The Story of our traditional irish Pub

Michael J McLoughlin, General Merchant, aka ‘Peddler Mac’ – a century of hostelry tradition along the River Shannon

Peddler Mac’s is a classical Irish pub which stands prominently on Church Street, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. Peddler Mac’s gives expression to a long family hostelry tradition of over four generations, which was introduced by Michael J McLoughlin. Michael, who was affectionately referred to as ‘Peddler Mac’, opened McLoughlin’s public house in the scenic village of Effrinagh in Co. Leitrim.

Michael was not only an entrepreneur; he was also a talented stonemason and carpenter possessing enormous creativity along with a meticulous eye for detail. This earned him respect not only in the business realm but also in the construction industry where he played a prominent role. He designed and built houses throughout County Leitrim, most notably the Parochial House, situated in Gowel at the foot of Sheemore Hill.

During this poverty-stricken era, Michael and his wife Evelyn opened a grocery and hardware business beside their home. They cycled to the local towns to collect necessities for the rural community whom they provided for throughout the four seasons. Life was difficult in Ireland then, but as time progressed, they acquired a car and a lorry which lightened this burden.

Michael who was known for his foresightedness, converted the family parlour into a public house in the late 40s. At the time, this establishment was greatly welcomed by the locals. Neighbours and friends gathered within this convivial atmosphere to enjoy conversation, local news and drinks. It also benefited his other business, as a funeral undertaker. The pub later became known as the Swan Lake Inn and has remained a renowned Leitrim venue to this day.  

Today in Athlone Peddler Mac’s pub is proud to continue, on the bank of the same river, a tradition started generations ago by Michael ‘Peddler Mac’ McLoughlin