Irish historian Lorcan Collins to speak at Carson-Newman

^{Lorcan Collins}

(Oct. 30, 2013) — On Thursday, Nov. 7, Carson-Newman University will be hosting Irish historian Lorcan Collins, as he speaks about the Easter 1916 Rising in Dublin, Ireland. The event, which is free and open to the public will be held in the University’s Appalachian Center at 7:30 p.m.

“Carson-Newman is fortunate to bring Lorcan Collins to campus,” said Dr. Shawn O’Hare, chair of the University’s English Department. “His 1916 Easter Rising walking tour is popular with visitors to Dublin and has earned a reputation as one of Ireland’s top tourists’ activities,” he added.

Collins was born and raised in Dublin and his interest in Irish history led to the creation of the 1916 Easter Rising walking tour in 1996. Collins co- authored the book “Easter Rising: A Guide to Dublin in 1916.” His biography of James Connolly was published in the “16 Lives” series in 2012. The series, which Collins began and serves as co-editor, recounts the lives of the men and women executed by the British following the rising. He is also a regular contributor to radio, television and historical journals.

“I’m glad that our students and the campus community will have this opportunity to hear Lorcan,” said O’Hare. “He is a wonderful speaker and I know he will entertain and enlighten his audience.”