Ó CEALLAIGH, Séamus. Story of the G.A.A. A History and Book of Reference for Gaels. Covering a Hundred Years of Gaelic Endeavour.

Limerick: Gaelic Athletic Publications, 1977. First edition. 8vo. pp. 188. Illustrated throughout with photographs and contemporary advertisements. Original pictorial wrappers, lightly rubbed and soiled, with some spotting and minor marks internally, otherwise a very good copy.

An early comprehensive history of the Gaelic Athletic Association, tracing the development of Gaelic games from the foundation of the Association in 1884 through almost a century of organised competition. It covers hurling, Gaelic football, handball and athletics, together with the personalities, clubs, administrative development and major events which shaped the Association.

Of particular interest for its contemporary illustrations and advertisements, including period sporting advertisements such as the full-page Blackthorn Croke Park football boot advertisement. The author describes the work as the first comprehensive account of the foundation and subsequent progress of the G.A.A.

The National Library of Ireland confirms the 1977 Limerick first edition and collation of 188 pages.

[WR GAA]