08-05-2025
Life of Wexford woman who translated for Stalin and Trotsky in 1920s Russia to be documented in special library event
She lived in Moscow from 1924 to 1928 and worked as a translator in the headquarters of the Communist International and lived in the famous Hotel Lux. Before this, she had been involved in the suffragette movement in London's East End.
Her life is the subject of a special event in Wexford Town Library on Thursday, May 15 at 7 p.m.
Hotel Lux: A Wexford Woman's Life in 1920s Moscow is presented by historian Maurice Casey who explains how May found herself in 1920s Russia and what became of her and her friends after Stalin cemented his control over the Soviet Union.
This talk draws on material from Maurice's new book Hotel Lux: An Intimate History of Communism's Forgotten Radicals which traces the life of May O'Callaghan and the friends she made while living in the Hotel Lux. The book was recently shortlisted for History Book of the Year at the 2024 Irish Book Awards.
Originally from Cahir, Co. Tipperary, Maurice is a historian of revolutionary politics in early twentieth century Europe. He received his doctorate from Oxford University and has completed fellowships at several institutions, most recently at Cambridge University.
This event can be booked on Wexford Libraries Events page or by phoning 053 9196760.
