Annie ‘John Tom’ McMahon (1898-1985)

Annie ‘John Tom’ McMahon, born in March 1898 in Kylemore, was one of four siblings in a remarkably musical household. All four played traditional instruments and contributed in their own way to the rich cultural life of North Clare. Annie played the fiddle, while her siblings included Mary ‘John Tom’ Tierney, a concertina player; Joe ‘John Tom’ McMahon, also on concertina; and Jacko ‘John Tom’ McMahon, who played concertina, flute, and tin whistle.

In addition to her music, Annie pursued a career in nursing—a vocation through which she served her wider community with care and compassion.