TIPPERARY
THE GALTEE MOUNTAINS ARE ONE OF THE MOST
ATTRACTIVE INLAND RANGES IN THE COUNTRY.
Welcome
to Tipperary — you've come a long way," reads the sign as
you enter the market town of Tipperary (Tiobraid Arainn).
The famous World War I song 'It's a long way to Tipperary' was
in fact composed by an Englishman, Jack Judge in 1912, who never darkened
the shores of Ireland in his life and chose the title simply for its
phoenitic ability to rhyme. Nonetheless it has ensured the town's widespread
fame despite many chorus singers probably wondering just where it is
a long way from — or questioning the fact of so many soldiers coming
from that particular part of the world.
Tipperary which translates into The Well of Ara – derived
from a sacred well said to have been located just off Main Street, is
situated on the River Ara to the north of the Slievenamuck Hills. A
thriving market town by the Golden Vale (between the town of
Golden in the north and Cahir in the south) with most of its employment
based on the agricultural sector, although more recently some multi-nationals
have located in the area.
Recently created a Heritage Town this has helped to upgrade facilities
and such projects include an Anglers Walk created on the banks
of the river. Also, old Buildings such as Daltons Shop in New
Tipperary and the Bridewell in St Michael Street are now restored
thanks to heritage related projects. The Bridewell is set to become
the most important genealogical centre in the area containing records
of all the 46 parishes.
Evidence that Tipperary is one of the oldest is provided by the Motte
and Bailey and retains the intimate atmosphere and charm of a country
town.
