revival and the revolutionary period. Volume II documents the post-war transformation of Dublin sport, while Volume III provides detailed club records, lists of disbanded clubs, a history of camogie in Dublin (Pat Rafferty), and a history of handball in Dublin 1880–2000 (Eamon O’Brien), together forming an indispensable reference source.

An important primary resource for historians of Irish sport, Dublin social history, and the wider cultural life of the capital. A handsome production, now increasingly difficult to source complete in slipcase.

[WR spoprt]