Rev. Joseph B. Meehan

Rev. Joseph B. Meehan was born on 6th December 1863 in Manorhamilton, County Leitrim. He pursued his education at St. Patrick’s College, Cavan, and subsequently at St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth, where he was ordained into the priesthood in 1886. Initially engaged in teaching as Professor of English and Classics at St. Patrick’s College, Cavan, Meehan transitioned to parochial duties in 1898.

Rev. Meehan was a prolific author and historian whose scholarly interests were extensive, particularly in linguistics, local history, and antiquarian studies. Among his notable publications were “Common Errors in Pronunciation” and “Common Phenomena Scientifically Explained.” He also co-authored “Cours de Langue Anglaise,” a work designed for French students learning English. Perhaps his most influential and anonymously published work was “Dysert-Diarmada, or Irish Place-Names, their Beauty and their Degradation,” released in 1919.

Joining the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland in 1897, Rev. Meehan actively contributed numerous scholarly articles including “Notes on the Mac Rannals of Leitrim,” “Arms of the O’Rourkes,” “Catalogue of High Sheriffs of Leitrim,” and studies on historical artifacts such as the “Dolmen at Loughduff, Co. Cavan,” and a piece on amber beads discovered in Cavan. He enriched the Society’s collection by presenting historical artifacts including a copper halbert head and an unidentified wooden object.

Rev. Meehan founded the Breiffne Antiquarian Society in 1920, becoming its first President and serving as editor of its scholarly journal. His numerous contributions to historical scholarship affirmed his position as a dedicated and distinguished historian. Shortly before his passing, he authored the pamphlet “The Birthplace of General Philip H. Sheridan of the American Civil War,” passionately advocating that Sheridan was born in Killinkere, Co. Cavan. In tribute, he commissioned a commemorative mural tablet at Killinkere.

Rev. Joseph B. Meehan passed away at Killinkere on 18th October 1926, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of Ireland’s most enthusiastic and respected antiquaries.