James Kevin Casey, the "Poet Priest", as he was called, was born in Riverstown on September 26^th 1824. He was the son of James and Nora (nee Gethins) Casey.

In August 1857 after six years study, he was ordained a priest by Dr. Gillooly, Bishop of Elphin. In 1873 Father Casey was assigned as Parish Priest of Athleague in Co. Roscommon, where he devoted most of his time to poetry.

His father died in 1878, and he wrote an epitaph for both his parents,which can still be seen inTownagh cemetery.

Between 1880 and 1889, Fr. Casey published several collections of verse. Most of these talked of Temperance and Home Rule. These include the 'Topper and his bottle'. One of his most popular shorter pieces was the "Gaelic Revival" which was published in 1903.

Beginning to feel old age, Fr. Casey retired to Sligo. The evening clouds were gathering over Knocknarea, one February day in 1909 as Canon James Kevin, then in his eighty-fifth year was called to his eternal reward.

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