Charlie Brady
Interviewed by James Brady / photos by Emma O’Brien
James: How long have you lived in the area?
Charlie: All my life, except for 5 years when I worked in America.
James: What’s a fond memory you have of living here?
Charlie: “Monaghan Day”- the 25th of Feb 1947. There was 6 feet of snow and there was a fair in Mohil and people couldn’t get home. It was called Monaghan Day because of the big fights between Monaghan dealers in Mohil. I also remember three funerals where the roads were so poor that the coffins were carried on people’s shoulders through the fields.
James: Have you seen this community come back from hard times before?
Charlie: Back in my time, you would soldier on. After the war, there was a lack of produce imported into the country and therefore everyone was given rations. Depending on the number of people in your family, the more ration you’d receive. Old men and women living alone would be hungry due to the small amount of rations they’d receive compared to a large family like my own.
James: What are some things that have helped you through lockdown and what brings you joy?
Charlie: I am football mad! I played as a young man and even in New York when I lived there. I now enjoy watching matches and going to as many as possible. I met up with friends, even during lockdown, for an ‘aul chat’.
James: What does community mean to you? What sort of things are you doing now to stay connected to your community and family?
Charlie: I love the country and being able to walk around the farm and go into town to play cards with friends. Everyone is very friendly. I love my community and going to the local for a few pints and a chat, watching the matches and supporting my team Dromard.
James: What message do you want to share for yourself and this community in 10 years time?
Charlie: Don’t stress over the little things. Communicate with each other and help each other in times of need.
Pictured below are photos from Charlie’s shoot with photographer Emma O’Brien.