The Night That Started It All
On a cold November evening in 1958, forty Wexford men gathered in the Sir Robert Peel pub in Kilburn with a dream – to form their own hurling and football club in London.
The pub manager, Larry Kehoe from Ferns, would become the club’s first treasurer. That night, alongside chairman Tom Quirke and secretary Frank Sheehan, they made a decision that would shape London GAA for the next 50 years.
Why “Father Murphy’s”?
After a short debate, the name was unanimous – Father Murphy’s, wearing the proud purple and gold colours of Wexford. This was more than just a sports club; it was a piece of home for the Wexford emigrants building new lives in London.
Instant Success
The club didn’t waste time proving itself. In their very first year, 1959, Father Murphy’s won the Junior Hurling Championship, defeating Thomas McCurtains in their maiden final. Captain Tom Ryan led the team to glory, with vice-captain Jim Kearns by his side.
The following was so strong that Kilburn Park Station became the Sunday morning meeting point – requiring a double-decker bus and multiple cars to transport all the players and supporters to matches!
The Foundation
First Officers (1958):
- Chairman: Tommy Quirke
- Vice-Chairman: Matt O’Neill
- Secretary: Frank Sheehan
- Assistant Secretary: Jim Gallagher
- Treasurer: Larry Kehoe
Committee Members: Tom Ryan, Sean Redmond, Jim Kearns, James Murphy, Mick Fortune
Tom Ryan, one of the founding members, reflected: “I congratulate the Club and I am very happy to say after 50 years the Club is as strong as ever and long may it continue.”
Want to learn more? Explore the complete history of Father Murphy’s GAA Club →