James Berry (writer) facts for kids

James Berry (1842–1914) was an Irish writer and farmer. He is remembered for his stories about life in western Ireland. He wrote about the people and events he knew from his youth.

Who Was James Berry?

James Berry was born in 1842 in a place called Bunowen. This area is near Louisburgh, County Mayo, in Ireland. He grew up to be a farmer.

His Family Life

When he was older, James Berry visited his uncle. His uncle, Father Ned O'Malley, was a priest in Carna, County Galway. While visiting, James met a local woman named Sarah Greene. They fell in love and got married. James and Sarah lived together in Carna. They had a large family with 11 children.

Writing About Ireland

From 1910 to 1914, James Berry wrote a regular column. It appeared in a newspaper called The Mayo News. His column was titled Tales of the West – Recollections of my Early Boyhood. These stories were later printed again in 1927.

Stories of the Past

His column shared tales he had heard when he was young. Many of these stories were about growing up in County Mayo. He also wrote about important events from the past. This included difficult times like the Great Famine. He also wrote about sad events such as the Doolough Tragedy.

Speaking Up for Farmers

James Berry also wrote letters to the editor of another newspaper. This newspaper was called the Connaught Telegraph. He wrote these letters in the late 1800s and early 1900s. In his letters, he often spoke up for Irish farmers. He described the tough conditions and unfair treatment they faced. This was especially true for farmers who rented land from wealthy landlords.

Published Works

In 1967, a collection of James Berry's stories was published. The book was called Tales of the West of Ireland. Gertrude M. Horgan from Aquinas College (Michigan) helped put this collection together. Another version of his work was published in 1984. It was called Tales of Old Ireland.

List of Books

• Tales of the West of Ireland, edited by Gertrude M. Horgan (Dublin: Dolmen Press, 1966). This book was reprinted several times.
• Tales of Old Ireland (London: Robinson Publ.; Salem NH: Salem House, 1984). This is the same collection of stories.

His Final Years

James Berry passed away on June 4, 1914. He was buried in Mynish cemetery, which is in Carna.