The GPO – Two hundred years.
Stephen Ferguson
- Tuesday February 23rd, 2027
- 10:30 – 12:30
- Newtownpark Pastoral Centre (map)
In this talk the GPO will be made the central character, The history and personalities associated with the building as the headquarters of the Irish Post Office over many generations will be explored and its importance for communications and social development in Irish society will be touched on and, in particular, its place in the 1916 Rising and the difficulties of being both a practical and highly symbolic public building.
Stephen spent his working life in the Post Office, formerly the Department of Posts & Telegraphs and then An Post, where he worked in various departments including personnel, strategic planning and international affairs. He was for many years Assistant Company Secretary and also Curator of the An Post Museum & Archive which he set up. He has written extensively on aspects of Irish Post Office history including the GPO, letter boxes, mail boats and stamps. His most recent book, Bessbrook to Ballinadee – a postal tour of Ireland, was published by An Post and takes a look at the vital role played by local post offices throughout the island of Ireland.
