Kildare photographer launches “The Irish Farm in Colour”

In this new illustrated book, Michael B. Barry and Rathangan's John O’Byrne bring the story of the Irish farm to life, from the late 19th century to the close of the 20th.

Through over 200 colourised photographs, the book captures the hardship and humour, the toil and togetherness.

"For generations, the Irish farm has been a way of life, anchoring communities, shaping traditions and instilling values passed down through the furrows of time,” said John.

“Rooted in fertile soil and a favourable climate, Ireland’s farming heritage runs deep, tied to the rhythm of the seasons and the enduring bond between farmers and the land.”

John said the book is a ” heartfelt celebration of the Irish countryside and those who shaped it is a tribute to the fields, the families and the fierce resilience at the heart of rural Ireland.”

READ MORE: ‘The end of an era’: Café and bistro business in Kildare town announces closure

Michael is a historian and author. John is a professional photographer and colouriser, specialising in colourising military scenes from the early twentieth century. Their first collaboration, The Irish Civil War in Colour, was a bestseller and nominated for Best Irish-Published Book of the Year at the 2022 An Post Irish Book Awards.

Just one of the images featured in the new book