'Maghtochair' was the pseudonym of 'Derry Journal' journalist Michael Harkin who compiled a series of articles on Inishowen and published them in 1867. His aim was to record and preserve the fast vanishing traditions of this well loved peninsula before the old social order and the Gaelic language disappeared. The book sweeps through Inishowen's ancient, medieval and modern history. We hear of its mythical past as well as its topography and archaeology. After the coming of St. Patrick and the conversion of the Gaelic chieftains, the archaeology is of ancient round towers, chapels, churches and monasteries including ancient Abbey at Fahan. The Viking and English invasions are chronicles as well as the final dismantling of Gaelic Ireland. Harkin describes the demand for tenants' rights and the abolition of tithes. To this story he adds descriptions of each parish. To this he adds colourful stories of rebels, murders, legends and folklore, along with superstitions which once abounded about them.

This edition presents the opening chapters of 'Inishowen, Its History, Traditions and Antiquities', first published by Michael Harkin in 1867 under the pen name of 'Maghtochair'. The book sweeps through Inishowen's ancient, medieval and modern history. We hear of its mythical past - the Tuatha De Danaan, the Milesians and the story of Niall of the Nine Hostages from whom it is claimed the O'Neill dynasty and St. Columbkille were descended. Accounts are given of the Viking raids, the arrival of Strongbow and the final dismantling of Gaelic Ireland, with the defeat of the great Ulster Chieftains, the O'Neills and O'Donnells, at the Battle of Kinsale in 1607. As well as the history and topography of Inishowen, we learn of its archaeology. The cairns, burial sites, standing stones, druidic temples and forts conjure up its pre-Christian era. After the coming of St. Patrick the archaeology is of ancient round towers, chapels, churches and monasteries, including the ancient Abbey at Fahan.

"This work represents the largest compilation of Irish family names and Irish coats-of-arms ever bound together under one cover."--Jacket.