Rare Irish historical and cultural material for auction at Usher

Early GAA programmes and medals in Gearóid Mac Gabhann collection

Usher of Kells is holding an auction from the estate of the late Gearóid Mac Gabhann (Gerry Smith) from Cavan and Dublin. The auction has over 1,100 lots of antiquarian and rare books, coins, stamps, and more. This exceptional sale features rare and collectible volumes spanning Irish and local history, music, literature, poetry, and a significant selection of Irish language books. Highlights include a rare collection of early GAA programmes, ephemera, and medals, many of which are signed and historically significant.

Gearóid Mac Gabhann was born to Nancy McEntee of Kells, County Meath, and 'Big Jim' Smith of Killinkere, County Cavan, a garda and the captain of the Cavan football team that won the All-Ireland Championship in 1933. Throughout his life, Gearóid lived in Dublin, Virginia, County Cavan, Emyvale, Co Monaghan, and Hollyfort, Co Wexford.

He was educated in St Patrick’s College, Cavan, and had football success with the college in 1951 in the Cardinal MacRory Cup. He also represented St Pat’s on the successful Ulster Colleges team of 1952.

Gearóid was a passionate supporter of the GAA in all codes. Following in the footsteps of his father, Big Jim, he himself successfully participated in many areas of the GAA.

He achieved success at minor level with both Monaghan in 1950 and was on the Cavan minor team that reached the All-Ireland Final in 1952.

His club football over the years included St Ultan’s Killinkere, Co Cavan, Kells Harps in Meath and Kilmacud Crokes in Dublin. During his time with Kells Harps, he had Leinster and All-Ireland football success with Meath in 1954.

Gearóid settled in Dublin with his family, where his GAA interests continued. He was a founding member of the Kilmacud Crokes club, with whom he played out his football career. He also spent time as a mentor, coach and manager for the football, hurling andcamogie teams.

Gearóid, an accountant by profession, spent over 30 years in the Irish healthcare service. This included time as secretary/manager of St Vincent’s Hospital, Elm Park; secretary/ manager of the Mater Hospital during the Phase 1 Development of the current Mater Hospital. He also served on the boards of a number of voluntary hospitals as well as the Blood Transfusion Board.

In addition to his wide range of sporting interests, Gearóid had a deep passion for Irish folklore and history, especially that of Ulster. A fluent Irish speaker, he was also fascinated by local placenames. Archaeology was another interest, particularly Irish, Greek and Roman. His love for the natural world and many other areas of interest reflected his constant curiosity. All of these passions are captured in his impressive collection of books and memorabilia.