In the 1880s a young boy from Claremorris, Co Mayo, showing an exceptional
talent with horses, was taken over to Reading, England. At the age of seven he
had already won his first prize in Ballindine. Oliver Dixon left behind his family
at a time of great agricultural hardship to learn a trade and make something of
himself.
With his strong work ethic, he progressed to Yard Foreman, then to owning the
business. He returned to Ireland regularly to buy horses: from his brothers in
Maltpool and Ahena, from horse fairs in Ballinasloe and Cahirmee and from
The Royal Dublin Show. Oliver secured himself a far-reaching reputation, with
clients coming from across the social spectrum including aristocracy and
royalty.
A generous, religious man he supported many communities in Reading and
provided employment for relatives. He also gave financial help to the Dixon
family back in Claremorris.
In this book, Oliver’s life (1869 – 1939) is vividly retold, with many
photographs, maps, documents, letters and anecdotes from Dixon relatives.
This fascinating biography is enriched with historical facts on the social,
economic and political events of the time, revealing forgotten lifestyles across Ireland and England.
The Life and Times of Oliver Dixon
- Product Code: Caroline Piller
- Availability: In Stock
-
€19.99
Tags: Mayo, Oliver, Dixon, Horseman, Claremorris, Times, Life, dixon, Caroline, Piller, 9781527241329