Leo Daly

LEO DALY, Writer, Photographer and Broadcaster: was born in Mullingar in Mullingar in 1920.  Leo Daly’s contribution to the literary and cultural life of Mullingar was enormous.  In the 1950s and 60s he wrote several plays which were widely produced. 

A keen Joycean scholar Leo wrote two books and several articles dealing with James Joyce and Mullingar.  He also wrote extensively on many aspects of local history.

Leo Daly was very much influenced by the Aran Islands.  His novel ‘The Rock Garden’ (1984) is set on Aran as are some of the short stories in ‘Island Lovers’ (1993) he also wrote a very well received guidebook ‘Oileain Arann’ which went to a second edition. He wrote a volume of essays ‘Titles’ (1981).  Leo Daly died on 3^rd July, 2010 and is buried in Ballyglass Cemetery.  He is commemorated with a bust in Mullingar Library and by a Literary Festival.

@westmeathculture Leo Daly, born in Mullingar in 1920 is our featured #SparkOfGenius A writer, broadcaster, local historian, and more, his influence on the cultural and literary life of #westmeath is enormous. #librarytiktok #jamesjoyce #localhistory@WestmeathCulture ♬ James Joyce - Lo-Fi Chill panda

To view the original Spark of Genius poster please click here