Celebrating the Women of Galway: Past, Present, and Future

On this International Women’s Day, March 8th, 2025, we celebrate the remarkable women who have shaped Galway’s rich heritage, as well as those who continue to contribute to our community today. From historical figures to contemporary leaders, their stories inspire and remind us of the vital role women play locally, nationally, and internationally.

Historical Trailblazers

One of Galway’s most illustrious figures is Lady Gregory (1852–1932), an Anglo-Irish dramatist, folklorist, and theatre manager. Co-founder of the Abbey Theatre, Lady Gregory was instrumental in the Irish Literary Revival, transforming her home at Coole Park into a hub for literary giants like W.B. Yeats and George Bernard Shaw. Her dedication to preserving Irish folklore and promoting native literature has left an indelible mark on our cultural landscape.

Another notable figure is Margaret Athy, a member of the Tribes of Galway. In 1508, during her husband’s trading voyage to Spain, she founded the Augustinian Friary of Forthill, overlooking Galway Bay. This act of piety and leadership highlights the significant yet often overlooked roles women played in shaping Galway’s religious and social structures.

Academic Pioneers

Mary Josephine Donovan O’Sullivan (1887–1966) stands out as a pioneering academic. Appointed as Professor of History at Queen’s College Galway (now NUI Galway) in 1914, she was among the first women elected to the Royal Irish Academy. Her extensive research and publications have been invaluable in documenting Galway’s history, particularly her seminal work, “Old Galway,” which examines the city’s growth, culture, and politics.

Cultural Custodians

The traditional Galway shawl is emblematic of the city’s cultural heritage. Worn by Irish women during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, these heavyweight shawls were both functional and symbolic, representing the resilience and grace of Galway’s women. Today, they serve as a cherished symbol of our rich textile history.

Contemporary Contributors

In recent times, women continue to shape Galway’s cultural and social fabric. Judy Greene, a renowned artist and shop owner, established Judy Greene Pottery in 1982, transforming it into a beloved local hub of artistic diversity. Her contributions to the arts have left an enduring legacy in our community.

Julie-Ann Russell, a prominent footballer from Moycullen, earned 66 caps for the Republic of Ireland and played internationally in the USA, England, and Australia. Her dedication to sport has been an inspiration to many young athletes in Galway and beyond.

Global Connections

Galway’s influence extends beyond its borders through figures like Jen O’Malley Dillon, an Irish-American political strategist with roots in Lettermullen, a remote island in Galway. She played a pivotal role in U.S. politics, serving as campaign manager for President Joe Biden in 2020 and holding significant sway in Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign. Her story exemplifies the global impact of Galway’s diaspora.

Celebrating Today

To honor these remarkable women and many others, Galway hosts various events and initiatives. The HerGalway Walking Tour offers an immersive experience, highlighting the contributions of women to the city’s history and culture. Additionally, discussions and exhibitions continue to shed light on women’s roles in shaping our community.