Hello and welcome to this week’s issue of Ireland’s Own. Located in the heart of Belfast city, the Linen Hall Library – one of Belfast’s top tourist attractions – has enjoyed a fascinating history and is at the centre of the cultural and creative life of the community, writes Cathal Coyle in this week’s cover story.

Benedict Joseph Labre, the ‘Beggar Saint of Rome’, is profiled by Margaret Smith, and
Nathaniel Hone, the famous exponent of landscape painting, is remembered by Paddy Ryan.

In his Role of the Irish in WW2 series, Con McGrath features U.S. General Emmett O’Donnell, leader of the first B-29 attack against Tokyo. John Corbett brings us a selection of happenings and events associated with the month of May.

In ‘Mini Mania’, David Mullan takes a look back at 60 years of one of Ireland’s favourite cars. Mae Leonard recalls a visit to Luton, the centre of hat-making in England for decades.

This week’s original short story is ‘The Apothecary’s Rose’ by Wyn Cave. In his piece ‘Missing the Ali Baba Basket’, MJ Wells finds himself locked out of the house.

The Witness Statements continues with Seán T. O’Kelly – The Quintessential Republican. If ever there was a man who epitomised Irish republicanism, it is surely Seán T. O’Kelly who rose to the ultimate position in Irish public life when he was inaugurated as the second President of Ireland on 25 June, 1945. He went on to serve two terms as President bringing about a perfect end to a national political career which began in 1919, writes Eamonn Duggan.

Enjoy this week’s reading with all your regular favourites included, and I will look forward to talking to you all again next week.                                                                                                 

                                                                                                         Best wishes,

Seán Nolan, Editor, Ireland’s Own