Frances Condell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Frances Condell
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| Born | 29 June 1916 Limerick, Ireland
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| Died | 10 November 1986 (aged 70) Limerick, Ireland
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| Nationality | Irish |
| Known for | First woman Mayor of Limerick city |
Frances Condell (born June 29, 1916 – died November 10, 1986) was a very important person in Limerick, Ireland. She made history by becoming the first woman to be the Mayor of Limerick city. She was first chosen for this role in 1963. What's even more amazing is that she was the only woman to serve as mayor twice!
Contents
Early Life and Education
Frances Eades was born in Limerick on June 29, 1916. She was the sixth child in her family, but the first daughter. She went to St Michael's National School on Barrington Street for her early education.
Becoming a Teacher
After St Michael's, Frances went to Villiers School. Then, she attended Coláiste Moibhí, which was a college for training teachers. After finishing her training there, she earned a special degree from Trinity College Dublin. She returned to her old secondary school to teach from 1955 to 1959.
Helping Families and Public Relations
Later, Frances took on new roles. When the Shannon Free Airport Development Company was created, she worked as a welfare officer. Her job was to help families settle into the area around the airport. In 1964, she also started working part-time for Guinness Ireland. She was a public relations officer, which meant she helped share good news about the company.
A Trailblazing Mayor
In 1960, Frances was encouraged to get involved in local government. She joined the Limerick Council, representing a group called the Ratepayers Association. Her hard work paid off! In 1962, she was elected mayor of Limerick. She served two terms, first in 1963 and then again in 1964.
Welcoming Important Visitors
Frances Condell became very well-known during her time as mayor. A famous moment was when she convinced President John F. Kennedy to visit Limerick city during his trip to Ireland. He stopped there to accept a special honor called the Freedom of the City. She also welcomed other important visitors, including Senator Edward Kennedy, President Kaunda of Zambia, Cardinal Browne, and Lady Bird Johnson, who was the wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson.
Beyond Politics
Frances Condell was married to Robert Condell, and they had one son named Alan. She faced some health challenges and decided to retire from politics in 1967.
Her Family and Later Life
Besides her political work, Frances was also a talented writer. She had her poetry published and worked as a journalist. She wrote for newspapers and magazines like the Limerick Echo, The Church of Ireland Gazette, Woman's Way, and The Irish Independent. Frances Condell passed away in 1986.
