First published in 1989 to outstanding reviews, this classic oral history of a Dublin village is now available in paperback for the first time. The oldest settled community on the northside of Dublin, Stoneybatter comprises the ancient Viking settlement of Oxmantown. This northwest frontier of Dublin was a major trading hub for over a thousand years. Because of its sprawling cattle markets it became known as 'Cowtown', a maelstorm of animals, drovers, horse dealers, farmers and traders. Stoneybatter has survived providentially as a genuine inner urban village. Long cherished traditions, customs and city lifeways are still practised and 'neighbouring' flourishes along every street. With most of 'old Dublin' now tattered or demolished, Stoneybatter stands uniquely as a truly living community. It has the largest elderly population in the city, an invaluable repository of local oral history and urban lore. This is a book redolent of the spicy smells of old family grocers, of the sanctity of the snugs in Mulligan's renowned public house, of big families pulling happily enough together against familiar storms of poverty and illness...meticulously recorded and fascinating. Paddy Woodworth, The Irish Times Other books by Kevin C Kearns Dublin Tenement Life Dublin Voices Streets Broad and Narrow.