Eileen Hynes, born December 15th, 1916, in County Offaly, Ireland, recently celebrated her 109th birthday. She attributes her longevity to “hard work, no smoking and no drinking.” Mrs. Hynes has lived through a period of immense global change, witnessing the reigns of five British monarchs, ten Roman Catholic papacies, and twenty US presidencies.
A Life Spanning Generations
Born in Cullenwaine, near Moneygall, Mrs. Hynes is the youngest of six children – four boys and two girls – born to William and Mary Jones (née Kelly). Her sister, Julia, lived to be 98 years old. Mrs. Hynes’s early childhood coincided with the Irish War of Independence, and she recalls her family providing refuge to those fleeing the Royal Irish Constabulary, known as the Black and Tans.
In 1939, at the age of 23, she married William Hynes and moved to Coolderry, County Offaly. However, Mrs. Hynes faced a common barrier for women of her time: the “marriage bar.” This policy required her to resign from her position at the post office in Moneygall upon getting married, as it prohibited married women from holding Civil Service jobs and limited opportunities in the private sector.
Family and Farm Life
Mrs. Hynes and her husband raised ten children between 1940 and 1958. Their family now includes 30 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren. The eldest child is currently 85 years old, and the youngest is 67. Life revolved around hard work, both at home and on their farm, where cattle grazed across a wide area – some 8km from their house.
Her son, Michael, age 73, reports that she is “a bit tired” after celebrating her birthday with family. Despite this, Mrs. Hynes expressed feeling “very well” and “happy” and is already looking forward to turning 110 next year. She has been recognized by the President of Ireland with a Centenary Bounty upon turning 100, and has received a commemorative coin annually since.
Looking Ahead
It is possible that Mrs. Hynes will continue to receive annual recognition from the President of Ireland as she reaches further milestones. Her continued good health could mean she will witness even more historical events. The family may continue to gather and celebrate her birthdays, maintaining a tradition of familial support. However, given her age, it is also likely that her health could require increased care and attention in the coming years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old was Eileen Hynes when she got married?
Eileen Hynes was 23 years old when she married William Hynes in 1939.
What is the “marriage bar”?
The “marriage bar” was a policy in place at the time of Mrs. Hynes’s marriage that prohibited married women from working in Civil Service jobs and largely prevented them from working in the private sector.
How many descendants does Eileen Hynes have?
Eileen Hynes has 30 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren.
What factors do you believe contribute most to a long and fulfilling life?
