Claire O'Kelly facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Claire O'Kelly
Claire O'Kelly in the 1940s
Born	Claire O'Donovan 21 July 1916 Cork
Died	23 October 2004 Dublin
Nationality	Irish
Education	National teaching qualification Degree in Archaeology
Alma mater	University College Cork
Known for	archaeologist

Claire O'Kelly (born July 21, 1916 – died October 23, 2004) was an amazing Irish archaeologist. She was the first person to write easy-to-understand books about Ireland's ancient sites. Claire helped everyone see how important the Newgrange monument was. She showed its special connection to the sun on the shortest day of the year. Claire also drew all the decorated stones at Newgrange for the first time.

Claire O'Kelly: Explorer of the Past

Claire O'Donovan was born in County Cork, Ireland, on July 21, 1916. Her parents were Edward and Johanna O'Donovan. Claire first worked as a national school teacher. Later, in the 1930s, she went to University College Cork. There, she studied archaeology. Her professor was Seán O'Riordan.

Working with Michael O'Kelly

At college, Claire met Michael J. O'Kelly. He was known to his family as Brian. They later got married. Together, they worked on many important historical sites in Ireland. They also helped to set up the Cork Public Museum in 1945.

Helping with the Irish Language

Claire was very good at speaking Irish. She also knew a lot about archaeology. She used these skills to help create new archaeology words for a big English/Irish dictionary. This dictionary was put together by Tomás de Bháldraithe.

Unlocking Newgrange's Secrets

Claire O'Kelly did a lot of research that led to a big discovery. She helped find out about Newgrange's special connection to the sun. This ancient monument is lit up by the sun during the winter solstice. That's the shortest day of the year.

Claire also made detailed drawings of the decorated stones. These stones are found at the Boyne Valley sites, especially Newgrange. She also wrote books that were easy for everyone to read. These books explained the history and importance of Newgrange and Dowth.

Sharing Knowledge with Everyone

Claire O'Kelly wrote several books for the public. These books helped people understand the history of Irish sites. Even today, her work is used on the Newgrange website. Her important contributions to archaeology and history were recognized in 1984. She was chosen as a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London. This is a very respected group.

A Touch of Art

Claire O'Kelly was also involved in Irish art. She was friends with an artist named Gabriel Hayes. Gabriel used Claire's hands as models for the Stations of the Cross. These are sculptures found in Galway Cathedral.

Later Life

Claire O'Kelly had three daughters. Her husband passed away before her. Claire died in Dublin at the age of 88. She was buried in Cork.