Area: Rathowen
Started: September 1954
Finished: January 1956
Poles used: 885
Line used (km): 72
Premises connected: 207
The figures above were sourced from our REO News magazine, to learn more about what these figures mean, visit our interactive map. The map above shows the area boundary and is from a digitised version of the original map used during the scheme.
The REO News from April 1956 tells us that Rathowen is cattle country.
This digital scan from the REO News displays the following text:
"Rathowen Rural Area, Co. Longford/Westmeath: Mr. T. Dennehy provides the report on Rathowen Rural Area which was his first venture as an R.A.E. and in which he replaced Mr. H. O’Keeffe. Although he got 64 new acceptances against 42 backsliders, most of the new people are in the long ratio class, and while final figures were not available, it is expected there will be a fall in the percentage return.
There was also a change in Area Organisers during construction when Mr. J. J. McGrath replaced Mr. M. J. Nolan. As this was Mr. McGrath’s first construction area, Mr. Dennehy thinks he is to be congratulated on the final total of £750, and we most certainly agree.
Sales by outside contractors were limited to radios, and the future prospects are not very bright. Rathowen is cattle country and the demand for agricultural appliances is at its lowest level."