Michael Cusack’s Hurley

This hurley was found hidden in Michael Cusack's former home at Carron, located in the Burren. The hurley was found in the 1930’s by Patrick Mc Gann of Kilfenora who passed it on to his grandson John Brennan.

Prior to helping to establish the Gaelic Athletic Association in 1884, Michael Cusack sought to revive the ancient game of hurling. His involvement with the Council of the Gaelic Union led to his conviction that hurling should be restored to its rightful place as a national sport.

One of the earliest historical references to the game in Clare is in a poem written by Lochlainn O’Dalaigh between 1550-1559 in honour of three young hurlers of the family of O’Brien of Thomond.

Ref: 2000.221

Folklife Collection
GAA Collection
Sports Collection
Wood Collection