Limerick Newsagent Closes: Pictures & Sad Story
Raincín’s Closes Doors after Generations of Service, Marking End of an Era
Table of Contents
Adare bids farewell to a beloved local institution as John Kelly, after 36 years at the helm, closes the doors of Raincín’s Newsagents.
A Legacy Forged in Community Spirit
The story of Raincín’s is deeply intertwined with the history of Adare, a tale of resilience, family, and unwavering dedication to community. The shop’s origins trace back to Agnes,John Kelly’s grandmother,who,after being left alone in Wexford with an infant,was brought to Adare by John’s cousin’s grandfather,PJ Hogan. He not only helped her establish the shop but also supported her in setting up a new life.
“ther was no pension or anything back in those days,” explained John, reflecting on the early days of the business. “My cousin’s grandfather (PJ Hogan) went up and brought her back down to Adare and helped her set up the shop.”
Generations at the Counter
The legacy of Raincín’s was passed down through the generations.John’s mother, Patsy, began helping out as soon as she was tall enough to reach the till and later worked there full-time. John followed suit, dedicating the last 36 years of his life to the shop. His father, Vincent Kelly, also contributed to the family’s entrepreneurial spirit with a bakery in Rathkeale that eventually transitioned into a shop, operating until 1991.
“John and sisters Oonagh and Trish were bred into it as their dad Vincent Kelly had a bakery which later became a shop in rathkeale until 1991,” John shared, highlighting the deep-rooted connection his family had with serving the local community.
Evolving with the Times, Rooted in Tradition
Over the years, John expanded the shop’s offerings, but at its core, Raincín’s remained a place for the essentials: a pint of milk, a loaf of bread, and newspapers. In a notable update just before the COVID-19 pandemic, John renovated the shop, introducing a coffee machine and focusing on Irish artisan food and drink, alongside a small collection of toys.
“I renovated it just at the beginning of Covid and got in a coffee machine. We kind of concentrated on Irish artisan food and drink and I got a small collection of toys,” said John, who is married to Edwina.
A Arduous Decision, Made on His Own Terms
After 36 years of tireless work, often exceeding 70 hours a week, John made the difficult decision to close Raincín’s. He cited the changing landscape of towns and villages as a significant factor.
“It had been in my head.I was working almost 70 hours a week - it’s seven days a week,” John explained. “It’s the way things have gone – when we were younger, these small shops were the hearts of a community – nowadays they’re kind of becoming fewer and fewer. Small shops were in every small town and village but you hardly see them anywhere. It’s a huge commitment and it’s hard to make money for the hours you’re putting in. You can’t compete with the supermarkets at the end of the day.”
the closure comes after the passing of his parents, Patsy in 2004 and Vincent two years ago, just shy of his 90th birthday. John’s decision to close was not forced; he successfully applied for a new job, allowing him to step away on his own terms.”I’ll be working nearly half the hours,” John said with a smile, adding that he would not be selling the building. “It would be a lot worse if I was forced to close. It would be a lot sadder. I’m doing it on my own terms.”
A Fond farewell from Loyal Customers
The final day of Raincín’s saw an outpouring of support from the community. Crowds gathered to thank John and purchase their last Sunday paper, many having patronized the shop since childhood, reminiscing about buying penny sweets and candy bars.
“Once second Mass was over, there was a steady crowd coming all day. I planned on closing at 3pm but it was 6.30pm by the time I closed the door. it was a great occasion and great atmosphere with friends and customers calling.It was a gorgeous day so we could sit outside with cups