Wexford writers compile book in honour of the late Liam Gaul – ‘He was one of the most genuine people I ever encountered’

Now, keen to keep his legacy alive, Nicky and Brian Siggins have created A Book for Liam, a collection of art, s, and photographs published in Liam's honour.

Launched in Wexford Library last week, the book features contributions from some of the county's most renowned writers alongside pieces from new and emerging talents. And, as with many of Liam's own publications, all proceeds from A Book for Liam will go to charity.

"Back in 2020 Liam brought out a book called Tales Traditions and Folklore of Wexford, it was well Illustrated and a book people can open it at random to find something of interest," Brian says. "Most importantly for Liam all profits went to charity. This book really stuck a chord with me and I remember saying to myself if I ever got the opportunity to publish my own work, this is what I would want it to look like."

Tales Traditions and Folklore of Wexford was followed by a second and third volume, the latter publishing only months before Liam's passing, and all three generated significant funds for the author's charities of choice.

As his friends marked Liam's first anniversary, the idea of compiling a book in his memory was put forward.

"Nicky reached out to me with the idea to do a book, a small token of our appreciation for everything that Liam has done for Wexford history and I was immediately on board," recalls Brian. "If you know Nicky, you'll know his passion for Wexford history and his drive and determination. So, I said yes without hesitation.

"It was natural that we would follow the blue print of Liam's Tales Traditions and Folklore, just a simple book that would appeal to everyone. Things moved at some pace then. We contacted the family for permission and they were just so supportive and we also asked that they chose the charities who would benefit from all profits of the book – Wexford Hospice Homecare and the Irish Heart Foundation."

Having recruited some 20 contributors, each "delighted" to honour Liam in some small way, the editors created A Book for Liam. It contains 96 pages with 29 s from 21 contributors (Liam being the 21st), 70 photographs, and stories from Wexford town, Enniscorthy, New Ross, Taghmon , Ballygarret and Bree Hill which trace the history of the county from the Normans, through to 1798, the turbulent times of the Civil War, and on to more recent history and the characters, places and traditions of the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

While the fruits of their labours are now available in print form, Nicky wished to provide some further insight into why so many people were willing to contribute to the book.

"Liam was a man of many talents," Nicky says. "He was a top-class musician, a master bookbinder and writer of rare ability. But while he could boast so many accomplishments he never did. He was one of the most genuine people I ever encountered. He was always willing to assist with any request.

"He was an accomplished historian but he was always willing to help anyone else with a query and carried his learning very lightly. As editor of the Wexford Historical Society Journal he gave great encouragement to new writers to contribute s and as ever was always available with a constructive and kindly given bit of advice on the contents.

"Some pieces (in the book) refer directly to Liam, others are by people inspired by him and there are also a few general s, but all have that Co Wexford flavour that Liam Gaul personified and preserved in his music and history writings. No doubt Liam would have added a few constructive comments on the contents."

Brian, who grew up in Carrigeen Street in Wexford town, the same area Liam was from, described his old friend as a "true Wexfordian, a true gentleman, sharp in mind, humours, generous and kind. He was the epitome of Wexford, steeped in music, classical and traditional and the history and customs of our native town and county.

"He was a meticulous person, expert in editing, printing and publishing and a master bookbinder. He was gregarious, caring and modest by nature. A beloved friend to many, he exercised his talents to the full for the benefit of us all. Never looking for adulation or praise, he gave to others without seeking anything in return.

"His love of Wexford shone through in every book that he wrote, in every tune that he played and, in every sentence, that he spoke. As gifted with a musical instrument as he was a with a pen. His manner of writing lit a flame within so many and upon reading his words, he left a deep impression that will forever live on."

Attended by many of his old friends, including those from the Wexford Historical Society, Brian used the launch to thank Red Books, Reader's Paradise, Selskar Bookshop, and The Book Centre for agreeing to stock the book, the staff at Wexford Library, and Liam's family for their support of the project from the outset.

A Book for Liam is available at the above stockists and is priced at €20. All proceeds from its sales will go to Wexford Hospice Homecare and The Irish Heart Foundation.