CARLOVIANA 2017 Edition Front Cover Picture No

Home , Albert Power (sculptor), Ballinlough Castle, Baltinglass Abbey, Clonegal, Denny Lane, Edward Nolan (bishop)

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CARLOVIANA 2017 Edition Front cover picture No. 65

I,S.S.N. 0790 - 0813

Articles Changing attitudes of the 1916 Rising ...... 4 Carlow Blue limestones ...... 9 Portrait of a Young Irelander Thomas Davis ...... 14 The Ballybar Races (1769-1900)...... 20 A devout priest & devoted patriot ...... 24 The Rolettes Showband ...... 49 Carlow. . . QuadrupleLough. . . Quadruplex Lacus ...... 52 List of claimants from Carlow for damages during The Peace Tower at Messines, Belgium. Easter week 1916 ...... 55 Built as a memorial to those Irishmen of The changing face of Carlow town ...... 56 both the Nationalist and Unionist traditions who died in World War I, this mon- Colonal Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712) ...... 59 ument stands also as a symbol of The Red Lad and Blunt: Hacketstown Poachers of the 20th cent . .... 71 reconciliation between those traditions. Dolmens in Carlow ...... 76 The Borris Railway Line and Viaduct ...... 78

Back cover picture The Ridge of the Raven, the coming of the Laighin ...... 80 Catherine ‘Kate’ Geoghegan - Cumann na mBan Carlow Brigade ... 84 Finn’s Leinster Journal (1796 - 1801) ...... 87 Judith Wogan-Browne (1756 - 1848) ...... 102 Volunteer activities in Co. Carlow during the War of Independence . 105 Scouting in Carlowin the 1950s ...... 127 Dunleckney Vicarage under challengein 1486 ...... 132 Carlow Seven) ...... 135 Influential role of the Catholic Clergy in Carlow during the Revelutionary Era ...... 137

New Website & Social Media, a vehicle to promote local history ...... 144 Volunteer companies from several areas of County Carlow (we think Myshall, Collection of cess, pardons & fines by Robert Hartpole ...... ,,, 146 Ballon and Clonegal, but there may be Remembering James Connor - A forgotten Carlow casualty other areas represented) photographed in of the Easter Rising 1916 ...... 157 Myshall on the occasion of a Volunteer parade at some time during the revolu- Book reviews “ The Rabbit Industry in Ireland” tionary decade. If any of our readers can “The Lineburners: A History of Clogrennane Limeworks 1816-2016 identify any of the people shown we “County Carlow-A Who’s Who - A Local and Global Footprint ...... 193 would be glad to hear from them. Officers and members ...... 196 Contributors ...... 199

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CARLOVIANA 2017 Edition

No. 65

I,S.S.N. 0790 - 0813

Editorial Editor: Jim Shannon Editorial Committee: We are delighted to be able once again to put before our readers another collection of varied, interesting, and well researched articles relating to the history of County Martin Nevin Carlow. Our thanks and appreciation to our many contributors whose work these are. Pat O’Neill In particular we are pleased this year to welcome several first-time contributors and Padraig Dooley we hope to hear from them again in the years to come. Published by: Carlow Historical The decade of centenaries moves on and the year now ending has seen the centenaries and Archaeological Society of the Easter Rising and the Battle of the Somme. The commemorative ceremonies, P.O. Box 162 both at local and national level, were dignified, respectful and thoughtful. There has Carlow. been a renewed interest in the events of that time and some reappraisal of their im- Email: portance and of their influence on subsequent events in our history. That can be seen [email protected] in the several articles relating to the period that we publish in this edition.

Website: It is a welcome sign of a more mature attitude to our history that it is now possible to www.carlowhistorical.com re-assess the events of a century ago without arousing the partisan divisions and even Twitter: @CarlowHist outrage that would once have greeted any such attempt. Indeed so far have we come that it was even noticeable that people could question the moral justifiability of the Facebook: @CarlowHistoricalAndAr- chaeologicalSocietyCarlow Historical Easter Rising without drawing down on themselves the storm of anger that would and Archaeological Society is affili- have been inevitable in an earlier period. This is good, because in this more calm and ated to the Federation of Local History tolerant climate we can hope to reach a full understanding of the founding events of Societies. our state. One wonders however why there was no questioning by the same people of All articles in this journal are the the morality of the obscene industrial-scale slaughter that occurred at the Somme. copyright of the Carlow Historical and Archaeological Society and may not be This year our society in conjunction with St. Patrick’s College, Carlow ran a compe- reproduced in any form without the tition for students of that college, who were invited to submit an essay on a subject permission of the editor. relating to the history of the Carlow area during the decade 1913-1923. The prize was shared between two of these students. Congratulations to Judy Bolger and Jamie Views and opinions expressed in this journal are not those of the editor or of the O’Neill whose winning entries we publish in this edition. Congratulations also to Carlow Historical and Archaeological Eoin Cummins who won our National Schools History Prize for the second year run- Society. ning. His winning entry last year was omitted through an oversight, but we have included both his winning projects in this edition. Printed by: Carlow Advertiser & Printing, This year also our society launched a new and improved website, and it is particularly Strawhall Industrial Estate, Carlow. gratifying that we have been able to make past editions of “Carloviana” available in a digitised format on that website. This should prove a valuable resource for all who SPONSORS are interested in the history of our local area, and we trust that many will in this way Inside the front and back covers of our journal we list the local businesses who, each year, benefit from the efforts of all those dedicated people who worked to produce this support us in producing Carloviana. We wish journal and to maintain its high standards over the past seventy years. to thank them sincerely for their assistance, without which it would not be possible to do Is cúis bróid dúinn go bfhuil dúil ag an oiread sin de baill ár gCumann taighde a this. Just as these businesses support us we ask our members, in turn, to support them wher- dhéanamh ar stair na háite, agus toradh a saothar a roinnt linne ins an iris seo. Go ever possible. mba fada buan iad. Ta súil again go mbainfidh ár léiteoirí uile taithneamh as an méid Bertie Watchorn a bhfuil foilsithe againn sna leathanaigh seo. Nollaig Shona agus athbhlian fe mhaise President dhaoibh go léir.

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Message from the President

This year is the 70th anniversary of our In July we had an enjoyable three day Thanks also to our treasurer Pat O'Neill society and we look back with gratitude outing to Co.Clare many thanks to Pat who looks after th,z- distribution of to the founder members for their fore- O'Neill for arranging it. We had our three Carloviana. sight and energy to found the society in mini lectures during Heritage week and 1946 and set an example that we still ad- many thanks to our speakers Roisin Thanks also to all the committee for their here to today. Bowling ,Paul Maguire and help and encouragement during the year Imelda Byrne. Finally I would like to thank our mem- This year also has been a very busy one bers and sponsors who continue to make for our society with a big amount of 1916 In September we had a very educational a vital contribution to the society. and Battle of the Somme commemora- day trip to Fethard and Kilcooley Abbey tions. We started the year with five lec- arranged by John Kelly. Our new web Thank you. tures which were very well attended. A site will be up and running from the mid- big thank you to our speakers for their dle of October many thanks to John time and effort in coming to speak to us. Kelly for all his hard work in setting Bertie Watchorn Before our April lecture I presented a it up. cheque to Orla Byrne from Hacketstown who designed the medallion for our chain Dan Carbery, Paul Lyons and Pat O'Neill of office. have been working for some time on a project Old Lanes and Streets of Carlow Our Schools History Prize was presented which they have just finished, you could at a function in the museum in June and say they took a trip down memory lane. Owen Cummins of Ballinkillen School Thanks to our Editors Jim Shannon and was the winner again this year, our Martin Nevin who continually make thanks to Dermot Mulligan and the mu- Carloviana happen. seum board for the use of the museum.

Carlow Historical and Archaeological Society The 71st Winter Lecture Series 2016-2017

All lectures start at 8pm.

Date Lecturer Topic Venue 19th October, Paul Maguire The Battle of the Somme Parish Centre 2016 Leighlinbridge 16th November, Arthur Keppel Freemasonry in Carlow Carlow Masonic Hall 2016

18th January, Eoin Lyng Graveyards in Carlow Tullow Community 2017 School

15th February, Jimmy Walsh Fairs and Marts of Carlow Seven Oaks Hotel, 2017 Carlow 15th March, Msgr Brendan Byrne St Mary’s, Knockbeg College Seven Oaks Hotel 2017 1913 to 1923 Carlow

19th April, Seamus O’Morchu Archaeology of the Blackstairs Vocational School Borris 2017

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tutional approach to the achievement of Irish freedom, and solidly behind the advice of Redmond to support the British war effort. An example of this is found in a resolution passed on the motion of the chairman, Mr. J. O’Gorman, at the annual general meeting of the Hacketstown Branch of the United Irish League in Changing attitudes February 1915, which read, “That this Branch of the U.I.L. hereby re-affirm our unwavering confidence in Mr. John E. Redmond and the National Party, and we of the cordially approve of the position taken by Mr. Redmond with reference to the present world war. We also protest at the campaign of vituperation levelled at Mr. Redmond and his colleagues of the 1916 Rising National Party.”1

Another indication of general support for this line of action was the regular appearance of recruiting advertisements in the pages of the Carlow Nationalist. For example, on March 23rd 1915 that paper James P. Shannon published one such, which was headed “Why Mr. Wm. Redmond, M.P. joined the Army” and went on to say, in his own words, “That he offered himself to the At the start of the new year of 1916 the oughly convinced that the path to Irish Brigade because he is absolutely political atmosphere of County Carlow, national freedom was the one outlined by convinced that the future freedom, at least on the surface, appeared stable John Redmond, that success was in their welfare, and happiness of the Irish people and unchanged from that which had grasp and they now had only to continue depend on the part Ireland plays in prevailed for many years now. The Irish as before, to support the government’s this War.”2 Parliamentary Party, reunited under John war effort, and to demonstrate by so Redmond in 1901 after the long bitter doing that Irish people were to be trusted, The Nationalist’s Unionist contemporary division of the Parnellite Split, was that they were worthy of self govern- meanwhile was also enthusiastically unchallenged in its dominance as the ment. Then, they believed, once urging young Carlowmen to enlist and voice of Nationalist Ireland. The success Germany had been defeated the Liberal urging their wives and mothers to of the Party in finally getting a Home government led by Asquith would be encourage them to do so. A recruitment Rule Bill enacted seemed to have copper- happy to reward such loyal support by advertisement published in the paper on th fastened its grip on the allegiance of implementing the Home Rule Act, and March 6 1915 ended thus “Women of nationally minded people throughout the the great achievement that had eluded Ireland do your duty! Let your men enlist country. Furthermore the very fact that O’Connell and Parnell would in an Irish regiment – TO-DAY. GOD Home Rule was on the statute book and come about. SAVE THE KING. GOD SAVE 3 waited only for the end of the Great War IRELAND” to come into operation seemed to prove There can be no doubt that the public in once and for all that the path of constitu- general were fully behind this strategy. A few weeks earlier the Sentinel had tional nationalism was the right way to The allegiance of the Irish voters to the given prominence to an extract from go, the method that worked. Party had lasted now for over forty years. “The Windsor Magazine” which gave a In election after election they had stead- very laudatory account of the conduct of In County Carlow the leaders of the Party fastly supported the Home Rule line. Brigadier-General McMurrough Kavan- were Michael Molloy, the sitting Mem- Indeed, so strong was the grip of the agh of Borris who had distinguished him- ber of Parliament for the county, and Party on the loyalty of their supporters in self in an action at Klein Zillebeke, where Michael Governey, the much respected County Carlow, that neither Michael some French troops had been retreating Chairman of Carlow Urban District Molloy nor his predecessor in the Carlow in the face of superior German numbers. Council, member of Carlow County seat at Westminster, Walter McMurrough “The Irishman,” reported the Windsor Council, and President of Carlow Branch Kavanagh, had ever had to fight an Magazine, “flung a couple of squadrons of the United Irish League. These men election for the seat, being returned across the road to steady friends and stay and the many who followed them and unopposed on each occasion. Carlow was foes, and ……got things sorted out, looked to them for leadership were thor- staunch in its commitment to the consti- disposed of his Germans, set the French

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forward on their legs again, and saved an Council was held on May 8th. Present ugly situation.”4 were Michael Governey, D.J. McGrath, J.D. McCarthy, William Purcell, John Public support for the war effort was again Foley, Frederick J. Williams, Ebenezer demonstrated in February 1916 when a Shackleton, Denis Mullane, Edward large number of people attended a public Duggan, John Brennan, John Murphy meeting in Carlow Town Hall for the and Thomas Murphy. presentation of Certificates of Honour to the wives or nearest relatives of Carlow On the proposal of the Chairman, soldiers serving with the colours. Michael Michael Governey, seconded by D. J. Governey presided, and presented sixty of McGrath, the Council unanimously the certificates, “with words of encourage- passed this resolution: “That we in ment to each recipient.” 5 common with other Public Bodies in Ireland desire to express our abhorrence Bishop Foley in his Lenten Pastoral for of the appalling crime committed on 1916 commented, as in duty bound, on Ireland by the terrible incident of the the enormous suffering inflicted on recent Rebellion. It was treason to the humanity by the war and prayed that the constitutional cause, to its leader Mr. killing might soon cease. However he John Redmond, who has led us so far and went on to refer to the 312,000 “men of so well, to the 150,000 gallant Irishmen the Irish race” in the British army and who are heroically devoting their lives to navy and said “There is no Irishman save Ireland from the ravages that have worthy the name who has not followed desolated France, Belgium and Servia, the fortunes of these fearless fellows with and to every hope and aspiration of admiration, who is not proud of their It was likewise with the Carlow Nation- true Irishmen. remarkable bravery, who is not prepared alist. The editorial column of the edition to do what he can to encourage and sus- of May 6th 1916 condemned the Rising That we are ready to assist the authorities tain them.” He further referred to altered and the entire thinking behind it in clear as far as in our power to eradicate now feelings towards Britain among Irish and unambiguous terms. “Over and over and forever the elements of disorder in people and opined that “there can be little again,” it said, “we have warned our Ireland, and we wish to publicly express doubt ameliorative measures passed by readers about the futility of a policy our appreciation of Mr. John Redmond’s Parliament recently have wrought a which a section – a small section – of attitude recently in the House of Com- change in their minds and hearts, which mons, and to ensure him that he has 6 intellectual fanatics was trying to impose is little short of the marvellous.” on Ireland.” Later in the same article the nobly voiced the feelings of every man editorial writer went on to state, “No one in Ireland who loves his Country, and That Pastoral was published little more in the Irish provinces with a spark of heart and soul they are with him in his than a month before the Easter Rising intelligence could believe that a few every effort to restore peace and tran- and it shows how far removed the thousand armed Irishmen could establish quillity to our sorely afflicted Country. thoughts of most Irish people were from a republic in Ireland, even if Dublin armed rebellion at that point in time. The could be relieved. And apart from all this We express our deepest sympathy with religious and civil leaders of the people – sentiment – point of view, how many the people of Dublin in the great calamity were at one in their support for John of us really wish the change which the which has befallen them by the destruc- Redmond’s policy and there was no sign Dublin propagandists wished to effect tion of beautiful portions of their ancient of any significant dissent. so quickly?” and proud city, and in the trying ordeal through which they have passed.”9 The Rising then took almost everybody One week later the Sentinel referred to by surprise and the immediate reaction the Rising as “the insane revolting It is as clear as daylight then that in the was one of condemnation. The Sentinel’s outbreak in Dublin” and called for the immediate aftermath of the Rising there first edition after the Rising described it authorities to “probe the whole melan- was little if any sympathy among the as “the latest and nearest outcome of choly conspiracy to the bottom, and to people of Carlow for the aims or the German atrocities” as well as a “fool- 7 exact the just and appropriate penalties actions of those who had planned and hardy attempt at rebellion.” (The paper on those who have organised and shared carried out the Rising. The terms used by described Liberty Hall as “the Sinn Fein in it.” Furthermore it continued, “The the Nationalist in its report on the events headquarters”, which would lead one to Sinn Fein rebellion, viewed as a German of Easter Week are very revealing. The doubt the accuracy of its reporting.) The enterprise, has provoked no emotion but permanent Under-Secretary for Ireland, language used by the Sentinel leaves no disgust, with a strong mixture of Sir Matthew Nathan, is respectfully doubt that the sympathy of the editorial contempt, for the brutes who planned and given his full title and described as the staff, and presumably the sympathy of paid for it.”8 man “whose measures saved Dublin the readers, was very definitely hostile to Castle from the hands of the Sinn Fein- the Rising. A meeting of the Carlow Urban District ers.” The Nationalist also points out that

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“Sir Matthew is a Privy Councillor, a it will remain till the end of time.” Mr. wholesale arrests and detention of many K.O.M.G., has been Secretary of the Post Foley stressed that these were his senti- innocent young men makes the task of Office, was Governor of Natal and other ments and that they did not compromise conciliation almost an impossibility, we places, and was born in 1862.” Mean- him in the slightest in regard to the for- ask the Government to cease the arrests while his opponents are disdainfully mer resolution (condemning the Rising), except where there are grave reasons, and dismissed as “the rebels.” as he stood by it and by the Irish Party. to liberate forthwith the many hundreds of youths and thoughtless men who were Within a few weeks the tide of public Michael Governey spoke in support of duped by mad or designing enthusiasts to opinion had begun to turn. General Mr. Foley and expressed “the greatest enter a course that could only end in ruin Maxwell’s enforcement of martial law, possible sympathy with the poor fellows, to themselves and to the country they the executions of the leaders of the misguided though they were, in the professed to serve.”14 Rising and the wholesale arrests through- action which they took in putting them- out the country of men who had not been selves into that unfortunate position. He Clearly the leaders of nationalist opinion involved in the fighting began to turn knew three of them – three as fine Irish- in Carlow were at this point far from people’s sympathies towards the revolu- men as ever breathed the breath of life – being won over to the revolutionary tionaries. John Dillon, M.P. warned the but, unfortunately, they were extremists. agenda, but they could see where the House of Commons that the executions They ignored constitutional agitation. government’s handling of the aftermath were embittering people who had been They refused to be led by the constitu- of rebellion was leading, and they feared friendly towards Britain. The killing tional leaders, with the result, unfortu- that unless that policy changed the effect without trial of Mr. Sheehy Skeffington, nately, that they came to their end.”12 on public sentiment in Ireland would be an unarmed man who had been trying to the opposite of what they themselves prevent looting, was, he said, maddening A meeting of the United Irish League would desire. the people of Dublin. “The rebels,” he Carlow Branch was held in late May. At continued, “were the victims of mis- this meeting a number of resolutions The most prominent local leader of guided enthusiasm. They fought a clean were passed which condemned the nationalist opinion in the county, Michael fight with superb bravery. There were not Rising in clear terms, reaffirmed their Governey, spoke at a meeting held in more than 3,000 insurgents in Dublin and confidence in the leadership of John Carlow Town Hall on June 15th for the when the population did not rise in their Redmond, expressed high appreciation purpose of arranging a collection for the favour they were disappointed. Now and admiration of John Dillon’s “recent Irish National Aid Fund, which had been thousands of people, bitterly opposed to courageous and manly speech in the set up to support the relatives and depen- the Sinn Fein movement, were becoming British House of Commons,” and sympa- dants of those killed in the Rising. He infuriated against the government on ac- thised with the relatives of Mr. Sheehy made it clear that while he differed from count of these bloody executions.” In a Skeffington. Another resolution protested these men as to the methods they adopted memorable phrase he said that the strongly at the “extent to which the he still admired the spirit that animated military policy was “letting loose a river manhood of this country has been, and them. Many of them were his friends on of blood between two races who after are being deported, in many instances the Committee of the National Volun- nearly 290 years of strife they had almost innocently.” It described it as “this teers. Although he regretted the move- succeeded in bringing together.”10 process of wholesale arrests and depor- ment and never approved of their tations,” and asked the government to methods he still recognised that “they At a meeting of the Carlow Urban Coun- “pause in the course of destruction it is were Irishmen and no matter what cil, Michael Governey in the chair, one pursuing, and remember it (the Govern- anyone said they gave up their lives for of the members, Mr. John Foley, made an ment) was more culpable than the major- their country.”15 At this point his speech appeal for leniency. He considered that ity of those deported.”13 was interrupted by calls of “Hear, hear.” the hasty executions were very improper and, in an obvious reference to the gov- A meeting of Carlow County Council at Compare this statement with the terms of ernment’s handling of the Larne the end of May 1916 unanimously passed the resolution proposed by the same man Gun-running and the Curragh Mutiny, a resolution condemning and deploring at the meeting of Carlow Urban Council stated that the government was very the recent rising in Dublin, but also only five weeks earlier and already we much to blame for creating the conditions recognising that it was “the natural can see a significant change in attitude to that brought about the Rising through outcome of the tactics adopted by the the Rising. The cries of “Hear, hear” “the many glaring cases of what I call leaders of Ulster Orangeism in 1914, and would seem to indicate that he was not preferential treatment that a section of the permitted by the government to spread the only one to think along these lines. population of this country have been unchecked, rewarding the prominent treated to, and sedition of the very leaders, who openly challenged and The National Aid Fund was mentioned gravest nature condoned – I might say defied by anticipation the decisions of approvingly by the Carlow Nationalist applauded.”11 He felt that if clemency Parliament, with the highest positions in on June 24th when that paper commented were now shown “a lot of bitterness the gift of the Crown.”This resolution that “The enthusiasm with which the would be avoided and be a sure source of also asked the young men of the towns National Aid Fund is being taken up in having this little island the one little and country districts to support John Carlow is very commendable.” Three bright spot in the Empire, which, I hope, Redmond, and then continued, “As the days later the organisers forwarded Carloviana 2017 Changing attitudes of the 1916 Rising_Layout 1 12/09/2016 15:55 Page 4

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£76.16s.6d. to the national headquarters, upset about this incident, and Michael were not going to be able to deliver the together with a list of contributors, 141 Governey went on to make an eloquent promised Home Rule, and the drift of in total. They also stated their intention and scathing reply to the insult to Red- support away from them continued. of arranging a weekly collection and mond. Nevertheless, it was another indi- th indicated that they had started a branch cation of the direction in which the wind On May 9 1917 Joseph McGuinness of of the Irish National Aid Association in of local public opinion was blowing. Sinn Fein defeated Patrick McKenna of the town. John Brennan was the Presi- the Home Rule Party in the South Long- dent of this branch, Wm. Martin Hon. The shocking losses at the Somme in the ford by-election. The Nationalist Sec. and Pat McDonald of The Plough summer of that year caused the British reported that “The result was eagerly the Treasurer.16 government to consider introducing awaited in all parts of the County Carlow, conscription for Ireland. In the event the and the telephone and telegraph services government decided to drop any such were very busy all Thursday afternoon. In August the Carlow Urban Council de- plans for the moment, but not before the In many places pent up feelings gave bated a resolution asking for clemency possibility of conscription had roused way, and crowds and individuals strongly for Sir Roger Casement. The point was popular opinion in Ireland to fever heat, demonstrated their sympathy with Sinn made that Casement’s case was part and and done further damage to the cause of Fein, especially the young men and parcel of the Irish rebellion and that constitutional nationalism. Carlow Urban women. In Carlow town Sinn Fein enough blood had been shed. Two mem- District Council debated a motion, badges were particularly conspicuous on bers of the Council, Mr. McCarthy and proposed by Mr. John Foley, which Thursday.” There were scenes of jubila- Mr. Shackleton, refused to support this pledged themselves “as a public body to tion in Tullow – “Bonfires were ablaze, resolution and left the meeting, after resist by every means at our disposal any national songs were sung and Republican 20 which the remaining members unani- effort to have conscription applied to flags were waved.” mously passed the resolution.17 It had no Ireland,” describing such a proposal as 19 effect on the government and Casement “this further contemplated in-justice.” was hanged in Pentonville, creating The resolution also called for the another martyr for the revolutionary immediate release of all Irish prisoners cause and further embittering Irish feel- interned in England and elsewhere. Sup- ings towards British rule. porting the resolution Michael Governey used some very revealing language. If the government had put the Home Rule Bill into operation at the beginning of the war, he said, “There never would have been the slightest need for conscription, nor would they have had a rebellion. (hear, hear). He thought it was the greatest blunder ever the Government made and they had added to that by murder in cold blood.” The motion was carried, only Mr. Shackleton dissenting.

Another indication of changing political opinions came in February 1917 when the Sinn Fein candidate, Count Plunkett, soundly defeated the Home Rule candi- Sinn poster for Clare date, T.J. Devine, in the Roscommon by-election 1917 North by-election. Then in early March came further humiliation for the followers of John Redmond. The new Prime Minister, David Lloyd George, There then followed De Valera’s famous announced in the House of Commons victory in Clare on 10th July. This time Count Plunket that “in the north-eastern portion of Carlow town celebrated in style – “At Ireland you have a population as hostile night huge crowds assembled in the The next month, at a meeting of the Car- to Irish rule as the rest of Ireland is to Gaelic Grounds at Graigue, and a mon- low United Irish League, Michael Gov- British rule.” Redmond and his followers ster procession was formed. An onlooker erney related an incident that a immediately withdrew from the House of computed the assemblage at between businessman had reported to him.18 A Commons. The Nationalist in its editor- 1,500 and 2,000. The immense throng th young man had told this businessman ial of March 10 greeted this develop- quickly formed into military rank and that John Redmond was a traitor to ment with the headline “The old, old paraded the town, numerous Sinn Fein Ireland. Both the businessman in ques- story. Ireland again deceived.” It was and Republican flags being carried. On tion and Mr. Governey were obviously painfully obvious that the Irish Party the return journey to Graigue the proces-

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sion halted at “Croppy Hole” and a most under the new franchise including all to a position where only a candidate solemn scene was enacted. Heads were men over 21 and women voters for the totally supporting the aims and ideals of bared and in most emotional silence first time, would show a different result. that Rising stood any chance of success prayers were offered for the men who fell in the election of December 1918. This in Carlow in 1798. The crowds then In April 1918 the Lloyd George govern- was a truly radical shift in political think- marched to the Town Hall where they ment introduced a bill to extend conscrip- ing and one that was to shape the future were dismissed. Mr. P Gaffney delivered tion to Ireland. If anything had been of the country for a long time to come. a short address. During the procession lacking to ensure the victory of Sinn Fein the best of order was maintained.”21 in the next general election this mutton- headed decision supplied it. A better The progress of advanced nationalist means of uniting Ireland behind the de- 1 Carlow Nationalist, February 22nd ideas in the county was evidenced by the mand for independence from Britain 1915 formation of new Sinn Fein clubs in could not have been found. There 2 Carlow Nationalist, March 27th 1915 Tullow and Bagenalstown towards the followed a great anti-conscription cam- 3 Carlow Sentinel, March 6th 1915 end of July 1917. A letter by Seamus De paign throughout Ireland involving both 4 Sentinel, February 18th 1915 Maol Craoibhe in the Nationalist listed sides of Irish nationalist opinion. The 5 Sentinel, February 12th 1916 Clashganny, Borris, Knockdrumagh, success of this campaign was demon- 6 Sentinel, March 18th 1916 Bagenalstown, Tullow and Leighlin- strated when in June the government 7 Sentinel, April 29th 1916 bridge as areas where Sinn Fein clubs dropped the plan to introduce conscrip- 8 Sentinel, May 13th 1916 had already been established and urged tion to Ireland, realising that trying to 9 Sentinel, May 13th 1916 22 other areas to follow their example. enforce it would probably need more sol- 10 Nationalist, May 20th 1916 diers than conscription would produce. 11 Ibid A further by-election, this time in Even though the Home Rule Party and 12 Ibid Kilkenny, saw William Cosgrave of Sinn Sinn Fein had jointly led the anti-con- 13 Nationalist, May 27th 1916. Fein defeat his Home Rule opponent, scription campaign it was to Sinn Fein 14 Ibid John Magennis, by almost two to one on that the people gave the credit for saving 15 th th Nationalist, June 20 1916 August 10 . By this time it was becom- the country from that threat. 16 Nationalist, July 1st 1916 ing obvious that the weight of public 17 Sentinel, August 5th 1916 opinion was now won over to support of Dr. Foley, Bishop of Kildare and Leigh- 18 Sentinel, September 23rd 1916 the Sinn Fein programme of abstention lin, was not convinced that the threat of 19 Sentinel, October 21st 1916 from Westminster and the pursuit of full conscription had been totally removed. In 20 Nationalist, May 12th 1917 independence for Ireland. An editorial in a speech at Carbury, Co. Kildare, he 21 Nationalist, July 14th 1917 the Carlow Nationalist on “The Political advised people to continue to pray, to act 22 th 23 Nationalist, July 28 1917 Situation” is indicative of this . That as if it might yet be enforced, and to hold 23 Nationalist, September 1st 1917 editorial is unambiguously supportive of firmly together until the danger had com- 24 th 25 Nationalist, March 30 1917 the Sinn Fein movement. “Here in pletely disappeared. 25 Sentinel, June 29th 1918 Ireland,” it says, “the idealists, the ‘visionaries’ and the ‘cranks’ have won With the end of the Great War came the the day.” A far cry indeed from the days general election of December 1918. As not so long since when the same paper far as Carlow is concerned this election described the same idealists and vision- conclusively demonstrated just how far aries as “a small section of intellectual public attitudes to the Easter Rising had fanatics” and as “Dublin propagandists”! moved in the previous two and a half years. The heir of the 1916 men in By the time of John Redmond’s death on Carlow was the Sinn Fein candidate, 6th March 1918 and the by-election Seamus Lennon. The Home Rule Party, victory of his son Capt. W.A. Redmond after the withdrawal of Mr. Michael in the consequent Waterford by-election Molloy, the sitting M.P. on October 31st, on March 22nd, the Nationalist had had initially selected a Mr. Donovan as become entirely supportive of Sinn Fein. their candidate. However, on the advice In an article on “The Waterford Result” of Bishop Foley, and realising that they it referred to Captain Redmond as “the had no chance of success, they withdrew Imperialist candidate”, ascribed his their candidate and Seamus Lennon won victory to Unionist support, to the the seat. election being held on the old restricted register, and to the alleged fact that Carlow public opinion, like public opin- “voters were shipped from munitions ion throughout most of the country, had factories in England and from the bases thus moved from a position in May 1916 in France.” 24 It predicted that the next where there was no discernible support general election, which would be fought of any significance for the Easter Rising

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Carlow Blue Limestone

Phil Meaney

of vegetation, or by the deposit of mate- nently suitable for construction. Hence rial through glacial action. Consequently there developed the local industry once in our time we find, lying beneath the known as Stone Developments Ltd., the surface soil, rich deposits of limestone, work of which was the extraction and many metres deep in places. These shaping of limestone for use in those deposits have long been known and have ways. (Stone Developments Ltd has since been worked for human benefit in differ- been taken over and the quarry’s produce ent ways over the years. In Clogrennane, is now traded as Kilkenny Limestone) for example, the limestone has been quarried and burned for use as an agricul- The limestone occurs in beds of varying tural fertiliser for over two hundred years thicknesses. These beds are reasonably now,i because it was found that the lime- flat since they were laid down on the sea stone in that particular area was of a bed. This facilitates the quarrying work, degree of purity that made it exception- since the natural divisions between the ally suitable for that purpose. In general beds (caused by interruptions in the it can be said that the limestone deposits deposit of tiny marine skeletons millen- in the Carlow-Kilkenny region are of nia ago) provide a readymade cleavage particularly high quality. line in the stone and enable it to be taken out in blocks of even thickness. This is At Old Leighlin, the quality of the lime- done by using enormous chainsaws to cut Fig 1. Geological Map of Ireland stone makes it uniquely suitable for use in along north-south and east-west lines, so monumental and construction work. The the resulting block is sawn on four sides, best quality stone is used in monumental with a natural top and bottom arising he map shows the underlying rock work. More stone that would not quite from the natural division between the in the various regions of Ireland. make the grade for that purpose is emi- beds. These very large blocks of stone, From it we can see that limestone representedT here in blue) is the most common type of rock to be found in this country, being the bedrock to be found throughout the midlands. Limestone is a sedimentary rock. It was formed millions of years ago at the bottom of a prehistoric sea. Enormous numbers of small marine creatures lived in this sea. When they died their calcium carbonate skeletons sank to the sea floor, where over long ages they slowly formed into limestone. Over the millennia geological changes raised the earth’s surface in that area and the former seabed became dry land. Over further long ages the limestone was covered with other material by the formation of soil from the decayed remnants Fig 2. Quarry in production

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weighing anything up to thirty tons each, are then transported by means of heavy machinery such as a loading shovel.

A primary saw is used to convert these large blocks into different slab thicknesses. The primary saw has a number of blades, sixteen in the case of the one shown in figure 3. The blocks of limestone are positioned during the day and the saw set up to make the cuts. The actual cutting occurs overnight because it is a very noisy process. The resulting slabs than go to the secondary saws where they are transformed into the desired shapes, for example cills, quoins, Fig 3. Primary saw plinths, ashlars, or cladding. After that the various pieces are finished off either manually by a mason or through the use of machinery.

The eventual colour and texture of the surface will depend upon the finish that it is given in this final process. A sawn finish, for example, leaves the surface of the stone just as the saw made it, with the marks of the sawteeth clearly visible. A polished finish will result in a much smoother surface of a darker blue-grey to black colour depending on the particular limestone bed from which the stone came. A honed finish will give a smooth and even appearance to the finished stone, with the colour varying according to the coarseness or fineness of the grit Fig 4. Secondary saw used in the honing process. A chiselled finish can be achieved by incising lines in the surface of the stone and is often used in cladding and paving. A flamed finish is brought about by torching the stone surface with a white-hot open flame, while a bush-hammered finish produces a slip-resistant surface and is consequently frequently used for paving, kerbs and steps.

The Stone Developments Ltd. business has been very successful in promoting its products and has in recent years won many prestigious and valuable contracts. One example of such would be the Throne Square project in Brussels. In the face of stiff international competition the contract to pave that big square was won and successfully carried through. This was a big breakthrough for the business. The area involved was very large -15,000 Fig 5. Stonecutting square metres.

An even bigger project was the More

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London development, which involved the paving of 32,000 square metres (eight acres) from Tower Bridge to Lambeth Bridge, an area known as the Queen’s Walk. This contract included the amphitheatre shown in figure 7, which proved to be the biggest challenge of the project. Those blocks of limestone were huge and they had to be shaped in Old Leighlin to the correct curves so as to fit exactly in place in London. The stones in this development were flamed and bush- hammered to finish. This particular contract took between four and five years from start to finish. Fig 6. The Throne Square, Brussels Dromoland Castle was another big project. Stone Developments were chosen to create cladding, capping, castellation work and elaborate door surrounds for the new East Wing of the castle, which is now a luxury hotel resort.

The disastrous fire that broke out in St. Mel’s Cathedral, Longford, on Christmas Day 2009 utterly destroyed the fine interior of the building. The fire is calculated to have reached temperatures of 1100 degrees Celsius. The remains of the original limestone pillars crumbled when it came to taking them down. The stone had literally been burned. A restoration project was immediately undertaken and because it was decided to use the original drawings and plans it was not necessary to obtain planning permission. So there was a minimum of delay, but of course the work of restoring the cathedral to its former glory was still an enormous job and Fig 7. The More London Project took several years to complete.

The original pillars in the Cathedral were of locally quarried limestone. Stone De- velopments Ltd. provided the replacement pillars, constructed of Carlow Blue Limestone, quarried in Old Leighlin.This was a major project and involved the quarrying of 520 limestone blocks, aver- aging twenty tons each. From these the one hundred highest quality blocks were chosen and from these the sections of the pillars were fashioned. Each pillar is eight metres high, and is made in five sections, which were dowelled and glued together. Each section started as a rectangular limestone block, which was first sawed to octagonal shape and then turned on a lathe to produce the finished rounded and tapered pillar section. This highly skilled work, and the fashioning Fig 8. St Mels Cathedral, Longford, after the fire

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12 Carlow Blue Limestone

of the capitals, was carried out by Danny McDonald and Oliver Lawlor.

Carlow Blue Limestone product was also used in the refurbishment of Carlow Cathedral. The floor of the cathedral is now covered with a mixture of Carlow and Moleanos paving. The architect considered that the beige colour of this limestone, which comes from the Moleanos region near Fatima in Portugal, would provide a pleasing contrast to the Carlow stone. One only needs to look at the finished floor to appreciate how right he was. The altar is made of Wicklow granite, which was also supplied by Stone Developments Ltd.

Stone Developments Ltd. also played its Fig 9.St Mel’s restored part in developing the Peace Tower at Messines, Belgium, which was dedicated on 11th November 1998 by King Albert II of Belgium, Queen Elizabeth II of Britain and President Mary McAleese. The inspiration for this came from two men of vastly different backgrounds and outlook. Glen Barr was a Unionist politician from Derry, with a history of involvement in the Vanguard Progressive Unionist Party and the Ulster Defence Association. Paddy Hatrte was a former Fine Gael T.D. from Donegal. Together they worked to promote the idea of building the tower as an acknowledgement of the Irish of both traditions who fought in the Great War, and as a symbol of reconciliation between those traditions.

The tower is built of mass concrete clad in stone which came from a demolished workhouse in Mullingar. The stone was shipped over in large bags and used by Irish masons to build the eight to ten inch cladding exterior of the tower. Old Leighlin supplied the limestone paving, the two doorways and the windows. The project also features five pillars of Wick- low granite to commemorate the five Irish regiments that fought in the battle for Messines Ridge in June 1917.

The Leighlinbridge Great War Memorial followed on from the Messines Tower. It was felt that local men who fell in the Great War should have their own monument here at home. It is entirely fitting that local limestone should be utilised to commemorate them in their own place. Fig 10. The Messines Peace Tower Carlow Blue Limestone also features in

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some transatlantic sites. The paving in Battery Park, New York came from Old Leighlin Quarry, and in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island there is an interesting monument to the Irish victims of the Great Famine who ended up there. This monument features a paving circle made of 32 stone slabs, one from each county in Ireland and made of the typical stone of the county. The Carlow stone is of course Carlow Blue Limestone, but Stone Developments Ltd. was also responsible for sourcing the other 31 paving slabs as well. The overall effect is quite striking, and makes an unusual and fitting memorial to those of our forebears who in tragic times were forced to flee their country to seek a better life across the ocean.

1. Shay Kinsella, The Limeburners, Clogrennane Limeworks, 2016

Fig 11. Great War Memorial, Leighlinbridge

Fig 12. Monument to Irish Famine victims, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada Carloviana 2017 Portrait of a young Irelander_Layout 1 21/10/2016 17:24 Page 1

A Portrait of a Young Irelander

Thomas Davis

(1814 - 1845)

Mary Stratton Ryan

Introduction.

One of the greatest delights of engaging in research on Irish Art is the discovery of an unexpected treasure, this is one such case, the reappearance of a histori- cally significant portrait of Young Ireland Leader Thomas Davis [1814-1845] in a private County Carlow collection.

Davis’s influence on the Spirit of the Nation during the 19th century was immense but he has never been accorded iconic status in Irish History. 1

Thomas Davis bi-centenary.

The bi-centenary of the birth of Thomas Davis on 14 October 1814 was celebrated by the people of Mallow, Co. Cork with the unveiling of a bronze statue by President Michael D. Higgins on 28 November 2014. This bronze statue is a copy of John Hogan’s (1800- 1858) marble sculpture in the Rotunda of the City Hall, Dublin. Mallow Develop- ment Partnership published the Thomas Davis Bi-Centenary Journal (1814- 2014). A wreath laying ceremony took place on 9 October at Edward Delaney’s statue of Thomas Davis on College Green, Dublin. Illus. 1 An Post issued a beautifully designed Portrait of Thomas Davis [1814-1845] stamp, on the 9 October. Its inspiration Painted by Richard Lyster [?1824-1863] in Cork 1843 came from a photogravure, first Oil on canvas, [21.5in x28.5in.] Private Carlow Coll published in Gavan Duffy’s book on Davis, Memoirs of an Irish Patriot 1885. Copyright

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15 Portrait of a Young Irelander (1814-1845)

At the time of the stamp’s publication the guishing clear -cut features, his head is original artist of this portrait was crowned with a mass of dark hair parted untraced. on the right, and he is sporting fashion- able sideburns. He wears a high collared In an article entitled “Denny Lane and white linen shirt, a dark velvet jacket, a Thomas Davis” written by professor green silk waistcoat and a matching Denis Gwynn, D.Litt. University College green silk bow tie. The portrait is a three Cork published in Studies: An Irish quarter view and is sensitively painted by Quarterly Review 1949(no 38, p15-28.) a young artist who is just embarking on Gwynn draws attention to the fact that; his career. Davis’s mouth and eyes depict It was Denny Lane in Cork who received a thoughtful, determined man at the from Daniel Owen Maddyn the large col- height of his power. lection of his intimate letters from Davis; and Lane also possessed one of the few Denny Lane commissioned the portrait in contemporary portraits of Davis, which 1843, when Davis stayed with him at his has since been generously lent by Lane’s home in Cork. It is attributed by the Lane daughter, Mrs. McDonnell, to the public family to Cork born artist Richard Lyster Museum in Cork. 2 (1824 ?-1863) a painter of portraits, Illus. 2 Copyright religious, literary and genre subjects as Denny Lane’s commission for a well as being a talented musician and Portrait of Denny Lane [1818-1895] Life-size pencil drawing by Henry Jones portrait of Davis 1843. singer. Lyster studied in Rome for five years where he made copies after Titian Thaddeus [1860-1929] Denny Lane was born in Cork on 4 amongst his study of other artists. He December 1818, the only child of would later receive several commissions Signed and dated 1877 in bottom left Maurice Lane and Ellen Madden. He was in Cork for religious paintings. Lyster corner. Private Carlow Collection. educated at Hamblin and Porter’s School contracted malaria, and on his return to in Cork, and later entered Trinity College Ireland he was exposed to famine fever; Dublin in 1836. He was a popular mem- however he continued painting. He Thomas Osborne Davis. [1814-1845] ber of the Young Ireland Leaders and a painted a canvas entitled Sheep Stealing colleague of Thomas Davis. Lane and relating to the Great Famine exhibited at Thomas Osborne Davis was a revolution- Davis had a solid friendship and Lane’s Fletcher’s Gallery in Cork [1847], further ary Irish writer and the chief organizer of high spirits and good humor acted as a genre scenes including The Fisherman’s Young Ireland. He was born in County foil to his more serious-minded friend. Return 1860, A Kerry Girl and A Stitch Cork on October 14, 1814 a month after While Daniel O’Connell’s Monster in Time, Street Scene in Cork exh. [RHA the death of his father Dr. James Davis, a Meetings were in full swing during the 1862.] Some of his pictures were inspired physician. In 1818 when Thomas was summer of 1843 an extensive Tour of by history and by literary subjects, for four the family which included his Munster and of Connaught was under- example his painting The Baron of mother Mary Atkins, her three sons John, taken by Davis. Denny Lane was his Grogswig [CAG] a character from Dick- James, Thomas as well as three daughters principal guide and host; records of his ens’s Nicholas Nickleby, painted follow- Mary, Charlotte [the only sister to survive journey survive in various personal ing Charles Dickens’s visit to Cork. He to adulthood] and Anna Maria settled in letters which Gavan Duffy quotes in his exhibited widely and according to the Dublin, first at Warrington Place until Life of Davis [pp169-174] Prior to his Cork Examiner 3 August 1863 he was 1830 and later at Lower Baggot Street visit to Cork Davis’s friend Daniel Owen ‘Gifted with every quality that could no. 61, [now no 67]. His early education Maddyn had written to warn Davis that claim our admiration and love’. Lyster was at the mixed school of Mr Mungan Cork was a very dressy place and that if died at his home at Cove Street, Cork on on Lower Mount Street. Davis entered he wanted to make a good impression 31 July 1863, and is buried in St. Trinity College, Dublin in1831, taking that he should dress more carefully as Joseph’s [Botanic] Cemetery, Cork.3 his B.A in1836. In1837 he published a Davis was inclined to be somewhat pamphlet on reform of the House of bohemian in style! Denny Lane (1818-1895) sponsored Lords. In 1838 he was called to the bar. several young artists as well as Lyster; he He became President of the Trinity To this Davis replied, characteristically ‘ sponsored artists Samuel Skillen, College Historical Society in 1840. I’ll do as I like and dress as I like and let William Fisher and Albert Hartland. it like me or not as it likes, and be Foremost amongst them was Henry It was while studying at Trinity that he dammed to it. I fear no one, and I hope I Jones Thaddeus [1860-1929] who first met John Blake Dillon born 5 May shall court no one for vanity, applause or executed a splendid drawing of Denny 1814 in Ballaghaderreen on the Mayo - anything but a great end.’ [Gwynn 1949] Lane. [Illus. 2][ B. Rooney p 468-470 Roscommon boarder. They both joined This fine portrait of the twenty -nine year vol. 11 Painting RIA. 2014] O’Connell’s Repeal Association on 19 old Thomas Davis [oil on canvas, 21.5in April 1841. A few months later they met x 28.5in] [ill. no 1] portrays a handsome Charles Gavan Duffy born 12 April 1816 well- dressed young man, with distin- in Monaghan. Carloviana 2017 Portrait of a young Irelander_Layout 1 21/10/2016 17:24 Page 3

16 Portrait of a Young Irelander (1814-1845)

While these three men were the most union and external independence……… Davis was prodigiously industrious; his prominent Young Irelanders they were (Duffy, 1890. P154) activities ranged over almost every field. assisted from the start by a network of He was busy writing poetry or newspaper talented individuals who were mostly In order to promote their objective of an editorials, discovering artists and mus- barristers, law students and artists. inclusive nation the Young Irelanders icians, organizing Repeal reading-rooms, pursued a number of strategies. A consis- learning to read and speak Irish, studying Young Ireland was not a movement or tent theme throughout all their projects local antiquities everywhere, working at political party, as such; it was a group of whether cultural or historical was the maps and heraldry and statistics, finding talented individuals who shared a com- importance of education. authors to write books on many subjects, mon vision of Irish nationality. The name preparing to write many volumes of Young Ireland was given to them as a Educate so that you may be free. historical research himself, and all the term of abuse but according to Duffy time he had been steeped in political they eventually came to embrace it. 4 The motto their newspaper adopted was; activities, watching every event or possible contingency and instigating new movements or associations with an insatiable restlessness of spirit.6

A letter written by Davis to Denny Lane on 6 July 1843 from his address at 61 Baggot Street gives credence to his dedication. It also gives the reader an insight into what a lonely position he held at times. [ill.no. 3]7

Illus.3 Copyright Letter from Thomas Davis to Lane dated 6 July 1843, 61 Baggot St. (Lane Family Archives)

The Nation Newspaper To create and foster public opinion in [15 October 1842] Ireland, and to make it racy of the soil.

In 1842 Charles Gavan Duffy, John Through the Nation they published Blake Dillon, and Davis founded a news- ballads and political verses, the majority Illus. 4 Copyright paper called the Nation, which was first written by Davis under the pseudonym of published on 15 October. [ill.no 4 ] the Celt. His most famous and best-loved Rare early photograph of John Dillon, It was mainly Davis who wrote the ballad, A Nation Once Again was pub- Charles Gavan Duffy, William Smith prospectus for the Nation; lished on 13 July 1844. (Duffy, 1890, 75, O’Brien and Thomas Davis, dated 15 Oc- 100.) Many of the themes for ballads tober, 1842 Nationality is their first great object- a were on important events from Irish His- Nationality which will not only raise our tory and helped stir the memory and fire people from their poverty, by securing to the imagination of the Irish people. From its foundation in October 1842 them the blessing of a Domestic Legis- until its suppression in July 1848 The lature, but inflame and purify them with The Young Irelanders sought to stimulate Nation newspaper was the most influen- a lofty and heroic love of country…. a na- the creation of a body of national litera- tial publication in Ireland. tionality which may embrace Protestant, ture and their works included The Spirit Catholic and Dissenter…. the Irishman of the Nation. They were involved in The Nation office, located on Trinity of a hundred generations and the creating a Library of Ireland, which Street, just off Dame Street, published stranger who is within our gates; not a would include works on Irish History, articles on art, reviews of exhibitions and Nationality which would prelude civil biography, and Irish literature. 5 the antiquarian studies of such men as war, but which would establish internal John O’Donovan, Eugene O’Curry and Carloviana 2017 Portrait of a young Irelander_Layout 1 21/10/2016 17:24 Page 4

17 Portrait of a Young Irelander (1814-1845)

George Petrie. Within months it had up the nationality of Ireland. (Davis, Dublin In the Nation he published a list of to 250,000 readers. It was common prac- 1846 p 168.) suggestions for historical subjects tice for the paper to be read out loud to in painting; 11 those who were themselves unable to buy Davis cherished many artists amongst his or to read the paper; it was also read by friends; Clare born artist Frederic When we speak of high art, we mean art multiple readers in the Reading Rooms William Burton (1816-1900) [ill.no.5] used to instruct and ennoble men; to of O’Connell’s Repeal organization. 8 brother of Rev Robert Nathaniel Burton teach them great deeds, whether histor- of Clonagoose, Borris, Co. Carlow was ical, religious, or romantic; to awaken Davis was particularly enthuastistic on the artist who remained closest to him. their piety, their pride, their justice, and the development of high art which would Although Burton did not share his polit- their valor; to paint the hero, the martyr, contribute to the creation of a national ical ideals he supported Davis in many of the rescuer, the lover, the patriot, the spirit, and instruct and ennoble men. The his endeavours. Davis tried to create and friend, the saint, and the Saviour. Nation fostered an interest in Irish foster a National Art; although Burton antiquities through its articles and This list of subjects Davis published encouraged people to watch over our his- numbered about eighty and are compiled toric places, they are in the care of the from sources ranging from the ballads of people, and they are ill cared for….. but Thomas Moore (1779-1852), Histoire de these ruins were rich possessions.9 l’Irelande (1758-63) by Abbe James McGeoghegan, The arrival of St Patrick, Thomas Davis our Irish Arts the Norman Invasion up to modern sub- and Heritage. jects for example The Clare Election, O’Connell’s Dublin Corporation Speech, Thomas Davis understood that a nation’s Father Matthew administering the Pledge cultural heritage is linked to its national and his last suggestion The Lifting of the identity and therefore the preservation of Irish Flags of a National Fleet and Army. Ireland’s monuments was crucial. In his He encouraged the painting of scenes essay entitled Our Neglected Monuments illustrating Irish social life, which he said he praises France for the conservation could be studied from the Poor Reports and preservation of her ancient monu- and ideas from popular writers for exam- ments and illustrates clearly that Ireland ple Banim, Carleton or Griffin or better must do likewise for her antiquities. still from observation.12

Davis recognized that sites like New- A number of artists who were inspired to grange were of major significance in paint from Davis’s list also painted preserving Irish history. He wrote of Illus. 5 Copyright portraits of Davis. Newgrange and vigorously canvassed to Self Portrait of artist Frederic William protect it; Burton [1816-1900] Amongst these are Galway artist Joseph Chalk drawing NLI. Patrick Haverty (1794-1864) who It is a thing to be proud of, as a proof of painted a portrait of Davis and other Ireland’s antiquity, to be guarded as an was not as optimistic he believed that Young Irelanders and included them in illustration of her early creed and arts, free, spiritual, high- aiming art, could not his large composition O’Connell’s What then, will be the reader’s surprise be forced, and that Ireland first needed a Monster meeting at Clifden of 20 and anger to hear that some people, national school of poetry and music.10 September 1843, which he also litho- having legal power or corrupt influence graphed himself.13 in Meath…..have got a presentment for a Davis persevered. He felt that Art was road to run through the Temple of essential to the national renown of Henry MacManus (1810-1878) from Grange. (Duffy, 1846;p46) Ireland, and that the surest step towards Monaghan was a friend of Gavan Duffy; achieving this was to collect and make he painted Dillon, Mac Nevin, Davis and Davis had a particular interest in the fine known the works of her best artists,living O’Connell. His fine portrait of Thomas arts and of the role they had to play in and dead. He also advocated the collec- Davis is one of the few contemporary raising national consciousness. Of the Art tion of a mass of great paintings, statues portraits painted and was owned by Union competition for works ‘Illustrating and buildings. This, he wrote, would Gavan Duffy. Irish History’ he wrote; ennoble a people in the same way as to create great poems or histories, or make To day it is part of the art collection in We entreat our artists as they love their great codes or win great battles. Davis Aras an Uachtarain, Phoenix Park. country, as they owe it a service as they argued for more Art Education and wrote [ill.no. 6] pity its woes an errors, as they are wroth on the casts taken from Canova’s molds, at its suffering, and as they hope to share badly housed at the time in the City Mac Manus painted a well-known and aid its advance, to use this opportu- of Cork. picture, in the National Gallery of Ireland nity of raising the taste and cultivating entitled Reading the Nation. 14 Carloviana 2017 Portrait of a young Irelander_Layout 1 21/10/2016 17:24 Page 5

18 Portrait of a Young Irelander (1814-1845)

further engravings of Davis by Cork born litho-grapher Samuel Watson 1818-1867. There are sculptures by Albert Power and Seamus Murphy among others.

Duffy commissioned Waterford born sculptor John Hogan 16 to create a statue of Davis in white carrara marble, which was completed in 1852. The figure is simple and natural in treatment and there is a wondrous grace in freedom of the drapery and the faultless correctness of attitude, all stamping the character of the patriot. Simple and unaffected as it all is, it bears an imperial dignity. This sculpture went through various vicissitudes of location. It was exhibited at the R.H.A exhibition of 1853, and also in the Dublin Society exhibition of the same year; however, at the close of the exhibition it was removed, by Sir William Wilde one of the members of the original commission- ing committee. It was placed near Davis’s grave in Mount Jerome Ceme- tery, Harolds Cross. Over time the white marble suffered from exposure to the elements and it was once again moved to a dark corner in the shelter of Mount Jerome Mortuary Chapel .It was not until 1934 that Dublin Corporation was given the statue and it was moved again to The Illus. 6 Municipal Gallery of Modern Art in Portrait of Thomas Davis [1814-1845] Parnell Square. In 1944 in preparation for by Henry MacManus [1810-1878] Aras an Uachtarain, the centenary of Davis’s death in 1945 Phoenix Park. Copyright the statue was finally placed in its present location the Rotunda of the City Hall Davis pursued the cause of establishing rial after Davis’s early death on 16 Sep- alongside Hogan’s statue of Daniel an Irish national art and had some tember 1845 a month before his thirty O’Connell. 17 success in contemporary influence, as first birthday. These sketches are held in may be gleaned from the exhibition the National Gallery of Ireland Prints and Thomas Davis, poet and patriot. catalogues of the period. In his three Drawings collection, Dublin. Davis died years of writing for the Nation Davis from cholera/scarlet fever at 67 Lower Thomas Davis, poet, patriot, philosopher, contributed over eighty ballads and songs Baggot Street, Dublin. writer and educator during his brief as well as essays and editorials. In lifetime left us a rich legacy. His inclu- January 1845 a more elaborate edition of There are two finished watercolour and sive nationalist philosophy had an the popular, The Spirit of the Nation, was chalk portraits of Davis by Burton, one immense influence then and on sub- published, Davis wrote forty-three poems commissioned by Duffy (untraced) and a sequent generations. He deserves our in it and Frederic Burton (1816-1900) second belonging to Annie Hutton highest accolades, for his extensive, designed the title page. In his essay on Davis’s fiancé. Burton’s portrait in the inspirational writings. An iconic figure in Irish Art, first published in the Nation, Hutton collection is possibly the one Irish history, he deserves to be. A man Davis wrote the following description of illustrated in Ireland’s Premier Coach- who used his pen as his weapon to put the its title page as; the most original and builder, John Hutton & Sons Summerhill, heart and soul back into Ireland. In the thoughtful that we have seen in this coun- Dublin 1779-1925. (Centre page P17-18) words of Denny Lane in his address to try…. simple in its means, great in its and is placed on the same page as a the National Literary society of Ireland design, and perfect in its execution. charming watercolour of Annie Hutton in Cork, 1893. [see ill.] and also a group painting of Annie with her two sisters painted by Burton. 15 Thomas Davis was the centre and the Burton made sketches and painted There is an untraced portrait by Alexan- inspirer. From him as from some great portraits of Davis. Two of these posthu- der O’Driscoll referred to in Elmes organ of life radiated all those currents mous sketches were executed as a memo- Dictionary of Engraved Portraits and that then coursed through the frame of Carloviana 2017 Portrait of a young Irelander_Layout 1 21/10/2016 17:24 Page 6

19 Portrait of a Young Irelander (1814-1845)

Ireland; and back to him again 7. Lane correspondence, Mc Donnell Family I just had to research it, especially since converged, from the remotest extremities archives. Private collection. it is in a Carlow private collection. of the land and from the furtherest 8. Ryder, Sean, Dr., Thomas Davis and the founding outposts of our race, those counter-cur- of the Nation Newspaper. National University of The bicentenary of his birth apart from rents which helped to revive our country Galway. Thomas Davis Bi- Centenary Commem- being celebrated in Mallow and Dublin orative Journal (1814-2014). Mallow Development into warmth and into life. Then indeed a Partnership. Ch 1. P.4-p9. passed unnoticed throughout the rest of soul came into Ireland. By the touch of 9. Sheehy, Jeanne, The Rediscovery of Ireland’s Ireland which as an admirer of his work his magic wand the sleepers were awak- Past. The Celtic Revival. (1830-1930). Young Ire- I think was a great shame. ened.18 land. Ch. 3 p29-39. Thames and Hudson.1980. 10. 11 Sheehy, Jeanne, ibid. Ch. 3 p 30. Note on the author. 12. Acknowledgement; ibid. Ch.3 p 31. 13. I am most grateful, to the great grand- Stratton, Ryan, Mary, Joseph Patrick Haverty Carlovian Mary Stratton Ryan, Irish daughter of Denny Lane, Anne Mc Don- (1794-1864). Art and Architecture of Ireland . Artist and Art Historian is an Independ- Painting 1600-1900. Vol 11. P 286-288. RIA, the nell Roche and her family, for her kind Paul Mellon Centre, Yale University Press. 2014. ent scholar. She is a graduate of the permission to use Lane family archives. 14. Sheehy, Jeanne, ibid. Ch.3. p35. Ill. no21. National College of Art and Design. She 15. Cook, Jim. M.Litt. Irelands Premier Coach- has published widely, on Irish Art in Endnotes; builder. John Hutton & Sons, Summerhill, Dublin France, Italy, Germany and the USA. She 1 Mulcahy, John, Artnews; Thomas Davis’ bi-cen- (1779-1925). Private publication. Ill. 17-18. is a contributor to the Dictionary of Irish 16. tenary stamp. Irish Arts Review Winter 2014. P 12. Turpin, John, Dr., John Hogan. Irish Neoclassi- Art and Architecture, RIA Painting 1600- 2 Gwynn, Denis, Professor, D.Litt. University Col- cal Sculptor in Rome. Irish Academic Press 1982. 1900. Vol 11 Paul Mellon Centre, Yale 17. Sheehan, Timothy. Hogan’s Statue of Davis & lege Cork. Denny Lane and Thomas Davis. Studies; University Press 2014. She is a regular Daniel O’Connell. Thomas Davis Bi- Centenary An Irish Quarterly Review 1949. No 38. P15-28. contributor to Carloviana. Articles by her 3. Campbell, Julian, Dr., Richard Lyster (1828- Commemorative Journal (1814-2014). Compiled & edited by Sarah O’Riordan, B.A, M.Sc., Mallow may be found in the Irish Arts Review, 1863), Art and Architecture of Ireland Painting Development Partnership. Ch.5. p200-202. History Ireland, Decies the Journal of the 1600-1900 Vol 11.p352-3. RIA, the Paul Mellon 18. Centre, and Yale University Press 2014. Gwynn, Dennis, Professor, D.Litt. University Waterford Archaeological & Historical 4. Gaynor, Tony, Dr., Daniel O’Connell and the College Cork. Denny Lane and Thomas Davis. Society, and the Tuam Journal of the Studies; An Irish Quarterly Review 1949. No 38, Young Irelanders. DCU. Thomas Davis Bi-Cente- p.15-28. Historical Society Galway JOTS. nary Commemorative Journal 1814-2014. Mallow Development Partnership. P20-31. 2014. 5. Gaynor, Tony, Dr., ibid. p. 22 I have always been an ardent admirer of 6. Gwynn Denis Professor, D.Litt. University Col- Thomas Davis Young Irelander, and lege Cork. Denny Lane and Thomas Davis. Studies; when by chance I encountered a portrait An Irish Quarterly Review 1949. No 38. P 15-28. of him thought lost for nearly 100 years,

Unuasual rock formation at Milltown Garryhill.

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The Ballybar Races 1769 - 1900

Frankie Cole

allybar Races were held between the years various artefacts have been carried out such as the declaration of run- 1769 and 1900. Ballybar is situated found in the “Racecourse Field” includ- ners and riders, weighing in and out of B3 miles south of Carlow town and ing a wallet and an embossed gold coin. riders, recording of results and Stewards’ approximately 1 mile from Tinryland. enquiries. The roof of the building was The Dublin to Waterford railway line The only remaining structure on the slanting forward and would have acted as passes within a few hundred yards of the Racecourse Field is the remains of the a viewing stand for raceday officials, racecourse which is situated on a farm Stand House – see attached photograph. stewards, race judge, race reporters and which was owned by the Cummins In its day this was a well finished build- so on. family at that time. The unusually wide ing with plastered internal walls where road margins at Ballybar were created to raceday administration would have been The very old photograph dates from May accommodate the carriages which were used to transport people to the race meetings. A similar feature can be seen at Bellewstown Racecourse in County Meath, a racecourse which has a long history similar to Ballybar.

The Racecourse is situated in a field known as “The Racecourse Field” and is still an impressive sight. The 46 acre field was a natural Amphitheatre with a large sand-bank running the whole length of the field giving the racing public a very good view of the proceedings. This sand- bank has now been removed but the general structure of the field is as it was 200 years ago and when standing in it, with a little imagination one can hear the horses’ hooves as they race to the finish The Races of Ballybar line and hear the roar of the crowd. Over

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21 Ballybar Races 1769 -1900

was Irish Champion Jockey from 1896 to 1898. Algy Anthony won the Aintree Grand National on “Ambush II” for owner Edward Prince of Wales in 1900. Other famous names associated with Ballybar Races are Frederick “Tich” Mason, Irish Champion Jockey in 1900 and six times English Champion Jockey – he won the Aintree Grand National in 1905 on “Kirkland”. He died in 1969 aged 90 and his ashes were scattered on Aintree Racecourse.

In 1896 Peter Purcell Gilpin’s horse Mer- cury won the Carlow Handicap Steeple- chase. Peter Gilpin went on to become a famous Newmarket trainer who trained the champion filly Pretty Polly who won 22 of her 24 races including the Triple Crown for fillies.

In 1900 at the October Meeting “Penny The Stand House Roll” owned and ridden by Mr. Henry Seymour Persse won the concluding 1897 and it was taken by a photographer Card which was printed by the Sentinel Ballybar Steeplechase. “Atty” Persse as by the name of G Lloyd, Carlow. It and County Printing Office which reads he was known was famous as the trainer shows a large crowd of Racegoers assem- as follows: of The Tetrarch, unbeaten in his 7 juve- bled on and just below the large bank – nile starts in 1913 and was hailed as the referred to above – overlooking the Race- “County Carlow races will take place on greatest 2 year old ever seen. He was course and the Race finish line. There is Tuesday 3rd October 1882 over the famous owned by the McCalmont family and is a sign on the roof of the long building in Ballybar Course. The Stewards are – buried in the grounds of Mount Juliet the centre of the photograph which reads James Nolan, Tinneclash; James Foley, Old near Thomastown in County Kilkenny. “BAR”. The following notice appeared Leighlin and Patrick Brennan, Wells. The in the Freeman’s Journal in August 1897 Honorary Treasurers are: Thomas Ward, Official results from Ballybar Races over relating to the upcoming 2nd race meet- Bagenalstown and George E Bourke the years show several runners and many ing at Ballybar for 1897 and reads Carlow. The Honorary Secretary is M L winners owned by various members of as follows: Kelly, Carlow. The Judge is Mr. R J Hunter; the Cummins Family of Ballybar – on “Tenders for catering for Stand Enclosure the handicapper, Clerk of the course and whose land the Racecourse was situated. and People’s Park are requested by the scales is Mr T G Watts Waters and the The feature race of the Ballybar Races Committee and will be received by me Starter is Mr J D White. The Notice also was The Carlow Gold Cup and was won up to 7pm on Monday 23rd August. states that Horses running at this meeting by the Cummins Family on many occa- will be carried free on the return journey by sions - the following extract is from The A substantial structure 90 feet long and The Great Southern and Western and the Carlow Sentinel of 20th July 1844: 16 feet wide with shelving, counters, Waterford and Central Ireland Railways. tables etc. has been provided by the The Racecard lists Runners and Riders for “The Gold cup value 100 guineas was Committee. These will be the only four races to be run that day featuring both given by the stewards of this course in Licenced Premises allowed and will be flat races and steeplechasing”. 1809 – (Sir Richard Butler, William situated so as to accommodate persons in Browne, N. A. Vigors and Philip Newton both enclosures. A measure of the importance of Ballybar Esqs.) to which value 80 guineas was Races in the Racing Calendar is the added by the present stewards. This cup Caterers will be required to supply the calibre of the Trainers, Riders and Horses was in the possession of Mr. Cummins’ public in the Stand Enclosure and who took part in Ballybar Races – in fact family for upwards of 30 years having People’s Park at rates which will be many people refer to Ballybar Races as won it we believe in 1810. At the July provided by me on application – the Cheltenham of Ireland at that time. meeting in 1844 the cup was placed in Race meetings were held twice yearly the Stand House for Public view and “is Signed William P Hade, Hon Sec Bally- usually in Spring and Autumn and often of beautiful workmanship”. Only two bar Race Committee, Carlow 14th lasted for a week. horses were entered for the race viz: Mr. August 1897.” J. Burler’s “ Ishmael” and Mr. J. Cum- For instance Algy Anthony – winner of mins’ “Friar“ – The result was 1st Mr. J. This is a reproduction of the official Race the Borris Steeplechase in October 1895 Cummins’ Friar and 2nd Mr. Butler’s Ish- Carloviana 2017 Ballybar Races Edited Col_Layout 1 18/10/2016 00:20 Page 3

22 Ballybar Races 1769 -1900

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23 Ballybar Races 1769 -1900

DAY 20th APRIL 1919. Stewards: W. H. Grogan, Master of Foxhounds, Lord Rathdonnell, Michael Governey, Henry Bruen, Capt W. F. Forbes, Resident Mag- istrate, R. F. Bagenal, Col H. Eustace Duckett, Col. R. Browne Clayton D. S. O.,Gen. B. Lewis.

Their efforts were unsuccessful unfortunately and Ballybar Races were not revived in 1919 and were never held again and the following notice appeared in The Carlow Sentinel of April 19, 1919 – The Committee of the Carlow Hunt Sportsmans Races has been forced to abandon the fixture for Easter Monday (20th April). The popularity of this sporting event has not lessened, but unfortunately the efforts of a section of the Community to force politics into the Ballybar Racecourse today Hunting Field have been sufficiently successful to compel the Stewards of the mael. The cup was then returned to the Carlow, was master of the Carlow and Hunt Club to cancel many fixtures, safe keeping of Mr. Cummins.” Island Hunt and is the father of George including amongst them such favourites Watson who emigrated to Australia and as Punchestown and Fairyhouse, patron- The Cummins family sold their farm at brought with him a pack of hounds from ised by sporting men all over the country, Ballybar in 1896 to Mr. Laurence O’Con- Ballydarton in County Carlow. He estab- while all over the country minor events nell from Baltinglass and bought a farm lished the Melbourne Hunt Club in 1853 have had to follow suit. All the prelimi- in Coolnakisha near Leighlinbridge. and it was this Melbourne Hunt Club that naries for the Carlow Races, which were Johnny Cummins is buried in Leighlin- went on to establish the Flemington looked forward to by the Easter holiday bridge Graveyard but the main burial Races who annually stage the world- makers, were completed when the place of the Cummins family is in Tinry- famous Melbourne Cup – the race that obstructionists intervened, making it a land graveyard where there is an impres- stops a nation. He was succeeded as condition that the Stewards sign a peti- sive burial plot surrounded by a granite Master of the Carlow and Island Hunt by tion in connection with the treatment of wall and railing near the Church. The his son Robert, who in turn was suc- political prisoners. This condition, need- inscription on the Gravestone reads ceeded by William E Grogan of Slaney less to say under the rules of the National as follows: Park in County Wicklow who was Mas- Hunt Club, could not be complied with, ter for many years. Next Master was and consequently they had no alternative Of your Charity pray for the souls of the John Stratton and he was succeeded by but that of abandoning the races – a following members of the Cummins Mrs Olive Hall. decision which will necessarily prove a Family of Ballybar and Clonmelsh who great disappointment to the community departed life here - Honoria, James, The last Race meeting at Ballybar was at large. Joanne, Thomas , Owen and Eliza who held in 1900. An attempt was made in died between 1868 and 1884. An old and 1919 to restage the Ballybar races after a So it was that Racing at Ballybar came to respected Carlow family. lapse of 19 years. Despite the fact that an end, having been staged from 1769 to fox-hunting and race meetings were 1900, surviving among other things The farm at Ballybar is now owned by abandoned all over Ireland, the organis- famine and wars. So instead of crowds, Laurence O’Connell’s grandson Frank ers having yielded to pressure from Sinn Racehorses, stalls and betting opportuni- Kelly his wife Angela and their Fein, the Carlow Hunt Club advertised a ties the field is now home to the quiet son David. Race Meeting for April 31, 1919. This wildlife that replaces the roar of the was to be the first of many encounters crowd and the galloping of racehorses. The Carlow and Island Hunt was the during the War of Independence between associated Hunt for the Ballybar Races the gentry of the County and Sinn Fein. throughout their existence from the 1760s to 1900; one of the most promi- The following notice appeared in The nent members of that Hunt must get men- Carlow Sentinel on 12th April 1919: tioned and that is John Watson of CARLOW HUNT AND SPORTSMANS Ballydarton House (near Fenagh). He is RACES TO BE RUN OVER A regarded as the founder of foxhunting in COURSE AT BALLYBAR ON MON-

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THE DEVOUT PRIEST & DEVOTED PATRIOT Fr. Albert Bibby OFM Cap. 1877-1925

Born Bagenalstown,Co.Carlow “I’m unchanged and unchangeable” Myles Kavanagh

The Bibby Clan/Family In the Kilkenny City Directory of 1788 A Thomas Bibby, born in Kilkenny 1799 we find the following record: - became a teacher at Kilkenny College, a The Bibby name comes from the ancient 1) Bibby, Henry, Broad Blanket Manu- renowned poet of his time and wrote a Anglo- Saxon tribes of Britain. It is facturer, Coal Market (now Parliament play titled “Silken Thomas”. He lived in derived from Bibbe, an ancient personal Street). Kilkenny at a prebendal residence con- name which is now a Yorkshire and 2) Bibby, Thomas, Distiller, Dean Street, nected with St. Canice’s Cathedral and Lancashire surname. A family named Irish Town. died there in 1863. He had a brother Bibby which possessed a freehold at 3) Bibby, Richard, Attorney-at-Law, and Samuel Hale Bibby who was a Surgeon Ribchester during the 14th century is Register, Coal Market (now Parliament at Green Street, Grosvenor Square, descended from Richard Bibby, who Street). London. A Mrs. Costello, another literary lived in the late 13th century and who Bibby ancestor (great–aunt of Fr. Bibby) was the son of a woman named Bibbi. Richard is recorded in the 1830s as Com- who lived in Kieran Street, produced an Ribchester is a historic Lancashire missioner of Affidavits, Kilkenny. Annual each year of high literary merit. Village located in the River Ribble Valley, close to Blackburn and Preston. Other properties also were held in the In Deeds relating to Kilkenny City on the city and areas of the county by the above 3rd of September 1834 is to be found the The first member/s of the Bibby family named members of the Bibby clan. following: Richard Bibby, of Kilkenny, arrived in Ireland in the 17th century. The gentleman sold to John Ryan the house, Bibby family that settled in Kilkenny A Richard Bibby married Sarah Evans. yard and garden and appurtenances for- were Protestants. A Bibby family in the The couple had amongst others a merly in the possession of Anastasia Whe- Penal times gave shelter to a Catholic daughter Marcia who was baptised on the lan situated at the rear of Vaughan’s Gate priest until it was safe for him to leave 18th of May 1803 in St. Mary’s in Coal Market (now Parliament Street). and according to the family folklore on Kilkenny. Henry Bibby, also an attorney- his departure the priest thanked the at-law, was declared to be a son of Woollen manufacturing thrived in the family and predicted that a last male Richard Bibby upon the occasion of his 18th century in Kilkenny. It was the city’s child in the family would become marriage in July 1848 to a daughter of main source of employment and it a priest. Patrick Bourke, gentleman in St. continued to thrive into the nineteenth Mary’s, Kilkenny. century. At the turn of the nineteenth A Nicholas Bibby lived at a house called century there were 50 working looms in Esker near Castlecomer and in his will the city providing employment for 800 made in 1676 he directed his body to be people (5% of the population at this time) buried in Mayne near Jenkinstown. and one of them was Bibby’s Mill trading near Green’s Bridge owned by a A John Bibby was Chief Magistrate of John Bibby. the Corporation of Irishtown, Kilkenny from 1691 till 1694 and on the Muster In Griffith’s Valuation for Kilkenny in the List (Military Personnel) of 1690, 91, 92 1850s the following records are to be and 93 as a Sergeant in Irishtown. A found:- Nicholas Bibby was also recorded on the 1) Thomas Bibby & Thomas Bradley, 8 same Muster List. A Wilmot Bibby Gardens, St. Canice’s Parish, Corn Mill married a William Hartford on the 28th Richard Bibby, attorney-at-law who and Kiln, Building Valuation £33. March 1722 and their son Bibby Hartford married Sarah Evans. This pastel por- (1727 – 1788) was Attorney-at-Law in trait by George Lawrence was presented 2) Warren Bibby, Green’s Bridge, 2 Kilkenny and Mayor of Kilkenny in in May 1963 by Miss Agnes Bibby to Friar’s Inch, St. John’s Parish, Woollen 1782. Kilkenny Archaeological Society. Factory & yard, Building Valuation £20.

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25 A devout priest anddevoted patriot

3) Henry Bibby, 29 Coal Market, St. Margaret and Charlotte. and Mary Phelan at Toor, Conahy, Co. Mary’s Parish, (now Parliament Street), Kilkenny in 1850. She was the fourteenth House, Offices, Yard & Garden, On Saturday the 23rd of November 1867 child of Thomas and Mary in a family of Valuation £15. John Bibby Woollen Manufacturer 14. Thomas was an Irish speaker and Green’s Bridge Mills informed the public Seanchaidhe. Thomas’s people came 4) Walter Bibby, 7 & 8 Green Street, St. by an advertisement in the Kilkenny from Castlecomer but were evicted and Canice’s Parish, House Offices, Yard & Journal and Literary Advertiser that he settled in Toorbeg. They carried the doors Garden, Valuation £9-5-0. had opened the house lately occupied by of the Castlecomer house with them to Mr. James Douglas, Parliament Street as Toor. Thomas died at the age of 98 in the 5) James Bibby, 1b Ballymartin & 5 a store where he will receive wool from year1898. Ballymagill, Listerlin Parish, House, & the public for the manufacture of Blan- House and Garden, Valuation £3. kets, Flannels, Friezes and Tweeds and John Bibby of Green’s Bridge married that he will sell the above description of Julia Coogan of Toor, Conahy, in St. In the Land Owners List of Ireland for goods, wholesale and retail, which he Canice’s Church, Kilkenny on the 20th 1876 in Kilkenny is to be found an Ellen will engage genuine, being made from of October 1873. John’s occupation was Bibby, 45 Richmond Road, Bayswater, the best Irish wool, all of which he will described as Woollen Merchant and London, with a holding of 60 acres sell at manufactured prices. He also Julia’s as kept a Provision Store at Vicars in Kilkenny. included the following advertisement: Street Kilkenny. The witnesses were Wanted, a steady man, for the woollen David Cody and Elizabeth Coogan. The In 1880 there was a revival of the trade, apply to J. B., the Mills. marriage was performed by the Very Rev. woollen industry in Kilkenny and by Dr. Edward McDonald Parish Priest of 1885 the following firms were trading Julia Coogan was born to Tom Coogan St. Canice’s. John and Julia settled in near Green’s Bridge: – Stephen Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow and opened a Archibald, Charles Comerford and drapery shop in house 13, Regent Street, John Bibby. a house rated as 1st class with 10 rooms, 6 front windows facing on to Regent In 1749 the Church of Ireland Bishop of Street and a back entrance from Barrow Ossory leased three mills to Thomas Lane leading to the back of the house Goddard of a prominent business family where there was a piggery and a store. in Kilkenny city. Following his death, his wife Sarah Goddard (nee Butler) leased one of three mills at Green’s Bridge in 1784 to Thomas Bibby of Irishtown, clothier and this lease was renewed after the death of Sarah, by the Taylor family who succeeded the Goddard family. The Bibby family continued to be very involved in the woollen business and had woollen mills at both sides of the river Nore near Green’s Bridge. Leases were John Bibby generally for a period of 31 years. John continued to work at Green’s Bridge Woollen Mills, Kilkenny during Thomas Bibby, son of John Bibby and a this time. On the 5th of September 1874 lady with the surname Leonard of Julia gave birth to their first child, Mar- Castledermot, Co. Kildare was born in garet Mary (Baptism Sponsors - Gerald Kilkenny and was the proprietor of the Doyle & Elizabeth Coogan) who died Woollen Mill, factory and yard at Green’s shortly afterwards. Their second daughter Bridge which he leased and it continued Frances was born the 23rd of January in his possession until his death. Thomas 1876 and their only son Thomas Francis Bibby first married a lady also with the the 24th of October 1877 (Baptism surname Leonard from Castledermot and Sponsors – Maurice Leyne & Elizabeth secondly married Bridget Costello of Coogan). Three more daughters Kilkenny by whom he had a large followed; Mary Catherine was born in offspring of sons and daughters. John 1880; Charlotte was born in 1883 and Bibby was born to Thomas Bibby and Agnes in 1885. All children were born in Bridget Costilloe, baptised a Roman Bagenalstown and baptised in St. Catholic by Fr. Bergin C.C. (Witnesses Andrew’s Church. Jas. Grant and Margaret Murphy) on the 17th of June 1832 in Kilkenny. John’s Julia Bibby nee Coogan Slaters Directory of 1894 records John siblings included Henry, James, Thomas, Bibby with a Woollen Drapery shop at Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 3

26 A devout priest anddevoted patriot

Regent Street Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow. occupied by Elizabeth Coogan, sister of High Street), in the Old Kilkenny Review The Bibby family lived for at least 22 Julia Bibby. of 2001 Kilkenny, ‘was an inner house of years in Bagenalstown and then moved Archer’s Mansion and Inn in 1582.’ The to Kilkenny in the late 1890s or in the In the 1911 Census the family had moved Archer townhouse, a complex of 21 year 1900. John Bibby died on the 15th to number 17 High Street Kilkenny with rooms and a four-bay townhouse, built of December 1900 in Kilkenny and is Julia Bibby recorded as head of the parallel to the street included numbers buried in the Church of Ireland Cemetery family and her occupation stated as 17, 18 and 19 High Street. The house at St. Canice’s Cathedral. The grave is proprietor of a shop and drapery ware- built by Martin Archer differs in that the situated in front of the present main side house, her daughters Kathleen, Charlotte main structure occupies numbers 18 and entrance to the Cathedral and the inscrip- and Agnes were assistants in the business 19 High Street whilst the middle house tion on it reads Erected by Mrs Bibby and Annie Morrissey of Kilkenny was an extends in a southerly direction to the Kilkenny in loving memory of her hus- apprentice. Frances her eldest living rear of number 17. The latter is currently band John Bibby, who died 15th of daughter was recorded in the 1911 an Enable Ireland charity clothes shop December 1900 aged 67 years. R.I.P. census of England and Wales, working as and was formerly Bibby’s drapery and John Bibby managed the milling a ward maid in a London hospital in the haberdashery. The 1911 Census shows business until his death in 1900 and parish of St. Andrew, Holborn, Above the Bibby family already established in The Bars With St. George The Martyr. no 17 and Michael Conway in his article Margaret Coogan was recorded in 24 states that it was sold in 1929 by Edwin Parliament Street the drapery shop occu- Angus Swanton of Skibbeereen, Co. pied by Frances Bibby in 1901, with Cork to Charlotte and Agnes Bibby as lodger John Shaughnessy a woollen per the property deeds and this may weaver. Elizabeth Coogan occupant of indicate that it was at first leased by the house 13 Regent Street, Bagenalstown in Bibby family. In 1959 the property was the Census of 1901 was still resident conveyed by Agnes Bibby to Patrick there in 1911. Margaret Coogan and Eliz- Bibby a shop manager and operated as abeth Coogan were sisters of Julia Bibby. John Bibby & Co. women’s clothiers and drapers. The partnership was dissolved in 1961 and Patrick Bibby conveyed the property to Agnes Bibby that year. In 1963 Agnes Bibby sold the property to Michael and Peig McDonnell and family, and a small flat was constructed on the ground floor in 1969. Agnes Bibby may have moved to Dublin after or around the time of the sale. Grave of John Bibby St. Canice’s (C.O.I.) Cemetery Kilkenny

Bibby’s woollen milling business ceased working in 1911

In the 1901 Census of Ireland we find the Bibby family living at number 16 James Street Kilkenny; Julia was now 50 years of age, widowed, and operating an extensive drapery shop and warehouse. Julia’s position was stated as draper, her daughter Kate as milliner, Charlotte and Agnes as scholars. Three assistants from Co. Tipperary were also employed in the shop, Mary Downey aged 29 years, Bridget Murphy aged 16 years and Thomas Lawlor aged 16 years. John and Julia’s daughter Frances had moved to live at 24 Parliament Street and managed another Bibby drapery shop there. She The present day 17 High Street premises had employed Johanna Costelow aged 17 is a music venue and reported to be the years from Kilkenny, as an assistant. The oldest surviving townhouse in Ireland. former Bibby drapery shop in Bagenal- According to Michael A. Conway in his Bibby Drapery 17 High Street Kilkenny stown, house 13 Regent Street, was now article on “The Hole in the Wall”, (17 20th century Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 4

27 A devout priest anddevoted patriot

Notes The first Capuchins arrived in Kilkenny cultural and patriotic interests. Fr. in 1643 and stayed in a rented house near Dominic volunteered for army chap- 1) Maurice Leyne, godfather to Fr. Albert was em- St. Canice’s Cathedral. In 1875 a Novi- laincy work in 1915 during World War ployed at the Bibby mills in Kilkenny and had a tiate was established at the Capuchin One and served mainly in Salonika family connection to Carlow and Daniel O Connell. He married Margaret Dowling on the 4th of June Friary, Friary Street, Kilkenny for the (today called Thessalonika) in Greece. 1883 and died in Kilkenny at the age of 37 years in first stage of formation of young He resigned his commission in 1917, 1893. Capuchin students and it was here that returned to Ireland and was appointed to the young Thomas Francis Bibby moved the Capuchin community at Holy Trinity, On the 4th of February 1894 the widow Margaret Leyne married Edward O’Shea, a monumental to and began his formation studies as a Father Mathew Quay, Cork. sculptor from Callan who moved his business from Callan at first to Maudlin Street and later to John Street, Kilkenny. William and Kathleen Leyne, chil- Portrait of Fr Albert dren of Margaret’s first marriage lived with them. with his prayer book

2) Elizabeth Coogan, godmother to Fr. Albert was his aunt, a sister of his mother. When the Bibby When a priest Fr. Albert attended family moved to Kilkenny in the late 1890s Eliza- Colaiste na Mumhan in Ballingeary Co. beth took over the drapery shop at house 13 Regent Street in Bagenalstown and is recorded there in the Cork and became a proficient Irish 1901 and 1911 census of Ireland. She died in 1919. speaker. Fellow students in the July- August 1906 session included Kathleen 3) * It appears that Patrick Bibby was the son of Sheehy, Thomas Mac Donagh, Tomás Frances Bibby of Parliament Street, Kilkenny and was born in London. He managed the Bibby drapery Mac Curtain, Brian O’Higgins and business in High Street, Kilkenny over a period of Pádraig Ó Siochfhradha (An Seabhac). time and referred to the Bibby sisters there as his Fr. Albert preached missions entirely in aunts. A photograph appeared in the Irish Press circa the native language in several of the Irish 1958 showing Agnes Bibby with her nephew Patrick looking at a photo of Fr. Albert hanging in the speaking districts. Fr. Albert served as Kilkenny home. In the Kilkenny People June 20th Provincial Secretary of the Capuchins 1959 he is referred to as the nephew of Fr. Albert at from 1913 to 1919 and it was while the unveiling of a life size Calvary in memory of Fr. working in that capacity that he and Fr. Albert and Fr. Dominic in the grounds of St. Anthony’s Retreat House, Raheny, Dublin. The Augustine Hayden were to the forefront memorial was donated by Mr. Eamonn Martin. in fostering interest in the Irish language Patrick took part in the St. Mary’s Choral Society through the Colmcille branch of Conradh Kilkenny Pantomime production of “Old Mother na Gaeilge. Hubbard” in the winter of 1958/59 at the Kilkenny Theatre and the following is an extract of a review of the Pantomime from the Kilkenny People of the 3rd of January 1959: “Of the minor male comedians, the versatile Pat Bibby takes the laurels, as a circus ring master, he adopts the speech and guise of an Italian and shows himself the master not only of spoken but also of mime comedy.” novice after leaving the Brothers’ school. He entered the Capuchin Novitiate at 4) Bridget Costello who married Thomas Bibby Rochestown, Co. Cork, on the 7th of July was a relative of Michael Costello who was prominently associated with the Grattan Volunteers. 1894 and took the religious name of Albert. He was solemnly professed on 5) *James Douglas in 1858 had a monster circu- the 8th of May 1900 and was ordained a lating library and stationery at 27 Parliament Street priest on the 23rd of February, 1902 at St. Kilkenny, according to an advertisement of that time. Mary of the Angels, Church Street, Dublin. He was among the first batch of Thomas Francis Bibby Capuchins to receive a BA degree from the Royal University of Ireland, Dublin Thomas Francis Bibby (Fr. Albert) was which was conferred on the 25th of born on the 24th of October 1877 to Julia October 1901. and John in Bagenalstown Co. Carlow. It appears that Thomas Francis Bibby was He later became a professor of Philoso- at first educated in Bagenalstown and phy and Theology and taught these Agnes Bibby, youngest of the family then attended the Christian Brothers’ subjects to Capuchin students for some School at James’s Street Kilkenny at the years after his ordination. One of his first He was engaged in temperance advocacy age of thirteen years where his name students was John Francis O’Connor a and conducted temperance missions and appears on the register for the years 1890 native of Cork who took the religious retreats throughout the country. During and 1891. name of Dominic as a Capuchin and World War One he offered varied assis- became his lifelong friend and colleague. tances to the dependants of men in They had similar passionate, spiritual, British military service. From his novi- Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 5

28 A devout priest anddevoted patriot

The Rising

A key moment in the I.R.B’s preparations for the Rising was the remains of the late Fenian leader Jeremiah O’Donovan Rossa lying in state at City Hall in Dublin from the 29th of July 1915 for three days. Peter Jones of Kilcarrig Street, Bagen- alstown was one of the members on guard of honour duty on those three days at City Hall.

On the 1st of August 1915 the funeral of Jeremiah O’Donovan Rossa took place from City Hall to Glasnevin Cemetery. A photographic print of Padraig Pearse at the funeral in Glasnevin Cemetery appears to show him, having finished his famous graveside oration, placing the manuscript in his pocket. Directly behind him stands Fr. Albert Bibby OFM Cap. and Fr. Aloysius Travers OFM Cap.. In less than 9 month these two Capuchin priests along with other Capuchin priests would be ministering to many during and in the aftermath of the 1916 Rising. The photographic event in Glasnevin ceme- Fr. Albert Bibby standing 1st from right at a Conradh na Gaeilge tery is probably taken from a 35 mm film gathering in Kilkenny circa 1905. which the Irish Volunteers had organised. Scenes from the funeral can be seen in tiate days he developed a keen interest happy and at peace in his life as a friar. the film “Mise Eire” by George Morrison and expertise in beekeeping, which he (1959). The print appeared in the 1942 pursued throughout his life. He was known for his marked piety and his saintly selflessness endeared him to all walks of life and his confessional was always busy.

He was briefly part of the Capuchin Community in Kilkenny in his early life as a priest. In an undated letter (circa 1905) which Fr. Albert wrote to Fr. Bonaventure Murphy, he referred to a visit he made to Freshford Co. Kilkenny where he presented school prizes for the Irish language and referred to an address to the Gaelic League in the County: …. “as this is the land of the hurlers I made my mind to appeal to them to take Irish up on the field. …. I made a strong appeal to the hurlers to do for the language what they had already done for our games.”

The saintly Capuchin spent many years in Church Street, Dublin where the poor, the lowly and the children became his friends and were greatly attached to him. Burial of O'Donovan Rossa at Glasnevin Cemetery 1st August 1915 He had a kind word for everyone, as he Padraig Pearse places his script into his pocket after oration walked the streets of the city, serenely - standing behind him Fr.Albert & Fr. Aloysius. Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 6

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edition of the “Capuchin Annual”. Kilmainham Jail, where her husband was NCO on duty the 3rd of May). to be shot the next morning. On entering The 1916 Rising came on Easter Monday his cell the first thing she asked him was On Wednesday night the 3rd of May the 24th of April. At around 12 noon why the rebels had surrendered. He 1916 a message arrived at the Capuchin Eamon Martin along with Paddy Daly led added that he had been outvoted by the Friary in Church Street to say that some a team of Fianna Éireann and a number of other leaders on the matter. He told her of the Fathers were wanted to attend Volunteers to capture the Magazine Fort he had dismissed the priest who had been executions of Plunkett, Daly, O’ Hanra- in the Phoenix Park, with the intention to attending him, as the priest wanted him han and Willie Pearse. In the early hours blow up the ammunition supplies which to express sorrow for his part in the of Thursday the 4th of May, Fr. Albert, would cause an explosion to be heard all rebellion before he would give him abso- Fr. Augustine, Fr. Columbus and Fr over Dublin, and which was to be the lution. I told him to clear out of my cell Sebastian attended at Kilmainham. On signal to commence the rebellion. How- quickly. I was not sorry for what I had arrival they were met by an excited ever, the explosion was not big enough to done, I gloried in it and the men who had Governor who told them that four men be heard across the city. Eamon Martin been with me. To say I was sorry would were to be shot at 3.25 a.m., and there then reported to Commandant Ned Daly be a lie, and I was not going to face my was only a short time left for the priests in the Church Street, North King Street God with a lie on my tongue. Kathleen to exercise their ministry. He asked that area and while there a British sniper shot was pregnant at the time but she did not one priest go to each man but their him in the chest which pierced his lung tell him. According to Kathleen he was protest from the night before had had its and severely wounded him. He was in an exalted state of mind when she left effect and he added: Of course this time carried to Richmond Hospital. him. Tom at 59 years of age had been you will remain for the executions and do tried by Field Generals Court Martial all that is necessary for them. As Fr. On that same noon day the friars in earlier that morning. Padraig Pearse had Columbus knew Edward Daly, he went Church Street were seated having their been court martialled at Richmond to his cell. Fr. Albert attended to Michael lunch when gunfire was heard outside. Barracks and sentenced to death. O’ Hanrahan, Fr. Augustine to Willie Fr. Albert rose up and went to investigate. Pearse and Fr. Sebastian to Joseph Mary On the street he found a mother with a Fr. Augustine Hayden OFM Cap., (born Plunkett all in the one room. Present at perambulator and the body of a child in Gowran Co. Kilkenny) in his the executions were the Governor, the who had been shot. Fr. Albert brought the published personal recollections stated doctor, and the four priests. body of the child to the nearby Richmond that on the night of the 2nd of May Hospital located on North Brunswick Thomas McDonagh had wished for his Several years later Joseph Plunkett’s Street. This turned out to be the body of ministrations. He heard the confessions mother Countess Josephine Mary Plun- James Francis Foster, the first of the and gave Holy Communion to both him kett recalled how she had first met Fr. nearly 30 children aged 16 years and and Padraig Pearse, leaving them in Albert: “Some friends were together in a under who died during the Rising. Fr. prayer between 2 and 3 a.m.. He was private hospital in the Appian Way Albert spent some time in the hospital ordered to leave the prison, and unable to waiting for the crisis of an illness of Mrs. and there he met the wounded Eamon attend the executions. He returned the Clarke to occur. Fr. Albert O.F.M. was Martin for the first time and they were to next morning to retrieve the rosary beads there in case the last absolution had to be remain close friends until Fr. Albert’s given to McDonagh the previous night given. The hour was late and the times death. Several positions in the immediate by his sister, the nun Sr. Francesca. not too safe to be out. Chatting to pass the vicinity of the friary in Church Street McDonagh had been found guilty at his time, Fr. Albert mentioned to me that he were occupied by the Irish Volunteers court martial and sentenced to death. He was with my son Joseph, just before he and considerable fighting took place sent messengers to inform his wife was executed. Of this I was not aware there. Fr. Albert attended to those who Muriel but they could not reach her. until then. He told me of how 4 priests were wounded or dying. The fighting from Church Street were sent in the early lasted for a week and the inevitable sur- May 3rd 1916, the British NCO Samuel hours of the morning of May 4th, 1916, render was ordered by Pearse on Satur- Henry Lomas following orders paraded and in 20 minutes the four had arrived in day after he had seen some innocent at the appointed time 3.00 a.m. with 48 Kilmainham Jail to find Joseph and 3 civilians being killed on the streets of men and 4 sergeants and marched to others (Edward Daly, Willie Pearse and Dublin. After the order was given to Kilmainham Jail. At 3.45 a.m. the first Michael O’ Hanrahan) were about to be surrender, Fr. Albert arranged an rebel Thomas MacDonagh was marched executed. One priest and prisoner were overnight truce to facilitate the removal in blindfolded and the firing party placed sent to a nearby cell. The prisoner had his of the injured in the Church Street area. 10 paces distant. Death was instanta- hat on and the priest wondered to see a neous. The second, Padraig Pearse man going to confess and wearing his The Court Martials followed and many whistled as he came out of the cell. The hat. A jailer put his head into the cell, and of the leaders were sentenced to death. same applied to him. Pearse had been then entering, undid the handcuffs behind On the morning of the 2nd of May 1916 visited by a Capuchin priest Fr. Aloysius. the man’s back and allowed him to Kathleen Clarke the wife of Thomas The third Tom Clarke an old man was not remove his hat. It was dark and there was Clarke was arrested at her home in Bally- so fortunate, requiring a bullet from the only one candle lighting. The other 3 bough and held for the day at Dublin officer to complete the execution. (This prisoners were together in adjoining Castle and that evening brought to extract is from the account of the British room; among them Joseph by whom Fr. Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 7

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Albert was attracted and said Fr. I want Michael told his sisters you to know that I am dying for the Glory that he had sent for Fr. of God and the honour of Ireland. Fr. Albert and Fr. Augustine Albert replied that’s all right my son. In and an officer told him a few minutes the firing squad carried out that his priests would be their orders. That was Joseph’s first and here presently. Michael last meeting with Fr. Albert here on earth. kissed his sisters several God grant they have met in heaven.” times and told them to give his love to his On the night before his execution Joseph mother and Maire and to Plunkett and Grace Gifford were married Harry when they found by Fr. Eugene McCarthy OFM. Grace out where he was located. Kilmainham Jail - entrance door from prison swings Plunkett sided with the Anti-Treaty They returned home to 16 open into first yard, which leads to entrance door into republicans during the Civil War. She Connaught Street in the Stonebreakers yard. was arrested in February 1923 and same lorry that brought following morning as more executions interred in Kilmainham Jail for them. Michael was executed on the 4th were to take place. At 1.30 a.m. a military three months. of May. Eily and Cis the next day called motor car came to Church Street for to the friary in Church Street and them, and on their arrival at Kilmainham On the 6th of May 1916 Fr. Albert requested Fr. Augustine to accompany they were brought to the wing of the jail received his official authorisation from them home and tell their mother of where the leaders were confined. Fr. H.V. Cowan, Assistant Adjutant General, Michael’s fate; which he did. Eily, Cis Augustine went to the cell of Éamon Headquarters, Irish Command, Parkgate, and Maire were members of Cumann Ceannt and Fr. Albert went to visit Com- Dublin and it was worded “The General na mBan. mandant Michael Mallin. He did not Officer Commander in Chief directs that remain long with him as he was on his every facility be given to his Reverend On Thursday the 20th of April (Holy knees with two friends. He then saw Con Father Albert OSFC to visit rebel prison- Thursday) Eileen (Eily) O’Hanrahan Colbert and spent some time in prayer ers at any of the places of detention or carried a despatch from Padraig Pearse to with this young Volunteer Leader and the internment, to hear confessions and Enniscorthy for Seamus Doyle and on third teacher of the staff of Pearse’s all administer the rites of his church, at Monday the 24th of April (Easter Mon- Irish school, St. Enda’s, to be executed. all times.” day) Eily carried other despatches from Fr. Albert then went on to see Sean Irish General Headquarters to Enniscor- Heuston, one of the youngest of the lead- Michael O’ Hanrahan (1877-1916) was thy, and Wexford town. After arriving in ers to face death who had held the Men- the Quarter Master General of the Irish Enniscorthy she found out that Seamas dicity Institution on the River Liffey and Volunteers. He was born in New Ross, Doyle had gone to Kilkenny and so she who had been court martialled at Rich- Co. Wexford, the son of Richard O’ Han- gave the despatch to Seamas Rafter and mond Barracks. Heuston’s mother, sister, rahan and Mary Williams. Richard and then set out for Wexford town searching brother, aunt and first cousin had already Mary first lived in Wexford town and for a man named Sinnott but she failed to visited him. Fr. Albert wrote the follow- then moved to 2 Marsh Lane off The locate him and spent the night in ing account of his visit: “When I saw Quays, New Ross. Richard, a cork cutter Wexford. She boarded the train for him, he was kneeling beside a small table was said to have taken part in the 1867 Dublin the next morning with the inten- with the rosary beads in his hand, and on Fenian rising. There were 6 sons in the tion to get off at Enniscorthy and leave the table were a little piece of candle and family (3 of whom died very young) and the message there for Wexford but as the some letters which he had just written to 3 daughters. The family moved their cork police were at Enniscorthy station she some relatives and friends. He wore his cutting business from New Ross to continued on her journey to Dublin. On coat as the morning was extremely cold. Carlow town and lived on Tullow Street. her arrival on Tuesday the 26th of April He showed me his last letter to his sister- Michael was educated at the Carlow in Dublin Eily carried despatches a Dominican nun. In it he wrote Let there Christian Brothers’ School and Carlow between Jacob’s and the General Post be no talk of foolish enterprise. I have no Academy. He joined the Gaelic League Office before returning home to be ready vain regrets. If you really love me teach in 1898 and founded a branch in Carlow. to distribute arms. She was on duty in the children the history of their own He was also attached to the Workman’s Jacob’s factory during the Rising. land. During his last quarter of an hour Club and the GAA in Carlow. Richard his on this earth I spoke to him in complete father died in 1903 and afterwards the John MacBride who had served with darkness as the little piece of candle had family moved to Dublin. The 3 girls Thomas MacDonagh at Jacob’s biscuit burned out. Sean Heuston’s one thought Eileen (Eily), Anna (Cis) and Maire were factory, was attended by a Capuchin on was to prepare with all fervour and born in Carlow and Michael’s two the 5th of May in Kilmainham and earnestness to meet his Divine Saviour. surviving brothers Edward and Henry executed on that same day. He had been to Confession and had were born in Co. Wexford. Eily and Cis received Holy Communion early that visited Michael in Kilmainham Gaol On Sunday night May the 7th, Fr. Albert morning, and was not afraid to die. He shortly before his execution but had left and Fr. Augustine were notified that they awaited the end with that calmness and Maire at home with their mother Mary. would be required at Kilmainham Jail the Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 8

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fortitude which peace of mind brings to on his breast to indicate his heart, he told best friends of the workers. Fr. Aloysius noble souls. He spoke of soon meeting them “his heart was far away at the then heard Connolly’s confession and again Padraig Mac Phiarais and the other moment” This version is quite inaccur- gave him Holy Communion. He then left leaders who had already gone before ate, and fanciful, and I owe it to his mem- Connolly while he was having a light him. We said together short Acts of Faith, ory to give the true one: meal. After the meal Connolly was Hope and Love; we prayed together to St. brought down and laid on a stretcher in Patrick, St. Brigid, St. Colmcille, and all There was no joking, nor even the sem- an ambulance. Fr. Aloysius and Fr. the Saints of Ireland; we said many times blance of it. Poor Colbert was far too Sebastian drove with him to Kilmain- that very beautiful ejaculatory prayer: beautiful and reverent a character to joke ham. James Connolly was strapped to a Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I give you my with anyone in such a solemn hour. I chair in the yard in Kilmainham. Fr. heart and my soul. At about 3.45 a.m. a know well where his heart was then. It Aloysius and Fr. Sebastian stood behind British soldier knocked at the door of the was very near to God, and to the friends the shooting party during the execution. cell and told us time was up. We both he loved. What really happened was this. Fr. Eugene McCarthy OFM who had walked together down to the end of the While my left arm linked the prisoner’s attended Sean McDermott’s execution large open space from which the corridor right and while I was whispering some- before they arrived had remained and leads to the jail yards. We saw Fr. Augus- thing in his ear a soldier approached to anointed Connolly immediately after the tine and Michael Mallin as we passed in fix a piece of paper on his breast, while shooting. McDermott had also served in the hallway. Here his hands were tied this was being done he looked down and the G.P.O. Fr. Albert was also present. behind his back, a cloth tied over his eyes then addressing the soldier in a cool and James Connolly was the last of the seven and a small piece of white paper about perfectly natural way, said “wouldn’t it leaders to be executed. Fr. Albert had four or five inches square, pinned to his be better to pin it up higher nearer the administered Last Rites to eight men coat over his heart. His last message to heart”? The soldier said something in before they were executed. me was ‘Remember me to the boys of the reply and then added, “Give me your Fianna. Remember me to Michael hand now”. The prisoner seemed A total of 14 men were executed in the Staines and to his brothers and to all the confused and extended his left hand. Stonebreakers Yard in Kilmainham Gaol boys at Blackhall Street’. We now pro- “Not that” said the soldier, “But the and their bodies were loaded onto the ceeded towards the yard where the right”. The right was accordingly body of a truck and taken to Arbour Hill execution was to take place; my left arm extended, and having grasped and Prison where in the un-consecrated was linked in his right. Sean bent his shaken it, the kindly human hearted ground they were placed unceremoni- head and kissed the Crucifix I had in my soldier proceeded to gently bind the pris- ously without rite or coffin, into a pit and hand. Having reached a second yard, a oner’s hands and afterwards blindfolded had quicklime poured over them. No soldier directed Sean and me to a corner him. Some minutes later my arm still priest escorted the executed bodies from of the yard. Here there was a box (seem- linked in his and accompanied by an- Kilmainham to Arbour Hill. ingly a soap box) and Sean was told to sit other priest, we entered the dark corridor on it. He was perfectly calm and said leading to a yard, and his lips moving Dr. Kathleen Lynn’s Diary with me for the last time, My Jesus prayer, the brave lad went forth to die. Mercy. I had scarcely moved away a few In 1916 Kathleen Lynn was Chief Med- yards when the volley went off. I rushed Dublin, June 1, 1916. ical Officer for the Irish Citizens Army over to anoint him. His whole face and was stationed at City Hall, from seemed transformed and lit up with a James Connolly was the Commander- which post she treated the wounded. On grandeur and brightness that I had never General of the Dublin forces, leading the Easter Monday evening she was arrested before noticed.” Eamonn Ceannt, Con group that occupied the General Post and imprisoned in Ship Street, Richmond Colbert, Michael Mallin and Sean Office. After the surrender, due to Barracks, Kilmainham and Mountjoy Heuston were executed on the 8th wounds received in the G.P.O. he was jail. During the first three weeks of her of May. carried under military escort to the Red imprisonment she kept a fascinating daily Cross Hospital at Dublin Castle. He was account of events and she writes of Fr. Fr. Albert disagreed with the content of court-martialled there propped up in his Bibby; “In Easter Week, the Irish Volun- an article which appeared in the Irish bed on the 9th of May. Fr. Aloysius who teers occupied several positions in the Independent re the execution of Con Col- was chaplain to the Irish Volunteers immediate vicinity of his community. He bert and the following is a copy of his let- received a message on Friday morning attended to those who were wounded or ter of June 1st 1916 to the Irish the 12th of May that James Connolly dying. After the order was given to Independent: wanted to see him in Dublin Castle. surrender, he arranged an overnight truce Sir, Under the general heading Items of Connolly had been away from the Sacra- to facilitate the removal of the injured. News and the special caption Last ments for some time. Fr. Aloysius and Fr. After the rising Fr. Bibby visited the pris- Moments Volunteer Leader Mr. Sebastian travelled to the Castle. Fr. oners to offer solace, confessions and C.Colbert in yesterday’s issue of your Aloysius visited Connolly. I want to see helped send messages to their families.” paper, it is stated that Mr. C. Colbert died you as a priest, Connolly said to Fr. joking the men who were preparing him Aloysius. I have seen and heard of the On Saturday 6th May 1916 she writes: for death. It is also stated that when one brave conduct of the priests and nuns “After a Chaplain, Mr. Pearson, came, of the soldiers was fixing the white cloth during the week and I believe they are the young, kindly, not understanding our Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 9

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position at all. We are to have Matins ter Barbara was born in March 1915. Augustine are to be found in the Thomas tomorrow at 12, followed by celebrations They lived at 29 Oakley Road, Ranelagh, McDonagh Family Papers at the National at my request. He says he knows Canon Dublin. Thomas worked also as an exam- Library of Ireland. Carleton, thinks it a pity that Protestants iner for the Intermediate Education should be mixed up in Revolution. Cross Board and while away at work in Carlow During the Rising Cathal Brugha was matron more civil since we spoke. Fr. on the 21st of June 1915, he wrote a letter severely wounded by a hand grenade, as Albert Bibby, Church Street, came later to his wife Muriel in which he stated “I well as by multiple gunshot wounds in and was nice and kindly.” have got going on my poem to Barbara the Dublin South Union (now St. James’s but have not finished it. I hope it will Hospital) and was initially not considered On Monday 8th May 1916 wrote “After come”, and later “I have not finished likely to survive. His comrades made a some (Rebels) appeared before 2nd tri- Barbara’s poem. It is still a fragment, but desperate effort and carried him out and bunal but Madeline (ffrench-Mullen) – I have got the rhythm, and that is the secreted him in the hospital area. After and I were reserved for the General, saw great thing with me”. “Barbara” was the surrender the British forces conduct- Father Albert Bibby. He was with Mallin, published in “The Poetic Works of ing a “mopping up” operation eventually Ceannt and Corbett this morning. They Thomas McDonagh” in 1916. Fr. Albert found him. He was rushed to the British were wonderful in their consciousness of was close friends to both of them. Muriel Army Hospital in Dublin Castle where he the unseen and went to death with succumbed repeatedly to depression. A hovered between life and death for some prayers on lips. He (Fr. Albert) could photograph taken circa 1916/7 shows Fr. time. It was during this time that he sent have wished to be in their place. We were Albert seated in the garden at 29 Oakley the following note on the 14th of June so sad after he left. We looked out on the Road, Ranelagh with the children 1916, to Fr. Albert Bibby; the note reads hills and thought of Psalms which have Donagh and Barbara at play. Muriel “ I should be obliged if you dropped in been such a comfort to us.” converted to Catholicism on the 18th of here any time tomorrow or Friday to hear April 1917 and was received into the my confession. As there has been a new Kathleen Lynn was born in Co. Mayo on church by Fr. Aloysius OFM; she had regulation made here with regard to the January 28th 1874 the daughter of Robert refused to do it at her marriage in 1912. admission of clergy it might be as well if Lynn, a Church of Ireland clergyman, After the executions in 1916 the Relief you brought this card with you”. Fr. and his wife Catherine Wynn. She was Committee had rented a large house in Albert obliged and visited him. Cathal one of the many close friends of Fr. Skerries, Co. Dublin where the children recovered over the next year but was left Albert Bibby. of their charge with their mothers could with a permanent limp. He was shot by together spend a few weeks holiday at the Free State forces during the Civil War After the Uprising this popular seaside resort; and there in on O’Connell Street, Dublin on the 7th July 1917 went Muriel McDonagh and of July 1922. After the executions Fr. Albert and the two year old daughter Barbara, after Capuchins continued to keep in contact being persuaded by her sister Grace who Another letter received by Fr. Albert with the families of those who were accompanied her. While there Muriel Bibby and Fr. Augustine Hayden came executed and also corresponded with sent a postcard to Fr. Albert at the from the brother of the executed Michael prominent republicans. Capuchin Friary, Church Street, Dublin, O’ Hanrahan, Henry O’ Hanrahan pris- asking him to visit her son Donagh in oner Q 150, Lewes Prison, East Sussex, Thomas McDonagh was born 1st Febru- hospital. On the evening of the 9th of thanking Fr. Albert and Fr. Augustine and ary 1878 in Cloughjordan, Co. Tipperary, July Muriel went collecting shells with the Capuchin Fathers for their services educated at Rockwell College, taught in Barbara and then went swimming out to during the Rising including the many St. Kieran’s College Kilkenny from 1901 Shenick a small island lying off the coast kindnesses shown to his dear mother to 1903 and while in Kilkenny was a but, though an expert swimmer and and sisters. tenant at 17,18 or 19 High Street along aware of the dangerous currents she with Francis Sheehy Skeffington who unfortunately failed to reach the island. Henry spent his early years in Carlow taught in St. Kieran’s in 1901; both Grace who was attending to Barbara along with his brothers and sisters. In became friends of the Bibby family and became aware of her disappearance and 1916 he fought under Thomas McDon- Fr. Albert. From 1903 to 1907 Thomas the search for Muriel began which lasted agh at Jacob’s factory. After the surrender taught at St. Colman’s College Fermoy. all night. The following morning her he was tried and sentenced to death but He became Assistant Head Master to dead body was found on the shore. Bar- the sentence was commuted to penal Padraig Pearse at St. Enda’s in 1908 and bara and Donagh were left without father servitude for life. After the execution of taught at UCD. On the 3rd of January and mother and a series of custody battles Michael, Eily and Cis O’ Hanrahan set 1912 he married Muriel Gifford; Padraig between the McDonaghs and the Gifford out to find their brother Henry (Harry) Pearse was meant to be witness but did families resulted. Eventually they were and found him in Mountjoy prison. They not turn up and a man cutting a hedge put into the care of their paternal uncle spoke to him through a grating for a few stood in for him. Muriel’s sister Grace Jack McDonagh. During this period Fr. minutes. He had already heard that married Joseph Plunkett in Kilmainham Albert had several communications with Michael was executed. On their way out Jail shortly before his execution. Muriel the McDonagh family in person and by a warder told them that the men were and Thomas’s first child Donagh was letter. Letters to Mary McDonagh (sister being sent away to England that evening. born in November 1912 and their daugh- of Thomas) from Fr. Albert and Fr. They went home and told their mother Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 10

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that Harry was being moved to England. Joseph O’Rahilly (1875-1916) who was her son and daughters, Mrs and Miss Eily with Cis and other sympathetic known as the O’Rahilly died from gun- Pierce and Mrs. and the Misses O’ Han- friends returned to Mountjoy Prison and shot wounds while escaping from the rahan. A large congregation attended the as they arrived two Black Marias full of G.P.O. in 1916. Requiem Mass in SS. Michael and John’s prisoners left. They ran beside the Marias church, Essex Quay, for those who fell in to the North Wall. The prisoners recog- The Irish Independent on the 13th of June the insurrection. These Requiem Masses nised them. A cordon of soldiers was 1917 reported a number of Requiem served as overtly political demonstrations drawn up around the prisoners as they Masses were held in Dublin for the of public support for republican goals. alighted. They got through the cordon. executed leaders of the 1916 Rising: They shouted to them. The soldiers After the celebration of a Requiem Mass On the 2nd of May 1916 and the 4th of pushed them back and said they could by the Rev. Dr. Brown, Maynooth, for May 1917 Brigid E. Whelan, not communicate with them. From a dis- Sean McDermott, in the Pro-Cathedral Staplestown Road, Carlow wrote letters tance they saw the men being embarked yesterday, a large crowd assembled to Fr. Albert regarding a subscription in a cattle boat where Henry told them outside the church, and cheers were afterwards they lay on the floor for the given for the leaders of the insurrection. journey to imprisonment in England. The colours of the Irish Republic were prominent, and the crowd joined in the Henry O’ Hanrahan was released during chorus “Who fears to speak of Easter the general amnesty and fought during Week”. The congregation in the church the Civil War in the Hammam Hotel, O’ included the mother and sister of the Connell Street, Dublin in 1922 where deceased and Mrs. Pearse, the Misses O’ Hanrahan and Mrs. Ceannt.

In the Capuchin Church, Church Street, yesterday, Requiem Mass was celebrated by the Rev. Augustine, O.S.F.C. for James Connolly, in the presence of a large congregation which included Mrs. Connolly,

Henry (Harry) O’Hanrahan

once more he met with Fr. Bibby. After the cease fire of 1923 Henry had a series of operations in the Mater Hospital, Dublin and died on the 20th of Septem- ber 1927 from the effects of prolonged hunger strikes that he took part in while imprisoned in England. He was buried in the family grave in Glasnevin.

On the 23rd of April 1917 Nannie O’Reilly wife of “The O’Rahilly”, wrote to Fr. Albert to express her regret that a Mass in honour of the Rebels of 1916 could not be held in the Church Street Friary, “as you did so much for the men who died”, she added “thank God we had the Mass at Mount Argus”. Michael Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 11

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Hospital on the 25th of September and Friary at Church Street and arrested Fr. within the hour he was dead. Fr. Albert Albert and Fr. Dominic. Fr. Albert was and Fr. Augustine attended to him during detained for some hours in Dublin Castle but afterwards was released. Fr. Dominic had minis- tered to Terence Mc- Swiney in Brixton Prison each day during his seventy four days of hunger strike. He was present at McSwiney’s death on the 25th of Octo- ber and returned to Cork for the funeral and walked directly behind the carriage. Thomas Ashe funeral with Fr. Albert O.F.M.Cap., Fr. Dominic then Fr. John Francis Sweetman (Benedictine) and Fr. Augustine after some time O.F.M. Cap. leading the clergy on the way to Glasnevin. returned to Dublin. Both Fr. Albert and from local people “to have a Mass said in his imprisonment. Ashe’s funeral from Fr. Dominic were tortured by the Black the Cathedral Carlow, for the repose of City Hall to Glasnevin Cemetery took and Tans while in custody, as was a com- the Irish Volunteers who died in connec- place on the 1st of October 1917 and was mon feature applied to many that were tion with the 1916 Rising which proposal the biggest seen in Dublin since that of arrested by the Black and Tans. A was refused by the Administrator.” (2nd O’Donovan Rossa in 1915. On a photo- revolver was placed to Fr. Dominic’s May 1916). She added in her second graphic print of Thomas’s Ashe’s grave head and a rope dangled around his neck. letter “Thank God that there are such in Glasnevin the following annotation by After being in custody for a month he men as you and your Beloved Brethren.” Fr. Albert reads “Taken on 1st October was charged with possession of seditious (4th May 1917). 1917 immediately after the flowers were documents (these were principally notes placed at the grave”. which he had made of phrases used by In July 1917 Eva Gore Booth of 33 Terence MacSwiney on his death-bed Fitzroy Square, London wrote to Fr. Anglo-Irish War 1919-1921 and letters he had written). He was tried Albert Bibby expressing her elation at the and sentenced to 5 years hard labour. On victory of Eamon de Valera in the East During the Anglo-Irish war Fr. Bibby the 31st of January Fr. Dominic was led Clare by-election and asking Fr. Albert to frequently visited imprisoned republi- handcuffed under military escort to the provide a newspaper account referring to cans. He assisted IRA members on the boat at Dunlaoghaire and from Holyhead her sister Constance Markievicz who was run to secure safe houses and carried to London. In the prison at Wormwood at the time imprisoned in Aylesbury messages between them and their Scrubs his clerical attire was taken from Prison, Buckinghamshire, England. Eva families. On at least one occasion he him; garbed in ordinary criminal convict was instrumental in the nationalist cam- conveyed messages between Michael clothes and again handcuffed he was paign to secure the reprieve of her sister Collins and intelligence operatives. In an taken to Parkhurst Convict Prison on the who had been sentenced to death for her ambush on a lorry full of British soldiers Isle of Wight. He served about a year of involvement in the 1916 Rising (her sen- on Church Street Dublin on the 20th of his sentence. Following the signing of the tence was later commuted to life impris- September 1920, three soldiers were Anglo-Irish Treaty in December 1921 onment). Constance was released later in killed, the first in the city since the there was a general amnesty and he was 1917 as part of the general amnesty. Rising. Kevin Barry, 18 years of age was released in January 1922. On the 22nd of arrested at the scene; he was charged and February 1922 he was granted the free- Thomas Ashe was arrested in August later sentenced to death. On the day prior dom of Cork “as a mark of respect for his 1917 on the charge of inciting disaffec- to the execution of Kevin Barry, the 31st valuable services rendered to the first two tion among the civil population. He was of October 1920, Fr. Albert led a large Republican Mayors of Cork”, Tomas sentenced to 2 years hard labour. When crowd of protesting UCD students in a MacCurtain and Terence McSwiney. the authorities refused the prisoners in public recitation of the rosary outside Mountjoy jail the request for political Mountjoy jail, and later visited Barry in treatment they went on hunger strike. his prison cell. Kevin Barry was hanged Civil War 1922 - 1923 Thomas Ashe was forcibly fed but the on the 1st of November 1920. tube passed in to his lungs instead of his With the onset of the Irish Civil War from stomach which caused asphyxiation. He On the night of the 16th of December the 28th of June 1922 to the 24th of May was removed immediately to the Mater 1920 the Black and Tans raided the 1923, the Capuchins in Church Street Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 12

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A Diary from the Four Courts ‘God bless you boys’. The tears were June 28th 1922 running down his cheeks. Men stood up slowly. Some were still on their knees.” The following has been received from Father Albert at the Four Courts - (This diary appeared in an Irish Republican Organ following the event) Fr. Albert interceded with Michael Collins and helped to negotiate the sur- 3.40 a.m. Ultimatum delivered. render on the 5th of July 1922. Both 4.20 a.m War opened. priests remained with the Anti-Treaty Ir- 5.15 a.m First Irish soldier wounded.5.15 regulars and assisted with the evacuation Daly sent message “When will you come out with your hands up?” of the Four Courts. Fr. Dominic was pho- Reply from O/C: “When you come for me.” tographed while he was being led away Daly “Any chance of negotiations?” from the Four Courts by Free-State Reply O/C: “When your men retire.” troops after its capture. Fr. Albert wrote 5.40 a.m. Second man wouned in his diary an account outlining events 7.40 a.m. Third man wounded. in the Four Courts during the first day of 8.40 a.m. Young Republican soldier said boldly: “We are still going strong.” the bombardment and it was published 8.40 a.m. We are being fired on from the Tower of St. Michan’s Protestant Church, later that day in a republican organ which St. Audon’s High Street and the Medical Mission Chancery Place. infuriated the Free State authorities and It is well to remember that from the same Medical Mission soldiers of was cited as an “abuse of sacred office” he Irish Republic were fired on in 1916. linking catholic piety with “the forces of One of the boys remarked: “We are fighting the same enemy. They have anarchy” in an official complaint on the only a different uniform.” 21st of July 1922 to Archbishop Edward 12.30 p.m. The fire was so heavy and so deafening that it was almost impossible for Byrne of Dublin about Bibby’s and O’- the priest who was hearing confessions to carry out his duties. Connor’s activities. The firing was carried on furiously for seven and a half hours. We have been heartened by the girls of Cumann na mBan and nurses and Fr. Albert and Fr. Dominic then pro- doctors who are here unselfishly giving their services to the wounded. ceeded from the Four Courts to minister After the ultimatum was delivered to the Irish Republican soldiers, the to Cathal Brugha and other IRA men oc- boys all knelt down and recited a decade of the Rosary in Irish placing cupying the Hamman Hotel on Sackville themselves and their cause under the protection of the Blessed Virgin Street, now O’Connell Street. Cathal Mary and all the patriot martyrs of the Irish Republic. Brugha gave orders to his men to walk out and surrender and he then later on the 5th of July 1922 with the shooting of were once more involved in ministering to dedicating our weapons as well as our loaded-pistol-in-each-hand sought to besieged Republicans. On the 28th of June lives. Then he made 1922 the Four Courts, only a couple of the Sign of the Cross hundred metres from the Friary, was over us. ‘Say an Act of attacked by the Free State forces and thus Contrition now’. began the Battle of Dublin and the start of the Irish Civil War. Fr. Albert was present The disjointed mur- in the building alongside Fr. Dominic as mur of voices: O my they provided spiritual comfort. God, I am heartily sorry for having Ernie O‘Malley described the moments in offended Thee; the the Four Courts as the bombardment began priest pronounced the again “Underneath the dome the garrison absolution. Ego te had gathered. A Franciscan, Fr. Albert, in absolvo. A pause his brown habit, the hood over his head, when he had finished. his feet sandaled, spoke to us. ‘I’m going to give you general absolution, boys’. His We’ll say now an Our worn, thoughtful face was troubled. He Father and three Hail Fr. Dominic being escorted from the Four Courts by the looks like the Saint Francis of my imagi- Marys for Ireland and Free State army. nation, I was thinking as I looked at him, the responses came his face modelled by his kindly, unselfish loudly in Irish and in spirit and his unfearing tenacity. Father English. Our faces were tense there, make his escape. He was shot in the legs Dominic, my fellow prisoner once of the kneeling in the light of the candles. The and died from blood loss two days later dark cell in Dublin Castle, stood close to electricity had been cut by the attackers. in the Mater Hospital. Eileen O’ Hanra- him. We all knelt down. Some of them We’ll place ourselves under the protec- han attended to Cathal Brugha during his gripped their rifles instead of joining tion of the Mother of God and under the stay in the Mater Hospital and was by his hands; others held their revolvers. We were mantle of Brigid. Father Albert said then. side to the very end.

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Illness and Fr. Bonaventure corridor and entered the cells. Fr. Albert the sad news of the execution of Erskine it was, and I remember my first meeting Childers, “Fr. Albert” he said “I have bad Fr. Bonaventure knew Fr. Albert all the with him; for this young friar in the garb news for you”. Fr. Albert replied “Nowa- way from his early days in Rochestown. of St. Francis brought with him peace and days we hear a lot of bad news.” Then Fr. “He drew all people to him,” said Fr. hope. Stately of carriage though spare and Bonaventure said, he bowed his head in Bonaventure, “and the first lecture I ever austere, his brown eyes were lit with an his hands and said “He was a saintly man heard on bees and bee-keeping, I heard enthusiasm that gave one the impression and a great friend of mine.” from that young student. He knew every- of the greatest moral courage.” thing about them, everything about Exile honey, hives, skeps and the habits of So in spite of any sadness that was to fol- God’s little creatures that make low Fr. Albert and Fr. Dominic stamped In response to complaints from the Gov- the honey.” themselves forever on the imagination of ernment and the suspension of Fr. people in that time. Dominic by the Bishop of Cork Daniel During his time in Church Street Fr. Cohalan, the decision was made by the Albert survived a serious bout of enteric The sadness came to Frs. Albert and Provincial of the Capuchin Order on the fever and was enfeebled by the years of Dominic as the Civil War tragically 26th of November 1922 to have Fr. mental and emotional strain he endured divided a country. Fr. Bonaventure Dominic transferred to the Province’s during the troubles. there were great recalled a journey made with Fr. Albert Mission in Bend, Oregon where his concerns for his health at times. Illness from Dublin to Cork in November 1923. maternal Uncle Fr. Luke Sheehan was and danger came to Fr. Albert in his early They went by sea, for the bridges were stationed. Fr. Albert was moved to years and he was moved to the Kilkenny blown up and the whole country was in Rochestown Co. Cork, where he was Friary where he lay ill with enteric fever chaos. They shared a double cabin and all denied exercise of diocesan faculties; he and its complications. Fr. Bonaventure night long, “Fr. Albert talked about the claimed to have been told by the Murphy, a native of Derry was then a woes that had come on Ireland, and talked Capuchin Provincial that no Bishop in member of the Kilkenny Community and with sadness in his voice, about the great- Ireland would grant him faculties. In a was with Fr. Albert, day after day as the ness of the Countess, of Thomas McDon- letter and statement, 12th of August friars, family and locals prayed for his agh and Liam Mellows. He was never 1923, to the Capuchin Minister General recovery. When he was able at moments blessed with a great appetite and to keep protesting against such “penalisation”, to talk he asked pardon for all the trouble his strength up I had to force the occa- including a recent decision to transfer he was causing, whispered how grateful sional egg-flip on him and in Cork there him to America, he attested to his he was for everything that was being done was one man in the world who wanted to “absolute impartiality” throughout the for him, and in the end the spirit was meet him and one man he wanted to meet: troubles commencing in 1916. ”My mis- stronger than the fever and the frail little Seán French, the Lord Mayor of the sion as a priest was not to any one section man walked forth again.Fr. Bonaventure City.” Fr. Bonaventure brought these two or party, it was to “embrace all in one went to Cork and Fr. Albert to Dublin. In destined friends together, and when Seán sentiment of charity.” (Original letter Dublin Fr. Albert became a legend there French’s son was born he was called after is kept in the Archives of Curia Generalis as many could testify who came into con- the names of Fr. Albert in the world and OFM Cap., Rome). tact with him. Lily O’ Brennan recalled a in religion, Thomas Albert French. Fr. summer evening in prison, behind bars Tom French was ordained a priest in All On the 11th of October 1923 Canon and cold stone walls. “On such an Hallows College, Dublin and served in Palmer Ilford, Essex, wrote to Fr. Peter evening a young friar came down the America. Fr. Bonaventure also brought Bowe, Provincial Minister, Church Street, Dublin, seeking to have Fr. Albert come over to cover for one of his clerical assistants who was unwell, until the end of February 1924 and that Fr. Albert should carry a letter from Fr. Peter Bowe granting permission to “absent yourself from the Province for the benefit of your health, and to go to Very Rev. Canon Palmer of Ilford …. to help in Parochial Work during the absence of the Senior Curate, until the end of February 1924.” Fr. Albert was assigned to the parish in Ilford.

While in Ilford he wrote the following letter to Áine Ceannt (wife of Éamon):

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A chara dhil, who is keen on joining the nuns.” Some On Monday last I was notified that it was days later he wrote again to Fr. Boni and decided that I “be transferred to Amer- informed him that he had received a letter ica”. This decision though it stunned me from the Provincial Minister which stated was not altogether unexpected. It might that he had managed for his travelling to have taken place anytime during the past Abbotstown, Pennsylvania and that he one and a half years. I shall and do feel was feeling sad on saying “goodbye here, it. I shall go through the ordeal as I have they feel it very much at home, but I must gone through many others during the face it and rely on God’s help to bring me past eight years. I wrote to Aggie the through this as He brought me through brave girl that she is, she will make the other unpleasant experiences in the past. sacrifice it will entail for her and for all I shall continue here until the first week at home. The thought of parting with my in June.” On the morning of his departure dear mother, now so feeble and almost on from Kilkenny, his family, relatives and the brink of the grave is hard to bear. But friends stood around him at the train sta- though I am very sensitive and fondly tion to say good-bye to him; one friend attached to all at home, to my dear and wrote at a later date; “We can still, in faithful friends and to the land of my love, spirit, see that brave soul standing at the yet I must le congnamh Dé agus Muire, carriage window - as the train steamed bear cheerfully this heavy load. When I out, he looks his last on the city, breath- think for instance, how Éamon d’fhear ing a prayer and a blessing on those he uasal dílis smiling spoke a few moments was leaving behind.” before his death, of meeting Pope Pius X for whom he played the Pipes in Rome. I Fr. Albert returned to Cork. On the 11th realise that I shall face the hard things of of June 1924, Fr. Bonaventure Murphy Fr. Albert at Rochestown College life as did brave and good men go that OFM on the headed note paper of the door as he departs for America morning to give up all for the cause so Franciscan College Rochestown, Co. dear to his soul. I have not yet heard Cork wrote to Kathleen O’Brien, asking friar’s autograph book a brief poem of when this decree is to be carried out. I if she could come to see Fr. Albert before farewell, to go with him. Sean French, had a few lines from Miss Mac today, in he leaves for the United States and Mayor of Cork and Fr. Bonaventure which she said “I hope something will expressed how glad they would be to see accompanied Fr. Albert to Cobh, on to happen to prevent it” (my going). Now I her. Kathleen was a republican activist the tender and to the liner Republic, on hope she does not contemplate doing who with Grace Plunkett was imprisoned the 20th June 1924. “It was a beautiful anything to prevent it. I should be alto- in Kilmainham in 1923. June evening” said Fr. Bonaventure, “the gether opposed to such a move. Our time sun was bright over the water and over will come, is coming. I cried last year to A few days before Fr. Albert’s departure the steep streets of Cobh and Sean French one in authority. “I have no regrets”, for the U.S.A. Liam Paul had an occasion introduced him to the Captain who made whatever I did, I did according to my to speak with him and his words , which him his special guest for the trip. We conscience. The day will come when I he then wrote down at that time, watched from the tender but he didn’t shall be vindicated.” These are my views remained with him for a life time and come to the rail of the liner.” The band at also today. Nothing must be done to take were published after Fr. Albert’s death in Cobh played “Come Back to Erin” and away from the dignity of our position. I an Irish newspaper: - the liner headed out to sea. think you will understand my attitude, so will Lilly O’Brennan and Mrs. Molly “I am being deported because I remem- On Friday the 27th of June 1924 Fr. Childers. I hope to see you on Sunday. bered my duty as a Priest of God was to Albert on board the United States Lines minister to men in danger of death. I am ship to America, the “Republic” wrote on Beannacht Dé leat. Do chara go buan. being deported after being deprived of my a postcard, bearing a picture of the S. S. Ailbe. priestly faculties, so far as possible, by all Republic, to Áine Ceannt and stated that the Irish Hierarchy because I refused to he was 2,262 miles from Cobh and that Fr. Albert returned to Ireland and spent become a political partisan. I am proud to the Captain said they would reach New some time at his home in Kilkenny. On be no less faithful to my country than I am York early Sunday afternoon. the 26th of May 1924 Fr. Albert wrote to to my sacred calling, though I have never Fr. Bonaventure from Kilkenny and once given public expression either from Fr. Albert arrived in New York and stayed informed him that he will leave from the altar, pulpit or platform, of anything of for some time at St. Benedict’s Rectory Cobh on the “Republic”, on the 20th of a political nature”. 320 West Street, New York City and from June and that he expects to arrive in Cork there on the 2nd of July he wrote to Fr. on the 3rd June; and also states “I was in Fr. Bonaventure tied the ropes round Fr. Boni “I got into New York Sunday after- Goresbridge Convent yesterday ….. a Albert’s trunks on the day of departure noon, was met by some family and other motor full, including Aggie. I met there and later wrote, “It was like lowering his friends ….. I am stopping at this hos- Mrs. McCurtain’s niece Angela Cook coffin into the grave”. 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through or stopping in New York. ….. I ………………….. speeding to Los Ange- In 1924 th Capuchins were invited to have met many friends and have appoint- les through a desert of scorched plains. I minister in Santa Inez. After settling legal ments to see others.” wasn’t well in Chicago, feeling better matters, with the Bishop and the Francis- today. The trouble, nerves and stomach cans of Santa Barbara the Capuchins While in New York he wrote numerous is very slow and tedious but I’m hoping officially accepted the mission. The letters to many friends and in particular to get back to normal when I am located Tidings, official Catholic paper for Los to Fr. Bonaventure and in one letter he in Santa Ines, Santa Barbara County, Angeles announced the news on Novem- stated that he had written a total of 35 let- California. Tonight will be my 3rd and ber 15 1924, and later described the ar- ters while there. last night as I expect to get to Los Ange- rival of the friars. “On November 20, Fr. les tomorrow afternoon. I shall be glad Joseph and Fr. Albert drove to Santa Inez On the 17th of August 1924 he wrote a Old Mission in Solvang from Watts. A letter to Fr. Boni with no address on it but large group of parishioners met them and from its contents, it appears to have been rang all the bells in the Mission Tower as written in Abbotstown, Pennsylvania as a token of their joy at the coming of the he referred to his arrival in Pennsylvania Friars. On November 23 the formal func- and stated that “he is trying to settle tion of installation took place. Fr. Joseph down – but my heart is ever pining to be preached on the history of the Mission back. However, I’ll stick to it until the and its people. It was a joyous day for all decree of banishment is revoked. Those concerned.” Fr. Albert in a letter to Fr. who sent me out here gave me the heav- Boni from Santa Ines on the 7th of iest blow it was possible to give me.” He Fr. Albert (1st from left) arrives at December 1924 stated “I came here on reported he had been sick with stomach Santa Ines, Solvang, California. the 20th of November.” illness and nerves and referred to being afraid of dying and being buried in Penn- to get there for these trains are very stuffy The first Capuchin Pastor of the Old sylvania. It appears he only spent a short and oppressively hot. Mission was Fr. Albert Bibby. In Matt time in Abbotstown, as he is back in New ……………. Beannacht Dé Kettmann’s article in the Santa Barbara York at St. Benedict’s on the 3rd of Fr. Albert, do chara – Ailby. Independent on the 11th of March 2010 September when he wrote to Fr. Boni and the mission’s pastor Fr. Gerald Barron to Kathleen O’ Brennan at 23 Kildare The Santa Inez (St. Agnes) Mission of OFM in 2010 stated that when Fr. Bibby Street, Dublin. In a letter to Fr. Bonaven- Solvang was one of the original Califor- arrived there “the place was falling ture on the 1st of October 1924 he nia Missions. It was founded in 1804 in down”. Fr. Gerald at 71 years of age was referred to his poor health and his Solvang a town mostly populated by one of the last two native Irish priests imminent departure for Santa Inez “one Danes, Northwest of Los Angeles and stationed at Santa Inez. Santa Inez of the old Franciscan missions in Los An- near Santa Barbara. This Mission was appealed very much to Fr. Albert because geles – somewhere – about 40 miles from founded by the Spanish Franciscans to since his Novitiate days when he had Santa Barbara. The Bishop Dr. Cantwell serve the American natives of the area, been given a prayer card of St. Agnes is giving it to our people, and I’m to the Chumash Indians. It was dedicated in (the English translation of Ines) he had run it …….. .” 1817, secularised in 1836, flourished, but developed a deep devotion to her, and abandoned in 1850. It was somewhat this cemented his great courage as a His last letter to Fr. Boni from New York restored in 1904. Then in 1922 the Irish priest to continue his good work, even was on the 14th of October. Sometime Provincial Chapter of Capuchins though he was a sickly man and far from after that he went to Chicago and stayed received a request from Bishop John his own country. One of his sisters was with the Carmelites, as he wrote in an- Joseph Cantwell of Los Angeles for the also named Agnes (Aggie). Fr. Albert other letter dated the 28th of October Friars to come to his Diocese. In 1923 Fr. took on his new role with gusto and 1924 to Kathleen “with Fr. Magennis’s Joseph Fenelon OFM was named Supe- immediately set about restoring both the men.” Fr. Peter Elias Magennis (1868- rior of the Irish Mission in America and parish and the structures of the Old 1937) was the first Irish Carmelite Prior that same year he took charge of the Mission. The work to install modern General and also a noted republican who parish of the Most spent considerable time in the USA and Holy Redeemer in became a citizen there in 1919. Fr. Albert Watts, Los Angeles. spent almost a week in Chicago. He then After arriving in Los set out for Los Angeles by train from Angeles Fr. Albert re- Chicago and the following is an extract ported to Fr. Joseph from the second letter to Kathleen Fenelon in Watts, Los O’Brennan:- Angeles. Watts was once a separate city Gallup, New Mexico. but was consolidated 28 – X - 1924 with Los Angeles in 1926. A Chara dhil, Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 16

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plumbing and electricity systems in the the restoration work.” He also referred to funds for the purchase of a steel casket Mission building began. Fr. Albert was Fr. Dominic’s presence which delighted for the body, its burial and future return assisted by Friars Reginald O’Hanlon him. He affirmed that it was his wish to to Ireland. One photographic print and Colmcille Cregan. They started to be buried in Ireland and to make repre- annotation of the mourners at the funeral landscape the mission’s garden into a pat- sentations to the Provincial Minister and in Santa Inez reads “Fr. Dillon, Fr. tern of the Celtic cross, but in December the relevant authorities in Ireland to Dominic, Mrs. Mellows, Mrs. Campbell, 1924, Fr. Albert’s health deteriorated and ensure this happens. Eamon Martin who came out with he was taken to St. Francis hospital, in 8/02/1925 Mrs. Mellows.” Santa Barbara. When his close friend Fr. Dominic heard how seriously ill he was, To My most loving Mother, Fr. Albert’s sister, Agnes, wrote several he travelled from Bend, Oregon to be letters to Fr. Bonaventure and the follow- with him during his last illness. Fr. I am gradually getting weaker, so this ing is an extract from a letter of the 20th Dominic wrote a letter to the then Presi- may be my last message to you, dearest of March 1925 where she relates how she dent of Sinn Fein, Éamon de Valera in mother. These are the happiest days of my met some friends of “poor Tomás” who 1925, how on his visit to his old friend life, as my soul is full of joy and trusting had just come from America:- and colleague, he found Fr. Albert on his to infinite goodness and mercy of our death-bed. He described his loneliness in most loving Saviour. I look forward with “On going to the graveyard, the mourners exile, but his conviction in his previous joy to heaven to be united there to our were surprised when passing a convent association with the struggle for Irish “Father who art in Heaven”. ( The to see nuns lined up on each side of the freedom was obvious when he stated prayer you taught my infant lips to say), road with their pupils Mexicans and “better to die in agony for freedom than to the Blessed Virgin, to the Saints of Indians. The big girls had huge Irish in luxurious slavery”. It was apparent that God, especially Saint Patrick and Saints Republican and American flags.” She his love of homeland was a love of of Ireland, to St. Francis and his follow- also noted that care was taken to ensure rare purity. ers, to all our relations and friends. Fr. Albert was buried in a “metal casket hermetically sealed .” When he was told that there was no hope I am experiencing kindness from every- of his recovery Fr. Albert received the one and from every side – The sisters in news of his fate in a brave religious spirit charge. Notes and wrote kindly, edifying messages to the Superiors and other friends in Here there is a gap of a few blank lines 1) Fr. Pascal Cantwell OFM Cap., born 1859 at his order. followed by weaker hand writing:- Castlecomer Co. Kilkenny, served in Santa Inez and died in Santa Inez in 1935, is also buried there.

Fr. Colmcille Cregan OFM Cap., a col- 10th very weak. Fr. Dominic has just 2) Fr. Joseph Fenelon OFM Cap. retired to the league of Fr. Albert in Santa Ines, wrote anointed me – 2nd time anointed. Capuchin Friary in Rochestown, Co. Cork, Ireland a letter to an unidentified person in which in the late 1940s, died on the 31st of March 1963 and is buried there. he referred to Fr. Albert’s worsening con- In a letter to Fr. Matthew O’Connor on dition in Santa Barbara Hospital and that the 12 February 1925 Fr. Albert wrote 3) John Joseph Cantwell was born in Limerick in Fr. Albert “has no desire to die, as he had “I’m so weak and in such a serious con- 1874, created Bishop of Los Angeles in 1917, a big wish to do something for St. Agnes dition that I know not if I shall be alive Archbishop in 1936 and died in 1947. (Santa Ines Mission), but God has tomorrow.” He declared that he has 4) The name Chumash means “beaded people” or ordained otherwise. Anyway he set the renewed his profession “surrounded by “seashell people” – they originated near the Santa Mission going and got many interested in the Franciscan Sisters here and Fr. Barbara coast. Dillon, a devoted Kerry 5) The first Europeans visited the Chumash in friend.” 1542.

Death came to him two 6) Today the Santa Inez Mission is a lovingly days later in Santa Bar- restored landmark, an architectural gem of the Spanish colonial era, a legacy of the Chumash bara, California on Feb- natives plus Franciscan friars and also happens to ruary 14, 1925. He was be an ode to Irish heritage, with a vibrant Catholic the first of the Irish community, that serves as a Museum and parish Capuchin Friars to die church of the Diocese of Los Angeles. in Western America and 7) Fr. Peter Elias Magennis spent two periods in also the first Capuchin his life at the Carmelite Priory at Knocktopher, Co. to be buried in the Kilkenny, first as a teacher of the pupils attending Missions Cemetery, just their school in Knocktopher and secondly as Novi- tiate Master when the Carmelite Novitiate was outside the Chapel in moved to Knocktopher. Santa Inez. Fr. Dominic and Fr. Albert’s Irish 8) John Hayden was born at Gowran Co. Kilkenny friends organised and in November 1870 to William Hayden and Mary Letter from Fr. Albert in Irish to Éamon & Sinéad de Valera raised considerable Morrisey . He took the religious name of Augustine Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 17

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Gathering for the burial of Fr Albert Bibby in Santa Ines

Fr. Albert at rest in Caskett at Santa Barbara, before journey to burial in Santa Ines.

Burial of Fr Albert at Santa Ines

Arrival of the remains of Fr Bibby at Santa Ines

Mourners at graveside from left to right - Éamon Martin (who came out with Mrs. Mellows), Mrs. Campbell, Mrs. McWaters, Mrs. Mellows, Fr. Dominic, and Fr. Dillon, 1925

Mourners at graveside of Fr. Albert, from left to right – Fr. Urban, Peter Murray, Fr. Stephen, Rev. Paul Dillon, Éamon Martin, Mrs. McWaters, Fr. Dominic, Mrs. Mellows, Peter Fr. Dominic stands, 1st left of Irish flag, at graveside of Fr.Albert, Murray Junior, Fr. Leo, Mr. (Unknown) in Santa Inez, along with his Capuchin Brothers and fellow priests.

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Brigade Old I.R.A Committee approved Cork Committee then approached the by the Capuchins and with strong links Bishop of Cork Cornelius Lucey and he to Fianna Fáil became the official com- consented to having both Fr. Dominic mittee after the New York groups stood and Fr. Albert placed in the Capuchin down at the request of the Cork Commit- cemetery in Rochestown, Cork. tee and a similar request from Agnes Bibby. The Cork Committee requested The Old I.R.A. veterans in the United Fianna Fáil T.D. Oscar Traynor to organ- States and Ireland along with the

Fr. Dominic O'Connor OFM Cap. as chaplain in WW1

on entering the Capuchin Order in November 1885.

9) The Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish (Abbot- stown, Pennsylvania) was staffed from the time the church was built in 1845 until 1891 by the Jesuit Priests. The parish was then turned over to the Dio- cese of Harrisburgh in 1911 when it became a Fran- ciscan Parish under the direction of the Irish Capuchin priests. In 1931 Harrisburg once again began assignments of Diocesan Priests to staff the parish.

Repatriation The first attempt at the repatriation of Fr. Repatriation - Remains of Fr. Albert & Fr. Dominic arrive at Shannon Airport Albert’s body to Ireland was made by his 13th June 1958 friend Fr. Dominic and Irish friends of Fr. Bibby and it was unsuccessful. In August 1935 Fr. Dominic had a stroke while on ise a Dublin Committee to assist in the Remains Repatriation Committee of the a journey in a car, which resulted in an repatriation of Fr. Albert Bibby. Cork No.1 Brigade Old I.R.A. raised the accident. He sustained serious injuries finances and organised the repatriation. and he died on the 17th of October 1935. Oscar Traynor brought the repatriation With the blessing of the ecclesiastical He was buried in Bend, Oregon, U.S.A. proposal to Éamonn de Valera, who took authorities, and the permission of the in a steel casket which was bought at the subject up with the President Seán T. Superiors of the Order of Capuchins, considerable expense in the same way as Ó Ceallaigh, who put the proposal to the their repatriation was organised. The two Fr. Albert’s by Irish friends. Taoiseach, John A. Costello, who con- bodies at first were conveyed to San sulted with his Inter-Party Government Francisco by train. An Irish Capuchin For years afterwards the people of Ire- and returned with the reply that the time friar from Los Angeles accompanied the land requested that the body of Fr. Albert, was not opportune for bringing home the remains home to Ireland. together with the remains of his faithful remains. In 1957 the Fianna Fáil party friend, Fr. Dominic be brought back to was returned to Government and the On June 13, 1958, a day of brilliant rest in Ireland. The first attempt by an Taoiseach Éamon de Valera confirmed sunshine, a plane bearing the remains of American organisation of Fianna Fáil support for the repatriation of Fr. Albert both Father Albert and Father Dominic supporters was made in 1938 but was and Fr. Dominic, provided the Capuchin landed at Shannon Airport. Thousands of opposed by the Capuchin Provincial Rome authorities approved. Rome people turned out at the airport to pay because he did not want it sponsored by approved. The Cork Committee their respects to the two patriot priests. a singular political party. The following requested the Dublin Committee to make Among those present were the President year a new committee in New York was preparation for the remains of Fr. Bibby Sean T. O’Ceallaigh, the then Taoiseach, rejected on the same grounds that no to be interred in Glasnevin. The Dublin Éamon de Valera, and Minister of Justice political party or pro Treaty supporters Committee advised that the Dublin Arch- Oscar Traynor, as well as other members should be involved. Eventually a more bishop John Charles McQuaid might of the Government, representatives of the determined offer by the Cork No.1 disapprove of the burial in Dublin. The clergy, the Capuchin Order, the Irish Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 19

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Holy Trinity Church congregation for High Mass on June 14th 1958 Cortege crossing St Patrick’s Bridge on way to Holy Trinity Church, Fr Matthew Quay, Cork

Remains received and prayers recited in President Seán T. Ó Ceallaigh at the graveside in Holy TrinityChurch Rochestown cemetery, June 14th.

An Taoiseach, Eamon de Valera arrives at Holy Trinity Church, June 14th. People at the graveside in Rochestown cemetery

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Army and the Old IRA Brigade units Irish soil in the Capuchin Cemetery, side careful of yourself, for after all the care from throughout the country. A guard of by side, adjacent to the grave of Fr. and anxiety of the past few months you honour was formed by Officers of the Augustine Hayden OFM Cap., and the must be exhausted, and you need a rest, in Mid-Clare Brigade of the Old I.R.A. sound of the last post rang out over the fact all of you should be careful as you are under Commandant Joseph Barrett, Kil- heads of the gathered people, the covered not very strong. I hope you will not allow rush. Through the city of Limerick, on to graves and the Friary at Rochestown on Agnes to study too hard, she has plenty of Buttevant and Mallow, and from there to the side of a steep, narrow glen. time to prepare for her examination and Cork City, the funeral moved through she has no need whatever to be anxious streets thronged with prayerful crowds At the time of the death of Fr. Albert the about it, for she is well able to pass and that followed out into the surrounding Catholic press proclaimed that “the that even brilliantly, she ought to profit country sides. Catholic Church has lost a gifted scholar more of Kathie’s cycle, an occasional ride and a saintly priest; Ireland a loyal and on it to Ballyragget or to Bagenalstown At the outskirts of Cork City, the Lord devoted patriot”. would do her immense good. Mayor of Cork and the Corporation Appendix 1 dressed in ceremonial robes, were joined Selected Letters I think one of the little memorial cards is by the Lord Mayor of Dublin and the sufficient for me, you will have ample Mayors of Kilkenny and Limerick 1) Copy of a letter from Fr. Albert Bibby calls for the remainder. When writing tell according the remains a civic reception. to his mother: me how Aunt Lizzie fared during the Five hundred Old IRA veterans accom- Christmas. I hope her kindness when it panied the coffins to the Capuchin Holy Franciscan Capuchin Friary was so much needed was well rewarded; Trinity Church on Fr. Mathew Quay, in St. Mary of the Angels please give her, my best regards, as also Cork City centre, where they were placed Church St., Dublin to Miss Downey and Maggie Butler. With before the High Altar, a rosary was said Sunday 23rd best wishes to you dear Mother and my and the church was packed for hours My Dearest Mother, dear sisters for a very happy Christmas afterwards. A headline in the Irish Press and joyful New Year. the next day stated “The War was long I am sure you will be glad to hear that we over but the people remembered”. received Sub Deaconship on Saturday I am dearest Mother morning. The ordination was performed Your own dear child On the next day the 14th of June a in the Pro-Cathedral by the Archbishop; Br. Albert, O.S.F.C. Requiem Mass was celebrated by Bishop it was a very solemn and beautiful cere- Cornelius Lucey, joined by a hundred mony that lasted nearly two hours. There P.S. I hope you will not forget to remem- priests and in the congregation sat the were some Augustinians and Vincentians ber me on Christmas morning, never will President of Ireland, Seán T. Ó Ceallaigh, ordained with us, but we were in the I allow a day to pass by without asking the Taoiseach Éamon de Valera, Seán majority. God to bless and guide you all. Lemass, Jack Lynch, and John A. Costello along with Political, Civic, and I hope you are all keeping strong and that 2) Copy of a letter to Fr. Albert Bibby, Religious dignitaries from around you are bearing up courageously, noth- 7th of October 1916 from Kathleen the country. ing could be more pleasing to our Divine Clarke, wife of Thomas Clarke and sister Lord or better preparation for a happy of Edward Daly:

Dear Fr. Albert,

Many thanks for your dear kind letter. It gives me great pleasure to know I am always remembered in your prayers. I am not a good hand at praying, but my thoughts are a prayer for you and more priests like you.

Laura and I were sorry to miss you that day more especially as Laura may not be in Dublin for a long time. I am going up on Monday and taking Tom to the Doctor. Fr. Albert’s grave at Santa Inez with the presence of Fr. Colmcille Cregan, Madge and Nora are going also but they OFM Cap., and grave at Rochestown cemetery are not going to stay in Dublin. They are After Mass the cortege made the short Christmas, and he who sent this trial will going to Glendalough for a rest. Madge journey to Rochestown. Fr. Hilary Mc- also be liberal in rewarding our generous will call to see you. She was glad she had Donagh, Vicar Provincial of the acceptance of it. not sent on the canary. She is not well but Capuchins officiated at the grave side. she hopes Glendalough will pull her up. The remains were gently lowered into the Dear Mother I hope you will be a little She is going to see the prisoners in Port- Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 21

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land and Reading before returning to Doogan of St. Ultan’s, Mrs. Pearse, Mrs. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny, on today Limerick. My mother is getting better but C. Brugha and all old friends of 1916. Friday at 11.o’clock a.m. Funeral she has become an old woman suddenly, Good Bye and God Bless you all. immediately afterwards to Conahy. up to now she looked as young as any of us and was full of energy. Now she is Sincerely and devotedly yours. Kilkenny People Saturday, July 14th tired all the time and life seems to trouble 1934 her. I will call to see you as soon as I An tAth. Ailbé Bibby, O.F.M. Cap. have Tom settled. Limerick does not Mrs Julia Bibby agree with me, I am tired all the time too, 4) Copy of a letter to the Editor of “The An Impressive display of regret and sym- as if it were only on a visit I was. I find it Monitor” (Kilkenny) pathy at the passing of an old and highly hard to realise that my home and every- St. Francis Hospital respected Kilkenny citizen was witnessed thing is gone, the only thing left is hope Santa Barbara, Cal. on the occasion of the obsequies of Mrs and if our hopes for Ireland’s future are 13-1-1925 Julia Bibby, High Street (mother of the fulfilled the sacrifices will have been well late Father Albert, O.M.Cap.) whose worth the making. Things look bad at A Úna, a chara ghil, death took place on Wednesday of present but the darkest hour is before the last week. dawn. I hope to have a good long chat My being in hospital – I shall be in four with you next week. weeks tomorrow – must be my apology The remains were removed to St. Mary’s Until then good bye for not having written to thank you for Cathedral on Thursday evening and were grand book of poems or having sent you accompanied by a large cortege represen- Yours very sincerely a Christmas and New Year’s greetings. I tative of all shades of opinion in the city. Kathleen Clarke am not at all well. The doctors certify Members of Fianna Éireann and Cumann that I am suffering from anaemia and na mBan, dressed in uniform, marched in stomach trouble, but have not definitely the funeral procession, as well as mem- 3) Copy of a letter from Fr. Albert, St. stated what the matter is. The case is so bers of the I.R.A. and Sean Óglaigh na Francis Hospital, Santa Barbara, Califor- serious that the doctors would not say I hÉireann. In the Cathedral the coffin was nia, to Áine Ceannt one month before his shall recover. It is hard to feel that I may placed on a catafalque in front of the high death, 1925 January 26: not see dear old Ireland again, or my altar. On Friday morning Requiem Office fond mother, sisters and friends there. It and High Mass were celebrated in the A Chara ghil, would lessen the sacrifice to be laid to presence of a large congregation. After rest with Rory and the boys in Glasnevin the Office and High Mass the remains I regret to say progress in the first few – but welcome be God’s Will. I have were borne to the hearse and the funeral weeks in Hospital did not continue. made a general confession and received took place to Conahy cemetery. Very Doctors don’t give much hope. So I have the last Sacraments, and trying to be as Rev. P. Cannon Treacy, P.P. officiated at tried to accept this cross from the hands well prepared as possible should the Lord the graveside. of God and to be prepared for the call of call me. I have no political bitterness God whenever it should come. It’s my towards my political opponents. I hope The chief mourners were Fanny, Agnes prayer can save me now. Of course I feel that nothing will keep our boys and girls and Charlotte Bibby, Mrs. Kathleen being away from Ireland, friends, home, from the Sacraments, the Holy Mass, and Quinn Bagenalstown (daughters), and from poor Aggie, my mother and sis- the Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Michael M. Quinn, solicitor, Bagenal- ter, but again I say God’s will be done. Our first aim should be to stand well with stown, (son-in-law), Patrick Butler You had to make your great sacrifice in God. After all that is the main thing in 1916. God gave you and Eamon the life. I hope you are keeping well, also grace to make it and I know he will give your dear Father, to whom most cordial us similar grace and strength now. I remembrance. Congratulations “Moni- haven’t been able to say Mass since I tor” on splendid work it is doing. Please came to Hospital but I receive Holy Com- remember me in your prayers. Goodbye munion every morning, have made a and God bless you always. general confession and received all last Dé leat, do chara an sacraments. I brighten up in day, but at tAthair Ailbe night I’m awake and usually restless, so I know not the day nor hour. It’s a joy to Appendix 2 hear such excellent reports from home, prospects fine. I’m unchanged and Kilkenny People Saturday July 7, 1934 unchangeable and pray for a speedy Deaths victory for our cause. Kindest remembrance to Lily, mother, Ronan and to all Julia Bibby dear friends, Dr. Kathleen Lynn, Miss July 4, 1934 at her residence, 17 High French Mullen, Síle and Mrs. Humphrey, Street, Kilkenny, Julia, widow of the late The grave of Julia Bibby and the Madame O’Reilly, The Countess, Miss John Bibby. Office and High Mass at St. Coogan family Conahy, Co. Kilkenny Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 22

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(nephew), Dr. R. E. Griffin, Kilkenny; people came from Castlecomer, but were was born in 1850, married John Bibby in Mrs. Annie E. Ceannt (widow of the late evicted and had to settle in Toorbeg. Here 1873, they had six children, she died in Éamonn Ceannt who was executed in they carried the doors of their old home 1934 at the age of 84 years and was 1916); Miss Lilly M. O’ Brennan, Dublin with them, and they are to be seen to this buried in Conahy, Co. Kilkenny. (near friends). day at Toorbeg. Many stories survive Thomas Coogan. He had a great devotion Margaret Mary Bibby was born the 5th Messrs Callaghan and Connolly, St. to the rosary, the constabulary came to of September 1874 to Julia and John in Kieran Street had charge of the arrest him, “Kneel down lads”, said Bagenalstown Co. Carlow; she died funeral arrangements. Thomas to the constables, “I must finish some days or weeks after birth, and was the rosary first” and they did. His daugh- buried in Bagenalstown. A large list of names of all who were ter Mrs. Bibby had a good knowledge of present at the funeral appeared on Irish and is it to be wondered that her son Frances Bibby was born to Julia and John the paper. Father Albert should have loved the in Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow on the 23rd Gaelic tongue? Mrs. Bibby was the type of January 1876. She was a prominent of the generation that is passing from us member of the Kilkenny branch of The following is the inscription on the wise, prudent, neighbourly, with a fund Cumann na mBan. She died on the 7th of Coogan headstone in Conahy cemetery: of practical philosophy. Her mind was September 1934 at Aut Even Hospital, Erected by Margaret Coogan, Toor, in stored with song, story, and like her Kilkenny at the age of 58 years. Her memory of her father Thomas Coogan father, Thomas Coogan, she was a great remains were removed to St. Mary’s died 18th March 1898, her mother Mary raconteur. One little rann she was very Cathedral Kilkenny where Mass was died 4th February 1897 aged 72 and her fond of reciting broke from her lips a few celebrated by Fr. Bonaventure O.F.M. brother Andrew died 19th October 1878 days before she died:- Cap.. She was buried in Foulkstown aged 59 also sister, Mrs. Ellen Lawler “Do your best for one another, cemetery in Kilkenny. died 27th August 1892 aged 50. Making life a pleasant dream; Margaret Coogan died 1913, her sister Help a weak and weary brother, Charlotte Bibby was born to Julia and Elizabeth February 1919, Julia Bibby Pulling hard against the stream.” John in Bagenalstown Co. Carlow in nee Coogan died Jul 4, 1934. 1881. She was an active member of the Father Albert’s greatest sorrow upon Kilkenny branch of Cumann na mBan, a Kilkenny People Saturday, July 14th leaving Ireland was the parting from his member of the Third Order of St. Francis 1934 beloved mother. They are now united attached to Kilkenny Friary, and a mem- where land and sea can no longer ber of the Kilkenny Council of the Pio- A Tribute to Mrs. Julia Bibby divide them. neer Total Abstinence Association. Charlotte spent some years in Mexico By Lilly O’Brennan (sister-in-law of Kilkenny People Saturday, July 14th and was through the Mexican Revolution Éamonn Ceannt). 1934 in the 1920s. She died on the 19th of February 1955 at Aut Even Hospital, Mrs. Julia Bibby the mother of the late Sympathy of Kilkenny Corporation Kilkenny at the age of 74 years. Her Father Albert Bibby, O.S.F.C. – one of funeral Mass was celebrated by Fr. the dearest memories of our great strug- Tributes were paid to the memory of the Bonaventure O.F.M. Cap.. She was gle for freedom – writes Lily M. O late Mrs. Bibby in City Hall at the buried in Foulkstown cemetery in ’Brennan in the “Irish Press”, was laid to Annual Meeting of Kilkenny Corpora- Kilkenny. The chief mourners at the rest yesterday and from the hour she tion and sympathy passed to her daugh- funeral were Miss Agnes Bibby, (sister), closed her eyes on this earth the Kilkenny ters on Friday the day of her burial at Mr. Patrick Bibby Kilkenny (nephew), people showed how tenderly they rever- 12.o’clock. During the meeting, Mrs. Mr. Patrick Butler Kilkenny (cousin) and enced this interesting and beautiful old Bibby’s funeral passed by the City Hall Mr and Mrs Kearney the Racecourse Irish woman. For a mile and a half, on its way to Conahy, and while it was Kilkenny. clergy and laity walked with the remains passing, at the request of the Mayor all to the borough boundary, when the present stood in respectful silence. Agnes Bibby was born to Julia and John cortege proceeded on to Conahy, 10 in Bagenalstown Co. Carlow in 1883. miles further on. It was the wish of Mrs. Appendix 3 Agnes carried on the family drapery Julia Bibby to be buried with her own business in Kilkenny for many years. She people in Conahy instead of the Bibby The Bibby Sisters was a prominent member of the Kilkenny tomb in Kilkenny. Here was her native branch of Cumann na mBan and in a spot – Toorbeg, redolent with stories of John Bibby of Kilkenny was born in Kilkenny Anti-Conscription list on the the land war. 1832, married Julia Coogan in 1873, died 9th of June 1918 her name appears as at the age of 67 years and was buried in Úna Ní Bibbe, Sráid 17. She was a close She was the fourteenth child of Thomas St. Canice’s Church of Ireland cemetery, personal friend of Eamon de Valera who Coogan Irish speaker and Kilkenny. stayed on many occasions on visits to seanchaidhe.This wonderful old man Kilkenny in the family home. She was died at the age of 98 in the year 1898. His Julia Coogan of Toor, Conahy, Kilkenny the last surviving member of the Bibby Carloviana 2017 A devout priest Col edited_Layout 1 12/09/2016 21:04 Page 23

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Miss Agnes Bibby and nephew, Patrick look at a photograph of Fr Albert in the Kilkenny home Bibby sisters grave for Education; Comdt. Michael and Mrs. family. Agnes died on the 23rd of August Michael’s business in Bagenalstown Doorley, Nurney; George Doyle, Ballin- 1971 in Dublin and was buried in Foulk- failed. Kathleen re-started the drapery macberry, Co. Waterford; Mrs. Kent stown cemetery in Kilkenny. Among a and dressmaking business in Bagenal- Ballycarney; Miss Donleavy, John Street, collection of photographs donated by stown. Kathleen died on Thursday the Kilkenny; Mrs. Phelan and family, Lord Agnes to Rothe House were two stamped 2nd of September 1937 at the age of 58 Edward Street, Kilkenny; Miss Cronin, envelopes, with the address Miss A. years in Muinebheag (Bagenalstown) William St., Kilkenny; Kilkenny Branch Bibby, St. Joseph’s, Portland Row, District Hospital. She had been in failing of the Gaelic League; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Dublin, 1 written on each one. As she health for some years. The remains were Butler, Muinebheag. died in Dublin it may be that she had removed on Friday evening from the moved there after the sale of the business hospital to St. Andrew’s Church and were Note in High Street. followed by a large cortege of sympathiz- ers from the town and surrounding On the 14th of June 1959, Eamon Martin, Mary Catherine (Kathleen) Bibby was districts, as well as Kilkenny. Requiem who had met Fr. Albert in Richmond born to Julia and John in Bagenalstown Mass was celebrated at St. Andrew’s by Hospital on Easter Monday afternoon the Co. Carlow on the 18th of October 1879. Fr. Bonaventure O.F.M. Cap., Guardian, 24th of April, 1916, personally donated In her early years of life she worked in the Friary, Kilkenny; Rev. Fr. Vergilius the Calvary Memorial that was erected at the family drapery business in Kilkenny O. F. M. Cap., and Very Rev. Fr. Lynam the Capuchin Monastery in Raheny, and was an active member of Cumann na P.P.V.F. Muinebheag, after which the mBan. Kathleen married Michael Martin funeral took place to Foulkstown ceme- Quinn of Davagh, Crookstown, Co. tery Kilkenny. Tyrone. Kathleen and Michael Martin lived in the Bibby house 13 Regent Street The Kilkenny People of September 11th Bagenalstown. Michael Martin Quinn 1937 reported the following: The prayers qualified as a solicitor. His father at the graveside were recited by Very Rev. Michael Quinn had a farm of 721 acres Fr. Bonaventure, Rev. Fr.Virgilius and Fr. at Davagh and a publican business in Comerford C.C., St. Mary’s, Kilkenny. Crookstown, Co. Tyrone. He gave the farm to his son Michael Martin Quinn The chief mourners were:- Mr. M. Quinn, who was the healthiest member of his solicitor (husband); Misses Agnes and children and retained the pub in Crook- Charlotte Bibby, Kilkenny, sisters; Mrs. stown for himself. The farm business M.K. McKeown, Belfast, Mrs. T. Farrelly, failed, was sadly lost and eventually Baileborough (sister-in-law); Miss became Forestry Commission property. Maureen McKeown, Belfast (niece). Michael Martin Quinn then operated as a solicitor in Bagenalstown with his office Messages of sympathy were received in house 13 Regent Street, the former from Mrs. Eamon Kent and family home of the Bibby family. Kathleen and Dublin; Mrs. Farrelly, Merrion Row, Memorial Plaque to Fr. Albert Bibby erected Michael had several children but a num- Dublin; Mrs. Anastatia and Veronica by Bagenalstown Improvement Group ber of them died at a young age. Ayres, Kilkenny; Mr. T. Derrig, Minister (B.I.G.) in Regent Street, Bagenalstown,

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Dublin, in recognition of the gallant and Fr. Albert Bibby by Jim Maher Irish Genealogy.ie brave efforts of Fr. Albert, Fr. Dominic Fr. Albert the Patriot Priest – Benedict Irish Volunteers.org and other Capuchins. In 1965 Eamon was Kiely (Irish Press) Family Search.org appointed to the Easter Rising 50th The Exile, Death and Repatriation of Fr. Martin Nevin, Leighlinbridge Anniversary Committee by Taoiseach Dominic O’ Connor, 1922-1958 by Dr Seamus O’Connor, Carlow Co. Council Seán Lemass. In Bagenalstown, 2016, a John Borgonovo Padraig Cahill, Carlow Co. Council Commemoration Monument of 1916 was The Scholar and Saintly Priest from Dermot Mulligan, Curator Carlow erected and a Memorial Plaque was Bagenalstown Carloviana 2000 Edition. Museum. placed on the wall of the birthplace of Fr. Thomas McDonagh Family Papers NLI Breda Kavanagh, Kilkenny Albert in Regent Street. 2001 BBC Online History Thomas Downey, Kilkenny Sources & Gratitude Census of Ireland 1901 & 1911 Eileen Gunner, Kilkenny Griffiths Valuation Santa Barbara Independent Thursday 11 The Capuchin Archives Journal of a British Soldier –Irish Times March 2010 Papers of Fr. Albert Bibby, Capuchin 14 December 2015 Tidings, Catholic Paper, Los Angeles Archives Kilkenny City and County – a photo- Kilkenny City Directory 1788 The Capuchin Annuals 1942 and 1970 graphic record, College Books, Kilkenny Land Owners Ireland 1876 Dr. Brian Kerr Archivist Capuchin Shopping in Kilkenny through the Years, Old Kilkenny Review 1998 – In Rothe Archives Compiled by Michael O’ Dwyer House Collection Capuchin Provincial Archives The Ornament to the City: Holy Trinity Old Kilkenny Review 2001 - The Hole in Capuchin Franciscans Western American and the Capuchin Order by Patricia the Wall, Kilkenny by Michael A. Con- Province Archives Curtin – Kelly 2015 way Rebels’ Priests Ministering to Republi- Proceedings and Transactions of the Old Kilkenny Review 2014 – The cans 1916-1924 by Joe Connell Kilkenny and South-East of Ireland Ar- Bishop’s Mills Greensbridge Street by Rothe House Library chaeological Society, Volume 3, 1855 Michael O’ Dwyer Ann Tierney Librarian Rothe House Bureau of Military History, Witness Old Kilkenny Review 2015 – Chancel- Kilkenny Archaeological Society Statements lor’s Mills by Michael O’ Dwyer Ceannt and O’Brennan Papers National Bibby Genealogy – by John T. Shearman Post Office London Directory 1843 Library of Ireland up to 1858 London Medical Gazetteer or Journal Kilkenny Journal and Literary Advertiser Kilmainham Tales 1916 Practical Medicine Volume 23, 1833 Kilkenny 1866/67 Dublin Forum Archives Cork Examiner 10-05-1916 The Kilkenny People 1934, 1937, 1955, Fianna Éireann Archives Irish Independent 13 June 1916 1959, Dr. Kathleen Lynn’s Diary Letters of 1916 Maynooth University. The National Library of Ireland Irish Leaders of Our Time The National Archives Dublin Wikipedia – Easter Rising

Fr Albert at the time of Ordination 1916 Monument erected by Carlow County Council, Leighlinbridge Road, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow

Fr Albert at the time of Graduation

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48 devout priest and devoted patriot

Bibby of Kilkenny Genealogy (Line of Thomas Francis Bibby known in religion as Fr. Albert Bibby)

Nicholas Bibby = Unknown Nicholas Bibby of Esker near Castlecomer made his will in 1676 and directed his body to be buried in Mayne near Jenkin- stown Co. Kilkenny – he left a large issue

John Bibby Richard Bibby Thomas Bibby = Widow Baker James Bibby Henry Bibby A Daughter

Thomas Bibby was an infant at the time of his Widow Baker was the daughter of Esquire Swanton of father’s death & was born before 1670. ……. Co. Kildare.

Nicholas Bibby Margaret Wilmot Bibby John Bibby = Anne Shearman

John Bibby of Vicar Street, Kilkenny was born Anne Shearman was the daughter of Francis Shearman of in 1694. He was an extensive woollen manufac- Grange, Barony of Shillogher,Co. Kilkenny – by his wife Anne turer. He died 1767 and is buried in St. Canice’s Davis of Grange. Francis’s father was Robert of Grange who ac- Kilkenny. He had a large issue of more than 7 quired that property by purchase in 1697 from Agmondesham sons. Cuffe of Castle Inch. Robert’s father was Thomas Shearman of Burnchurch who came to Ireland circa 1650 from the city of York in England and died at an old age in 1704. Anne Bibby (nee Shearman) died in 1773 aged 71 years.

Richard Bibby Henry Bibby Thomas Bibby = Frances Haley James Bibby Samuel Bibby

Brewer to be Thomas Bibby was born in 1727. Frances Haley was the daughter of John Haley formerly He died on the 13th of March, 1803 aged 76 of Skibbereen, Co. Cork. She died in 1815. years and is buried in St. Canice’s.

Thomas Bibby John Bibby = - Leonard James Bibby Jane Bibby

John Bibby died on the 5th of March, Daughter of Leonard of Castledermot, Co. Kildare 1806 aged 51

Warren Bibby Thomas Bibby = 1) - Leonard George Bibby Thomas Bibby = 2) Bridget Costello Thomas Bibby first married a Leonard, a relative from Castledermot and secondly Bridget Costello of Kilkenny by whom he had a large offspring of sons and daughters.

John Bibby = Julia Coogan

Margaret Mary Bibby Frances Bibby Thomas Frances Bibby Mary Catgerine Bibby Charlotte Bibby Agnes Bibby (Fr Albert Bibby) Carloviana 2017 The Rowlets edited Col_Layout 1 12/09/2016 22:08 Page 1

The photograph shows the classic Rolettes line-up from 1966. Back row, L to R; George Rothwell- Saxaphone/vocals, Dinny Farrell-Drums, Terry Shaughnessy- Trombone/vocals, Terry Williams-Rhythm Guitar. Front Row,L to R; Jim Drea- Bass Guitar, Dermot Shaughnessy- Lead Guitar, Eddie Synnott, Trumpet Liam O’Neill

It was a sunny Sunday evening in 1962. stage with a Showband. progressed, showbands proliferated in all A young man sat with a friend on the thirty two counties. In 1970 there were window cill of Sheill’s Hardware shop in For a lot of young men, and a few young three showbands based in Bagenalstown Market Square, Bagenalstown. As they women, the idea of standing on a stage as alone. There were The Presidents and chatted, a mini bus pulled up in front of part of a showband was the height of The Sailors, but the most successful of all them and the window was rolled down. glamour in the early nineteen sixties. In were The Rolettes. “Are you Dermot Shaughnessy?” asked the forties and early fifties the dance hall the driver. “I am, why?” scene had been dominated by the big The story of the Rolettes Showband bands with their large Brass sections; started in early 1963. A man called Jim “Do you play guitar? We are the Altones epitomised by the famous Mick De- Hayden from Skeoughvasteen who showband from Bunclody and we are lahunty from Clonmel. Then towards the worked in Connolly’s Hardware in stuck for a guitar player in the McGrath end of the nineteen fifties, smaller dance Bagenalstown, walked across the road Hall tonight. Will you do it?” bands of seven or eight members such as one day to Paul Kehoe’s drapery to talk the Clipper Carlton, came to dominate to Dermot Shaughnessy. He had heard “I own a guitar, but I only know 3 the scene. The brass section shrunk to that Dermot had a guitar, and he won- chords,” Dermot replied. “Don’t worry, three, namely Trombone, Trumpet and dered if he would be interested in prac- we just want you to stand there with the Saxophone, while the three-guitar com- ticing a few songs. Dermot had bought guitar and look like you are playing. If binations of Lead, Rhythm and Bass his first guitar from Mrs Shaw-Rea in we play in a different key just turn down were augmented by Drums, and in some Regent St, along with a book on how to the sound and go through the motions. cases, electric organ. These bands were play. “There was no place to go to learn Oh, and by the way, we have a spare suit not known for their original song compo- guitar in the early Sixties,” Dermot says, for you to wear.” sitions, but became very adept at cover- “you had to go to the Ritz in Carlow and ing popular songs of the day from a wide learn by watching the guys in the bands That was the first time Dermot stood on range of musical genres. As the sixties there.” Jim Hayden had a Hoffner guitar Carloviana 2016 The Rowlets edited Col_Layout 1 12/09/2016 22:08 Page 2

at the time, but could not play; The himself suggested changing one letter in just stopped dead on the road. The AA Hoffner was a semi-acoustic electric gui- the name, and so The Rolettes were born. man told us that we were mad to expect tar which weighed heavy and was a brute an engine like that to carry such a load. on the fingers. Dermot bought the instru- The Rolettes Showband played their first We limped into London just in time. ment from Jim and played it for a while. gig in a Church of Ireland hall beside The venue was the Gresham Ballroom on Rutland church near Carlow. The gear the Holloway Road. It had a revolving They started to learn some of the popular was carried in an escort van driven by stage, and first up was a full orchestra. songs of the day in Jim’s upstairs bed- George Rothwell, and the lads crowded When the orchestra was finished, it was room in Connolly’s. Jim sang and Der- into a car. Gradually they began to spread The Rolettes’ turn. As the stage began to mot played along, while Dinny Farrell their wings and gigs followed in small revolve, Eddie Synnott started playing from Castlewarren, who also worked in venues like Ullard school and Borris the iconic trumpet intro to the Johnny Connolly’s,(in the wholesale depart- Tech. Then they hit the local big time Cash song, “The Ring Of Fire”. The ment,) drummed along with his fingers with a gig in the McGrath Hall in Bage- stage took off without Eddie, and he had on the mantelpiece. They learned the nalstown. Gradually, they found them- to do a run and hop on. In any event, the songs of Buddy Holly and Hank selves playing further afield. In some audience was mostly Irish, and the lads Williams, and such well known country places electric guitars were still went down a treat. “We would meet favourites as “North to Alaska”. something of a novelty. Dermot Remem- many people from home, who were bers one gig in particular in a place called working in England at that time,” Dermot A short time after that, Jim brought Rathangan, Co Wexford. “We pulled up remembers. George Rothwell in to talk about joining nice and early and there was a man there the group and George decided to buy a to open up for us. He was amazed at the Meanwhile back in Ireland, they contin- Saxaphone. Then Eddie Synnott got in- electric guitars with their amplifiers and ued to enjoy increased success around the volved. Eddie was a tin whistle player, speakers. Finally he could take no more. country. In summer, marquee dancing but he bought a trumpet and got lessons “Ah lads! Have yez ne’er an oul’ was becoming popular, and this provided from Paddy Carter of Borris. Paddy was accordion?” the bands with more work. It could also a stalwart of the Borris Brass Band, and lead to some hairy situations. “I remem- generous with his time. By now, Dinny In 1963 Jim Hayden, who had been lead ber one night down near Holycross in Farrell had procured a set of drums and singer, got a job in Cork and George took Tipperary,” Dermot recalls, “It was a then Jim Drea got involved, when he on the role. In 1964 the band got their Sunday evening and we arrived to find bought and learned the Bass guitar. It re- first manager, Dick Somers, and he ful- the place deserted. The lights were on, ally was an unusual way for a band to get filled that role until 1968. The venues but they were very dim. Then we noticed going. They were almost making it up as that hosted the band became further and that the only electricity feed was a 1.5 they went along. In the beginning, it was further away, places like The Crystal wire, which ran down along the hedge all a bit of fun. The lads had all been to Ballroom in Kiltormer, Co Galway, and from the local farmhouse. ‘This will school together, or were neighbours or Scarriff, Co Clare. In 1965 Dermot’s never work’ we said to ourselves.’ Then co-workers. “We heard about this young brother, Terry Shaughnessy joined the some of the committee turned up and we lad called Terry Williams who had made band as a trombone player, and that com- told them that there was just not enough his own electric guitar. We went over to pleted the classic Rolettes lineup. Terry power. ‘The band that played Friday the swimming pool one evening and was also a good singer, and sang most of night did alright, so will ye. Go down to found him sitting on the grass. When we the Country and Western numbers, with that house, have yer tea, and then start asked him to join the band he was happy George Rothwell singing the rest. playing, otherwise yez wont be paid.’ to do so. That was that; we got through the night The band began to get gigs in Dublin and somehow, although the sound By now it was 1963 and the band was often played in Barry’s Hotel, the Ierne was awful.” building a repertoire. It was time to get Ballroom and the famous Television the electronic gear together. “Paddy Club in Harcourt St. “ It was tough going “Another night we were playing in Doran from Leighlinbridge had an elec- at times,” Dermot says, “ We all had day Woodford, Co Galway in a big five pole tric shop on Main St, Bagenalstown at jobs, and we often arrived home at 5 or 6 marquee. Everything was going grand, the time,” Dermot says, “ He was a very in the morning after playing a 5 hour until the power suddenly went; lightning decent man, he outfitted us with all we dance in The West of Ireland. We had no had struck the electricity transformer. needed in the way of amplification and choice but to turn up for work as usual.” They asked us to keep going with the microphones,etc, and gave us time to pay brass instruments, and we did that until for it. He had John Coburn working for In 1966 the band went to Britain for the we had exhausted all the numbers which him and he was also a great help to us.” first time. “We had an old Volkswagen featured brass. Meantime, they rounded The next question that arose was what to minibus with a split front window. With up a few of the locals who played accor- call the band. At the time there was a the gear tied on the roof, and the eight of dions and fiddles. They took down one popular American group called the us squashed inside, we crossed to Holy- side wall of the marquee and lit the place Ronettes who had hits with such gems as head and headed for London. The bus with car headlights. They had a great AND THEN I KISSED HER and DA had only an eight horsepower engine, and night after. They were very decent to us. DO RON RON. Dermot Shaughnessy going up a hill in Wales, I remember she We were paid in full, even though we did Carloviana 2016 The Rowlets edited Col_Layout 1 12/09/2016 22:08 Page 3

not play half the night. 1975. As various members were married, The author It so happened that the married members or wished to pursue their careers, it got had brought their wives along that partic- more and more difficult to keep up the In the sixties and early seventies, Liam ular evening. Talking of which; some of pace. The decision to finish up was unan- O’Neill spent many a great night dancing us were married for quite a few years be- imous, and free from the animosity to the Rolettes. As a guitar player him- fore the band finished up. We really ap- which characterized so many band break- self, he even had the good fortune to fill preciated the support of spouses and ups. “We were just a bunch of local lads in with the band one night in Clara Hall, girlfriends during those years. It took a who knew each other from work or Co Kilkenny. “ My wrist was numb after lot of patience to put up with having their school. It was a great adventure while it four hours playing,” he remembers, “it partners away playing somewhere while lasted, but we just decided to stop. We are cured me of any lingering ambitions I everybody else was out enjoying them- still good friends,” Dermot says. had to join a Showband.” selves, or having a quiet evening at home.” The band came together for one re-union To the memory of George Rothwell RIP gig in the McGrath Hall in 1992. It was a Locally, most of the marquee dancing nostalgic and fun night which brought was run by Mick Donohoe of Garryhill. back many memories to both the band Mick would have looked on the lads as members and their old fans. ‘neighbours’ children’. “We first played for Mick in the wooden hut at Garryhill If this article could finish up with a clos- Cross” Dermot says, “we always got on ing number, it would be The Can Can. well with Mick. You had Sonny Moore The band always used this piece as part of Drumphea as resident electrician, and of their closing set before the National Mick’s mother running the mineral bar.” Anthem. It really did “Send them home Sweating”. The Rolettes Showband disbanded in

Remnants of flagstones in Wells Quay close to the Royal Oak.

Percy Drea stands where once was Wells flagstone Quay during the canal period

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52 Carlow -Quadruple Lough- Quadruplex Lacus

Carlow --- Quadruple Lough --- Quadruplex Lacus

"That glorious plan, the rights of man, With sword in hand we'll guard it., The power to quell of these infidels , Down by the lakes of Carlow. Sean O’Shea

The above extract is taken from a Ninety Eight song mentioned in the Origin and History of Irish Place Names (Dublin 1871) volumes 1 and 111 by P. W Joyce. I use this as an introduction to support my opinion that Carlow was originally surrounded by four lakes and list other sources of authorities and the flooding of Carlow in 1947 to give credence to my theory. Joyce states " Carlow means Four Lakes, though there is no lake there now. The tradition of the lakes, and perhaps the lakes themselves existed in the end of the eighteen century, as the above verse shows."

Joyce continues :- "the town of Carlow is called in Irish authorities, Cetherloch, quadruple lake, and the tradition is that the Barrow anciently formed four lakes there, of which, however, there is now no trace. The Irish name is pronounced Caherlough, which was easily softened acknowledges Dr Joyce's interpretation Barrow and includes the church, the down to the present name. By early by recording "Dr Joyce gives the mean- bridge and a great part of the town, with English writers it is generally called ing as the " quadruple lake" referring to distant mountains rising in the Catherlogh or Katherlagh, which is a tradition that the Barrow anciently back ground." almost identical with the Irish, Boate formed four lakes here and that the Irish calls it" Catherlogh or Carlow " showing name being pronounced Caherlough, was The banks of the river ("best known by that in his time the present form was easily softened down to the present the ancients of the time under the name beginning to be developed." name." (see Carlow Nationalist and of Brigus or Birgus")are very low lying, Leinster Times 26th Dec 1936). possibly not well maintained in former Malborough Douglass in an article times and liable to flooding. The exis- subscribed to the Carlow 1913 Feis The drawing here under taken in 1804 is tence of a lake or lakes is easy to visual- Programme referring to Carlow states included in the Antiquities of Ireland, a ize in this terrain in earlier years prior to "its ancient name Catherlough some say supplement to Francis, Author, Grose the drawing. means the "Fort on the lake " in allusion Daniel 1765 — 1838 with the caption to the castle which stood on an eminence, “the View is from the banks of the Lord Walter Fitzgerald in an article on surrounded by a sheet of water " but then

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53 Carlow -Quadruple Lough- Quadruplex Lacus

The Castle and Manor of Carlow in the place in which the old Castle stands now names of places."(Ceithiorlach is the Journal of the Archaeological Society of in ruins, as to merit the name of a lake. Irish name, and means according to the the County of Kildare and surrounding This was the case previously to the tradition among the Irish in the Co. districts 1910, quotes as follows: erection of this Castle, which, when it Kilkenny the Quadruple Lough. The was built, is supposed by some, who name is compounded exactly similar to "The old form of the name of Carlow was account for the origin of the name, to Ceithir Leabhar i.e. The Quadruple Catherlough which was in use up to the have been called Cathair Lach, meaning, Book, i.e. The New Testament or Book eighteenth century ; in the Annals of the in their view, the Fort on the Lake or of the Four Gospels." Four Masters it is written Ceithiorlach, a River, because it stands on the ground name according to 0' Donovan, meaning occupied by the lake above mentioned, If we examine John O'Donovan's trans- the quadruple lough. Other authorities or because it has its situation so close to lation of the Annals of the Kingdom of derive the name from "Cathair" and the River Barrow, on the eastern bank of Ireland, by the Four Masters 1616 which "Loch" meaning the lake - fort; but it is which its foundation was laid. was published in 1854, it is noted that the wisest to accept O' Donovan's interpreta- spelling of Carlow (Ceithiorlac) in tion of the name, though at the present This explanation was probably taken Volume IV conforms with the Ordinance time, except during a heavy flood, there from the Anthologia Hibernica, which Survey's spelling in respect of the year is no appearance of any lough to account will be hereafter cited. This work states 1405. O'Donovan in this Volume (page for the name. By the country people the that Carlow, anciently called Catherlogh 785 )states, “the town of Carlow was a name is always pronounced "Carlah." or the City or Fort on the River, owes its strong English town at that period. The origin as a town to a Castle erected there name Ceithiorlac which is said by tradi- Richard Howard in his writings “This is in the reign of King John, which secured tion to denote Quadruple Lough Ireland, Leinster and City of Dublin, a pass over the Barrow. (Quadrup ex Lacus), is Anglicised when referring to Carlow states" the Katherlough by old English writers." Barrow anciently formed four lakes in In the Annals of the Four Masters, the the vicinity of Carlow town, hence words of which will be hereafter given, In 1601 the County of Carlow is spelt in Ceatharloc - Four Lakes. This tradition we find at the years (A.D) 1405, and O'Donovan's Annals "Conntae Ceiter- seems to be confirmed by the name 1601, the name written Ceithiorlach lach" and Contae Cheithearlach" in the usually employed by early English Ceithiorlach 1405: Contae Cheithearlach Ordinance Survey Letters. However the writers Catherlough, which they must 1601: according to Index) and in the writer of the Ordinance letters asks is this have got from the lips of local native Preface to Keating's History we find it the exact orthog? (spelling) speakers, and by Boate's Catherlough or Ceatharlach (p.42 of Haliday's Ed). Carlow, showing that the present Perhaps Tom Brunell in his book The An- corrupted form was in his time no more On the old map of the country by G. glicized Words of Irish Places 2006 may than a variant." Mercator, the name of the town and or may not make the situation somewhat county, is anglicised Catherlagh : and in clearer, to quote as follows: In the History of the Queen's County Gough's Camden Vol ? P. ? to which (1914) The V. Rev. John Canon O' Han- reference will be made again, the county "Carlow: Cathair-Lach, Catharlach, City lon PP, Rev. Edward O’Leary PP and is described under the name Caterlough, or fort of the Lake or River. Rev. Matthew Lawlor PP state "Carlow Caterlough, and said to be called by anciently called Catherlough the city or Contradiction (Contraction ?) Carlough. Carlow: Ceatharlach, Cheatharlaigh, fort on the river (or on the four lakes, as abounding in cattle. some derive the word) owes its origin to The town is spoken of under the name the Castle erected there In the reign of Caterlogh. In the additions by Gough is Carlow Ceatharlach, Ceatharloch, King John, which secured a pass over set down "the County Caterlogh the Barrow." or Carlow. Cetherloch, the Quadruple Lake or the Four Lakes. Finally an extract from Letters relating to Having now laid down the local form and the Antiquities of the County Carlow, con- explanation of the ancient name of Carlow: Ceithlorlach, the Quadruple taining information collected during the Carlow, which latter, I have hinted to Lake" progress of the Ordnance Survey 1839. have probably been taken from the Anthologia Hib : and having given as The Flooding of 1947 "The ancient name of Carlow was, it is well the Irish forms, as the Anglicised locally said, Catharlach Cathair Lach) ones, from the Authorities at present in Lord Walter Fitzgerald as already which is explained as signifying the City my hands, I come to the conclusion that mentioned stated “at the present time or Fort on the Lake or River. It is thought the word is not of immediately Irish (1910) except during a heavy flood there to signify the City on the Lake or River, origin and that therefore though it might is no appearance of any lough to account as the town is built at the junction of the by its assumed modification, be consid- for the name Catherlogh", so let's exam- rivers Burrin and Barrow, where tradition ered as one, yet it is not remotely classi- ine a heavy flood that occurred over the says the waters of both rivers covered so fiable, with the pure family of Irish words last 100 years and how it affected the extensive a tract of ground including the that are known to enter generally into the landscape. Possibly the most severe Carloviana 2017 Sean O'Shán_Layout 1 21/10/2016 17:32 Page 3

54 Carlow -Quadruple Lough- Quadruplex Lacus

flooding occurred in 1947 following the broke" had to travel via Hanover and Conclusion great thaw of that year. The Nationalist Granby row. and Leinster Times of the 22 of March We now enter the realm of conjecture and 1947 reported as follows thereon: The floods were worse in Coalmarket and speculation. Following the study of the communications between Graigue-cullen flooding which occurred in Carlow in "The whole Barrow Valley was and Carlow were maintained by boat and 1947 and taking into account the infor- inundated by the greatest floods on motor truck. Gangs of Urban Council mation recorded by modern and ancient record last weekend when rivers, swollen Workmen toiled to erect a plank gangway historians, I suggest by way of a rough by rain and the heavy thaw, burst their over the flood waters to allow the sketch here under the possible land scape banks for miles on end. Huge tracts of marooned families to leave their house". of Carlow as it existed in ancient times land were covered and towns along the showing the conjoined four lakes. This valley flooded by the deluge of water. This type of "flooding" gives some indi- conjecture is purely speculative. Indescribable suffering was caused and cation as to the landscape as it existed in many families are still homeless. The the past and may give credence to the old water rose swiftly on Saturday night and adage that water always finds its own people barely had time to snatch a few level. The Map above shows the belongings and escape. Rivers Barrow and Burren having risen above their normal level by Carlow was stricken with the worst four or five feet. It was estimated floods in the memory of the oldest inhab- at the time that no less than 110 itant. The waters rose very swiftly at acres were submerged as can be midnight on Saturday night and within an seen on the map above. hour whole streets were inundated. In Graiguecullen, Henry St., Sleaty St., Robert Malcomson in his Article in Maryboro St. and the streets adjoining "The Royal Society of Antiqui- the river were under three or four feet of tiesof Ireland 1854/55, Cromwell water, and many families had to be at Carlow" refers "to the large evacuated in the middle of the night. sheet of water which we are told formerly existed here." Samuel On the Carlow side of the River, Burren Lewis in his Topographical St., Castle St., Water Lane, Coal Market, Dictionary of Ireland, also talks of Bally Manus Terrace and the Quays were "a large sheet of water which flooded. Burren Bridge was closed to formerly existed here," again traffic as a precautionary measure as it confirming that a lake or four lakes was stated that it had been weakened by existed in ancient times at Carlow. the tremendous pressure of water, C.I.E. If it is accepted that four lakes ex- buses and Lorries with food and supplies isted then they were most likely for flooded houses in Burren St and Pem- conjoined.

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List of Claimants from Carlow for damages caused during Easter Week 1916 National Archives of Ireland Website by Roomthree Design

Code Description Surname Business Location Scope and Content

James O'Connor, Claim for injuires sustained Lime Works, Carlow; Harcourt and damages to motor by rifle fire PLIC/1/1147 Carlow, motor O’Connor Street from insurgents on Harcourt Street, garage proprietor. Dublin. Claim cancelled as no claim form was received.

Alfred Coleman, Coleman Carlow; Parliament Claim for £17 is for seizure of motor PLIC/1/6201 County Carlow. Street by insurgents in the vicinity of Parliament Street

Richard J. Lawson J.J.Keating, Tullow; Abbey Claim for £200 for nmotor car and PLIC/1/2246 Tullow, County Lawson cycle and motor Street Lower accessories destroyed by fire at the Carlow dealer premises of J.J. Keating, cycle and motor dealer, 33 Abbey Street Lower, Dublin. Payment of £150 recommended by Committee.

John Tennant, St Stephen’s Clowater; Carlow; Claim for £5 4s for damage to prem- PLIC/1/2246 Clowater, County Tennant Green St Stephen’s Green ises by rifle fire at 126 St Stephen’s Carlow. Green, Dublin. Full payment recommended by Committee.

Reverand Thomas John Kane, Myshal; Carlow Claim for £14 f0r destruction of lamd PLIC/3466 Dowling, Myshal, Dowling Ecclesiastical Abbey Street, and valuables due to fire caused by County Carlow Kane art metal Middle. Crown forces at the premises of John worker. Kane, ecclesiastical art metal worker, 01 Abbey Street Middle, Dublin, Payment of £10 recommended by Committee.

Georgiana E Cornwall Myshal; Carlow Claim for destruction of buildings by Cornwall Brady Brady Rambout Abbey Street, fire at 70-71 Abbey Street Middle, PlIC/1/3867 Hartstonge Weld, Hartstonge Middle Dublin, and 73-74 Abbey Street Myshal House, Weld. Middle, Dublin. Dealt with under Myshal, County Rambaut's claim, see PLIC/1/1458. Carlow.

WP Kennedy, The Wynn’s Hotel Abbey Street Claim for £7 for destruction of field PLIC/1/6040 Pharmacy, Borris, Kennedy Lower; Borris; glasses and scarf pin by fire at County Carlow. Carlow. Wynn's Hotel, Abbey Street Lower, Dublin. Payment of £5 5s recommended by Committee.

Gretta Hearne, Hopkins and Tullow Street; Claim for 13s 3d for destruction of PLIC/1/6294 Tullow Street, Hearne Hopkins, Carlow; Sackville sauce ladle and cutlery by fire at County Carlow. jewellers Street Lower Hopkins and Hopkins, jewellers, 1 [O'Connell Street Sackville Street Lower [O'Connell Lower] Street Lower], Dublin. Full payment recommended by Committee.

Carloviana 2017 Changing face of Carlow town_Layout 1 21/10/2016 17:43 Page 1

and open for romance without too much checking on the fellows' occupations.

By that time, the criteria was largely good manners, a nice voice, clean finger- The changing face nails and the ability to do the Tango! Remembering Carlow from that time, the mind swings to the centre of the town itself of - Tullow St., Dublin St., and all the interesting side streets that opened off them. What a lovely, vibrant memory of fine, elegant shops, with the families who owned them Carlow town all living above the business premises.

Margaret O’Rourke These were living streets where people shopped and chatted during the days and Remembering Carlow from the time of Because the town was smaller, everyone walked for pleasure in the evenings. my childhood - up to the present - is like knew everyone else and good neighbours Everything you could possibly want was painting a picture, one of those complex abounded. People shared their troubles available in the town centre plus the irre- ones by modern artists. Memories come and were not too proud to borrow a cup placeable bonus of friendly service from in spurts, forgotten things re-surface in of sugar! Today's world has less to offer familiar faces. the mind. in that direction. Then as now, the well- to-do and the poor lived in different So what happened? Because this, as any- For many people 'the old days' were the worlds but it wasn't as simple as that. one who walks these streets knows, is no best of times and all things modern longer the case. 'destroyed the quality of life.' But while The less well off came in many shades that is partially true it is not the and were determine to keep their So many fine, long-established shops are whole story. foothold in where they stood in the com- no more, very many boarded up - the munity. When it came to marrying, it was final indignity. And what of the people There were many wonderful things about very important to stay at your own level who served us with such friendliness and the simplicity of life back then but there or move up a rung. White collar workers efficiency? The simple answer is that was also a lot of hardship. One area that were looked on with respect as not large, anonymous supermarkets took has improved greatly is that of housing. having to get their hands dirty and wear- their place. The effect on the town has Today so many people have homes to be ing the good suit every day was seen as a been devastating. proud of - it was not always so. Most sign of success! people back then lived in houses owned Let's take a look at the Shamrock Square by private landlords - low rents and I hasten to add that most of this had and ask, as I do, how Doyle's fine, well no maintenance! changed before I was a young thing, going stocked shops were replaced by The to the Ritz ballroom three times a week Plaza, a structure totally unsuited to a Of course there were others who country town? Across the road owned their own homes with stand two burned out very old beautiful gardens - and bathrooms. buildings that were once a sub-post The latter was something that most office and a grocery. These derelict people didn't enjoy until the 5Os and buildings have been allowed to 6Os, thanks to local authority dominate the top of our town for a housing. Before that some houses great number of years and are, I be- were little more than hovels and yet lieve, under a preservation order. fine families were reared in them. Just what is being done to preserve Sadly this great housing initiative them? slowed down and today Carlow, like the rest of the country, has very Walk down a little further and look many people in need of afford- with the greatest nostalgia at Mary able accommodation. Teresa Kelly's shop, now boarded up. Mary never let any child go out Back then, faith in God was an without a handful of sweets and she intrinsic part of all our lives and had a kitchen chair in one corner of people thought little about the The Royal Hotel the shop where your mother could future. Enough for today was Carloviana 2003 - Donal Godfrey sit down and take a rest while you the motto. gazed at all the glass case delights. Carloviana 2017 Changing face of Carlow town_Layout 1 21/10/2016 17:43 Page 2

57 the changing face of Carlow town

I could go on but it is too depressing - Museum in the Presentation School when a comfort would be an understatement gone The Coliseum cinema, the Nation- fine new school was built on the outskirts of alist office, a historic building and one Carlow. Possibly more than anything else, To go there you had to have a Green that belonged in the main street, the Ritz the library now gives a focus to Tullow St, Card, something my mother never even cinema and dance hall and all the fami- particularly today when a host of interesting tried to acquire. However tight the lies that once lived over their shops. activities take place there. And, amazingly, resources we paid for our visits to the the fine statue of Our Lady has been left in doctor but, let me add, we didn't go for Dublin St., lost a treasure when the place outside the building, together with a any trifling illness. No, instead my venerable and beautiful Royal Hotel was plaque marking the bi-centenary of the mother had a goodly assortment of home knocked to make way for a car park arrival of the Presentation Sisters. The remedies, including Beecham’s Pills, (despite, I believe, a preservation order museum is also a wonderful asset to Aspro, Sloans Liniment, bread soda (for being in place) and what of the old Tech- the town. indigestion), hot onions for application nical School, a gift to the town when ear ache struck, iodine, Mrs. from George Bernard Shaw? Cullen's Powders, cough bottles and many more. And, to tell the truth, Enough of that, let the reader fill in they worked well! the many gaps. But, surely, somebody should have shouted 'stop'. Later the dispensary moved to a new All of this deterioration didn't building on the Green Road but the happen overnight - it took years to regime was the same. Ironically this bring these fine streets to their was supposed to be the first leg of present stagnant state. Carlow's new hospital, which, of course, was never built. So all that The courthouse, a magnificent was accomplished was that people building of which we are all proud, from the farthest corners of the town is on the way to being another ca- had to trudge a long journey, often sualty as the fine, unique railings pushing prams with one or two oc- that surround it are being allowed to cupants, to avail of the new facility. be eaten away by rust. One day The old Presentation Convent building now the home soon they will have to be taken of Carlow’s County Library service and museum I don't have to comment on how dif- down 'for safety reasons' just as the ferent things are today when those fine trees that surrounded it were chopped But now, perhaps, it's time to think of with medical cards see their own GP in his down before an opinion was sought from things that have definitely improved surgery, by appointment. Coillte as to whether they could be saved since the old days. What immediately or not. Yes, a destructive spirit prevailed springs to mind is the difference in local And how can one write about Carlow in where Carlow's town centre was con- health services since the introduction of the old days without mention of the cerned and we must live with the results - the choice of doctor scheme. Sugar Factory? It dominated our lives or live in hope for the promised renewal. just as its massive chimney dominated Before that, the poor and the sick were the skyline. There was work aplenty Our Cathedral was saved from being served by Carlow dispensary on Church St., particularly during the three or four denuded of some of its finest features by - a grim building that I ever only glanced months of 'the Campaign' when lorries the people of Carlow taking to the streets into as a child. But a glance was enough. filled with beet trundled through our in protest. The plan was to remove the Stone floor, rows of wooden benches on streets and the air was permeated with the main altar, the two side altars, the marble which the sick waited for the arrival of the sweet smell of pulp. communion rails and the gloriously doctor. To say it looked a place of cold carved pulpit. Here again one must mention the shopkeepers of the time who gave Through the public outcry, the altars credit, particularly on foodstuffs, were saved and portions of the com- until the money started rolling in. munion rails but the pulpit was sent Without them many families would to the museum. However, the end have gone hungry but the Campaign result is quite beautiful and we can was coming and the good traders still be proud of our Cathedral. Yet were prepared to wait. nothing will ever convince me that a space could not have been found Living on the Dublin Road, the railway for the pulpit, one of the finest station played a big part in our lives - in Europe. the street coming alive as the trains The Cathedral of the Assumption- came in. Hackney cars buzzed up look- Another good development was the sit- from the Souvenir Brochure-1997 ing for business and horse drawn floats ing of the County Library and Carlow brought heavy goods for dispatch. 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58 the changing face of Carlow town

Streams of passengers out, of patients that were fit to go danc- passed our doors giving rise ing, would be admitted. This was done. to many doorstep chats. The station was also a wonder- No doubt many more changes went on ful place for children to play. inside the hospital, many due to some new drugs which happily had come on I could not end this ran- the market, but one thing is certain St. dom collection of memo- Dympna's was never the same again. ries without mentioning Perhaps there's a plaque somewhere to the transformation that Dr. Blake's contribution, if not, there came over St. Dympna's should be. Hospital which began in the late 5Os, due largely to But then so many fine characters helped the arrival of RMS Dr. shape our town, many whose names are Bertram Blake. forgotten. Even as I end this article other St Dympnas Hospital spurts of memory are flooding my mind. At that time there were of work, he said, was not good for the Time, perhaps, to turn off the tap - over 2OO long term (sometimes lifetime) mentally ill, too isolated. For those who for now! patients in the hospital. Suddenly all wanted outdoor work there was plenty of began to change. The enormously high it around the hospital itself, keeping the My thanks to John Shortall and the walls came down, the male and female grounds in order. He got his way and that County Library for their help in patients were integrated for meal times, stopped the daily truck loads of patients tables set for four or six. being brought from the hospital to the farm where One of my first assignments as a very many spent their time just junior reporter was to attend the meetings looking into the hedges. of the Carlow/Kildare Mental Health Board, so I saw the changes as they And then there was the happened. The biggest one, perhaps, was matter of the big hall in the day Dr. Blake announced to the St. Dympna's, a prime Board that he wanted the farm on the venue for dances featur- Dublin Road sold. This was met with ing all the big bands. dismay and strong opposition as all the Clubs hired the premises produce of the farm, which was worked but now there was an by the patients, went to provide food for added proviso. The or- the hospital. ganisers were told that they could have the hall but only on the understanding But Dr.Blake was determined. This type that a list, which Dr. Blake would make

Lord and Lady for the night, Berti Watchorn, President of the Carlow Historical and Archaeological So- ciety and his wife Irene at the ban- quet in Bunraty Casthe during our outing to Clare this year.

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Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712) Myles Kavanagh

Introduction through the influence of O’Neill Nicholas got a “General pardon of all James 11 King of England, Ireland and murders and felonies by him committed” Scotland, the son of King Charles 1 and granted in Westminster by Henry V111. Queen Henrietta Maria, daughter of King By 1552 Nicholas was settled in Newry Henry 1V of France and sister of Louis with substantial lands. In 1585 Sir X111, King of France (1610-1643), was Nicholas Bagenal bought the Barony of born at St. James’s Palace London, 15th Idrone in Co. Carlow from the Carews October 1633 and succeeded his brother for his son Dudley who after his arrival Charles 11, 6th February 1685. James, in Idrone started a feud with the betrayed by his English army and unable Kavanaghs, the original owners of the to resist the invading forces of William land. On or about the 30th of November, of Orange fled to France on the 23rd De- 1586 Dudley Bagenal had lost four cows, cember 1688, and on the 2nd February so he and his brother-in-law Henry Hern 1689, was declared to have abdicated the set out with twenty men to the home of government. Eleven days after his daugh- Murtough, chief of the Kavanaghs at ter Mary and her husband William Prince Garryhill who was then in his seventieth of Orange were proclaimed Queen and year. They entered the house with their Dudley Bagenal - The first Bagenal to King. King Louis X1V of France swords drawn; on seeing them the old in Ireland received James and his attendants with man attempted to make his escape, but friendliness and generosity, establishing they captured him and charged him that him at St. Germain with a liberal income. one of his sons had taken the cows. Dudley Bagenal The name Jacobite was given to a Murtough offered to pay for the cows if supporter of James 11 or of the Stuart it could be proven that his sons had taken Dudley was the second son of Colonel pretenders after 1688 it derived from the the cattle but Bagenal and Hern were not Walter Bagenal and Elizabeth Roper. In Latin of James, Jacobus. satisfied with this and took the old man his book Vicissitudes of An Anglo Irish out and killed him. In the following year Family 1530 -1800 by Philip H. Bagenal The Bagenals on the 21st May 1587 Murtough’s two published 1925, Philip states in relation sons together with twenty men set an to Dudley; “Dudley Bagenal was the Nicholas Bagenal (1509 – 1590) was a ambush for Dudley Bagenal and thirteen second son of Colonel Walter Bagenal. prominent figure in the history of Ireland of his men at Scalp Rocks near Bally- His elder brother was named George and County Down in particular. He was moon and killed all of them. after his grandfather and was one of the a native of Newcastle–under–Lyme, numerous victims killed in the Civil War Staffordshire, England where his father Colonel Dudley Bagenal of Dunleckney, which broke out in 1641. There is no John Bagenal was Mayor of the town. In Barony of Idrone, Co. Carlow, born circa record of Dudley’s birth. His father 1556 he married Eleanor, 3rd daughter of 1638 was a great, great grandson of Sir succeeded to the estates in 1625, when he Sir Edward Griffith of Penrhyn, North Nicholas Bagenal and great grandson of was a year old, and supposing he married Wales; the couple had nine children. This Dudley. Sir Nicholas died early in at 21 Dudley would probably have been marriage brought to Bagenal consider- February, 1590, at Greencastle, Newry born about 1638.” able estates in Wales. In 1539 he was and was buried in the church which he involved in a brawl in Leek, Staffordshire had built. In the Office of Arms in Dublin At the start of the Insurrection of 1641 in which a man was killed. He fled to Castle a record existed which stated that Walter was 25 years of age and he Ulster where he took employment with between four and five thousand people together with Morgan Kavanagh of Conn Bachach O’Neill as a mercenary were present at his funeral. Borris represented Carlow in the Confed- soldier. On the 2nd of March 1543 erate Parliament of Kilkenny. Walter

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60 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

commanded a troop of horse in the Lein- The trial and case of the allegations the above mentioned murdered English ster army and it is said that during the against Walter Bagenal were complicated people came from James Butler or Walter whole eleven years of the war, he did not and took place on the 19th of August Bagenal, several deponents giving sleep one night in Dunleckney Manor. 1652. Among those giving evidence evidence that Bagenal gave the order. Following the disastrous defeat of the against him was Lady Ann Butler, the One deponent even gave evidence that James Butler, in denying his complicity, had told him that he had in his possession the order for the executions written in his nephew Bagenal’s hand. James Butler was not called to give evidence. Bagenal denied the charge that he had given the order to execute these people and stated that he did not know who gave the order; however, he was found guilty and sentenced to be hanged. On pleading that he be “bulleted alive like a soldier and not be hanged like a “malefactor”, his request was granted and he was shot to death. He was only 38 years of age, leaving a wife and young family. He wrote to Ormonde pleading that he take his son and heir Dudley into his care. Ormonde accepted the guardianship. The Bagenals lost possession of the Idrone estates. Dudley was placed with a puritan family in Dublin while he was being sent to study there under the charge of Mr. Stephens Master of the Dublin Old Dunleckney Manor Protestant Free School located at Black- hall Place. Dudley spent 4 years at Confederate army led by Richard Butler, wife of Sir Thomas Butler, Baronet of school in Dublin and then attended St. 3rd Viscount of Mountgarret against the Clogrennane, she claimed Walter with Sir John’s College Oxford, University of Royalist army led by James FitzThomas Morgan Kavanagh came to their house, Oxford, England. He graduated at St. Butler, 1st Duke Ormonde at the Battle placed them under arrest and took them John’s and was admitted to Middle of Kilrush in April 1642, Colonel Walter to Kilkenny, using all means possible to Temple in 1658. Around this period Dud- Bagenal and his wife went to stay with put her, her husband and family to death ley is reported to have taken part as a vol- his uncle James Butler of Tinnehinch and torture alleging that they were rank unteer in the First Dutch War (1652 – (brother of Lord Mountgarret, 2nd puritan protestants and must perish, that 1654) along with Colonel James Porter. Viscount Galmoy’s widowed mother). they were kept prisoners for weeks, her During his stay there several members of cattle stolen and her coach left to rot in At the restoration of King Charles 11, in an English protestant family named Leighlinbridge Castle. 1660 Dudley was not long in being rein- Stone living at nearby Graiguenamanagh stated in his Idrone estates. His petitions were taken into custody by some of the She also stated the deponents were one to the Lords Justice and the King’s letter Butler’s servants and ordered to be taken day having a piece of salmon Bryan in his favour outlining the Bagenal to Duncannon. On the way they were Kavanagh’s wife (i.e. Ann’s sister history, past support and loyalty of the hanged, men and women, and a baby Eleanor) being with her, she refused to family to the Crown, very much supposedly thrown into a river. eat any part of the salmon and being contributed to the successful outcome. demanded the reason she said she would The Manor and lands of Bagenal had A special High Court of Justice was set not eat any fish that came out of the been at this time in the possession of up in Kilkenny on November 12, 1652 by Barrow because she has seen several Daniel Axtell, the President of the Court Cromwell for the purpose of satisfying infants’ bodies and other carcases of the who had Walter Bagenal executed. For- the English outcry for satisfaction for in- English taken up in the weirs. tune for Daniel had also changed with the nocent blood spilt in 1641 and 1642 in restoration of King Charles 11. The trial Carlow and Kilkenny. The president of Notably, the first husband of Anne Butler of 29 Regicides, the murderers of King the Court was Colonel Daniel Axtell, one (daughter of Sir Thomas Colclough of Charles 1 began at Hick-Halls, Westmin- of the most active and violent officers of Tintern, Co. Wexford by his second wife, ster, London, on Tuesday the 9th of the Cromwellian Army in Ireland and his first wife being Eleanor Bagenal, October 1660 and continued at the who was Military Governor of Kilkenny Walter’s aunt) was Nicholas Bagenal, Sessions-House in the Old-Bailey until in 1654 and 1655. Walter’s uncle. The inquisition was held Friday the 19th of October. On Friday the to determine whether the order to execute 19th of October, sentence having been Carloviana 2017 Bagenal Dudley Col_Layout 1 13/09/2016 11:16 Page 3

61 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

daughter. She married secondly William Blackburne. She died in 1734.

6) Walter Bagenal, born 1671; he married firstly Eleanor Barnewall, they had 2 daughters. He married secondly Eleanor Beauchamp; they had 2 daughters and 1 son. He died in 1745.

7) Mary Bagenal, was born c.1672 and died 8 June 1709 in the Convent of the Poor Clare Nuns in Gravelines, France.

8) Katherine Bagenal was born c. 1674 and died 8 April 1736 in the Convent of Poor Clare Nuns Gravelines, France.

Dudley was also godfather to the first daughter of Richard Butler, son of 2nd Viscount Galmoy.

During the period of the Popish Plot which, was a fictitious conspiracy Map of Dunleckney pre railway line circa 1840s concocted by Titus Oates- between 1678 Note position of original entrance, Gate Lodge and avenue into the first and 1681 that gripped the Kingdom of Dunleckney House. Great Britain and Ireland in anti-Catholic Note position of first Dunleckney Cross Roads hysteria Dudley fled into France where he lived for some time with his wife and passed on him four days earlier for his Catherine and Mary who were nuns in family. He later with his wife and family participation in the Regicide, Daniel the Poor Clares, Graveline, France it returned to Dunleckney. He held the Axtell drawn on one hurdle from New- records Ann Butler as their mother. The office of M.P. for Old Leighlin in 1668 gate to Tyburn was hanged, quartered and Peerage of Ireland 1785 by John Lodge and the office of M. P. for Carlow in disposed of for his part in the Regicide of revised and enlarged by Mervyn Archdall 1689. At the time of the accession of King Charles 1. which includes an account under the King James 11 in 1688 he had been heading “Butler Viscount Mount Garret”, resident in Dunleckney for at least twenty In 1661 we find Dudley’s name attached records Walter Bagenal as the son of Ann years and was in his fiftieth year of age. to the “Faithful Remonstrance of the Butler and Dudley Bagenal. All records Among the Ormonde papers at the Catholic nobility and gentry of Ireland” cite the wife of Dudley as having eight Bodleian Library (University of Oxford) which was presented to King Charles 11. children from the one mother. However, there is preserved a petition to King Later in a Petition to James 11 he I am unable at this stage to clear up the James 11 on his accession to the throne declares he was “engaged in several matter but I would with some hesitation, by the Duke of Ormonde praying for a risings which were for his late Majesty’s be inclined to regard the Poor Clares and place at the Court for Dudley Bagenal. Restoration.” the Butler reports of above as the correct The request was evidently not granted at version. The following are the children that time but later came when both were It appears that Dudley was married twice, of Dudley and Ann: in exile at the Royal Court of the deposed his marriages being arranged by his Sovereign at St. Germain in France. guardian the 1st Duke of Ormonde. He 1) George Bagenal, known as Busbie in married Ann Butler daughter of the Hon. Jacobite correspondence and was Aide-de- Notes Edward Butler of Ballyragget Co. Camp and companion to the second Duke of Kilkenny and Elizabeth Mathew daugh- Ormonde in exile. He died without issue at Spain. 1) The Honourable Society of the ter of George Mathew of Thomastown Middle Temple, commonly known simply as County Tipperary. It also appears that he Middle Temple, is one of the four Inns of 2) Nicholas Bagenal, died 1737 at St Reynard, married Ann Mathew, niece of Ormonde. Court exclusively entitled to call their Flanders, Belgium, without issue. Confusion arises as to who was the members to the English Bar as barristers and is located on the banks of the Thames mother of his eight children. Philip H. 3) Dudley Bagenal, died 1757 at St. Reynard, in London. Bagenal in his book Vicissitudes of an Flanders, Belgium, without issue. Anglo Irish Family cites Ann Mathew as the mother but appears also to cite at 4) Margaret Bagenal, married Sir John Hales. 2) St. John’s College Oxford is a constituent college of the University of different stages two different first names They had three sons. Oxford. It was founded in 1555 by the of Mathew as the father of Ann. In the merchant tailor Sir Thomas White. It was obituaries of two of Dudley’s daughters 5) Ann Bagenal; she married firstly Sir Gervase Clifton, they had 15 sons and 1 intended to provide a source of Roman

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62 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

Catholic clerics to support the Counter-Refor- John of arms and all his other goods and day was spent at Kinsale in putting the mation under Queen Ann. It is located in St. chattels, such that he cannot keep those fort- arms and ammunitions out of reach of Giles, Oxford and was named after St. John alices any longer without receiving something danger. Horses sufficient to carry a few the Baptist. for their custody. The King believing that travellers were with some difficulty petition to be true granted 100s to John. NLI, procured; and on the 14th March James (Harris) MS3, f13. proceeded to Cork. Crowds of people The above mentioned McMurthes were poured forth to meet and greet him. He the Kavanaghs led by Art Mac Muirc- was received with military honours by heartach Caomhanach. Justin McCarthy who held the chief command in Munster. James stayed at Cross Green House and Tyrconnell The Arrival waited upon him there and gave him an Richard Talbot the son of Sir Michael account of the state and condition of his Talbot of Carton Castle, Co. Kildare, a Kingdom; representing that the diligence descendant of an old Norman family in of the Catholic Nobility and Gentry had Ireland, after the Civil War in 1641 and raised above 50 regiments of Foot and the sacking of Drogheda by Cromwell several troops of horse and Dragoons and fled Ireland to join his fellow royalists in “that he had distributed amongst them France and while there was introduced to about 20,000 arms, but they were most Charles 11 and his brother James the so old and unserviceable, that not above Duke of York, who later became James 1,000 of the firearms were found after- 11. On the 12th of April 1683 Richard wards to be of any use.” The rest of the made his will which was witnessed by report was more favourable. Tyrconnell Dudley Bagenal, Nicholas Browne, was rewarded for his services with a Walter Dongan and Edmund Burke and dukedom. James left Cork on the 21st all were subsequently Colonels in King March and his progress to Dublin was Rathellen Fort, wall ruin from early like a triumphal procession. He stopped 1300s of the fortalice of John Galbarre James’s service. After the accession of King James 11 Richard became Lord at Clonmel on the 21st and on the 22nd and in the 1600s a residence of Sir at Kilkenny. Captain George Gaffney Thomas & Lady Butler Clogrennane). Deputy of Ireland 1687-88; Commander in Chief of the forces in Ireland and 1st who commanded a company in Colonel Earl of Tyrconnell. He spent great energy Edward Butler’s infantry regiment wrote the following account “Gave the men a 3) In 1649 Henry Rudkin arrived in in organising an army in Ireland and barrel of beer to drink the King’s health Ireland with the army of Oliver Cromwell. He suppressing dissident Protestants. He rented property in the townland of Moneybeg assured King James 11 in exile that he the night he came to Kilkenny – 16 circa 1688-1690 from Dudley Bagenal and would find a welcome in Ireland and shillings; powder for to give a volley – 2 paid £20 per annum for it. He built a Corn James after some hesitation accepted shillings.” Dudley Bagenal had formed Mill on the site and its ruins are still to be seen the invitation. and most likely financed his own Infantry in Bagenalstown. Henry also rented lands in Regiment of foot which was active at the Tinneygarney, Old Leighlin and Parish of Siege of Derry and the Boyne, therefore Wells for 21 years in 1708 from Bartholomew James left St. Germain on 15/25 Febru- ary 1689, Louis’s farewell to him was considering the proximity of his estate it Vigors the Bishop of Ferns and Leighlin. is most likely that he was amongst those Bartholomew is buried in Old Leighlin said to have been: “the best that I can wish you is that we shall never see each gathered at Kilkenny to welcome James. (4) Sir Tomas Butler of Clogrennane other again.” James was held up at Brest On the 23rd James stopped at Kilcullen had possession of a fortalice at Rathellen, by bad weather but finally after a smooth and on Palm Sunday March 24th about approximately 1Km outside Bagenalstown on passage reached Kinsale on 12 March, noon he entered Dublin. At this time the road to Leighlinbridge in the 1600s. Part the first English King to visit Ireland for Dublin with a population of approxi- of a wall of the fortalice is still present and nearly three centuries. The French fleet mately 50,000 was the largest town in forms the boundary between the road and Ireland and in these islands was second field up from Rathellen Lock on the opposite consisted of twenty two ships which brought a number of James’s Irish, Scots only to London. The houses were deco- road side. This fortalice was built in the early rated, the streets were laid down with 14th century and was in the possession of and English supporters as well as French fresh gravel, harpers played “God save John Galbarre. On the 10th May 1358 from officers, arms and ammunition. James Cork John Galbarre petitioned King Edward was accompanied by his two natural sons the King” and girls strewed flowers 111 before the Jcr and council that he kept at – the Duke of Berwick and his brother before him on his way from James’s-gate his own costs two fortalices in Galbarreston along with Count de’ Avaux, the French to the Castle. Tyrconnell, bearing the and Rahalyn near Leighlin, in defence of the Ambassador, who was to keep King sword of state in a carriage, preceded the people of Co. Carlow, which fortalices are in Louis X1V informed of the mission. King, who followed amidst the plaudits the march near les McMurthes and Obyrnes of the multitude gallantly mounted and King’s Irish enemies who daily weigh down Included in the Irish contingent were Colonel Patrick Sarsfield, Simon Luttrell accompanied by the Earl of Granard and the said people with war. The said McMur- Lord Provost on his right and the Duke thes, after Easter 1358 last past despoiled and his young brother Henry Luttrell. A of Berwick and Lord Melfort on his left. Carloviana 2017 Bagenal Dudley Col_Layout 1 13/09/2016 11:16 Page 5

63 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

The Engagement

On March the 25th 1689, the day after he reached Dublin, James issued a proclamation summoning a parliament for the 7th of May. A day or two later he set out for Derry city which was a Williamite stronghold and was besieged by the Jacobite army from the 7th of December below the normal, military expenses ice Bagot, Hubert Kelly, and William 1688. Dudley Bagenal’s Infantry Regi- were heavy and the money he had Coolie. All were of local families. ment was part of the Jacobite siege war- received from France was inadequate for fare force at Derry. On his journey at his requirements. Additional taxes During the early days of King James 11 Omagh County Tyrone news reached were needed. in Ireland he granted to Dudley Bagenal James that 13 ships were coming into the estates in the North of Ireland which Derry and de’ Avaux persuaded him to Parliament was held in the King’s Inn, a had descended from Sir Nicholas Bage- return to Dublin and leave his generals to former Dominican convent on the north nal to his great grandson Nicholas. Fran- deal with Derry. At Armagh James on his side of the river Liffey, near the present cis Chaddock, of Newry stated that he way back to Dublin received a letter from Four Courts on the 7th May 1689. James saw Rowland White, of Crowbane, in the his son Berwick which stated that there himself attended, wearing his robes and County of Down, in the yard of an old was no word of an English fleet, and that a crown newly made in Dublin. The castle belonging to Nicholas Bagenal, of the general opinion was that if James following were the members who were Greencastle, Newry in the same County, appeared in person Derry would open its returned for the County of Carlow: take a piece of earth into his hands, and gates to him. This was enough for James in the presence of several witnesses, and in spite of de’ Avaux’s protests he House of Commons - deliver it to Dudley Bagenal and that he turned again towards Derry. James’s gave him thereby possession of the presence was not successful at Derry and County of Carlow: Dudley Bagenal, estate. Colonel Dudley and his Infantry so he returned to Dublin leaving the Henry Luttrell. Regiment were on the march towards French lieutenant–general Maumont in Borough of Carlow: Maurice Bagot, John Derry to take part in the siege of that city charge of the Derry operation. The siege Warren. at that time. continued until the end of July when two Borough of Old Leighlin: Darby Long, armed merchant ships Mountjoy and Daniel Doran. After the unsuccessful sieges of Derry Phoenix rammed through the heavily House of Lords – and Enniskillen King James decided to defended boom in the river Foyle and Cheevers, Viscount Mount Leinster (a spend the winter in Kilkenny away from unloaded many tons of food to relieve the new creation of King James 11). his army which was based at the Curragh. city of Derry. On the night of the 31st William Brereton, Baron of Old Leighlin During his stay in Kilkenny the Mayor, July the Jacobites burned their tents and (not present). the Aldermen, Bishop Phelan and the set off on the road to Lifford. The failure Richard Ogle, Viscount Carlow (not clergy of the Diocese of Ossory of the siege was disastrous for James’s present). persuaded the King to hand over the cause and secured a firm base in Ulster vacant Kilkenny College with its endow- for William. At this period Dudley Bagenal was Lord ments to them for the establishment of a Lieutenant of Carlow and Maurice Bagot high class school. However, the King On the 28th of July 1689 de’ Avaux en- and William Cooke deputies. went one better by granting for the school closed in a letter to Francois Michel Le Parliament continued its sittings from the a Charter which erected it into a Royal Telher, Marquis de Louis, French Secre- 7th of May to the 20th of July 1689. College or University called the Royal tary of State for War in France a report of Amongst the acts passed at Parliament College of St. Canice. The Charter stated the state of the muskets, which are use- were – that the College would have the power less and of those which are wanting to the and the authority of conferring the troops before Derry, and the swords, Poyning’s Law was repealed; degrees of Bachelor and Master. The belts, and bandoliers which they only other university in Ireland at the also require. The Act of Settlement was repealed; time was Trinity College. The Royal (new settlers would have to restore the College of St. Canice lasted officially The total of James’s Infantry Regiments lands to the old owners); from the 21st February to the 1st was 50. The following extract is for two July 1690. Regiments of County Carlow and A tax was levied on estates, the act set out James’s total Regiments: the names of the commissioners in each The following extracts are taken from county who were to be responsible for D’Alton: King James’s Irish Army List collecting the revenue. The following 1689, Volume 2 and relates to King were appointed for County Carlow: James and County Carlow: Back in Dublin James reviewed his Colonel Dudley Bagenal, John Bagot William111 landed in Carrickfergus, Co. finances and realised his revenue was far junior, Patrick Wall, Pierce Bryan, Maur- Antrim on the 14th June 1690 and Carloviana 2017 Bagenal Dudley Col_Layout 1 13/09/2016 11:16 Page 6

64 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

Army Companies Men King James 20 1,564 1,200 Charles Kavanagh (Carrigduff) 13 599 300 Dudley Bagenal - 515 454

Extract from King Jame’s Irish Army 1689/90 Colonel Dudley Bagenal’s Infantry Regiment Captains Lieutenants Ensigns The Colonel William Burke James Power Thomas Meara Lieutenant Colonel Major - Corbet ------Gaffney ------Geffry Pendergast Walter Pendergast James Pendergast Nicholas Power Richard Wadding Edmund Power John Meagher Edmund Meagher Thomas Meager Daniel Hogan Richard Morris William Hogan Richard Hogan Edmund Connor Thomas Butler John Keating Robert Pendergast Piers Keating Richard Mansfield Edmund Roche David Roche Bryan O’Bryan Murtough O’Bryan Edward Butler Thomas Purcell John Dwyer Nicholas Purcell John Moclare Edmund Tobin James Moclare Philip Dwyer Thomas Dwyer Grenadier Edmund Butler

Colonel Charles Kavanagh’s InfantryRegiment (Carrigduff, Co. Carlow) Captains Lieutenants Ensigns The Colonel Bonaventure Kinsalagh ------Kavanagh John Lacey - - Lieutenant - Colonel ----- Browne -----Raguel Gros, Deverande Major ------Simon Kavanagh ------Burns Ja. Burne Walter Esmond Denis Kavanagh ------Le Sr. Deffoser ------Robert Esmond ------Edmund Kavanagh Anthony Eustace ----- Eustace ------Fitzgerald Ignatius Kavanagh Grenadier William Boole/William Fisher ------Nicholas Warren ----- Archibald ------Nicholas Nickson ------Nickson Ed Kavanagh ------Kinsealagh ------Meade------Walsh ------Ivers ------Walsh Rev ---- Kinsealagh, Chaplain ----- McGrath Surgeon

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65 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

marched south with his army. According two daughters, the Poor Clare Nuns in found the Lausex a Malouen of 28 guns to Captain G. Gaffney’s Autograph Mem- France, states that he accompanied King newly come from France with corn and orandum Book – On the 18th of June James into exile. After leaving Dublin other goods for Ireland; they convinced 1690 Dudley Bagenal’s Regiment was there are various accounts of his move- the Captain to get under sail to Duncan- stationed at Dundalk and furnished a ments but all of these end with guard to defend the Moyry Pass (The him arriving at Duncannon, Gate of Ulster) against the advance of Co. Wexford. King William. With the approach of William and his army King James retired The folklore of Bagenalstown Southwards with the object of defending contains the following version the passage of the Boyne. A week before of King James’s journey after the famous battle Dudley’s Regiment was he and his escort left Dublin; in encamped at Cookstown, near Ardee, “The Lodge” (now known as where were also in the second line on the Eastwood House)a Bagenal right were 3 regiments of horse, Lord house then in the townland of The Lodge (Eastwood House) Clare’s, Sunderland’s and Parkers; and 6 Moneybeg the staff were very regiments of foot- Hamilton’s, Lord excited after being informed that King non. From Duncannon with all on board Meath’s, Sir M. Creagh’s, MacGilly- James would be staying there and so they set sail to Kinsale.” James reports cuddy’s, O’Brien’s, and Lord Tyrone’s. great preparations took place. that in Kinsale “He found Mons Foran a James chose to place his line of defence Chef de’Esquadre with a squadron of on the River Boyne, approximately 48 km Disappointment followed later when they seven small French ships, with some from Dublin, and so assembled all his found out that King James and his re- merchant men laden with corn and wine, forces there, including Bagenal’s Infantry tinue had crossed the river Barrow at together with Mons Duesne who had 3 Regiment. The Williamites reached the Leighlinbridge and stayed at a large small frigates likewise, they set sail and house in the came to Brest the 20th July from whence Clorusk area and he sent an express to the Queen to the next morning acquaint her with his arrival there and the crossed the Bar- misfortune in the country from whence row again at the he came.” ancient ford just south of the pres- The Exile ent bridge at the Royal Oak and James joined Queen Maria who was headed for Dun- established at the ancient Chateau de cannon. They Saint-Germain-en-Laye by King Louis could perhaps X1V and from that date to the date of his have crossed the death 16th of September 1701 James was Barrow at the an- the honoured guest and pensioner of Battle of the Boyne 1690 cient ford and King Louis, who made him a regular stayed in East- allowance of 600,000 livres a year. Dud- Boyne on the 29th of June. The battle wood House and then the next morning ley Bagenal obtained a position at commenced on the 1st of July and was a set out for Duncannon. Crossing at James’s Court as chief gentleman usher, decisive encounter. The Williamites Leighlinbridge may have been a ruse to which he held for some time. His name undoubtedly won the battle but in the deflect attention from Eastwood House. appears in the Court records as follows, military sense was not an overwhelming The road from the ancient ford in Clorusk in a list of the house hold employees – victory. The casualty figures of the battle to the town of Bagenalstown is now 1,200 pistoles - Bagenal – Gentleman were quite low for a battle of such amount known as the Royal Oak Road and part Usher to the King - (pistole a foreign of participants, 35.000 of William’s army of the avenue that led from the north Spanish gold coin formerly current, esp. and 25,000 of James’s army, about 2,000 entrance of the town to The Lodge (East- 16th/17th centuries, worth about 18 died. Although three-quarters of them wood House) is now known as Regent shillings). Dudley was among several were Jacobites; William’s army had Street. Credible enough when you con- employees from Ireland and England at more wounded. sider Colonel Dudley Bagenal was a the Court. When King James 11 died in member of King James’s escort group 1701 his son James 111 carried on the The Departure and that he fled to France with him. Court at St. Germain and Dudley continued on also at the Court as a member of After defeat at the Boyne James fled to On arrival at Duncannon King James the household. Dudley’s wife Ann and Dublin and the next morning set out himself reports that “Mons de La children had followed him to France with through Wicklow, with a small escort, Hoguette and companions went straight possibly the exception of their son and which may have included Dudley Bage- to Passage (a small port on the estuary of heir Walter. Ann Bagenal also resided at nal, a note in the obituaries of Bagenal’s the Three Sister Rivers) where they times in Ireland and England, perhaps Carloviana 2017 Bagenal Dudley Col_Layout 1 13/09/2016 11:16 Page 8

66 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

with Walter. At the time of Dudley Bage- died she bid her last farewell, and con- nal’s marriage in 1668 a settlement had fessed her thoughts were so taken up in taken place of the estates, by which they concerning her patience, and union with were entailed on the eldest son of the God, that it banished all apprehensions marriage, subject to a jointure, and to in any kind, the disposition gives us of £5,000 for the younger children. So that her present felicity but not to be failing Dudley Bagenal could only forfeit his life in my duty, humbly beg your prayers. estate; and as Walter, his eldest son, was Requiescat in Pace. fortunately too young to take up arms with his father, his prospects were not A note attached to the above included the sacrificed. King William 111 made an following - Sister Mary Magdalen, allowance of £400 a year out of the Bage- daughter of Dudley Bagnall of Dunleck- nal family estate which had come into his ney Manor, Co. Carlow by Anne 2nd hands to Dudley Bagenal’s wife Ann, daughter of Edward Butler of Bal- during the life of her husband in order to lyragget, Co. Kilkenny - and also stated support their children. – her father accompanied King James into exile and was an officer at his court. The Bagenal estates and Manor at Dun- Mother Catharine Dominic Bagnall leckney had been lost to the family but 2) Anno Domini 1736 in this con- 7th Abbess of Poor Clares Gravelines. the somewhat uncommon fact that the vent of Nazareth of English Poor Clares From the painting, Urseline Convent, Barony of Idrone was held direct from in Graveline the 8th of April most sweetly Greenwich the Crown, made the advocacy of Walter and piously rendered her soul to her Cre- Bagenal’s case in regaining the estates ator, amidst the tears and prayers of her favoured), doubtless obtained that unal- after he gave allegiance to the new afflicted children, strengthened with the terable sweetness and presence of Spirit dynasty, changed his religion and became Rites of our Holy Mother the Church, our to the last moment, so Saintly a Death, a protestant, more easy than that most Venerable and Dearly beloved gives us all reason to hope she’s now in of others. Mother Catharine Bagnall, in the 63rd the enjoyment of a happy Eternity; but year of her age, and 47 of her Religious not to be failing in our duty we humbly After arriving in France two of Dudley Profession, and 31 of her Government in request the accustomed prayers. and Ann’s daughters Mary and Catherine quality of Abbess. She was endowed with Requiescat in Pace. joined the Order of Poor Clares at the singular advantages of nature and grace Convent of Nazareth at Graveline and which rendered her amiable to all she Sister Catharine was elected 7th Abbess were professed as Sister Mary Magdalen conversed with. Indefatigable in her in January 1705 and a portrait of her has aged 18 years and Sister Catharine assiduity for the Community’s advance- been reproduced in “A History of the Dominic aged 17 years on the 6th of Feb- ment Spiritual and temporal. Great was Poor Clares.” ruary 1691. The following obituaries are her faith and confidence in Almighty taken from the records of the Poor Clare God, and invincible her courage and The following is taken from the History Nuns at Graveline : patience in Cross Events, the singular MSS Stuart Papers, Volume 1V page devotion she had to the Passion of our 507. The writer is describing the journey 1) Anno Domini 1709 the 8th of Blessed Saviour doubtless strengthened of two Jacobites from England to the June in our Convent of Nazareth of to support with remarkable patience and Continent and this extract, a letter from English Poor Clares in Graveline is serenity Continual Infirmities, she like- the spy Le Brun (Captain J.Ogilvie) to piously deceased our most dear Sister wise great examples of Mortification, the Duke of Marlborough, John Churchill Mary Magdalen Bagnall aged of 37 most particularly in her diet, her mater- (1650-1722) dated from Dunkirk, 10th years and 29 since her entrance into nal tenderness and compassion for the August 1717; Holy Religion, where she has evidenced sick was no less extraordinary, having no herself an example of relaxed fervour, regard to her own health to give them any “They stayed the next day at Dunkirk, intensity and fidelity to prayer, an habit- ease or solace. She was seized on and rested themselves and thence went to ual interior union with God which Maundy Thursday with her last sickness; the nuns at Graveline and there made a particularly appeared in a painful and yet would not omit serving at the table bargain and pensioned themselves. I lingering consumption of 2 years, which and washing the feet, from whence she doubt not you know who is Lady Abbess she supported with an unparalleled was constrained to take to her bed, em- there. She is the sister of Bagnall courage and cheerfulness, but chiefly her ploying her last 11 days continual fever, (George) that is with Mr. Whytle (code last sickness in which her unchangeable in fervent and repeated aspirations to name for Ormonde) and she knows every sweetness was most remarkable, as well Almighty God, which did not hinder her step Mr Whytle takes and you can easily as her presence of spirit, which next to an taking particular notice of each person judge what secretaries nuns are, but more application to her own interior, she of her Community, and giving them her particularly my Lady Abbess who can employed in taking notice of each partic- blessing, till she was not able to lift up keep nothing longer than she can find an ular, and expressing her kindness to the her hand, her great devotion to St. Fran- Sources and Gratitude community, to whom a little before she cis Xavier (by whom she had often been

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67 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

occasion to tell it. Everybody knows this and took up residence at Bruges, which construed to make void the grant made that knows her.” was a haven of refuge for all loyal to the by the King for the subsistence of the Stuart cause. Dudley died on the 9th of wife and children of Dudley Bagenal, (The Duke of Marlborough, John August 1712 (old Style calendar) in and she was accordingly allowed this Churchill first served James 1 and later Bruges and may have been buried in the charge; and the eldest son, Walter was switched to serving William and later parish of St. Ann there but no tablet exists enabled to prove his title to the family again Queen Anne.) to mark his final resting place. After the estates in remainder after his father’s death of her husband, Ann became an death, and the younger children their From Abbot Snow’s Necrology of Bene- active agent for the Jacobite party and charges of £5,000. dictines, one of Dudley’s sons, his name- travelled at regular intervals between sake, professed religion according to the France, Britain and Ireland and is cred- The Forfeitures following entry: “1708 D. Placidus Bag- ited with winning over the 2nd Duke of nall professed January 1699.” Ormonde to joining the Jacobite cause. Forfeitures followed the war in Ireland Philip Bagenal in his book Vicissitudes against William 111. In the forfeitures Dudley’s son George, however, took full of an Anglo Irish Family records Ann’s under the Cromwellian Government advantage of Dudley’s position at court, death on page 131 at the age of 80 years 1653, the whole family, and all who were gained full knowledge of all affairs and but on page 140 records her alive at the entitled in reversion or expectancy, were became well skilled in the graces of a age of 83 years. Throughout her life Anne swept off to Connaught. But the forfei- French court. He was continually was a strong supporter of her husband tures under King William were in one employed as a secret agent of the Jaco- and King James 11 and was grateful for respect far less severe. The estates for- bite party and his code name was Busby. the support given to the family in exile. feited were vested in trustees, and a court When the 2nd Duke of Ormonde joined She seems to have been a very active was established, in which all that had any the Jacobite party George was appointed woman of great energy and spirit. Her description of legal claim to them, or any to be his Aide-de-Camp and travelled for active participation in the continued part of them, were to declare it, on or several years with him all over the conti- support of the Stuart cause after the death before the 10th of August 1700. nent, Great Britain and Ireland. of her husband bears witness to that. The following is a transcript of the claims Some years after the death of King James In the Government Act of 1703 there was relating to the lands of Dudley Bagenal. 11 Dudley and Ann moved to Flanders a proviso included, that it should not be

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68 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

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69 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

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70 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

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71 Colonel Dudley Bagenal the Jacobite (1638-1712)

War and Politics in Ireland 1649- 1730 cal Society 1860 Butlers of Ballintemple Turtle Bunbury J.G. Simms Richard Talbot Earl of Tyrconnell Irish The Douglas Archives Jacobite Ireland J.B. Simms Royalist and Jacobite Soldier A Concise History of Ireland P.W. Joyce Vicissitudes of An-Anglo Irish Family Catholic Record Society Miscellanea 1X Memoirs of James 11 Philip Bagenal London 1914 Dictionary of National Biography 1891 King James’s Irish Army List 1689 Vol 1 Registers of the Poor Clares Graveline Extract and Most Impartial Account of John D’Alton Debretts Complete Peerage of the United the Indictment, Trial, and Judgement (ac- The History and Antiquities of the County Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland cording to Law) of 29 Regicides London of Carlow John Ryan 1833 The Peerage of Ireland: Or A Genealogi- 1679 Andrew Cooke and Edward Powell Journal of the Royal Society of Antiqui- cal History of that Kingdom by John Wikipedia ties of Ireland Lodge. Revised Richard Sheehan, Dunleckney, Co. Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquar- and Enlarged by Mervyn Archdall Vol. Carlow ies Ireland Vol.3 1V Dublin 1789 Edward Kinsella, Bagenalstown The Journal of the Historical and Ar- The Peerage Compiled by Daryl Lundy Carlow County Library chaeological Association of Ireland 1868 The History and Antiquities of the Dio- Muine Bheag Branch Carlow Co. Compendium of Irish Biography 1878 cese of Ossory Library Alfred Webb A General History of the Present Nobility The History of England from the Acces- of the Kingdom Vol.1V Dublin sion of James 11 Thomas Babington The Dukes of Ormonde (1610-1745) Macaulay Toby Barnard, Jane Fenlon Proceedings and Papers of the Kilkenny Ancestry of Butlers of Co. Wexford Ire- and South-East of Ireland Archaeologi- land B.A. Butler

On 21 May, 1587 Murtagh Kavanagh’s two sons, together with 20 men set an ambush for Dud- ley Bagenal and 13 of his men at Scalp Rocks near Ballymoon and killed all of them.

Percy Drea at ancient ford across River Barrow in Wells. Behind Percy is located what was known as “The Horse Pool” where Bianconi’s horses cooled off, washed and then rested at the nearby Royal Oak Inn stables. Another view of the ruin wall of Rathellen Fortalice Carloviana 2017 Hacketstown Poachers Col edited_Layout 1 13/09/2016 11:33 Page 1

The Red Lad and Blunt: Hacketstown Poachers of the early 20th century (Part Two) Patrick M. Byrne

It was a beautiful mild sunny morning in world for them to do. After the parent worked beside him in the explosives early May and a cock goldfinch, resplen- birds had fed their chicks twice more the factory. Both Blunt and the Red Lad had dent in his breeding colours, sat singing cage would be moved again to another left this factory about three years before on top of a large elder bush at the far end bush or tree about fifty yards from the the 1917 disaster when a horrific explo- of the Red Lad’s small garden in Bridge original nest site. And so it went on, sion in a section of the factory killed Lane, Hacketstown. While he was move after move until the cage and twenty-six men in what were known as singing his hen searched for and gathered chicks eventually arrived into the Red the danger houses. Four men from the moss from the loose stone wall that sur- Lad’s back garden, where they were hung Hacketstown area were killed in this rounded the garden and carried it away up under the eave gutters, so that their terrible event. They were Thomas to construct their nest. Goldfinches are parents could continue to supply them Breslin, aged 27, Red Bog; Michael late nesters, as they time the arrival of with food until they could feed and drink Dunne, aged 21, Hacketstown; Patrick their chicks with the formation of seed water for themselves. Maher, aged 21, Hacketstown; and heads on dandelions and thistles, as it is Patrick Reilly, aged 30, Knockananna. on these seeds that the parent birds feed When the young finches were no longer The sound of this explosion was heard as their offspring. This fact had not gone dependent on their parents to feed them far as fifteen miles from Arklow. unnoticed by the Red Lad and Blunt who they were placed in large cages or a small were watching the proceedings from the aviary and looked after very well. After Both the Red Lad and Blunt were well back door. “That’s a powerful singing their first moult adult feathers replaced tuned in to the wildlife of the surrounding goldfinch, Thomas,” said the Red Lad, the juvenile ones, giving them the splen- countryside and knew all the habits of addressing Blunt while still looking at the did colours of adult goldfinches. Only at birds, fish and game. They also had bird. “He is to be sure,” replied Blunt, this stage was it possible to see the subtle another great advantage when trapping “and I’m going to tell you something for difference between cocks and hens, birds and poaching; they both knew how nothing now, Jim.” (As if he should be which could be done by examining the to make good quality birdlime. charging for the information he was size of the patch on the bird’s face. Cock about to impart) “I know where that pair birds would now be separated from the To do this the Red Lad had constructed a are building their nest.” hens and at this point most of the hens small tin hut approximately six feet by would be released and set free to breed in four feet by six feet in height, and it was The plan now was to observe the nest at the wild. Sometimes a hen finch might be made from old tin advertising signs, one least twice a week until the chicks were kept as a decoy to lure other goldfinches of which was for “Neave’s Food,” within four days of flying away with the to a trap set with nets or birdlime. another for “Liver Pills,” and yet another parent birds. At this stage the nest and for “Black Boot Polish.” This humble chicks would be removed from the bush The Red Lad was quite an expert at mak- shack soon became known to all the bird where they had hatched and they would ing nets of various sizes, shapes and fanciers in the town and countryside now be placed in a rearing cage. This mesh sizes, and he also made the flat around as the “Birdlime Factory.” The rearing cage would now be hung up in wooden net needles in different sizes that R.I.C. at the time, in this area at least, another bush about ten yards from the he used for making, or as some would showed little or no interest in catching original nest site and in the direction of say knitting, the nets. He could make nets those who were trapping wild birds. the Red Lad’s house. When the parent for catching rabbits, birds or fish. finches arrived back to feed their chicks On the floor in the centre of the hut the they would hear them calling from the He worked for a while in the Kynochs Red Lad placed four small flag stones, on other bush, and so they would go to feed explosives factory in Arklow, as did top of which was placed a small circle of them through the bars of the rearing cage Blunt, and he was shown how to make granite stones to make a fire pit. Blunt as if it was the most natural thing in the nets by an old Arklow fisherman who had got the local blacksmith to make up Carloviana 2017 Hacketstown Poachers Col edited_Layout 1 13/09/2016 11:33 Page 2

The Red Lad and Blunt: Hacketstown poachers of the early 20th century

two three-and-a-half-foot iron bars with a U-hook near the top, and a thirty-inch long round bar to sit in the U-hooks so that a pot could be hung over the fire. These bars were driven into the ground beside the fire pit with the crossbar sitting snugly in the U-hooks. Before all the tin had been placed on the roof they cut a hole of approximately one foot in diameter in one of the sheets to let out smoke from the fire. Bird lime was made from holly bark which was boiled for ten to twelve hours shortly after it was gathered. There were plenty of holly bushes and trees in the vicinity of Woodside and Constable Hill in those days. The usual practice was to take a branch from each large holly bush so as not to do too much damage to any single bush. When they had ten or twelve good-sized branches O’Neill’s shop (now Kennedys’ Pharmacy) where the two gathered they began stripping off the poachers would wait for Constable Hanrahan’s signal. bark using very sharp penknives to do so. The bark was now put into a jute sack Photo : P.M. Byrne and carried home where it was washed and prepared for its transformation in the set up close to the feeding area and Our two poaching friends were all set and birdlime factory. After the boiling covered in a light coating of birdlime. ready to go as soon as conditions on the process was finished the thick green coat- When a goldfinch or a siskin or a Dereen became favourable for lifting out ing on the water was separated from it, member of any other target species the salmon on dark frosty nights with no taken away and stored in a moist place perched on these twigs they were unable moonlight to show up their outlines on for about three weeks. Quite a lot of to fly away as their feet were held fast by the river bank to the R.I.C. or the water attention to detail went into the rest of the the adhesive quality of the birdlime. The bailiffs. This particular year they were process to ensure that the birdlime was of birds were then removed as gently as going to try out a new method of catching a very high standard. possible from the twigs to have the salmon, one that wouldn’t involve the birdlime cleaned from their feet with an use of a gaff. To be caught by the R.I.C. After three weeks in a damp atmosphere oil-soaked cloth. A bottle of soapy water with a gaff in your possession meant a it was taken out and pounded into a thick was now produced from the Red Lad’s court appearance, a heavy fine or paste, and over a period of three to four canvas haversack and the birds’ feet were possibly a month in gaol, but as long as days it was washed constantly in the washed with this to remove all traces of you had the land owner’s permission, nearby brook until all small specks and paraffin oil. They were then placed in a you could carry and have in your posses- impurities were gone. Then came the small holding cage so that they could be sion rabbit snares. These snares were fermentation period which took two carried home safely. Cock birds were going to be used by our two poachers to weeks to complete, during which time it then separated from hens and placed in catch spawning salmon and they did it had to be constantly skimmed. After this larger cages with plenty of seeds and like this: they removed the cord from the it was brought back to the birdlime water, while the hens were examined to snare and replaced it with a short length factory where it was mixed in an old tin make sure they were o.k. and then they of flexible wire made of stranded steel, saucepan over a glowing fire with a third were released back into the wild. Catch- which would be attached to a stout hazel part of linseed oil, and to make it watering birds was just a hobby or a pastime rod of about four feet in length, and to proof a small measure of turpentine was for our two friends as they never tried to escape detection by the local R.I.C. the also mixed in. When this had all been make a profit from these activities. snare was only attached to the hazel rod done it was put into crockery jam jars and when they arrived at the salmon spawn- left to cool and to settle for at least a October had been quite windy and wet ing beds. They now had at very little cost month before it could be used to catch that year, with the result that all the local a superb piece of home-made equipment, grey linnets, goldfinches, bullfinches, rivers were in full flood, the Dereen capable of removing most normal sized greenfinches and siskins. being no exception. What this meant was salmon from their spawning beds on the that the annual salmon run was now in River Dereen. Before they could do this It was mostly used in farm haggards after full swing with most fish already in the they had to have a good bright light. threshing had finished and large flocks of vicinity of their spawning beds and Leather boots and shoes in those days finches came to feed on weed seeds that waiting for the rivers to drop back to their came to the shops in this area packed in were expelled with the chaff from the normal flow rate before commencing the wooden containers surrounded by a threshing engine. Several perches were spawning cycle. Carloviana 2017 Hacketstown Poachers Col edited_Layout 1 13/09/2016 11:33 Page 3

The Red Lad and Blunt: Hacketstown poachers of the early 20th century

rough cotton wool type of material which we are much more entitled to harvest the There were at least four men in the area was usually discarded when the boots fish and game of this country than are the who were not burdened with this super- and shoes were unpacked. This material landlords or the King and Queen of stition and who were quite prepared to when wound tightly on to the end of an England, so we will only stop when they eat hare meat whenever it became avail- ash plant and then soaked in paraffin oil withdraw from our country.” able outside the breeding season. In the produced little in the way of tell-tale early days of September during the time smoke, but it gave off excellent light, and On a good night, when they were sure he was stationed in Hacketstown Con- because of this it was highly prized by all there were no bailiffs or R.I.C. men on stable Hanrahan would ask the Red Lad the local poachers. patrol, they would aim to get four or five to try and get him a young three-quarter- good-sized salmon, so that they would grown hare so that his wife could roast it When they arrived on the river bank the have two fish each and one for Constable for Sunday dinner, and if he could get oil-soaked cotton material was lit by the Hanrahan. On arriving back home from him one hare a week for about a month blaze man as he was called and held over the river all the fish except the one for he would be delighted with that situation. the spawning salmon to give light to the Hanrahan would be gutted and cleaned gaffer or in this case to the snare man. He out, and the heads and tails removed. For Hanrahan to dine on roast hare each could then gently manoeuvre the open They then split each fish down the full Sunday it was essential to “first catch snare over the salmon’s tail and on to the length of the backbone, leaving two flat your hare.” area known as the wrist which is situated sides to make it easy for salting. These just in front of the tail. When the snare sides of salmon when salted and cured Part one of Operation Hare Soup was was in this position the hazel rod was were then packed and stored in wooden now put into action when the Red Lad quickly lifted upwards, tightening the butter boxes to be used at weekend meals commissioned Blunt to go out into the snare on the salmon’s wrist and with just during the winter months. These boxes boggy fields and meadows with his two a small bit of effort and very little fuss he could each hold five good-sized salmon terriers and count the number of hares was lifted from the water and prompt- when they had been filleted and cut into that the dogs put up. This being done the ly despatched. six-inch sections. The Red Lad had four Red Lad’s secret weapon was now about of these boxes and Blunt had three. to be unleashed, and it came in the form Constable Hanrahan was very partial to Before these fish were cooked they were of an old poaching friend of his, a man in a piece of nice fresh salmon, so he had an taken from their wooden boxes and his mid sixties who had served in the arrangement with the Red Lad and Blunt soaked overnight in a basin of clean British Army and had lived for years in a to tip them off about when the patrols water to remove most of the curing salt. small village in Norfolk in England. This would be on river watch and, even more The old people of that time used to say man had two great poaching skills. He importantly, when it would be safe to go that “a plate of floury spuds and a piece could call in hares and he was an excel- poaching. The set up worked like this; of salmon fried in farmers’ butter was a lent marksman, and he always said that our two friends would meet Constable meal fit for a king.” Salmon were very the old Norfolk poachers taught him all Hanrahan when he was on patrol around plentiful in the early decades of the twen- he knew. He was always known around the town, so that it was safe to be seen tieth century, so it was no problem to fill the Hacketstown area as “Dinny Hairy talking to him, as he talked to many the boxes and have some to share with Ears” because of the large tufts of ginger others when he was out and about on his friends and neighbours as well. hair growing out of his ears. His proper rounds. They would let him know that name was Denis Molloy and he lived they intended going to the river that night Around the Hacketstown area, and in- about two miles outside the town. around ten o’clock if he thought it was deed in many other places as well around safe for them to do so. Ireland in those years, people believed When Hairy Ears returned home from that little old women who lived on their England he brought with him in his long Hanrahan would then instruct them to own down long laneways far from the canvas army kit bag a Lincoln Jeffries .22 stand at O’Neill’s shop window (where public roads, and were considered to be calibre under-lever air rifle which he had Kennedys’ Pharmacy is now located) at a bit odd, or “not all in it”, were supposed stripped down and taken asunder for the 8 p.m. and watch the barrack door. “I will to have the power to take the shape of a sea journey home, and of course in those come to the door and smoke my pipe for hare and run through the countryside at days there were no checks at sea ports. about five minutes. If I then tap out my night putting spells on their neighbours’ On arriving home in Ireland Dinny pipe on the heel of my boot it means the cows, so that all the profit from the milk reassembled this quite powerful air sergeant is in bed, I’m in charge, and the and butter would come to them. It was weapon and recalibrated its iron sights so three other lads are writing up their patrol said at the time that at least 75% of the that it was shooting very accurately. This reports, so off you go andif you get three rural population believed in this supersti- airgun could drop a rabbit stone dead at or four as I expect you will, drop one in tious nonsense. Because of this belief a range of thirty yards with a pellet to the to the missus for me, and we will have it most people refused to eat hare meat head, but at a range of thirty-five yards it for our meal on Sunday evening.” because it was said to be unlucky to do was no longer accurate. ( I fired this gun so. Some men would hunt hares with myself circa 1956 when it came into the Both the Red Lad and Blunt considered greyhounds but this was mostly for the possession of my Uncle Martin, and it salmon poaching to be a form of nation- thrill of the chase. was still in perfect working order.) alism as they always said, “As Irishmen

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The Red Lad and Blunt: Hacketstown poachers of the early 20th century

The great advantage in using an airgun Hairy Ears were lying concealed in a dry to eat those animals.”, to which Blunt for poaching was the fact that it was gripe at the bottom of a high ditch. replied, “And why not, might I ask?” almost silent when fired, as there was no Before concealing themselves in the “Well,” said the know-all. “because they loud report as there would be from a rifle gripe they had placed small markers on are probably two ould women.” “Well or a shotgun, and no firearms licence was the grass about twenty-five yards from me good fella,” said the Red Lad, “if that required to use it, although it was open to where they lay. When a hare reached this be the case, we’re prepared to to turn the R.I.C. to confiscate such a gun if they point the Red Lad clicked his fingers, the cannibal on this occasion!” so wished. hare sat bolt upright, Dinny squeezed the trigger and there was an audible smack And so it worked out that Constable Han- Dinny reckoned that the best time for as the pellet pierced the bone in the hare’s rahan dined on young roasted hare every calling in hares was shortly after first skull, dropping him instantly to the weekend for the month of September, light in the month of September, when ground from where he was quickly and the Red Lad, Blunt and Hairy Ears they were inclined to gather on oat stub- retrieved by Blunt. were free to poach unhindered as long as bles of which there were plenty at that they were not caught by the sergeant or time since most farmers sowed oats to Their usual bag on such an outing would the other constables. feed their horses and other livestock. be five or six three-quarter-grown hares; They could also be called about an hour older hares were left alone, mainly Around about Michaelmas time each before nightfall in that same month. because they were tough and stringy year the Red Lad and Blunt would walk along some of the larger brooks feeding into the Dereen River, Scotland Brook being their favourite. They would then construct with stones and sods several small dams about one foot higher than the brook. Under the cascading waters flowing over the top of these dams were placed purse nets about the width of the brook, which caught trout and eels that were returning to the river. Eels at that time were considered to be a delicacy and they were highly prized. After they had been skinned and cleaned they were cut Lincoln Jeffries 1903 Air rifle into four-inch sections and fried like Similar to the model used by “Hairy Ears” sausages in either lard or farmers’ butter. Photo: P.M. Byrne The nets for these ventures were always made by the Red Lad. To make this peculiar call Hairy Ears eating. th would purse his lips and place one finger Michaelmas fell on the 29 September each on his upper lip and his thumb under his One evening in late September as Blunt year when the official fishing season ended, lower lip and emit a gurgling bubbly and the Red Lad were walking up the but for our two friends it was the time when wailing sound which seemed to have a Bridge Hill carrying two hares they were the hunting and poaching season began, hypnotic effect on all the hares in the met by a local know-all who said to and so the game of cat and mouse with the vicinity of where the Red Lad, Blunt and them, “Lads, don’t tell me you’re going R.I.C. started all over again.

CHAS Committee Members Noreen Whelan and Richard Codd at the presentation of the National Schools History Project prizes to the winners

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Dolmens in County Carlow

Eoin Cummins

Dolmens are megalithic monuments uprights. Over time made by Neolithic (late stone age) people the mound would then between 3200 and 2000 B.C (around have been eroded by 5,200-4,000 years ago). A megalithic the weather leaving monument is a construction that involves only the uprights and one or more large stones. The most com- capstones. mon name for them (Dolmen) means Levering. This method stone table, coming from the Breton suggests that to raise words ‘dual’ (stone) and’ maen’ (table). the capstone, one end Dolmens are also known as portal tombs, would be lifted up just cromlechs or druids’ altars. The name a tiny few inches, and cromlech means curved stone. In Ireland, Legend: 1. Brownshill ; 2.Haroldstown ; then some wood, rock dolmens are sometimes known as beds of and clay put beneath it 3. Ballyno 4. Donore ; 5. Kilgraney ; Diarmuid and Grainne. According to the to hold it in place. This legend, when Diarmuid and Grainne 6. Ballygraney; 7. Ballinasillogue ; would then be re- were being chased by Fionn Mac peated on the other 8. Knockroe. Cumhaill, they slept on any dolmen with end and anywhere else a flat top. they were going to put uprights, they is 4.7m long, 6.1m wide and 2m high and Dolmens are typically made of 3 or more would keep on doing this until the cap- weighs over 100 tons, which is the same upright stones, a single huge cap stone stone was high enough. Then, carefully as 60 Lamborghini Huracans. It is sup- and sometimes a stone pavement, where they would remove some of the supports ported by two portal stones, a single door rituals may have been carried out. It’s and replace them with uprights. stone, and a lone prostate slab. All of the thought that the dolmens were originally supporting stones are 1.1m in height. The The pit. Using this method, you would covered in a mound of earth, as this side stones have collapsed which means first find your capstone. Then you would model from the Ulster museum shows. that the massive capstone is tilting down dig around it until it was on a little hill. on one side, but besides from that it’s per- Then you would embed some uprights It is most likely that they were used as fect. Like most Dolmens, the entrance is into the dirt hill. After that you’d dig tombs, although other theories suggest facing east. away the dirt leaving only the Dolmen. that they were used as sacrifice altars for Being one of Carlow’s top tourist attrac- druids (the grooves on the capstone were Dolmens in Carlow tions, it’s the only dolmen in the county so that blood could drip off more easily) that you can visit without having to or as a territorial marker, or as a sunlight Carlow has been named the Dolmen ask permission. observatory, which could explain why County by the tourist board, and 8 most dolmen entrances face east. dolmens exist today in Carlow. All of Haroldstown them are made out of the stone most So, how did they manage to raise cap- commonly found in Carlow, which is This is one of the better preserved Dol- stones weighing over 100 tons without granite, and all except for Haroldstown mens in the county. It has 2 overlapping technology? have an east facing entrance. Other capstones and an unusually large cham- dolmens were shown on maps in the past ber. In fact the chamber is so big, it’s said Well, here are just 3 theories about how but can’t be seen today a family filled the holes between the they did it. stones with mud and temporarily lived in Brownshill Dolmen The mound. According to this method, it in the 1840’s!!!! The bigger capstone the upright stones would have been em- Officially known as Kernanstown Crom- stands on 2 portal stones, 1 door stone bedded into a mound of clay and rocks. lech, this Dolmen is a National Monu- and 2 side stones. It’s also unusual be- The capstone would then be slid up the ment and boasts the biggest, heaviest cause it’s the only dolmen in the county ramp until it was in position on top of the capstone in Europe. The Capstone alone that doesn’t have an east facing entrance.

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77 Dolmens in County Carlow

high and 1m wide. The other end of the at the back, and in there you can see the capstone is resting on the rocky ground. side stones of which there are threeon An interesting thing about this portal each side. tomb’s capstone is that it is still on the granite pavement it was quarried from. Ballnasillogue Kilgraney This dolmen was shown on old maps as the Banshee Stone. The capstone, which This stone was known locally as Clogh a is 3.7m long and 2m wide, rests on a pair Bronaigh. Local folklore says this dol- of portal stones and a single door stone. men collapsed in about 1860 when a man Its entrance faces east and according to dreamt there was a lot of gold under the research by R. Jones and J. Feeley, the Haroldstown Dolkmen capstone, but someone would die while sun shines in on its chamber on two days trying to get the gold. He convinced a every year at 8:45am, on Imbolg, (Feb- group of men to help him get the gold, ruary 4th) and again on Samhain (Novem- Ballynoe and they prised off the capstone and dug ber 8th). Ballynasillogue means the place a small hole under the capstone. How- of the spittle which suggests that it might The capstone (3.5x3.3x0.8) which has ever, they found no gold, but a small box have been a place of celebrations and ridges and grooves that were caused by that contained several stones shaped like feasts. Like Donore, this dolmen is still the weather and glacial action is shaped bricks and another one shaped like a baton the stone where it was quarried from like a turtles shell and it rests on a flat tleaxe. They put the box back, but left the although now it is very overgrown. stone at the front and a much smaller end capstone, and that’s why just the front of stone at the end. The other stones have all the 3.9m long capstone is being held up Knockroe fallen down and are lying around and by 1 portal stone today. Hidden on the side of Knockroe Moun- under the capstone. There’s absolutely no Ballygraney tain, this capstone measures 3.7m long, trace of any covering mound, and the 2.7m wide, and 0.7m in depth. The cap- dolmen is roughly 30m away from The capstone, although not as big as stone is 0.7m off the ground, and is held a river. Brownshill, is massive, weighing an es- up by side stones and a portal stone 1.2m timated 6-8 tons and is 3.5m long, 2.9m Donore high. Around summer it can be some- wide and 1m in depth. The back of the times hard to see because of high heather The capstone of this Dolmen is 2.95m capstone is being supported by a small and gorse. This dolmen is known locally long and 3.6m wide, although it is now stone wall, and both the portal stones and as the Giants Table. split in two. One side of the capstone is the door stones are around 1.1m tall. You raised up by a slab around 1m or 1.3m can get into the chamber via a small hole

Séan MacDiarmada 2016 How are they all down in College Street? (in the style of Val Vousden) Are the Presentation nuns still praying, For the redemption of my immortal soul? Musha, How are they all down in College Street? And is poor ould Dinty Delaney still dispensing Is Alec Burns still cuttin’ the oul’ hair? Beverages in my favourite watering hole? And Willie Duggan, still a solicitor? And Hughes carving headstones still there? I might ramble up to The Irishmans And stop at the Christian Brother’s school on the way, How are all the priests in the College? If I don’t meet the Healy’s or Moore’s for a chat Are there students there to be ordained? Or join Molly Hanlon or Juggers Brennan for tay Are the clergy beyond in the Cathedral, Above in pulpit unconstrained? Carlow is going through terrible change There’s cars and vans now everywhere Are they still playing rackets in the CYMS? I see lorries, artics and contraptions Are the Forresters above in the hall? But not one donkey or ass left around there. Collecting the money for members health care? Is the Workman’s Club going strong for Mícheál? I’ll still ramble around here in College Street And on the lawns of the College so green Are the Carberys doing much building? Where ever you roam in the world They’ve grand flats around in Brown Street, There’s no place like this street to be seen. The yard full of supplies and workmen Building churches and schools very neat.

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THE BORRIS RAILWAY LINE [This project was the winner of the CHAS Schools History Prize AND VIADUCT Competition for 2015. It was omitted in error from the last edition of “Carloviana”] Eoin Cummins

The begining

The first railway in Ireland was in Dublin. It was constructed in 1834 and designed by William Dargan from Carlow. William also designed the route from Dublin to Carlow, which was then extended to Kilkenny. This line was originally intended to go through Leigh- linbridge, but Col. Bagenal gave them money and land, so they went through Bagenalstown instead.

A line was needed to go from Dublin to Wexford. One railway company had tried to go through Wicklow but had met difficulty in Bray. Instead they decided to extend the line from Bagenalstown to Wexford. That is where the story of the Borris Line begins. It was called the The Borris viaduct Bagenalstown-Wexford-Railway, also Photo: Eoin Cummins known as the BWR. Completing the line quality, as in this quote below. The route was 68km long and through rough terrain, such as the Blackstairs However, the next part of the railway What a very fine railway it was, too, with Mountains and the Barrow valley. took nine years to complete. They had to no sharp curves, no gradient steeper than William de Fanu designed the BWR, and build many bridges and embankments, 1 : 100, and all its bridges made wide he designed a very good but expen- including the massive Borris viaduct. enough for double track! Indeed, had its sive railway. After the viaduct was completed, they promoters been satisfied with lower had to cut a gorge in Kilcoltrim which standards of construction, and had they The first part built was the 13km route was very difficult. But when they reached made alterations to the route here and from Bagenalstown to Borris through Ballywilliam in 1864, the money ran out, there, the great viaduct at Borris (which Goresbridge, following the river Barrow. work stopped and the line closed. cost £20,000) and the immense rock cut- Arthur MacMurrough Kavanagh of ting at Kilcoltrim might have been Borris House gave land for the railway to Meanwhile another line had got through avoided, and they might quite possibly go through his estate because he thought Wicklow using a different route along the have won the race to Wexford. it would be good for business. (He saw coast. That was disastrous for everyone the business that the railway brought to who invested in the BWR railway. One The track from Palace East Junction, was Bagenalstown.) Arthur’s mother Lady investor, Mr Motte, got enough money to made by Mr. Motte who, by contrast, Harriet Kavanagh cut the first sod on make a cheap railway to meet the made the railway as cheaply as he could. New Year’s Day 1855. The track to Wexford – Wicklow line. Its contour resembles a sheet of corru- Borris from Bagenalstown was finished gated-iron in section, and if the train is that year, mainly because it went through The BWR lost the race because while long enough, progress over it was an flat terrain. Two trains went each way William le Fanu designed a very fine exhilarating experience— something daily and the rest of the journey from railway, out of good quality materials, between the motion of a serpent and the Borris to Wexford was completed by their rivals designed one that would get helter-skelter of the fairground. stagecoach. That was quicker than going them to Wexford as quickly as possible. — J.P.O’Dea by stagecoach from Dublin to Wexford. The last part of the BWR was also poor Carloviana 2017 Borris Railway line Col_Layout 1 13/09/2016 12:09 Page 2

79 The Borris Railway Line and Viaduct

In 1871 it closed again for three years The arches were more than likely made by a blast of gunpowder, and Jim Nolan, until Arthur Kavanagh bought it in 1874. by putting curved wooden scaffolding on who walked along the edge of the viaduct However, the cost of running it was more the ground and then building the arches on his hands for a euro! The total cost than twice the income. He tried to sell it. upon them. The scaffolding was then was £20,000 (over two million euros in There were no bidders. Eventually, one removed, leaving only the stone arches today’s money!) of the railway companies took over behind. The viaduct was made with no the line. modern machinery except for a steam The line in use

While the Borris line was used in the 20th century, there was one passenger train and one mixed passenger and goods train daily. The goods included post, cattle, sugar beet and coal. The line didn’t pass through any major town. Goods from shops were brought to people down the line on the train. Newspapers wrapped in bale twine were thrown to farmers. The railway line was closed for a year in 1922 because of civil war.

In 1926, the sugar factory was opened in Carlow. This helped the line to survive as sugar beet was transported from the stations between Palace East and Bage- nalstown when they were in season, Train at Borris Station which is around October until Christmas. There were sidings on the line at which The Borris viaduct assisted crane. That’s amazing!! sugar beet was thrown onto the cart to go to the sugar factory. The construction of the majestic viaduct It’s thought that more than one thousand in Borris took two years to complete. The people worked on the viaduct. They The end of the line viaduct was an engineering wonder of its included stonemasons, engineers, stone time. It was built in 1860 across the cleavers, labourers, carters and ordinary In 1931, the passenger service was closed valley of the Mountain river. It has people paid to give a hand. Hundreds of except for trips to Croke Park and Knock. sixteen arches and is 12m on average those were stonecutters who flocked to That was strange at the time as it was the above the uneven ground. The arches the viaduct in search of work. Some of only railway to close without another have a span of 10.2m. It is made mostly them settled down with local girls, while method of transport along the same route. Goods trains stopped altogether in 1944 except for sugar beet.

In the 1940s, a government company called CIE took over Irish railways. They replaced the old steam trains with diesel trains on all lines. This cost money so they closed some of the smaller lines to save money. In 1963 they officially closed the Borris line.

The last train on the BWR was a special train from Bagenalstown to Borris for the Borris Fair on March 25th 1963. After The complete viaduct that, the tracks were taken up and most were sold off. from granite with lime mortar (cement). some were journeymen who left when The stones are up to 2m long. The granite the work was finished. A lot of the work- Keenans bought a lot of the tracks and was from boulders in fields and bogs and ers walked from places like Ballon, they are now part of many a hayshed. from William Perry’s quarry in Kilconey which is 24km away. nearby. The lime also came from The viaduct has stood the test of time and his quarry. There are many stories about the viaduct, still stands today. such as Robert Norris, who got blinded Carloviana 2017 The Ridge of the Raven_Layout 1 13/09/2016 13:58 Page 1

The Ridge of the Raven.

The Coming of The Laighin. Chapter 4

Liam O’Neill

For many generations the people of the ers was their warlike attitude. While to Ridge of the Raven(1) had lived and As farming methods had improved in the farmers fighting was a secondary oc- worked the soil. Nothing ever changed their homeland, the population began to cupation to working the land, only to be much: the seasons came and went, chil- grow resulting in a competition for avail- done from pure necessity, these people dren were born and grew up, and the old able farmland. Not in any way a cohesive prided themselves on their fighting abil- were buried when their time came. The political unit, though they had a common ity. It was said they thrived on tests of population of the island had grown to language and had developed a unique courage and skill. If they did not have a where most of the well drained land was culture, they often fought among them- common enemy to fight they would hap- settled. The valleys between the ridges selves. The Romans called them Celts pily fight each other. were still thickly forested, but as far as and the Greeks called them Keltoi. Fight- the eye could see, most of the ridges and ers who worshipped fierce warrior gods, Unlike the farmers, who worshipped the lower hills were cultivated. they had also developed amazing skills sun god and the moon goddess, they wor- as craftsmen and artists. shipped deities who represented the char- It was true that the farming communities acteristics which they most admired; had been decimated by outbreaks of sick- These Celts had already conquered the courage and bravery, hunting skills, per- ness from time to time in the previous neighbouring island but it was not their sonal beauty and nature. They did not use couple of hundred years. This had helped habit to eliminate the inhabitants of any temples or henges but worshipped in sa- to keep the population at a sustainable new territory that they occupied. Their cred groves of oak trees. Wherever they level and there was no shortage of land. genius was exhibited in the way they first went their gods were seen to be stronger The people of the island were not partic- overcame militarily, but then established and fiercer than those of the people they ularly warlike and only came together to themselves as the ruling caste. After that, conquered. settle local disputes as they arose. There through intermarriage with the natives, in was no need for professional warriors a few generations a new order, a fusion, Their religious leaders were the Druids, and people mostly got on with living in a which had the best of both the old and who were all-powerful in the tribe, some- peaceful coexistence. No one thought of new culture was produced. times acting as political or military lead- the possibility of new people coming in ers. No major decisions were made by and upsetting the balance. Now their sights were set on the green is- either the tribe or the individual without land. The Celts were strikingly unlike the the Druids’ blessing. In the past year however, news of a wor- rather small dark haired farmers in that rying nature had from time to time fil- they were tall and fair-haired. They The farmers still sacrificed to the old tered through the hills to the east and shaved their cheeks and throats but al- gods at the henge on the Ridge of the south. It was said that ships bringing lowed their moustaches to grow long. Raven, and one of their own number still strange new people had begun to land on Their women were just as warlike as the acted as shaman or priest as the occasion the seacoast. These newcomers, part of a men. Both sexes wore colourful clothes demanded. In times of severe crisis, such great migration of peoples who pushed and were fond of jewellery. Most terrible as famine or plague, both the old and new westward from central Europe, spoke a of all were their weapons. The iron from religions practised human sacrifice. The different language and called themselves which they were made was much harder greater the need to appease the gods, the The Laighin, so called after the long iron- than the bronze which the farmers used more costly the sacrifice. tipped spears which were their main to make their tools and weapons. The weapons. greatest difference of all in the newcom- The people of the Ridge of the Raven de-

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81 The Ridge of the Raven

cided that the best course of action was One morning Carmul arose early, as was between the earlier ones and the soil thus to continue with life as usual and deal his daily habit. It was a fine spring day turned over covered the seed. The with this new problem when it arose. and the ground needed to be readied for younger son, Vert, along with the Crops had to be planted and animals the planting of the oats. He called back farmer’s wife and daughter, used tended. If the newcomers came to the into the house to his two sons, berating branches of whitethorn to smooth over hills, the farmers would just have to them for their laziness, although to tell the ground afterwards. When the ripe come together and fight when the time the truth he knew them to be willing oats was harvested the ground would be came. workers when they got going. They had smooth. Next year a crop of grass would spent the winter living a very relaxed life, grow. All around the ridge the same What they did not realise was the terrible it would take a few days to get everybody process was carried on by the different fate of those who chose to fight these used to the faster pace of the spring work. families. It had always been so. strangers. Bronze weapons used by farm- He could hear his wife, Heli, behind him ers were no match for iron in the hands busily stoking the embers of the fire. As About a turn of the moon later, just as the of professional warriors. Many of the soon as she returned from the stream with new corn was beginning to appear, the coastal communities had chosen to sub- a fresh supply of water, his daughter news that everybody dreaded came. A mit rather than be slaughtered. Lanu would be joining her in the task of band of about forty of the strangers had preparing breakfast. come through the great gap in the moun- Submission did not mean the end of life By now the family were all awake and a tains two hours walk to the south(2). as the farmers knew it. As soon as the in- bronze pot of oaten porridge was bub- Apart from their chief, there were twenty vaders had established themselves as the bling on the fire. They ate from crude, lo- fighting men and about twelve women dominant force in an area, an accommo- cally made pottery bowls. Flat loaves of and children. Eight slaves, carrying spare dation was arrived at. The leader of the bread which had been baked the evening equipment and food, drove a large herd newcomers was recognised as the chief, before were broken and shared out also. of cattle. They were accompanied by a with the druid at his side to make sure he Each used the bread to wipe out the last Druid, whose advice was sought each followed the will of the gods. For a while of the porridge from their bowls, washed time a major decision had to be made or the fighting men were housed and fed by down with bowls of water. After the meal a fight was to take place. the farmers, but they either cleared and the farmer and his sons Haw and Vert farmed new land for themselves, or mar- made their way out to the field. One group of farmers had decided to ried into a native family. The respective make a stand and even though they out- languages were slowly learned and soon The soil had been broken up by plough- numbered the newcomers, they were began to morph into a new tongue which, ing first up and down the field and then quickly overpowered. Some of the farm- while keeping a certain amount of the over and back. This had been done in ers had spears but the sharp iron swords farmer’s language, was predominantly early winter and the frost had killed the of the newcomers sliced through the made up of the Celtic language of the roots of the grass and weeds. The plough wooden shafts, rendering the weapons newcomers. they used was made of wood. The main useless. In fact the fight only lasted long beam, which was about the length of a enough for the newcomers to shatter the Carmul the farmer, along with his wife man, was made of an oak branch which bronze blades of the farmers’ weapons, Heli, their two sons and one daughter, was as thick as a man’s forearm. It had a and to inflict enough flesh wounds to lived on the south eastern side of the cross piece or yoke lashed at right angles make their point.They were not intending Ridge of the Raven. The family had oc- near the front which was pulled by to kill the farmers, who would be needed cupied the same ground for ten genera- leather ropes attached to the necks of the as manpower later. The leader of the tions. They lived in a round house which oxen. At the back end of the beam a hole farmers, realising that the situation was had wattle and daub walls and a conical had been burned vertically, through hopeless, had shouted to his companions thatched roof. The farm comprised one which a thinner oak branch was inserted. to surrender and it was all over. large field which had been cleared by his This piece was curved naturally. At one ancestors when they first settled and two end was fixed a pointed bronze sock The Laighin had brought along a young smaller ones which had been added by which broke the ground. The other end farmer from beyond the mountains as an Carmul’s grandfather. There was a which protruded above the beam was interpreter. He relayed the terms which thatched shelter for the cattle, a much used as a steering handle by the plough- the chief of the newcomers now dictated. smaller one in which were kept the fam- man. The farmer steered the plough They would all be spared if they agreed ily’s four pigs, and a small enclosed gar- while Haw, the oldest son, led the oxen. to immediately recognise him as their den where Heli grew some vegetables Two oxen were used when the soil was overlord. Food and lodging would have and herbs. Most of the neighbouring first broken and for cross ploughing. At to be provided for the victors and grazing farms were the same. Nothing ever sowing time only one was necessary. The for the animals. The farmers would also changed much; the seasons came and bronze sock penetrated the soil and made provide the labour for an important task. went, children were born and grew up, a shallow furrow. The whole area to be The chief, whose name was Maccu, in- and the old were buried when their time seeded was furrowed with each tiny drill tended to build a strong stone fort on the came. Carmul was also the Shaman, his about a hand span apart. The seed was top of a nearby hill. This was the practice neighbours looked to him for leadership scattered over the area and the plough in the other island from whence he had whenever there was a crisis. was used again. New furrows were made come the previous year. He had no doubt Carloviana 2017 The Ridge of the Raven_Layout 1 13/09/2016 13:58 Page 3

82 The Ridge of the Raven

that as more of his fellow Celts came into tions to the farmer. was expecting the visit and, hoping that the island, there would be power strug- “ Bring every able-bodied man here in they could come to the best terms possi- gles. He would have a stronghold to three days. Bring food for yourselves and ble with the newcomers, he came out to which he could retreat when the in- our men, Anybody who disobeys will be meet them. evitable attacks came. punished severely. Our gods have spoken. The old gods have lost their power “I am Maccu,” the chief said through the He had noticed the hill with its gently and you must get used to new ways. We interpreter. “I have been sent by the gods rounded summit, when the group will show you how to organise things.” to rule this place in their name. If you are emerged from the mountain pass into the wise you will tell your people to accept open country(3). Standing out from the By hinting that they were somehow act- this and co-operate. It is not my wish to line of mountains, it had obviously been ing on behalf of powerful new gods the harm anyone, but I will not hesitate to kill used for farming because it had few trees, newcomers were counting on overawing those who try to thwart the will of our and large areas of green pasture. He had the farmers and getting them to do their gods. This is Fechar. He is our druid and decided that it would make a very suit- bidding. The farmers, for their part, knew the gods speak to him. He will teach you able site for a fort. that they were powerless against the su- their ways. Gather your people together perior weaponry of the Celts. in two hours and I will make these things He summoned the leader of the farmers, Three days later the farmers and the new- known to them. While we are waiting we and in company with five of his warriors, comers assembled at the top of the hill. would like some food.” the Druid and the interpreter, he made The druid was given the honour of mark- his way to the top of the hill. What he ing out the line of the wall. He did this by Carmul knew he had no choice but to saw pleased him greatly. To the east he means of a rope about 50 paces long. The comply. He dispatched his two sons to saw that the hill was connected by a short farmers watched as he walked in a circle, call the farmers together, and while Heli ridge to the southern end of a long moun- keeping the rope taut, the slaves behind and Lanu prepared the meal, he showed tain(4). On the other three sides the land him putting a small stone at his heel for the strangers around the henge, which by was much lower, with many small ridges every step he took. When he was finished this time was almost completely sur- and hills. The uplands were obviously there was a perfect circle marked out on rounded by tall oak trees. Even when it being farmed but the low lying areas the ground. was new the farmers had left as many were thickly wooded, with patches of trees as possible growing around it. There open bog and marsh here and there. A shallow trench, two paces wide, was were gaps in certain places but that was now dug all around the inside of the cir- to facilitate the working of the henge as A short distance to the north he noticed cle. Then the hard work began. There a calendar. another hill. It was an outlier of the other were plenty of rocks of all sizes avail- end of the long mountain, not as high as able, pushed into heaps all over the hill “This is where we sacrifice to the moon the one on which he stood. He could see when the land had been cleared over the goddess every month, when she shows us a ring of trees on the summit, surrounded previous couple of generations. There her full face,” Carmul said. by areas of pasture interspersed with were also large boulders protruding here He pointed out the stone altar, explaining ploughed cropland. and there from the ground. The larger how the sun god used the wooden up- rocks and boulders were used for the bot- rights of the henge to show them the “What is that place?” he asked through tom of the wall and the smaller ones times of the year for planting and sowing. the interpreter. “And what is the signifi- added on higher up. The work was over- He pointed out the opposing gaps at the cance of the ring of trees on top?” seen by three of the warriors and took eastern and western ends where on the about four turns of the moon to complete. longest day of the year the rays of the ris- “The hill is called the Ridge of the the task. Meanwhile the chief and the ing sun shone straight through. There Raven,” one of the farmers replied, “and other warriors made their presence felt in were two other opposing gaps where the there is a henge in the middle of that the surrounding countryside. They estab- same thing happened on the shortest day. grove where the sun god and moon god- lished their superiority by rounding up dess are worshipped. We gather there more farmers for the work. There was lit- “In other places our people use circles of each moon to offer a sacrifice. tle resistance. The news of their defeat of upright stones to serve the same purpose, the old gods had spread. but we built this henge of wood,” he said. It is also where the sun god tells the shaman when it is time to plough, to The people of the Ridge of the Raven The druid who had been silent now plant and to reap the harvest.” were visited the sixth day. The newcom- spoke. “You will no longer need this “Hah! What a load of nonsense.” Maccu ers came to Carmul’s house about mid- henge,” he said. “Our gods have de- replied. “ Our gods tell the druid those morning, the chief of the Celts feated yours, and as their representative things directly.” accompanied by five warriors, the druid they tell me these things and more. Our and the interpreter. Carmul had earlier gods prefer us to commune with them in By this time the chief had satisfied him- been mending a wicker fence nearby sacred groves of oak trees. This will be self that the summit on which he stood when Haw drew his attention to the band such a sacred grove from now on. We would indeed make a very suitable site of strangers approaching over the shoul- will allow more trees to grow and fill up for a fort. Accordingly he issued instruc- der of the next hill to the south(5). He the gaps. Your henge will be no more. I Carloviana 2017 The Ridge of the Raven_Layout 1 13/09/2016 13:58 Page 4

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can see that you are a man favoured by your language from the interpreter. I will sidered auspicious. The Laighin looked the gods with wisdom. I will train you in carry your water.” on them as messengers of the gods. It the new ways. You can be my helper.” confirmed to him that this was indeed a Leanu began to relax. Fea was hand- sacred grove. All this was said in a tone which left no some, tall with black hair and brown eyes room for argument. Carmul was wise which showed confidence and intelli- And so began a new era on the Ridge of enough to realise that being the druid’s gence. His name meant the raven, and in- the Raven. Out of the melding of the two assistant was preferable to being cut off deed his parents called him after that peoples a new society emerged. It com- completely from all religious practice. most respected of birds. He was about 18 bined the farming skills of one with the He nodded his head and remained silent. summers old and if his father had not de- military prowess of the other. cided on this expedition, he would have By now the women had a cauldron of been married and had his first child by Carmul and Maccu took a lead and meat bubbling on the fire. Carmul invited now. arranged a match between Leanu and the group to come and eat. There were Fea. The newlyweds took over the farm flat cakes made of ground oats, and some Leanu was fourteen summers old. Her of an old childless couple about 200 of their precious store of beer was served parents were considering several offers paces north of the old henge. As the son in bowls. One thing that the Celts really for her hand but were taking their time. of the chief of the conquerors Fea was the appreciated was hospitality. They outdid She was a strong worker and her father natural choice for leader of the area each other in its practice. It pleased them doted on her. “She would work those two around the ridge. He undertook to train to be treated so well by Carmul and his boys into the ground, “he said with pride. the farmers in the use of iron weapons. family. “This is good,” Maccu said. “She will make a good wife, but whoever He organised for the local metalworkers gets her will pay a big dowry.” to learn how to make tools and weapons “You have a good wife and daughter,” of the new metal. he added. “both good looking too.” There By now they had reached the little stream was a laugh from the warriors at this last at the bottom of the hill. Leanu carried a Leanu bore him five children, two girls comment. Most of them were single and stout length of wood across her shoul- and three fine strong sons. She proved these farmer’s daughters were certainly ders, with a bucket made of leather hang- her father right. She was a hard worker not ugly. But Maccu had laid down the ing from each end. She placed the ends and the farm was one of the most suc- law that the women were not to be inter- of the stick into the long handles, bent cessful in the area. fered with or forced in any way. He in- down and laid it across her shoulders. tended to treat the farmers well and was Fea watched as she filled the Over many generations the family con- determined to keep the peace as far as buckets.When she straightened up again tinued to be recognised as leaders. Be- possible. the buckets were clear of the ground and cause of his prowess as a warrior and they started homewards. wisdom as chief, Fea’s name came to be “These people will accept us, we will synonymous with the area around the have a good life here,” he had told his “She is so different from the Laighin hill. People referred to it as Fea’s Ridge. men. girls,” he thought. He was used to the The Ridge of the Raven. fiery, combative women of his own tribe. He knew that after the initial shock the These farmers daughters struck him as About this article. farmers would come to terms with the steadier somehow. They were workers of The Ridge of the Raven is the story of the new regime. They would soon realise the land and would give no trouble. “She history of Drumphea, Co Carlow, written that having their daughters marry the is not bad looking. She will make a good by Liam O’Neill. The first three chapters young warriors would be advantageous. wife.” appeared in past editions of Carloviana. It would cut both ways. By now they had reached the farm. A While all this was going on, Heli had sent large crowd of locals had gathered. Footnotes: her daughter Leanu to fetch more water. Maccu was speaking. Nobody noticed the young warrior who 1. Drumphea. slipped away and followed, as she took He outlined to the farmers how they were 2. Scollagh Gap. the path by the edge of the field of oats expected to comply with his wishes. 3. Killoughternane Hill. which led down to the stream. Like They would contribute labour and food 4. Tomduff. everybody else she was nervous and ap- to the work on the round hill where by 5. Knockindrane. prehensive, so when she realised she had now the outline of the base of the fort company, she became quite frightened. was clearly visible in the distance. “ Do not be afraid , I will not harm you.” Fechar the druid made it clear that on the Leanu was surprised to hear the visitor morrow he would set about removing the address her in her own language, al- henge and building a dwelling for him- though he spoke haltingly. self among the oak trees on the Ridge of “My name is Fea. I am the son of the the Raven. The presence of these birds in chief Maccu and I have been learning the crowns of the tallest trees was con- Carloviana 2017 Catherine Geoghgan A_Layout 1 13/09/2016 15:16 Page 1

Catherine ‘Kate’ Geoghegan – Cumann na mBan Carlow Brigade (1917–1924 Catherine Flavelle

‘Always ready to make British Rule im- or Lily), and twin boys Morgan and possible in Ireland.’ Patrick in 1905. hese words, written in 1935 as The family lived on Barrack Street at the part of her military pension appli- ‘top’ of the town. Her proximity to the cation, belong to Catherine ‘Kate’ military barracks directly opposite her Geoghegan.T A founder member of home helped define her work during the Cumann na mBan Carlow Brigade, she War of Independence (1919–21) and the was described by contemporaries in ensuing Civil War (1922–3). letters as ‘a great patriot’, a ‘woman of the highest character’ and someone Run up to the War of Independence whose ‘courage and determination were (1916–19) always an inspiration to those with whom i In January 1917 Kate helped found the she came into contact’. Carlow branch of Cumann na mBan, the Her military pension application reveals women’s arm of the Irish Republican a not atypical life for many working class Army, and she was V/C from 1917 to tually buried in 1962. Little is known v Carlow women of the era. At different 1921. She states on her pension applica- about her early life, other than she was points in her life she was responsible for tion in 1934, that at the time of the Easter the fifth child and first daughter of her raising children and grandchildren,ii as Rising she had held ‘sympathy with [the] parents. Morgan was a labourer who had well as caring for an invalid husband and republican movement and worked in his youth fallen foul of the law for daughter. She was constantly concerned privately’. In 1917 she acted under orders obstructing a public road. Margaret, who by her means (or lack thereof), referring from her O/C, Brigid Laffan, collecting registered Kate’s birth on 18 August periodically to her lack of money for funds, drilling and helping to run first aid 1873, signed with her mark indicating vi food and rent. And yet despite these hard- classes. Kate claims repeatedly in doc- illiteracy, but it clear from countless let- ships, there is overwhelming evidence umentation that she put the first Repub- ters in Kate’s own hand, that she her- from her application, as well as the sup- lican flag up over Carlow in August of self must have received a formal porting correspondence of her friends that year. In September 1917 she helped education of some description. and colleagues from within the republi- to raise money on the day that Thomas Ashe died on hunger strike, having been can movement that Kate worked tire- Of her four elder brothers at least one, force-fed at Mater Hospital. During this lessly, selflessly and indeed passionately Patrick, was in the British Army. He had period Kate wrote that she was one of the for the republican cause in Ireland during served in the Royal Horse Artillery, but reception party for Eamonn de Valera the period 1917 to 1924. died of malaria in Trimulgherry, India in when he passed through Carlow Station and 1905. Kate was named Patrick’s next of This article puts forward a narrative ac- iii one of the signatories to the address of wel- kin and received £5 10s upon his death. count of Kate’s life and the part she come presented to him ‘when few was there’. Her younger sister, Alicia, had been a played at a local level during the War of servant in Paupish and her younger Independence and the Irish Civil War. In 1918 Kate continued with these same brother, Morgan was an agricultural This is followed up by an examination of duties. Collecting funds for the IRA labourer. What is clear, is that the family the ensuing difficulties she faced during seems to have been one of her particular were not generally long-lived. By 1906, the post-civil war period. strengths. Her companion in this task, Kate and Morgan were the only surviving Seán Ó Cíllín, wrote to the Pensions iv Early Life members of their immediate family. Board that ‘she never shirked’ and that there was ‘no better assistant and worker Kate married Thomas Geoghegan on the Kate was born on 3 August 1873 in [for collecting funds].’vii Brigid Laffan, 15 January 1893 in Carlow. It was not Paupish, Carlow to Morgan Cummins also testified that she was ‘a strenuous until 1901, when Kate was 27, that she and his wife Margaret Anne Carey. The worker’ in this regard. At some point dur- welcomed her first child, Margaret Cummins family originally hailed from ing this year, one of her two daughters (known as Peg); followed fairly swiftly nearby Tinryland, where Kate was even- was seriously injured in a baton charge by Elizabeth in 1903 (also known as Lil Carloviana 2017 Catherine Geoghgan A_Layout 1 13/09/2016 15:16 Page 2

by the RIC. In the early part of 1919 she close through the duration of the geted because ‘I was the only active not only continued with these duties (as service.xii Her house was raided yet again member [of the IRA] on the street.’ As well as attending parades and military by British Troops as a result. Indeed, one of her former colleagues wrote to the lectures), but also cared for her daughter. Kate claims during this period, ‘my home board ‘I believe herself and her family was continually raided’ and she and her family suffered more than any other family in Irish War of Independence (1919–1921) were ‘subjected to terrorism by enemy troops.’ Carlow County.’ During the heart of the Irish War of Inde- The Irish Civil War (1922–23) Post-Civil War Period pendence, also known as the ‘Black and Tan War’, Kate ramped up her activities In June 1922 the Irish Civil War broke As will be noted, we are lucky to have an in Cumann na mBan. Beyond her usual out. During this period Kate continued to unusually substantial body of evidence duties of collecting funds, she began obey orders and continued her work with for Kate’s activities in these years. catering for IRA prisoners being held in IRA prisoners. Amongst her responsibil- Indeed, some 300 or so documents exist Carlow Barracks (as well as sending ities she ‘saw to [the] burial’ of two IRA pertaining to her work during the period parcels to the Curragh Internment men killed at Castledermot and ‘brought 1917–1924. Camp). She lived directly opposite Car- loaded revolvers to their funerals also.’ low Barracks and was known to visit Additionally, she began dispatch work, In 1934, the government passed the Mil- prisoners there five to six times a week bringing weapons and ammunition on itary Services Pensions Act, extending where she tended to the ‘material com- her person to various IRA groups in the the existing acts of 1924–1930. Kate, forts’ of the men there, including doing area, making around 10 deliveries a now 61, was eligible for a pension for her their laundry. A Cumann na Ban col- week. When questioned on the nature of work in assisting the republican move- league, Margaret Doyle, wrote: ‘I have these dispatches Kate commented that ments. She stated all her particulars on known her myself to have sent over her there were ‘sometimes 20 rounds [of the forms and gave a number of own breakfast and dinner over to prison- ammunition], sometimes 25, sometimes witnesses to each stage of the period ers.’viii Kate also used her visits to the only 10’. In July the military barracks 1916–24. Despite government letters barracks to collect information from pris- were attacked – letters from IRA col- saying she had an excellent case for a oners about upcoming raids at Duckett’s leagues say she helped assist the column pension, nothing was decided immedi- Grove (the local training facility for the by providing information on the military ately. In 1938, Kate wrote to William IRA and Cumann na mBan) and IRA movements in town. As a result, her Norton, TD, seeking help. She provided headquarters. Indeed, she wrote in a letter house was machine-gunned. A witness, an abundance of documentary evidence, to the Pension’s Board that she success- John Hynes, wrote, ‘I saw the windows including countless letters from senior fully carried ammunition out of IRA of [her] house after being riddled with members of the Carlow IRA Brigade, headquarters during a raid in 1921. She bulets [sic].’xiii At some point that year, colleagues from Cumann na mBan in also stored ammunitions (including a Kate managed to help the local IRA col- Carlow, and testimonies of prisoners with dozen bombs acquired from the barracks) umn avoid arrest by sending her daughter whom she worked. Even senior members on her property (Pensions board: ‘what Lil to Castledermot to warn them that of Cumann na mBan in Dublin wrote to kind of weapons?’ Kate: ‘Revolvers, ‘eight or so lorries [of troops] were com- support her case. rifles, ammunition’). Furthermore, Kate ing to attack them.’ Under the weight of so much supporting admitted to putting up men on the run Kate also put up posters in the town and evidence, Norton brought up her case at (‘sometimes for one week, sometimes the Ceistanna in the Dáil. Despite men- two’). Another former IRA colleague, John even managed to attain some additional ammunition from a contact inside the tioning her ‘acute distress’ and the fact Foley, commented in a letter: ‘her house was that she was supporting an ‘invalid hus- always open to the boys.’ix Barracks (she later attested that she and this contact ‘were only friends for a band and children dependent on her,’ the In February 1921, at the funeral of time’). The following year she took up Minister of Defence, Frank Aiken, was Patrick O’Toole (a prominent trade the duty of the then O/C, Bea Ryan,xiv unable to say when the pension would be granted and promised to ‘bring it to the unionist and lover of the Irish language who was arrested in May and detained xv who died aged 29 at Ballykinlar Intern- until October, and took charge of Bea’s referee’s notice.’ ment Camp),x Kate managed to smuggle house until she was released from prison. in several revolvers for the firing party, It was during this period that one of Over the following two years Kate’s let- despite heavy British military presence Kate’s own daughters was detained as a ters continued to Norton and the Board. there. That night her home was raided by prisoner, and on top of that her house was ‘I have only 10 shillings a week to live the Black and Tans and they threatened machine-gunned three times (‘because on’, she wrote, ‘my daughter is not work- to burn it down. A month later, a member there was a machine gun placed in the ing.’ She received a letter from Norton in of the RIC, Sergeant O’Boyle, was shot window of the barracks opposite’). On 1939 which explained that: ‘owing to the in the jaw and back on his way to the bar- one occasion ‘the window in her house large number of applications received, it racks.xi Once again Kate’s home was was blown to pieces by the enemy, her- is regretted that it is not possible to indi- raided and ‘I was threatened that I would self and her family making a very narrow cate when a decision [on your case] is be shot.’ In April 1921 she had attended escape’. When questioned about the likely to be made.’ the funeral of Michael Fay and had attacks by the Pensions Board, Kate ordered shops and works in the town to claimed her house was particularly tar- Her husband, Thomas, died in early 1940 Carloviana 2017 Catherine Geoghgan A_Layout 1 13/09/2016 15:16 Page 3

and later that year her case was once right government department nearly a dence and documentation and it was to again brought before the Dáil. James year later in February 1943 as attested by be several years until her pension Everett, TD, on behalf of Norton asked an internal memorandum. She received increased accordingly. the Minister for Defence, Oscar Traynor, her Black and Tan medal during this vi Brigid Laffan of Dublin Street Carlow, if he would state when a decision would period (with bar – suggesting active serv- O/C CnmB Carlow Brigade, January be conveyed to Mrs. K. Geoghegan, Bar- ice), but this must have provided little 1917 to March 1922. rack Street, Carlow, on the application comfort when she needed to pay her rent vii Rev. John Killian, parish priest, Arles, submitted by her for a pension under the and put food on the table. In 1947 she Ballickmoyler, Carlow. Military Service Pensions Act, 1934. made a successful application for a viii Margaret Doyle of Ballinacary, Car- Traynor merely replied: ‘As the referee ‘special allowance’, swapping her usual low, Fellow member of CnmB. has not reported to me on the case, I am old age pension for £29 10s a year in ix John Foley of Tullow Street, Carlow. not in a position to state when a decision addition to her military service pension. x A transcription of Patrick O’Toole’s will be conveyed to Mrs. Geoghegan.’xvi obituary from the Nationalist and Lein- Following this, Kate’s letters to Norton Kate ended her years in her home in Car- ster Times, February 1921 is accessible t and the Board got increasingly despair- low and died in 1962 aged 89. Her http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~irl- ing; ‘I am six months behind on my rent’ funeral was well attended by her car2/Carlow_1921_21.htm she wrote in 1941. children, grandchildren and nephews xi An account of the incident transcribed from Carlow, America and England. Her from the Nationalist and Leinster Times, Norton appeared in front of the Dáil coffin was draped in the tricolour and March 1921 is accessible at again on Kate’s behalf in February 1941: accompanied by a Guard of Honour http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/ made up of her old Cumann na mBan and read/IRL-CARLOW/2011- Mr. Norton: In view of the fact that the IRA colleagues, showing the same 08/1313336065 Minister stated in September, 1938, that respect that she herself had shown at the xii Michael Fay was shot dead by British this case was then before the referee, will funeral of Patrick O’Toole over forty Troops in Ballymurphy. A witness ac- xix he indicate now why it has taken the ref- years before. count from Thomas Ryan (Intelligence eree almost two and a half years to come th i All correspondence is cited from the officer, 4 Battalion Carlow Brigade) de- to a decision in this case? Military Service Pension Collection held scribed how Fay ‘was shot and brutally bayoneted. Several parts of his hands and Mr. Traynor: Actually the referee is by the Defence Forces Ireland Military teeth were scattered around.’ Ryan’s full awaiting a report from the brigade to Archive, File Reference statement on the activities of the 4th Bat- which this lady was attached and I am MSP34REF41852, accessible online at talion Carlow Brigade is held by the De- afraid, until that report is received, not http://mspcsearch.militaryarchives.ie/ ii fence Forces Ireland Bureau of Military very much advance can be made.xvii A reference to her bringing up a ‘grandson, 12 years,’ can be found in a letter from History, accessible at http://www.bu- Later that year the secretary of the Car- James Hughes, TD, dated 26 October 1939. reauofmilitaryhistory.ie/reels/bmh/BMH. iii National Army Museum, Chelsea, WS1442.pdf low Brigade IRA Pensions Committee, xiii th Mícheál Ó Ríaín,xviii wrote very firmly in London, England: Soldiers’ Effects John Hynes of Borris, Carlow, V/C 4 Records, 1901–60; NAM Accession Battalion Carlow Brigade. 1941 to the Department of Defence, that xiv Kate was in ‘very poor circumstances’, Number: 1991-02-333; Record Number Bea Ryan (formerly Bea Brophy) of that ‘there was no reason for the delay’ and that Ranges: 108001-108968; Reference: 35. Tullow Street Carlow, O/C CnmB Car- iv According to the Cummins Family low Brigade 1922–24. the claim ought to be dealt with ‘immediately.’ xv gravestone in Tinryland, John died in Dáil Éireann Debate, Vol. 70 No. 12, acces- The letter from Ó Ríaín seems to have 1895, James in 1901, Richard in 1904 sible at Houses of the Oireachtas website, done the trick; she was awarded her mil- and Patrick in 1905. Alicia died in 1894 aged http://www.oireachtas.ie/parliament/ xvi itary pension certificate in 1941 and 15. Dáil Éireann Debate, awarded a pension of £9 6s 1d per annum. v Kate was also Quarter Master from Vol. 80 No. 4, accessible at Houses of the 1922 to 1923. Despite stating her ranks Oireachtas website, http://www.oireach- Kate by this stage was 68 years old. Why with the board, corroborated by letters tas.ie/parliament/ xvii did the pension take so long to get from colleagues such as Eilís Aughney, Dáil Éireann Debate, Vol. 81 No. 14, through? One suspects a combination of (Member of Executive CnmB 1921–23); accessible at Houses of the Oireachtas the high numbers of applicants and her two O/Cs, Brigid Laffan and Bea website, http://www.oireachtas.ie/parlia- administrative incompetence. The latter Ryan; and Áine Ní Mhurchadha (O/C ment/ xviii is strongly suspected – over the next cou- Secretary CnmB Carlow Brigade) the Michael Ryan, of Tullow Street, Car- rd ple of years, Kate wrote more letters. In case files reveal that no official rank was low, Ex Adj. Carlow Brigade, 3 Eastern December 1941, she wrote: ‘I have not centrally filed. This would later cause Division, Irish Republican Army. xix received any monies for the last two Kate problems with regard to the amount Details of the funeral taken from obituaries months… I am very badly off and cannot owed to her as a pension. It was not until from Carlow Newspapers, Dec 1962. wait any longer.’ Another letter sent in August 1941 on the strength of a further March 1942, sought further pension application that the Pensions Board money on the basis of her having been recognised her rank in official correspon- V/C of her branch, only arrived in the Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 1

Finn’s Leinster Journal

1796 -1801 Sean O’Shea

Finn's Leinster Journal was founded in 1767 by Edmond Finn the object of your choice and attachment to our glorious con- and remained in the family's hands until 1801, when it was stitution, and to the true interests of Ireland, shall be the invari- taken over and published by Patrick Kearney. Kearney contin- able conduct of. ued with the same format, even using the same title, which was later changed to the Leinster Journal. Your faithful servant Richard Butler The original offices were situated in an area called St Mary's Garryhundon Graveyard, Kilkenny City. The paper was published twice December 26th 1795 weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays at a cost of 4d, which facilitated the gentry more so than the ordinary punter, who would have considered the Journal expensive. Apart from the County of Carlow paper's distribution in County Kilkenny, it was also circulated in counties Tipperary, Waterford, Carlow, Kildare, and Dublin. To be set from the 25th March next, for lives or years, the whole, or in divisions, the town lands of Kilree, joining the The paper itself contained culled news items from foreign and River Barrow, within one quarter of a mile of Moneybeg, ( as British papers, particularly debates from the houses of Parlia- good a market for corn etc, as any in Ireland) - and within a ment and historical European events. News reports of local quarter of a mile of the Royal Oak; the ground is in the greatest interest tended to be rather brief in nature and not too inform- heart, as most of them have not been tilled these 18 years. Pro- ative, often not followed up or continued as is the practice posals will be received by Mr Dennis Hanlon, of Moneybeg, to-day. The paper rarely offered any opinion of its own. A who will close with a solvent tenant or tenants, when the value considerable amount of local advertising (very much repeated) is offered, and possession given immediately, for the benefit was also contained in its pages. Somewhat more local news, of tilling. was reported in the paper from Patrick Kearney's time of taking control. Moneybeg, 11th January 1796

The extracts contained in this article refer only to County Carlow for the period 1796 to 1801, which were the final years Kings Arms, Leighlin - Bridge of publication of the paper by the Finn family; unfortunately the year 1800 is not available. Edmond Dowling, respectfully acquaints his friends and the public, that he has fitted up the above Inn, in the completest The micro-film relating to the papers is at times difficult to deci- manner; his larder shall be constantly supplied with everything pher due to the poor quality of the paper used at the time of pub- in season; his cellar with the best wines and spirits, with lication, and indeed due to the period that had elapsed between comfortable well aired beds etc, and assures the public that the the publication and copy. And of course articles and reports can greatest attention will be paid to their accommodation. be missed; however, the paper continued in production for a period in excess of 150 years, lasting longer than the majority Good post carriages and horses with a caeful driver, at the short- of its contemporaries. est notice.

1796 January 12th 1796

12nd to the 16th January 1796 To the Gentlemen, Clergy, and Freeholders of the County of Carlow 5th to the 9th February 1796 County of Carlow Gentlemen To be let, for three lives from 25th March1796; the following Permit me to solicit your suffrages on the present vacancy - to lands, the estate of Henry Bruen, esq a minor; merit your approbation whilst I had the honour of representing you in Parliament, was my earnest pursuit. Should I again be Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 2

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A. R. P. laying down linens to bleach, which will be completely finished Part of Newtown containing 29 1 19 in seven or eight weeks. As usual, linens will be taken in by Mr Part of Oldtown containing 48 2 35 Ross, at the Golden Fleece, Tullow Street at the Green, and at Part of Oldtown containing 65 1 9 Mrs. Lyons Leighlin-Bridge. Part of Ballyteglea containing 11 1 30 Part of Knockullard containing 25 2 12 Mr Hughes having resigned the shop keeping business, if he should remain indebted to any person in that line, or in his pres- The above lands are good tillage, pasture and meadow ground ent business, such person or persons are desired forth with to and will be let in divisions - no persons will be treated with, call for payment and those who are indebted to him are but such as covenant to reside on the term agreed for. requested to pay the same immediately, otherwise they will be sued for their respective accounts with out further notice. There is great convenience of lime and other manures; also turf, and water on, and near these lands. N.B. Samples of wheat will be received and brought as above.

Proposals will be received by James Ormsby, Dawson Street, Carlow March 10, 1796 Dublin, and Philip Waters, Carlow.

Jan 30th 1796 21st to the 25th May 1796

On Monday a company of the Carlow Militia commanded by 12th to the 15th February 1796 Colonel Latesache arrived in Kilkenny from Waterford, and this day will march hence to Trim, in which town and neighbour- To the Free and Independent hood they are to be stationed the ensuing year. Electors of the County Carlow The conduct of the Carlow Regiment of Militia when quartered Gentlemen in Waterford has been such as to merit the public appreciation of the inhabitants of the city. Your unanimous appointment of me this day, a representative of your respectable County is an appreciation of my conduct when I enjoyed that trust, the most flattering and highest honour 1st to the 4th of June 1796 I could receive. To enable me to discharge my duties in my situation, I shall hope for your instructions on all questions of To the Gentlemen, Clergy and Freeholders of the County moment by the most rigid attention of your commands and of Carlow. interests. I shall ever endeavour to prove that I am. Gentlemen Yours Grateful Faithful Servant Encouraged by the support of some of the first interests in this 25th January 1796 Richard Butler. my native county, I presume to offer myself a candidate for the high honour of representing you in the next Parliament.

19th to the 23rd March 1796 I shall take the first opportunity to solicit personally your protection and support of which, should I be thought worthy, I shall One of the Inverness Fencibles (Corps of Highlanders) on their endeavour by my conduct, to justify the confidence of a county arrival at Carlow, having gone into the Barrow to swim, was in which my family have always resided and were formerly seized with a cramp and drowned. honoured. With the great trust I now aspire to -

I am Gentlemen 23rd to the 26th March 1796 With the greatest respect Your faithful Servant In the Carlow Court-House on Tuesday a boy of about thirteen years Walter Kavanagh. of age fell from one of the galleries and was so severely bruised that his life is despaired of. The Assizes of Carlow ended. To the Gentlemen, Clergy and Freeholders of the County of Carlow 2nd to the 6th April 1796 Gentlemen Bleach - Green, Carlow John Hughes The strong assurances of support I have received from some of the first interests in your county, induce me to offer myself a Begs leave to inform his friends and the public, that he is now candidate on the next General Election, for the high honour of Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 3

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representing you in Parliament. Should I be considered as wor- in the County of Carlow, is poisoned to prevent poachers. Any thy of so distinguished a situation, you may rely on my dis- gentleman wishing to shoot thereon, shall have the poison taken charging that sacred trust to the utmost of my abilities, with up by applying to Sir Richard Butler. fidelity and honour, ever holding in view as a guide to my Par- liamentary conduct, the real interests of the Kingdom, and that Garryhunden July 23, 1796 of your Independent county in particular. As soon as my military duty will permit, I mean personally to solicit the honour of your protection and support. 3rd to the 7th September 1796

I am Gentlemen, Your Faithful Humble Servant, David To be let Latouche jnr, Waterford, April, 17th 1796 Or the Interest sold

An elegant lodge and convenient offices within a quarter of a 18th to the 22nd June 1796 mile of the town of Carlow, with seven acres of choice ground, fit for the immediate reception of a small family, it being To be sold by Auction needless to lay out one guinea on it. On Tuesday the 28th June instant At Clonmore Lodge, County Carlow Application to be made to Beauchamp Hill Esq. Cottage, Carlow.

The entire household furniture, house linen, china, farming August 29th 1796 utensils etc of the late Thomas Whelan, Esq. The particulars to be expressed by hand bills - also a very excellent coach with harness for four horses. A cabriolet and a pair of ponies, a horse, 28th September to lst October 1796 and three milch cows. On Thursday James Butler Esq was sworn into the office of Clonmore Lodge June 15th 1796 Sovereign of the town of Carlow, James Maxwell, and Thomas Farlow, gentlemen, Sergeants for the ensuing year.

13th to the 16th July 1796 lst to the 4th of November 1796 Stolen Stolen or Strayed On Saturday night the 9th Inst. off the lands belonging to Mr Roche, near Leighlinbridge, in the County of Carlow, five From off the lands of Ballyellen, in the County of Carlow, on lambs, branded on the left side with the letters B.R. and a small Wednesday night, the 29th October, a strong mare, four years brand on the rump with the letter R. A reward of ten guineas old, about 15 hands high, rather for the saddle than draft, a small will be paid by said Mr Roche, to any person or persons, that star on her forehead, a small part of her hind feet white, a white will give information where said lambs may be got, and pros- spot on her off side about half way down her ribs, and a white ecute the thief or thieves to conviction within six months from spot on her back near her withers. Who ever will give information the date there of. where she may be found, shall get three guineas, or if stolen, ten Font Hill July 16, 1796 guineas for the mare and prosecuting the thief to conviction, by applying to the Rev Francis Thomas Leighlinbridge.

22nd to the 25th July 1796 November 2nd 1796

Previous to the General Election, which probably takes place next year, we think it proper to inform the public, that, by the late To be set Election Bill, no Freeholder can vote unless he shall have registered his freehold six months before the election, and if he be a In the town of Carlow, for such term of years as may be agreed, Catholic, he must produce at the hustings a certificate of his the old established brewery and malt-house, formerly the having taken the test which qualified him for free hold property property of Philip Bernard esq, together with the dwelling house, before he obtained it, and a further certificate of his having taken coach-house stabling and store house, also walled-in garden and the test which qualified him to exercise the elective franchise. fifteen acres of choice meadow ground. There is no better situation for the residence of a gentleman, or for carrying on a brewery, distillery or any other public business, being immediately 30th July to the 3rd August 1796 adjoining the river Barrow, the canal also runs very convenient.

Notice N.B. A lease for ever can be granted and a fine expected. Application to be made to John Newton esq Carlow. Is hereby given, that the estate of Sir Richard Butler Baronet, November 4th 1796 Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 4

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5th to the 8th November 1796 Burke Esq Dublin, Patrick Denn, Chaisworth, near Castlecomer Kilkenny, Mr Blackney, Ballycormaick, Leighlin-Bridge or J Lands to be Let Blackney Waterford.

The following farms, part of the estate of the Earl of Bessbor- ough, will be set from the lst of May 1797 - for 3 lives. 10th to the 14th December1796

County of Carlow Stolen or Strayed

Part of Grange ford, now held by the representatives of Francis From Kilkarrigg, near Leighlin-Bridge on Wednesday night, 30th Dunn - 240 A. 1R. 23P. November last, a black mare, aged, strong made and handsome, foxed ears and one hindfetlock white. Whoever gives information These lands lie about midway between Carlow and Tullow. so that she may be found and prosecutes the thief to conviction That part that lies on the North side of the public road, will be shall receive ten guineas reward or for mare only three guineas let as one division; and the greater part which is situate on the by application to Mr Murphy, of Kilkarrigg aforesaid. South side of the road, will be set, either all together as one farm, or in such divisions as proposers may mark out. Also, N. B. In addition to the above reward, Mr Newton will pay ten another part of Grange ford, now held by the representatives of guineas for the apprehending of the thief. James Dunn the younger, containing 100 Acres. December 5th 1796 Stephen Cloway, who lives near Garry hill will shew these Grange ford lands. 1797 Written Proposals, (and such only will be attended to, or at all 14th to the 18th January 1797 considered as proposals) to be sent - post paid - to Andrew Caldwell Esq., Cavendish Row, Dublin - who will lay them be- At a meeting of the Committee for affording Accommodation fore the Earl of Bessborough. Any proposer, may send a dupli- to the Troops marching against the enemy, held at the commit- cate of his proposal to his Lordship, directed to Cavendish tee room, on Monday, the 9th of January 1797 - Square London. Philip Newton, High Sheriff in the chair: - Resolved unanimously, October 25th, 1796 that our chairman be requested to present the following addresses to Sir Richard Butler, and Sir Charles Burton Baronets.

30th November to the 3rd December 1796 To Sir Richard Butler Bart and the officers and privates composing the corps of Yeoman cavalry under his command. Mill and Malt-House Gentlemen To Set We, the Committee for affording Accommodation to the Troops The extensive and convenient Bolting Mill, Malt-House and marching against the enemy, beg leave to return you our sincere concerns at Ballyellen near Gores- Bridge, County of Carlow, and hearty thanks, for the zeal and alacrity which you have for any term that may be agreeable to the bidder. These con- displayed, in stepping forward on the first alarm of an enemy cerns are most eligibly situated on the navigable River- Barrow, appearing on our coast, for the purpose of conveying the which by a lock at a mill gives a sufficient and definable power numerous expresses necessary on the occasion; and for your of water all seasons of the year: - the mill equal to work 10,000 unremitting attention to every other duty, which the urgency of barrels of wheat without night work, having two water wheels: the service required. - the malt house can make from 7 to 8,000 barrels of malt annually, all finished in best manner, with ample and sufficient Sir Char. Burton Bart . and the officers and privates composing storage for their supplies. Boats can, with shoots from the lofts, the corps of Yeomen cavalry under his command with a neat lodge handsomely situated and 13 acres good ground annexed to the concerns, may be made more if required, Gentlemen all well enclosed and are in the heart of the best and most noted corn country in this Kingdom. We, the Committee for affording Accommodation to the Troops marching against the enemy, request you will accept our Should the bidder wish to pay down any part of the rent, or pre- warmest acknowledgements, for the indefatigable spirit and fer to purchase it may be made agreeable. Possession immed- activity that you have manifested in discharge of the various iately given, the works being all complete and finished in duties, which during the late alarming period you were called best manner. upon by the exigency of the service to fulfil.

Proposals to be made and directed to Rich Byrne, and John The High Sheriff having accordingly waited on Sir Richard Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 5

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Butler and Sir Charles Burton with the forgoing addresses, From the twenty fifth of March next, the Manor Mills of Cour- received the following answers: nellane, in the County of Carlow, together with eight acres of ground, on which there is an exceeding good situation for a To the Committee for affording Accommodation to the Troops Bolting Mill, Corn Stores, and other improvements. Application marching against the enemy. Gentlemen to be made to Mr Byrne. Feb 20th 1797 We feel ourselves much flattered by the approbation of a committee, composed of persons so particularly distinguished by their humane and loyal exertions in procuring and adminis- 11th to the 15th March 1797 tering comfort and assistance to our brave army on their march County of Carlow against the enemy: and be assured, that we will continue that Lands, etc. of the late John Lecky conduct which has met with your approbation . To be let from the 25th of the 3rd month, called March next, for Signed ( by the desire of the officers and privates of the troop the term of eight years and a half, about 450 A of lands of of cavalry) Ballykealy, the greatest part of which is in a very high state of Commanded by me, cultivation — with about 50 A. of lands of Straboe. Proposals Richard Butler to be received by Elizabeth Lecky, Ballykealy. Persons wilt Capt. C C. Carlow 11th January 1797 attend at each place to shew the respective premises.

And will be sold by auction at Ballykealy, on the 20th of the 3d To the Committee assembled in the town of Carlow for afford- month, called March, the stock of cattle, esteemed one of best ing accommodation to the troops marching against the enemy. collection in the kingdom, consisting of sheep, horn cattle, and about thirty draft and saddle horses of different ages and kinds, Gentlemen together with a large assortment of farming utensils, and many other articles. The Auction to begin at 11 o' clock, and continue I had the pleasure of receiving your letter yesterday, by your till all are sold. respectable and worthy High Sheriff Philip Newton Esq. Ballykealy, 1st third month 1797 It is extremely flattering to me and the corps I have the honour to command, which I have communicated to them this day on parade, and by their desire, request you will accept our united 22nd to the 25th March 1797 thanks, for the compliment there in expressed. The Right Hon., the Lord Chancellor, has been pleased to ap- We associated for the purpose of showing our attachment to his point James Butler, of Carlow, a Justice of the Peace, for the Majesty, and zeal for the Public Service and are happy our pres- counties of Carlow and Kildare. ent efforts meet the approbation of your Committee, whom we applaud for their laudable exertions, in aiding his majesty's troops on their march thro' Carlow against the enemy. 15th to the 19th of April 1797

I have the honour to be Thursday Night a Gang of Ruffians broke into the house of Mrs. Waring at Killeshin, near Carlow, and robbed her of nine guineas Gentlemen and some plate. At their departure they desired a bottle of Your most obedient, and very humble servant Whiskey, which they drank to the owner’s health. Next morning Charles Burton, a Pursuit was set on foot by the Neighbourhood in which the Capt. Town of Carlow Cavalry Gentlemen of the Slievemarigue Cavalry were particulary active, Pollerton but we are sorry to add that it was unsuccessful. 11th Jan 1797

19th to the 22nd April 1797 18th to 22nd Februarv1797 One of the Villains who robbed Mrs Waring of Killeshin, in On Monday seven pieces of light artillery and some ammuni- the County of Carlow, was Apprehended on Monday night, At tion waggons, arrived here (Kilkenny) under an escort of the Bolton-Hill, in the County of Kildare by the Exertions of the Carlow Cavalry. A detachment of the Kilkenny troop escorted Slievemarigue Cavalry, and Lodged in Athy Jail. Mrs Waring’s them yesterday as far as Callan, from whence the Callan in- cash etc. were found on him, also a set of Coining instruments. fantry conveyed them to Clonmel.

22nd the 25th February 1797 9th to the 12th July 1797 To Be Let For Sixty One Years To the Free and Independent Electors of the County of Carlow Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 6

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Gentlemen 5th to the 9th of August 1797 State of the poll for the County of Carlow on Friday August 4th Encouraged by the kind partiality you have ever shewn to my 1797 ancestors and to me, in repeatedly appointing us to the repre- sentation of your County, and in the humble hope that our con- For Mr Burton 1072 duct has deserved a continuance of your favour, I request your Sir R. Butler 1069 support at the approaching Election. If I shall again be the for- Mr Kavanagh 922 tunate object of your choice, I will endeavour to merit the high Mr Newton 936 honour, by preferring the interest of the County of Carlow, to every other consideration. Where upon Mr Kavanagh and Mr Newton declined any further contest and on Saturday morning Mr Burton and Sir Richard I am Butler were declared duly elected and were cheered a mist a Gentlemen vast concourse of people who assembled on the occasion. Your obliged Faithful Servant Richard Butler 9th to the 12th August 1797 Garryhundon July 12th 1797 To the Gentlemen, Clergy and Independent Electors, of the County of Carlow Gentlemen Gentlemen Colonel Ia Touche having declined standing for your County and encouraged by some of the first interests, I beg leave to We return you our warmest thanks for the repeated favours you offer myself as a candidate at the next General Election, for the have conferred upon us and our families, and congratulate you honour of representing you in Parliament. Should I be favoured sincerely on the success the independent interest of this County with your support, I shall endeavour to act in the best of my has experienced on the contested Election. You may rely upon judgment for the interest of the Kingdom, and for the welfare it, that our conduct in Parliament shall ever be guided by what- of this County in particular. I shalt take the earliest opportunity ever can tend most to the freedom of our happy Constitution of waiting on you in person. and the welfare of the County Carlow.

And have the honour to be We have the honour to be, Gentlemen, With the greatest respect With most sincere gratitude, and greatest esteem Gentlemen Your much obliged, faithful humble servants, Your faithful and humble servant William Burton Philip Newton. Richard Butler Bagenaistown June 30th 1797 We take this public opportunity to return our thanks to the High Sheriff for his impartial and very proper conduct during the 29th July to the 2nd August 1797 whole time of the Poll. August 11th 1797 State of the Poll for the County of Carlow, which began last Tuesday. 23rd to the 26th August 1797 1st day 2nd day 3rd day Carlow August 22nd For Mr Burton 120 223 559 Sir R. Butler 119 210 559 Yesterday our Assizes commenced here. There was not much Mr Kavanagh 61 108 311 business done. But this day a man of the name of Thomas Mr Newton 61 118 307 Collins was arraigned for the murder of his colleague, because he refused to fire a pistol at one Edward English, into whose house they had burgiariously entered in the night. The Counsel 2nd to the 5th August 1797 moved to put off his trial which the Court ordered, not with- standing a powerful resistance by the Counsel for State of the poll for County Carlow the Prosecution.

4th day 5th day 6th day 7th Day 8th day 9th day Laurence Toole was afterwards tried for the murder of James For Mr Burton 781 933 1031 1053 1060 1067 Meany, by fracturing his skull with a large stone. The prisoner Sir R. Butler 780 934 1028 1052 1061 1066 was found guilty after a long investigation of evidence, which Mr Kavanagh 407 509 604 695 776 849 was entirely circumstantial. It appeared that the prisoner and Mr Newton 400 512 613 708 789 863 the deceased had been at the fair of Naas together on Saturday the 24th of June last, and spent that night and the entire of next Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 7

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day Sunday night together, and on Monday morning left the able number. They then proceeded to Mr Bagenall's, from town with four cows, which had been purchased by the whence, however, they retreated in much confusion upon deceased on Monday evening. The prisoner was observed driv- receiving a smart discharge of musquetry from the house, and ing four cows in a hasty manner, and in such appearance of ag- next morning one of them was found dead in a waste house at itation, that he was asked where he was going, to which he Leighlin with several balls in his body. From Mr Bagnell's they answered, that a robber had met him on the road, wanted to take went to the house of one Cole, who had given information his cows and his money from him, and fired a shot which against some of those mad men, broke in the door, and wounded him in the hand, and showed his hand ,which had murdered him. Next day (Friday) a party of the 9th Dragoons marks of blood. The person who interrogated the prisoner arrived at Leighlin from Carlow and soon after a party of the offered to go back with him and secure the robber, to which the Wicklow Militia from this city (Kilkenny) and next morning at prisoner replied, "no he is easy ". He was then suffered to drive day - break another party of the 9th from Carlow arrived there, on his cows, but it being discovered, that the body of the man with Sir R Butler's Yeomanry, the Tullow corps and Mr Burton's he called a robber was that of Meany, his own particular friend, Yeomanry- surrounded the town and made a strict examination and an honest man, and to whom the cows belonged, the pris- of the idle and disorderly inhabitants - eleven of whom were oner was pursued and taken. A pistol was also found near the made prisoners and sent to Carlow Jail. Two or three other body of the deceased which was proved to belong to the pris- persons have been since taken up, several idle people have left oner, and which he had repaired a few days before the Fair. the place, and the town of Leightin Bridge is again restored its accustomed tranquillity. Laurence Toole was found guilty of the murder and robbery of James Meany and executed on Thursday at the front of the new Gaol. 13th to the 16th September 1797 l4th to the 18th November l797

A list of Knights, Citizens and Burgesses returned to serve in County Carlow the ensuing parliament. At a meeting of the Magistrates pursuant to notice, at the County Court - House of Carlow, on Saturday the 28th day of Cariow County, William Burton Esq and Sir Richard Butler Oct 1797 Bart. William Burton, Esq in the Chair. Whereas a most atrocious at- Borugh of Carlow, Henry Sadlier Prittee and William Elliot tempt was made on the life of John Butler Esq a Magistrate of Esqrs. this County, on the morning of Saturday the 21 inst., on his return to his own house from Kilbride, by two shots being fired from Borough of Old Leighlin, Edward Cooke and Sir Boyle Roche Bart. behind a wall, one of which shots wounded the said John Butler in the arm; and being determined to bring the perpetrators of such horrid attempt to justice, we do hereby offer a reward of one hundred pounds sterling, to be paid by our Treasurer, to the 1st to the 4th November 1797 person or persons who shall within three calendar months from the date hereof discover, and prosecute to conviction the person On Thursday night the 2nd the house of Captain Kearney of or persons concerned in said attempt, and if any person or persons Shankill, was broken open by a set of fellows calling them- concerned except the person or persons who actually wounded selves United lrishmen, amounting to upwards of 300 men, sev- the said John Butler shall give information to any Magistrate of eral of them mounted they robbed him of all his arms, of 45 this County, by which his or their accomplices may be discovered guineas in cash several articles of plate and various other things; and brought to punishment- such person or persons shall not only abused and wounded him, and destroyed and pillaged the house be entitled to the above reward, but his, her or their names shall in a terrible manner. be kept secret (if required) and application shall be made to Government for his, her or their pardon. A man was murdered at Moneybeg, same night. by the same infatuated people, who afterwards we hear, proceeded to Leigh- And whereas on the night of Wednesday the 25th about the hour lin-Bridge, and searched every house in the town for arms of nine of the clock at night, William Bennett of Ballyloughan in this county, was most inhumanly murdered and robbed of his money and arms, in his dwelling house at Ballyloughan afore- 4th to the 8th November 1797 said, by a number of persons at present unknown. We do here by promise a further reward of one hundred pounds sterling to Between 7 and 8 o'clock last Thursday night a crowd of persons be paid as above, for the discovery and prosecuting to convic- calling themselves United Men, assembled in the Market Place tion, the persons concerned in said murder and robbery. at Leighlin-Bridge and having drank a barrel of ale with much tumultuous shouting, a drum beating, they proceeded in differ- Resolved, That a Proclamation to be issued by Government, of- ent directions to the several country seats in that neighbour- fering a reward and pardon, in the usual way to the person or hood, to search for arms. In this design they succeeded at Mr persons, who shall first discover his or their accomplice or Mulhallen's, Mr Kearney's (as mentioned in our last) Mrs accomplices would tend to bring the perpetrators to justice. Humphrys' and some others, and it is said obtained a consider- Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 8

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Resolved, That our chairman be requested to lay the foregoing notes. On searching him a large parcel of one and two guinea resolutions before Government and request a Proclamation be notes were found, resembling those of the Bank of Ireland. The issued accordingly. watermark is perfect but the engraving very bad, although better executed in the one guinea ( which resemble the last that were Resolved, That the Treasurer be directed to publish the forego- issued by the bank), than in the two guinea ones. He says he ing resolutions in the Dublin Journal, Dublin Evening Post and received them for cattle from a jobber in the County Wicklow, Leinster Journal, and also to have a number of hand - bills and confesses to have negotiated two or three in this city printed and distributed about the county. (Kilkenny) on Saturday. The word demand in the second line is remarkably large, and the letters throughout are not of equal William Burton Chairman. size, which will appear on a very slight inspection - Mr Edmonds has sent them to the Governors of the Bank and the prisoner committed to the city - gaol. 18th to the 22nd November 1797 Sunday morning at ten o’ clock an express to General Sir Murder and Robbery Charles Asqill arrived here, informing him that information had been received of an intended attempt by a body of rioters to Whereas, on Wednesday the 25th October about the hour of ten rescue the prisoners now in Carlow Gaol. The General instantly o clock at night my house at Bailyloughan, in the County of ordered out the Grenadier company of the Wicklow Militia, Carlow, was forcibly entered by a number of men, armed with with two field pieces, and in less than half an hour they were swords, pistols etc. and with threatening language desired to be on the march to reinforce the garrison at Carlow, where they conducted to Mr William Bennett's room . As soon as they arrived early the same evening, but it appeared that entered, they demanded his money and arms, he gave them his Government had been deceived by the inconsiderate zeal of purse and keys, the villains then fired three shots at Mr Bennett, unfounded suspicion of some persons yet unknown to the which instantly deprived him of life. They took a silver watch, public, and yesterday the Grenadier company etc. returned to a case of pistols, two guns and four swords. I hereby promise this Garrison. to pay the sum of fifty pounds sterling, to any person or persons, who shall within one year, from the date hereof give The prison at Carlow, as we are informed contains no fewer such information as shall convict all or any of the assassins that than 120 prisoners, all of whom are charged with treasonable were concerned in said horrid murder and Felony. practices. They are, however, all in perfect health, to which the attention of Government seems to have been particularly John Bennett, Capt Co. Carlow Militia. Blaris- Hutts, Oct 30 directed, as the Inspector General of prisons, who arrived there 1797 from Dublin some time ago, has been ever since, indefatigably assisted by the local Inspector in adopting the most wholesome regulations to prevent the gaol fever, hence the prisoners are not only clean and healthy, but seemingly very grateful to their 13th to the 17th January 1798 humane attention.

Carlow January 6th

Our county is now quiet, thanks to the spirted exertions of our 10th to the 14th March 1798 Magistrates and yeomanry. Last night two well- dressed ruffians rode through a village about three miles from this town, and Wanted rapped at each door, calling on the people with in to quit their habitations, for that Orange Protestants from Carlow were Between Borris and Graigue, a partner in a mill, on the river coming in a great body to murder all the Catholics and burn their Barrow as the place is situated for extensive trade, a Gentleman houses; the people, about fifty in number immediately went to bringing a capital would be most eligible. the house of a neighbouring Magistrate, whose steward (Mr. B. not being at home) permitted them till morning to remain in the Clashganay Mills, March 13th, 1798 house when his master arrived and proved to them the falsity of the rumour. Hand bills have been since dispersed by the Kilkenny Magistrate to caution the poor people being deceived by such miscreants. In consequence of the double stamp duty to be levied on newspapers by the new Stamp Act, which takes place on the 25th of March, the Leinster Journal, in common with all the other newspapers of Ireland, will be sold at four pence each, or two 27th to the 31st January 1798 guineas per annum to subscribers.

Saturday, a man who calls himself James Burn, and says he As the stamps, paper and printing wilt cause each paper to stand came from the County Carlow was apprehended and brought the proprietor in 31/2 before it leaves the office, it will not in before Robert Edmonds Esq charged with issuing forged bank future be possible to supply any subscriber unless the subscrip- Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 9

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tion be paid in advance, nor to keep any credit account whatever 21st the 24th March 1798 for the paper. To Be Let 14th to the 17th March 1798 From the 25th of March instant Or the interest sold Kilkenny The large house and concerns where the Judges lodge in Tullow In consequence of the additional duty to be levied on newspa- Street - it's useless to say any more about this house as it is well pers by the new Stamp Act, which doubles the present tax, the known to be the best concern In town for a man of extensive Leinster Journal is reduced to the painful alternative either of business. For further particulars, enquire at said house, or to Mr abandoning its establishment now matured by the patient exer- Timothy Kinsella , of Ballyonury. tion of thirty years, and the liberal patronage of an indulgent public - or of continuing its labours at a double expense when Carlow March 13th 1798 the increase of price deprives it of the most numerous class of readers, and consequently of the principal source of emolument At the Carlow assizes which ended, the following persons to the publisher. capitally convicted viz. Thomas Collins, John Doyle, Pat Flussy and Bryan Sharky, for different felonies, sentenced to be hanged We have chosen the latter, but anxious to make all possible on Monday, the 2nd inst. accommodation to the bulk of the people, have added to its price, only the amount of the new taxes, vis the new excise tax Pat Hore, James Muldoon, John Currin, John Howie and Oliver on paper and the additional penny stamp, but we are obliged to Cary convicted of administering unlawful oaths, cutting trees, make a small exceeding on the subscription price, which is now making graves etc. sentenced to be hanged on Thursday fixed at two guineas per annum, the retail price of four pence the 5th inst. being totally inadequate to the expenditure. Timothy Nowlan and Tobias Burne convicted of taking This fact is highly deserving the attention not only of our old unlawful oaths, sentenced to be transported out of his Majesty's friends and subscribers, but of every country gentleman inter- Dominions for life. ested in preserving to his neighbourhood the useful aid of a newspaper to the value of lands, produce, manufactures and Judge Toler presided at the Criminal trials, Judge Day tried all indeed to every mercantile and agricultural purpose. We have the civil cases. therefore, much confidence that every man of rank and affluence in this and neighbouring counties will generously come forward to support, in this critical moment, by their 4th to the 7th April 1798 influence and subscriptions, the future existence of the Leinster Journal. Thomas Church Seed Merchant Carlow The accounts up to the 25th will be furnished without delay, and one of the clerks from this office will attend at each of the Begs leave to inform his friends and the public, that he has just office towns in the adjoining counties to receive subscriptions imported from London a large quantity of grass, flower and bird after the 25th. seeds, flower roots, etc., together with some excellent split peas, Durham mustard, crab and thorn quicks - all which he will engage of the first quality in the Kingdom - and hopes the good- 21st to the 24th March 1798 ness of his seeds, and attention of their commands, will merit public approbation. Kilkenny Carlow April 25th 1798 The increased and increasing patronage this paper is honoured with by an indulgent public, and the liberal and friendly manner 9th to the 12th May 1798 in which many gentlemen of rank and consequence have acted in support of their County Newspaper, at a time the very exis- Stolen or strayed tence of every country print is endangered by the new taxes, not only excites the most lively emotions of gratitude on our From Old Leighlin during the last assizes week of Carlow, a part, but enables us to make the most spirted arrangements for couple of very small beagles, a dog and bitch - the dog very its future conduct: new types and finer paper preparing, and strong made for his size and entirely white the bitch a light tan, several improvements are planned to render the regular series nice in her limbs, some white about her neck and down her face. more interesting and valuable. If these hounds should have fallen into the possession of any gentleman, Mr Vigors hopes they will be returned Any person We cannot resist the opportunity of again expressing our giving information where they may be found shall be warmest acknowledgements for the great kindness of all our well rewarded. friends on this occasion. Old Leighlln 4th May 1798 Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 10

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23rd to 26th May 1798 victims to despair and death, A few were so happy as to escape by forcing a passage through the houses, but many of them The mails from Dublin which ought to have arrived on Thurs- were overtaken and hanged the following day and so strict a day and yesterday have not yet arrived, and consequently every search is making for the remainder that it is thought that none authentic source of communication from Dublin or the inter- of the persons concerned in the attempt will escape the hand mediate towns has failed us. However it appears that some of Justice bodies of insurgents had the temerity to attack the troops at Naas and Kildare on Thursday, and were repulsed with dreadful slaughter, and on the same day similar attacks were made at 2nd to the 6th June 1798 Kilcullen, Carlow Doonane and Monasterevan, all ending in the same slaughter of the insurgents without any loss to the Extract of a letter from officer in Carlow, dated Thursday last,' troops or Yeomanry. These decisive events will very probably “A court-martial has been sitting here these past two days; num- put a final stop to the revolutionary fury, but as it is impossible bers have been hanged and shot, among whom are many to be too vigilant, this city (Kilkenny) has been reinforced by yeomen. Sir Edward Crosbie is said to be deeply implicated; calling in the detachments at country quarters and the garrison he is now in custody, but not yet tried”. and citizens prepare with tranquillity and confidence to resist any attempt at anarchy or disorder. Another letter from the same, dated yesterday. “Executions still going on here, both shooting and hanging, and in consequence Dublin Castle 28th May 1798, extract of a letter from Colonel of the measures adopted we have a daily and numerous surren- Campbell to General Dumas, dated Athy, 27th May 1798. der of pikes and other arms.

Since my last communication we have killed fifty of the enemy. The number of insurgents killed in Carlow and the vicinity is "The Rebels have suffered considerably in an attack on Carlow considerable. The return from persons in office in that town, and Monasterevan, upwards of four hundred of them killed at states that 630 have fallen, exclusive of those that have been the former, and sixty - five at the latter, with little or no loss to killed in various parts of the county. The whole number, we are the King's troops. informed, is not less than 1000.

"Our men are in high spirits"

Extract of a letter from the Rev. James Magee, Vicar of Clon- 6th to 9th June 1798 more, County Carlow, dated Hacketstown County Carlow May 25th" "Thursday June 7th, Sir Edward Crosbié was executed at Carlow on Tuesday evening last, and his head has been placed top of “In consequence of information received this morning that a the Gaol”. large body of Rebels were marching to attack the town - Lieut Gardnier, with the men under his command - and a party of On Saturday morning early an express arrived here with infor- Yeomanry commanded by Captain Hardy, went out to meet mation that a large body of Rebels who escaped from Wexford, them. Having reconnoitred their force which amounted to had gained possession of Killedmond and Borris which they between 3 and 4000, they took post on the hill under the immediately set on fire and reduced to ashes. Major General Church, and when the Rebels came tolerably near, the officers Sir Charles Asquill immediately proceeded with strong and men made a feint and retreated into the barracks. The detachments from this garrison to attack them, but before he Rebels seeing this, came on with a great shout imagining the could arrive there, the main body of the Rebels had retired day to be their own. In a few minutes captain Hume came across the country over Kellymount, to the mountains called up with about 30 of his troop, and instantly charged them, on the Ridge, between the collieries and Old Leighlin, committing which the Rebels retteated, a general pursuit took place and so horrid devastation and driving before them all the cattle of the complete was the rout that about 300 now lie dead on the field country. Passing thro' New-Bridge, they set fire to many houses of battle” and stores and overpowered a small detachment of the Wexford militia, seven of whom and the drummer they soon after All the accounts from Carlow of the mad attempt made by the murdered on Kellymount. Our troops, not with standing the Rebels upon that garrison, agree in stating their loss to have most lively pursuit, could only overtake the rear guard of the exceeded four hundred men killed, besides great numbers Rebels and their flagging parties, all of whom were routed in a wounded. moment, and near two hundred of them killed. Night coming on, our troops returned to this garrison, much fatigued, but Deceived by the retreat of the sentinets, and certain of victory, without the loss of a single man. they had had crowded into into the narrow pass of Tullow Street to the number of a thousand men, when the garrison fell upon Early on the following morning we were surprised to hear that them. After a single discharge the Rebels attempted to fly - ,but the main body of the Rebel army had, during the night, pushed no passage was left open - a troop of dragoons already in their forward to Castlecomer and at day break, had by dint of rear had possession of every avenue to the street, and a dreadful numbers, driven out the garrison and got possession of fire of Musquetry kept up in front, soon devoted the wretched the town. Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 11

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Next portion of report deals with Engagement of Rebels and took post on the most advantageous ground near the town, to Army at Castlecomer not recorded. endeavour to prevent the rebels from gaining possession of it, but after a few rounds, the rebels filed off in every direction, On Monday morning our reconnoitring parties observed the with an intent to surround and cut him off in every direction. Rebel Army posted on the bog between John's Well mountains Lieutenant Gardiner then retreated with the infantry to line the and the Ridge, about eight miles distant from this city. They walls and windows of the barracks. A contest continued in the seemed to be at rest, and remained quiet except when relieving midst of flames (for the rebels set fire to the town) for nine their centinels, until four o' clock, when they were observed to hours, when they were obliged to retreat. Lieutenant Gardiner move to the right along the Ridge towards Kellymount and states, that the rebels suffered greatly, and that 30 car-loads of New- Bridge. The army garrison was left the whole day to rest. their killed and wounded were carried off by them in their Next morning at day break, Sir Charles marched with a large retreat, and many of their dead were found in the streets force consisting of two pieces of artillery, part of the Wexford and ditches. and Wicklow regiments of the 4th, 5th and 9th dragoons of Hom- pesch's cavalry, the Romney fencibles and of the Kilkenny, Lieutenant Gardiner acknowledges, in the warmest terms, the gal- Gowran, Shilelogher, Desart, Thomastown, Myshall and lant conduct of the officers and men, and gives particular praise to Killeshin corps of cavalry. He was joined on the march by the Lieutenant James Rowan, of the Antrim regiment Captain Hume Leighlin-bridge infantry and part of the Downshire militia wih of the upper Talbots town cavalry - Captain Charnley of the Coolat- their artillery. About eight o' clock he came up with the Rebel tin infantry lieutenants Saul and Thomas of the Hacketstown corps Army, amounting to from 5 to 6000 men, advantageously and lieutenants Braddell and Taylor, of the Shebagh cavalry and positioned on a rising ground in an extensive flat at Kilcomny sergeant Nixon of the Antrim regiment. near Goresbridge. Nothing could exceed the joy of the soldiers after so many fatiguing marches, at last to have a prospect of Lieutenant Gardiner severely regrets the loss of a good officer, revenge, and the officers were constantly obliged to restrain Captain Hardy of the Hacketstown yeomen infantry, who fell their ardour. The engagement began with a terrible fire of early in the action. artillery, which the Rebels returned with quickness without effect. A very hot fire was kept up for near an hour, but unable Return of the killed and wounded in the defence of Hacket- longer to withstand the impetuosity of the troops, the Rebels stown 25th June 1798: began to give away, and fled towards the County of Wexford. A horrible slaughter now ensued which lasted six or seven Upper Talbotstown cavalry 4 killed 1 wounded. Antrim detach- hours, and did not cease while a Rebel was to be seen. Eleven ment I sergeant and i private wounded. Hacketstown infantry hundred Rebels were left dead on the field of action, among 4 killed, 6 wounded. Coolattin infantry 8 wounded supple- whom was the invulnerable commander, Murphy, and it is mentary 2 wounded. probable the remainder of the fugitives will fall again into the hands of General Johnson or General Moore, now at the head of fresh troops in their route. This victory was so very decisive 4th to 7th July 1798 that we have got possession of all their artillery, amounting to 14 or 15 pieces of different calibre - all their standards, Thursday last two persons found guilty as rebels were executed ammunition and baggage - a vast number of pikes, muskets, at Carlow, and on Saturday another, who had been a Captain swords etc, and their troop of horses, which were given up to among the insurgents. the soldiers. Our readers will be glad to hear that Lady Ormonde's plate which the rebels carried off on Sunday from Castlecomer was retaken yesterday. 18th to 21st July 1798

Yesterday evening the general returned to this garrison with all Last Thursday 16 prisoners from the neighbourhood of Borris the detachments which marched in the morning. We await the and 6 from Thomastown, were brought here (Kilkenny) by official returns of the loss of our troops, but we understand that detachments of yeomanry and lodged in the county jail. we did not lose a single man, and a very few only were wounded, among whom is 3 or 4 yeomen, but none dangerously. 22nd to 26th September 1798

30th June to 4th July 1798 Turnpike road Dublin Castle June 28th 1798 Leading from the town of Carlow to the city of Kilkenny.

Accounts have been received from Lieutenant Gardiner, of the A board will be held on Saturday the 29th day September, at the Antrim militia, that early on Mondav 23 inst. a body of rebels King's Arms Leighlinbridge, to account for the repairs of the consisting of several thousands, marched from the mountain of road-dated this 7th day of September 27th Wicklow, to attack Hacketstown. On seeing them approach, Lieutenant Gardiner with the troops under his command, viz, David Ryan Treasurer. 50 upper Talbotstown, 24 Shebagh cavalry, 50 of the Antrim regiment, 46 Hacketstown and 30 Coolattin yeomen infantry, Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 12

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To be let To be let from 25th inst. for ever, the house, offices and demesne With or without a fine of Malcolm Ville, adjacent to the Royal Oak the house is new, For such a term as may be agreed on roomy and convenient the lands in good beart, containing 83 A. beautifully situated, and bounded on one side by the The extensive bolting mill and malt house at Ballyellin (with a navigable river Barrow, on the banks of which there is a lot for neat lodge adjoining) and any quantity of grounds the tenant building a malt - house, stores, timber or coal yard also, another may wish - situate on the navigable river Barrow, and in a fine lot reaching from the Royal Oak to Bagenals bridge, which corn county. Proposals will be received by Walter Blakeney, or would answer for a tan-yard, starch-yard and workmen's house: Patrick Denn, Kilkenny. this place is well worth the attention of any gentleman for his residence or wishing to go into business, as it lies in one of the October 12th, 1798 best corn and butter counties in the kingdom - is 8 miles from 5th to the 8th December 1798 Carlow, 2 from Leighlinbridge and one from Bagenals town - all good market towns. Proposals (in writing) will be received Two apprentices one for the linen and woollen drapery; the other for by R. Malhallen esq. Kilkenny. Stephen Connors will show the grocery business. None need apply but those of an honest con- the place. nection, and whose character will bear the strictest inquiry. March 12th 1799 N.B. Apply to William Callaghan Tullow, Co Carlow.

December 7th 1798 lst to the 4th May 1799 Turnpike Road Leading from the Town of Carlow to the City of Kilkenny 12th to the 15th January 1799 County of Carlow A Board will be held on Monday the 6th day of May next, at the Tholsel, in the City of Kilkenny, for the repair of said road. To be let: Dated this 15th day of April 1799 David Ryan, Treasurer. From the 1st May next, for three lives or thirty one years in such divisions as may be agreed on , Ballycrogue as 226 acres within two miles of the town of Carlow. 4th to the 8th May 1799. Turnpike Road Part of Kilgraney 120 acres convenient to Leighlin — Bridge, From Athy to Castlecomer, from thence to Leighlin - Bridge. Moneybeg and Borris. Notice is hereby given, that there will be a Board of the Trustees Proposals will be received by the Right Hon. David Latoucihe of the above road held at the inn in Leighlin - Bridge, on Mon- (whose estate these lands are) and James Butler esq Carlow. day the 13th day of May next, in order to set the tolls of said road by public cant to the highest and fairest bidder: and to order the necessary repairs, and to settle such other business as may come before the Board. It is requested the Trustees will be 6th to the 9th March 1799 so good as to attend. To be let: From the first May next Roger Garraway, Treasurer Castlecomer April 30th 1799 For such term as may be agreed on the house and demesne of Bally cormaic County of Carlow: the demesne containing about 22nd to 29th May 1799 130 acres, the greater part of which is meadow ground the ten- Yesterday four companies of the Glengarry Fencibles arrived ant will be declared on or about the 25th of this month. here (Kilkenny) from Carlow to remain until further orders.

Proposals will be received by Patt Den or W.Blackney, Kilkenny 18th to 21st June 1799 March 5th 1799 Sunday morning the Dunbarton Fencibles commanded by Colonel Scott, arrived here (Kilkenny) from Tullow, County Also to be let - the mills of Ballyellan formerly advertised in Carlow, where they are to remain till further orders. the paper.

9th to 15th March 1799 10th to the 13th July 1799 County of Carlow Barrow Passage Boat From the 15th of May to 31st August 1799 Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 13

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Will leave Carlow at 5 o' Clock in the morning and will arrive A Board will be held on Saturday the 26th day of October at the at Athy before 8 o' clock, at which time the Grand Canal Boat Tholsel in the City of Kilkenny, to settle the Treasurers will leave Athy for Dublin. accounts, and to compound for the ensuing two years from the lst November next. The Barrow Boat will leave Athy on its return to Carlow at 9 o' clock, and Carlow for Athy again at 3 o' clock in the evening. Dated this 2nd day of October 1799 It will leave Athy on its return to Carlow at 7 o' clock in the David Ryan. treasurer. evening, by which time the Grand Canal Boat will arrive at Athy from Dublin. 2nd to the 6th November 1799 Married; On Wednesday last at the Manor of St John's Water- 20th to the 24th July 1799 ford, Walter Blackney, of Ballycormack Co Carlow, to Miss Wanted immediately, for the public works at Carlow, a number Catherine Wyse, daughter of John Wyse Esq. of working masons. The work will continue during the winter. July 15th 1799 21st to the 25th December 1799 A House 7th to the 11th September 1799 Barrow Passage Boat To be let immediately on moderate terms, and such time as may be agreed on, furnished or unfurnished, a large dwelling house From 1st September 1799 to 30th April 1800 inclusive. in the town of Carlow. It is in perfect repair, and has complete and extensive vaults, fit for a Wine-Merchant. Will leave Athy at 5 o' clock in the morning and arrive at For particulars apply to H. Pilot Carlow Carlow before eight o' clock will leave Carlow at eight and arrive at Athy before eleven o' clock - will again leave Athy at To Be Let noon and arrive at Carlow before three o' clock in the evening and entered on immediately: - will leave Carlow at three and arrive at Athy at six in the evening. The established brewery, malt house , stores , dwelling house , offices , walled-in gardens and extensive concern, in the town N.B The Directors intend shortly extending their passage Boat of Carlow lately occupied by Mr Edward Morgan, with 16 acres to Leighlin and Moneybeg or Bagenalstown, where proper of choice meadow grown adjoining there to. It is the best accommodation for reception of passengers as also at Carlow, circumstanced, as to water, in the town or County of Carlow will be established. and would answer remarkably well for a distillery. A lease for ever can be given and a fine will be expected. Applications to County of Carlow be made to John Newton esq Bunnekerry Carlow. A person To be let attends to shew the premises. And immediate possession given, a large and well built store with a kiln and offices, situated on the tide water of the naviga- October 1799 ble river Barrow in St Mullins in said county. Also to be let at the same place, an excellent thatched house and any quantity of land not exceeding 30 acres. Proposals to be made to Walter 31st December 1800 to 3rd January 1801 Kavanagh esq, Borris Leighlinbridge. September 22nd 1799 The act of Legislative Union, Thursday last, an operative law, the imperial united standard was hoisted at the Castle, and Royal salute fired by the artillery in garrison. A familiar adop- 2nd to the 5th October 1799 tion of the imperial arms took place In all forts, garrisons etc. Barrow Passage Boat: In the United Kingdoms, and was also displayed by the several squadrons of his Majesty's navy. Will from the 1st October depart every morning from Athy at 8 o'clock and arrive at Carlow at or before 11 o'clock and again on each day leave Carlow at 2 o'clock and arrive at Athy at 5 o'clock in the evening, to continue at three hours until further notice, and 14th to the 17th January 1801 it is intended very shortly to run a boat to Leighlinbridge. 27th September 1799 Several robberies were lately committed in the neighbourhood of Borris, by two strangers, who assumed the names of two outlawed rebels, supposed to have been absent from that part 16th to the 19th October1799 of the country; and on Tuesday night the following extra- Turnpike Road ordinary affair happened, the two robbers planned the attack on Leading from the town of Carlow to the City of Kilkenny. a country man's house; the plan was discovered by the two rebels - they stayed in wait for the robbers and put them both Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 14

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to death. They then carried the dead bodies to the farmer, ex- meanour during her trial, but did not call any witness. torted a promise from him that he would convey them (the bodies) to Borris next morning. On Wednesday they were brought Lord Norbury much lamented that the circumstances stated from Borris to this City (Kilkenny) to be recognised. One of could not fully support an indictment for murder against a them proves to be a prisoner who broke out of the county jail wretch who was clearly of the most barbarous and inhuman last September and on the other was found part of a watch conduct he had ever heard of: the offence he was sorry could stolen from the house of a lady near Graigue. not be laid as a misdemeanour, her guilt of which could be no doubt. The Jury instantly found her guilty; and Lord Norbury sentenced her to stand three times in the pillory and a year 4th to the 7th March 1801 imprisonment, and directed that she should be presented by the Thursday night the Cork-mail was stopped a few miles beyond Grand Jury as a vagabond so as to have her transported for life.. Carlow, by a number of armed men and robbed of the mail - the report so current here yesterday of the guard etc being murdered, we are happy to hear is with out foundation. 9th to the 13th May 1801 To be let immediately For such term as may be agreed on 1st to the 4thApril 1801 The house and lands at Malcolmville, late the residence of We hear that two of the numerous bandits who lately robbed Robert Mulhallen, Esq deceased, containing 83 acres, beauti- the mail-coach near Carlow have been taken up some where fully and conveniently situated on the banks of the River about Athy, in the very act of attempting to pass some of the Barrow, near the Royal Oak, in the County of Carlow. Enquire notes which they had taken out of the mail, the notes have been for particulars of Mrs. Mulhallen, Malcolmville. positively identified and there can be little doubt the entire gang must soon be discovered. April 22nd 1801

Best potatoes sold at Carlow on Monday last for 6d the stone though they have hither kept up to a shilling per stone at our 27th to the 30th May 1801 market (Kilkenny ) there is every reason to expect a considerable reduction will take place at this day's market. Fresh butter Best potatoes sold at Carlow on Monday last for 6d the stone has fallen from 1s -10d to 10d and 8d, the pound and is still look- though they have hither kept up to a shilling per stone at our ing down. market (Kilkenny), there is every reason to expect a considerable reduction will take place at this day's market

6th to the 10th April 1801 Stolen or Strayed Carlow Assizes From off the lands of Bennekerry, in the County of Carlow, and At our assizes, held April 4th a case singularly interesting was within three miles of the town of Carlow, on Tuesday night the tried before Lord Norbury, which excited sensations of horror 26th of May, a dark bay mare rising four years old, about 13 and disgust in every person who was present. hands high, and a large blaze or star on her forehead; sprightly countenance, the off hind foot a little white, and crooked out- Mr Barrington, leading councel for the prosecution stated that wards, with a short bob tail drooping — she is the property of Mary Doyle stood indicted for an offence of the most barbarous Mr Patrick Whelan, of Bennekerry, in said County. description , that of procuring infant children from the Any person giving information of said Mare so as she may be Foundling Hospital, under false pretence as nurse ; robbing found, shall receive one Guinea reward, and no questions asked them of the covering which they received from the bounty of and for Mare and thief two Guineas, on prosecution to convic- the institution - then starving the unfortunate infant, to render tion, by applying to Mr Patrick Phelan, said place. its miserable appearance an object to excite compassion; and when famine and nakedness had reduced it to the last extremity, Thursday May 28th 1801 selling it to some person who would carry it to town for the Quarters wages of 25s and leaving it afterwards to perish. Mary Doyle had practised that traffic which disgraced the very name 1st to the 4th July 1801 of the human species. The most ferocious of the brute creation John Purcell of Carlow gentleman, was sworn as Attorney of protected their young; Mary Doyle though in a human form de- his Majesty's court of common pleas and admitted a member stroyed infants, which she was bound by humanity, duty and of the honourable society of the King's-lnnns, last Trinity term. truth, to protect and nourish.

The trial continued with a number of witnesses confirming 12th to the 15th August 1801 councel’s statement. The Carlow Light Company after the example of their brave regiment, have volunteered for general service in any part of The prisoner evinced the most hardened and impudent de- the globe, and after them the Wicklow, Clare, Dublin, Antrim, Carloviana 2017 Extracts 1796 - 1801_Layout 1 13/09/2016 16:55 Page 15

101 Finn’s Leinster Journal 1796 -1801

Wexford South and North Cork. And a considerable number of Kells, John Alexander of Milford in the County of Carlow to individuals in the other Light Companies have made similar Miss C. Nickson, daughter of Lorenzo Nickson of Chapellord demonstrations of spirit and loyalty. in the county of Kilkenny.

The public are respectfully informed that publication of the Leinster Journal will be suspended for a short time, that the 19th to the 22nd August 1801 Proprietor may be enabled to recover the numerous small debts Extract of a letter from Carlow August 15th due to the establishment. In the mean time every exertion will be used to restore its former merit, with its revival in January A banditti of sixty men completely armed and appointed having next. Its publication for the present will cease on Saturday the appeared in the mountainous tract which lies between Wicklow, 28th instant, and of its revival due notice will be given. Hand Wexford and Carlow, General Henniker always active, vigilant bills, shop - bills and printing - work of every description, and zealous put himself at the head of 250 infantry and a body neatly executed with dispatch and on the lowest terms by Pat of cavalry from the garrisons of Carlow and Kilkenny and Kearney, Licensed Printing Office, High Street Kilkenny. penetrated into the mountains. The banditti having hitherto had the good fortune to elude pursuit, but he has encamped and No further editions were issued until the 13th January 1802 stationed his forces so judiciously, that we every moment ex- when a paper was published entitled "The Leinster Journal", pect to hear of their capture. propietor Patrick Kearney with a similar format to the Finn's paper but the title in a more ornate type face.

9th to the 12th September 1801

Married on Tuesday last by special licence in the church of

CHAS outing to Co. Clare 2016

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Judith Wogan-Browne (1756 – 1848)

The Life, the Family, and the Legacy of a Remarkable Woman Christopher P. McQuinn

udith Clementinai Wogan- Congregation of sisters in Tullow, Co. and those of nearby Blackhall.vi The Browne was born in 1756 (or Carlow, in 1808, Judith Browne was castle at Blackhall no longer exists. c.1750ii), into the Wogan-Browne instrumental in the training needs, the family of Castle Browne, Co. Kildare, administration, and the development of Edward Wogan, a Parliamentarian Jlater Clongowes Wood College.iii the Tullow and Mountrath convents, taking a more prominent role after Although a Catholic of the Palevii, Family Background Bishop Delany’s death in 1814. She was Edward appears in history in 1644 in the also involved in the setting up of the service of Cromwell’s Parliamentary When Judith’s father, Michael Browne Presentation Convent in Clane, Co. army as a trooper in the English civil war. married his first cousin, Catherine Kildare in 1839. Edward Wogan saw action in the battles Wogan, from neighbouring Rathcoffey, of Cheriton and Newbury. He was two important Anglo-Norman families appointed a captain in the New Model Army further cemented their close links. These where he served all over the West Country. families had, since the previous centuries, negotiated and tried to influ- Edward Wogan, a Royalist ence the ebb in their status and prospects that resulted from the Tudor religious break Before the death, in 1649, of King with Rome. Charles I, Captain Wogan turned over to the Royalist side, which led to his being Their subsequent story took place against described by Cromwellviii as “a renegade a backdrop of military conflict and polit- and a traitor”. Following imprisonment Last Resting Place of Judith Wogan- ical upheaval, up to and including, the in Cork Jail, Wogan persuaded the Browne in the Brigidine Convent Williamite Wars, the attempts to restore marshal of the jail to join him in escaping Graveyard, Tullow. the Stuarts to the throne, and the intro- and becoming part of the Marquis of The monument was erected in 1879 duction of the penal laws against the Ormond’s force in Limerick. practice of the Catholic religion. Family members found themselves as important The Wogans of Rathcoffey Colonel Wogan, as he was called at that actors in these historic events. time, is famed for successfully defending This Wogan family descends from Sir the fort at Duncannon, Co. Wexford Members of the Wogan-Browne family John Wogan, chief Governor of Ireland against Cromwell during the Confederate went on to forge illustrious military in 1295 and 1310. He presided over the first Wars in 1649. This saved Waterford careers in various continental armies, and Norman Parliament of Ireland in 1297.iv from occupation by Cromwellian forces. eventually, in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, in the service The Wogan family was granted lands in Campaign in England of the British crown. Rathcoffey, Co. Kildare in 1317. Mem- bers of this family feature in various romantic Following a period in the Stuart court in Some family members were to play military exploits in the following centuries. Paris, Wogan campaigned in England important roles in ecclesiastical affairs. and Scotland. At that stage he he is The most notable of these was Judith Captain Edward Woganv (1620-1654) referred to as having again the rank of Wogan-Browne. In her long life she Captain. He fought with King Charles exerted considerable influence over four Edward Wogan was born in Blackhall in II in Worcester, afterwards escaping to Catholic Bishops of Kildare and Leigh- Co. Kildare in 1620. Historians have not France through Wales. lin, notably Bishop Daniel Delany. been able to establish the family connec- Following his founding of the Brigidine tion between the Wogans of Rathcoffey Wogan returned to England, through

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Judith Wogan-Browne (1756-1848)

Dover and London, on a Royalist recruit- Co. Kildare. cousin, Arthur Dillon.xvii After a short ing campaign in 1653. It was relatively time he joined the Papal court at successful. Setting out in November, he At least three family connections have Avignon, becoming a secret agent for the reached Durham after nine days, having been postulated between Judith Wogan- Stuart cause. The same year he accom- marched 25 miles per day. In January 1654, Browne and Sir Charles.xii panied James Butlerxviii of Ormond to Wogan joined up with a Scottish force. Russia.xix Here he attempted to forge an The correct family connection would ap- alliance between the Tsar, Charles XII of During a successful skirmish, on 14th Jan- pear to be that Nicholas Wogan of Rath- Sweden, and the Stuarts for a proposed uary 1654, with English troops from the coffey, Judith’s grandfather, was either a assault on their common enemy, George Brazen Wall Regiment, Edward Wogan second cousin, or first cousin, once I, Elector of Hanover. received a shoulder wound, from which removed, of Sir Charles.xiii he died on 15th February. Wogan also sought, without success, to Charles Wogan was a Jacobitexiv soldier, find a bride among the daughters or Sir Walter Scott’s novel, Waverley, gives and was one of the “pivotal Irish nieces of the Tsar of Russia for James a scene where Fergus Mac-Ivor, the emigres”xv who came from the ranks of Stuart, known as King James III to his Highland chieftain, meets with Edward the Catholic aristocracy, the ‘underground Jacobite supporters, or as the “Old Waverley, and where Mac-Ivor tries to gentry’, the Wild Geesexvi and the Pretender” to the supporters of win Waverley over to the Jacobite cause by Irish Brigades. King George. giving him the example of Captain Wogan. Jacobite Campaign in England Wogan was more successful in selecting In a letter to Waverley, Mac-Ivor repro- another potential bride for the King. duces ten verses, composed by his sister In 1712, at a young age, Charles Wogan Flora Mac-Ivor, who he infers has left Kildare for Windsor, and took part in Charles Wogan rescues romantic feelings for Captain Wogan. the 1715 attempt to restore the Stuarts to Princess Sobieska Two of these verses, from “Lines on the thrones of England, Scotland and Captain Wogan”, are found below: Ireland. He fought in Northumberland In 1719 Charles Wogan led a daring along with his brother, Nicholas, Col. escapade to rescue the wealthy, sixteen TO AN OAK TREE Henry Oxburgh and James Talbot. Charles year-old Princess Maria Clementinaxx In the Churchyard of ____, in the High- Wogan served as ADC to General Foster. Sobieski of Poland, who had been lands of Scotland, said to mark the Grave imprisoned in Innsbruck, by her uncle of Captain Wogan, killed in 1649.ix Charles Wogan was captured, and impris- Charles VI of Austria. This imprison- oned in Newgate. Escaping from West- ment was to prevent her marriage to King Thy death’s hour heard no kindred wail, minster Hall, he fled to the continent with James III. Maria Clementina’s captivity No holy knell thy requiem rang; a price of £500 on his head. was at the instigation of King George I to Thy mourners were the plaided Gael, impede the Stuart line providing a further Thy dirge the clamorous pibroch sung, rival to his throne.

Be thine the Tree whose dauntless Princess Sobieska was a granddaughter boughs of John Sobieski, King of Poland, who Brave summer’s drought and winters had defeated the Turks at the Battle of gloom! Vienna in 1683. Rome bound with oak her patriot’s brows, Wogan was accompanied on his mission As Albyn shadows Wogan’s tomb. by Richard Gaydon (his uncle), Captain Lucius O’Toole, and by Captain John Sir Charles Wogan (1698? – 1754) Misset, an officer of his cousin, General Dillon’s regiment. Sir Charles Woganx was also known as Chevalier Wogan. As previously stated, The escape plan was successful, and his family relationship to Edward Wogan Maria was married by proxy in has not been established. Bologna,xxiwith Wogan representing Reputed Portrait of Sir Charles James Stuart. Eamon O Ciardha in the Dictionary of Wogan (Courtesy of National Irish Biography states that Charles was Gallery of Ireland) James and Maria were then married in born in 1698 in Rathcoffey,Co. Kildare, Rome by Pope Clement XI, who was the second son of William Wogan and Charles Wogan’s Role also the bride’s godfather. Charles Anne Wogan (nee Gaydon).xi Seamus on the Continent Wogan was a witness at the wedding. Cullen, citing Hugh A. Law, gives The Pope gave Charles Wogan Rome’s Charles Wogan’s birth year as 1685, and In 1718 Wogan entered the service of highest civil honour by making him a his birthplace as Richardstown Castle, France, joining the regiment of his Senator of the city. King James III pro- Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 3

104 Judith Wogan-Browne (1756-1848)

moted Wogan to the rank of Colonel. on the conscience of their flock.xxvi His Anglo-Normans, occupied the territory contribution to the Jacobite cause also of Ui Faolan where Clongowes (Cluain Charles Edward Stuart, ‘Bonnie Prince included the drawing up of invasion Gabhann) was situated. From there they Charlie’, was the son of James and plans of England and the provision of were driven to Glenmalure area of the Clementina, and heir to the Stuart claim to the arms to supporters in Ireland.xxvii Wicklow Mountains. The Eustaces thrones of England, Scotland and Ireland.xxii joined the Irish side in the rebellion of Writing to King James on 18 May 1729, 1641. Mrs. Eustace, then aged over The marriage was not to prove to be a Wogan lamented that 100,000 Irish men ninety was one of 150 women and children happy one. After the birth of their had died in the service of France since killed by Cromwellian soldiers in 1642.xxxiv second son, Henry-in later life a cardinal, the 1690s. James also received a copy Clementina left her husband, to take of the Swift’s Complete Works from refuge in a convent, returning after two Woganxxviii. Wogan Marriagesxxxv years.xxiii In the following years she found consolation in the practise of her religion. After the defeat of Bonnie Prince Charlie Nicholas Wogan of Rathcoffey (d. 1770) at Culloden on 16 April, 1746, Wogan married Rose O’Neill (daughter and Maria Clementina died in 1735, aged 32, was still writing to King James. On 15 heiress of Sir Neill O’Neill, Bart.). They and is buried in St. Peter’s Basilica in December, 1746, he optimistically fore- had a son, John Wogan of Rathcoffey, Rome. A monument to her memory was cast the ultimate triumph of the Jacobite and two daughters Frances and Cather- commissioned by Pope Benedict XIV, cause, while blaming French duplicity ine. John married Helen Browne a sister and is one of the few representations of and lack of Franco-Spanish support for of the Lord Kenmare. Frances married lay people in St. Peter’s. previous setbacks.xxix John Talbot of Malahide Castlexxxvi, circa 1735. Catherine married Michael The inscription on this monument in St. Charles Wogan, a Friend Browne of Castle Browne, Co. Kildare, Peter’s Rome, reads: of Dean Swift and was mother of Judith Wogan-Browne. MARIA CLEMENTINA M. BRITANN. FRANC. ET HIBERN REGINA Jonathan Swiftxxx was in regular contact Portraits of Nicholas Wogan and of his (“Queen of Great Britain, France and Ire- with prominent Jacobites, including Sir son John are to be found at Malahide land”) – There was a Plantagenet claim Charles Wogan. Writing to Swift in Castle, Co Dublin. The bulk of the art to the French throne. 1733, Wogan claimed that 120,000 Irish- collection of the castle was purchased by men had lost their lives in the service of the National Gallery of Ireland at auction Charles Wogan in Spain France since the 1690sxxxi. in 1976.xxxvii Portraits of Rose O’Neill, Charles Wogan went next to Spain, Frances Talbot and other family members where he became a Colonel in the Span- Denis Murphyxxxii states that in the 17th can be viewed on the online collection of ish army. He fought the Moors, and took Volume of Scott’s edition of “Swift’s the National Gallery of Ireland.xxxviii part in the relief of Santa Cruz. Philip V Works”, pp. 417 -447 are found some let- made him Governor of La Mancha. ters that passed between Sir Charles Wogan and Dean Swift. Wogan was then In July 1724 the authorities intercepted a living in Spain from where he had sent parcel from James Horan and his Swift a cask of wine and some pieces of solicitor, Francis Glascock.xxiv This was poetry which he had composed, and for addressed to James Woganxxv, at the which he requested ways they might be College of Navarre, Paris, and contained improved. letters from Sir Charles Wogan and his brother, Nicholas, who were known to Charles Wogan was appointed Governor the authorities as prominent émigré of La Mancha in 1744, served with the Jacobites. Glascock was charged with Duke of York at Dunkirk in 1746, and as high treason for possessing three letters Governor of Catalonia in 1750. He died from Charles Wogan, and committed to in Barcelona in 1754 in his 59th yearxxxiii. Newgate prison, from which he successfully petitioned for bail. Clongowes Wood, Co. Kildare Clongowes is mentioned in the roll of Wogan was in frequent correspondence Henry IV, 1317, when Silva de Clongow with King James III. In a letter, dated was listed as the dower land of Sir David 10May 1729 Wogan assessed the Wogan of Rathcoffy. In the early 1400s motivation of the Irish Brigades, the it was taken over by the Eustace family. importance of landing a Franco-Irish Wogan-Browne family crest expeditionary force, the suitability of The Eustaces, over the years, intermar- Courtesy Delany Museum, Tullow Munster and Connaught for such a land- ried with the Gaelic O’Byrne, O’Toole ing, the resilience of the Irish Jacobites, and Kavanagh families. The O’Byrnes and the iron grip of the Catholic clergy had, until they had been ejected by the Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 4

105 Judith Wogan-Browne (1756-1848)

The Browne and In 1744 Judith’s father, Michael Browne working, but, on arriving there, they Wogan-Browne families had accompanied Charles Edward Stuart found no trace of him. The two ladies (who was known variously as the “Young had seen nothing; the story convinced the Clongowes was sold to Chief Justice Pretender” or as Bonnie Prince Charlie) sisters that this was a sign that he had Reynell after 1642, as the Eustaces were to Scotland, and was to take part in the been killed in battle. deemed by the Caroline Act of Settle- Jacobite campaign there. Mary O’Rior- ment to be ‘Irish Papists – not dan states that an uncle of Judith’s, Nico- They requested that two Masses be said innocent’.xxxix He sold it to a Dublin las Wogan, from Rathcoffey, also took for the repose of his soul. Mourning barrister, named John Browne in 1667. part in the Battle of Culloden.xlviii began, and a lavish gentry-style wake The Brownes changed the name to Castle was held. Browne, and extended the old castle in IMichael Browne’s younger brother, 1718 and again in 1788. The 1718 Anthony, and Judith’s brother, Michael Two weeks later word arrived that work was carried out by Judith’s grand- Wogan-Browne, both served in the army Marshal Browne had indeed been killed father, Stephen Fitzwilliam Browne (d. of the King of Saxony.xlix In later in the Battle of Prague on the date, and at 1767). Stephen was a member of the centuries members of the Wogan-Browne the time, the servants had seen. Fitzwilliam family after whom family carried on the military tradition by Fitzwilliam Square and Fitzwilliam Place serving in the British Army, as we shall see. Judith Wogan-Browne’s Early Life in Dublin are named.xl A Curious Occurrence Judith Wogan-Browne, and her younger Judith Wogan-Browne’s at Castle Browne sister, Elizabeth Mary, were educated by Immediate Ancestors the Irish Dames of the Benedictine Turtle Bunbury recounts the following convent at Ypres in Flanderslii, where she In 1710 Stephen Browne had married Ju- story from Weston St. John Joyce’s 1920 had two aunts, Sister Austin Browne and dith, daughter of his Catholic neighbours, book, The Neighbourhood of Dublin.li In Sister Xaveria Browne who were choir John and Judith Wogan of Rathcoffey. It the year 1757, one of the Brownes, not sistersliii. One source gives her starting was after this grandmother that Judith named here, was killed at the Battle of year there as 1767.liv Wogan Browne was named. Judith Prague. He was serving as a Marshal in Wogan, in turn, had been named after her the Austrian army. Judith Wogan- It is also believed that Nano Naglelv, who mother, Judith Moore. Browne may have been about seven founded the Presentation Sisters, was a years old at the time. pupil there from 1730 – 1734. Likewise This Judith Moore was a sister of Dr. coming from a privileged background, Michael Moore who served as Catholic On the day in question, Marshal and at the receiving end of the penal Curate of Rathcoffey, and was appointed, Browne’s sisters were upstairs in Castle lawslvi, Nano Nagle too had relatives in in 1689, by King James II, as Provost of Browne, engaged in needlework, while Ypres who were nuns. Trinity College, Dublin while the city the servants were downstairs in the laun- was under Jacobite control.xlii dry benefiting from the heat of its fire. Bro. Stephen Sweetman FSP received the This laundry room was situated off the following email from Sr. Maire Hickey The Browne family were also noted hall, the door of which was open on this of the Benedictine Community in Kyle- “Wild Geese”. Judith’s father, Michael, occasion, as was the door of the laundry. more Abbey, Co. Galway: served as a Colonel in the French armyxliii, and was a Chevalierxliv of the The servants were astonished to see a According to the information we have, Order of France in the Court of Louis fully uniformed officer enter the hall, Judith Clementina Browne “entered” the XV. Dr. Catherine Ann Power is of the holding his hands to his breast, from school of the Dames Irlandaises at Ypres opinion that Judith, being his eldest which blood poured onto his white tunic. along with her sister Elizabeth Mary on daughter was almost certainly born on July 5th 1767. Apparently they had two the continent.xlv They followed him upstairs to the room aunts who were nuns in Ypres. Judith in which the two Misses Browne were would have been 17 at that point, not a At the time of her birth, Judith’s uncle, child of school age. Maybe she went John was the head of the Wogan-Browne there as a kind of “finishing school” pupil family and the occupant of Castle with a strong religious bent, searching for Browne. Judith’s parents lived much of her vocation?? It seems to be within the their married life in Belgard House, a bounds of possibility that she was still Wogan property situated halfway there when Bishop Delany visited Ypres. between Kilcock and Rathcoffey, Co. Kildare. Seamus Cullen states that Judith We know little or nothing about the may have been born there, as may her school at that time - how many pupils, brothers, Thomas-Wogan-Browne (1758- what age-groups, how small or large, 1812) and General Michael Wogan- what the motivation for going there was, Browne (1760-1824).xlvi Judith had one Bonnie Prince Charles what they studied etc. The Presentation sister, named Eliza.xlvii sisters subscribe (tentatively I believe) to Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 5

106 Judith Wogan-Browne (1756-1848)

a theory that Nano Nagle spent time at community even in its present infant Delany was educated in a local ‘clandes- Ypres as a young woman before return- state? A very pigeon house! …The tine’ hedge schoollxvi, and like many ing to Ireland and starting her project small mansion she inhabits has a plot of Catholics, requiring further education, he which grew into the Presentation garden annexed to it, little more than a had, at age 16, to secretly transfer to the Sisters. Some believe that she actually slight rood in its contents. It is indeed continent. This move was facilitated by entered the community and left, others well enclosed, nicely planted, and hand- local Protestant benefactors.lxvii Delany say she was visiting relatives in the some enough for the site…Miss pursued priestly studies in France, in community (there were Nagles in the Browne’s actual tenure is only for 28 College de Lombards, Paris. Daniel community). It would be interesting to years on. She has also in her possession Delany was ordained Deacon in 1770 at find out more about what sort of young a nice little park at the bottom of her the University of Paris. He was ordained women were coming and going there in garden, containing at least three-quarters priest probably in 1772.lxviii the 18th century, but unfortunately most of an Irish acre; and extending almost to of our records got lost in the vicissitudes the very wall of the yard of the Parish Tradition says that Daniel Delany then of the 18th century, followed by the Chapel. Of this then there are at present served for 7 years as Professor of destruction of the monastery in 1914.lvii but a few years’ lease; but I persuade Rhetoric at the English College, St. myself a long lease could be obtained of Omer, near the French port of Calais. Thus at some stage, either in France or in it, at the expiration of the existing one. Ireland, Miss Wogan-Browne got to The Dean of St. Patrick’s Dublin, Rev. Daniel Delany was noted for his attrac- know the future Bishop of Kildare and Mr. Verschoylelxi, is landlord of the first tive personality, refinement, cultured Leighlin, Daniel Delany. In penal times two plots. Miss Browne’s house is not mind and for his wit. there existed a network of Irish expatri- more than about 40 ft. long and 15 ft. ates on continental Europe, which wide, in the clear; and consists of two included students, clergy, members of the handsome, well-furnished apartments on military forces, and even vineyard owners. the first-floor, and three neat ones on the second. Allow me add, that in point of Before coming to Tullow, Co. Carlow beauty of situation, purity of air, seclu- Judith seems to have carried out charita- sion, etc., though quite in the town, it ble work elsewhere, possibly in her local may be said it could not be surpassed, at area near Castle Browne.lviiiThe date least in these parts.lxii when Miss Browne arrived in Tullow is not knownlix, nor is the house where she Judith’s maid, Ann Doyle went on to be lived in Tullow. However, Turtle received as a lay sister in Tullow Convent Bunbury gives this quotation: in 1841. Judith Browne paid £50 in part payment for her.lxiii When (Delany) went to Tullow as parish priest, she followed him to Ireland and Judith Wogan-Browne was to play a very took a house in Tullow in 1780. A rich influential part in Bishop Daniel Delany’s woman with an overpowering personal- religious and educational initiatives. ity, Wogan-Browne remained the bishop’s intimate friend throughout Bishop Daniel Delany (1747-1814) Bishop Daniel Delany his life.lx Daniel Delany was born at Paddock, near Returning to Ireland, he was appointed As is mentioned later in this essay, Judith Mountrath, Queen’s County (now Co. curate in Tullow, and became Coadjutor is recorded as living in Tullow in 1798. Laois), during the era of the penal laws. (assistant bishop) to Bishop James In a letter, dated 30th December 1808, to His parents were well-to-do tenant farm- Keefelxix, whom he succeeded in 1788. Bishop Moylan of Cork, Bishop Delany ers. His mother was Elizabeth Fitz- The Tullow of the time shocked the young gives the following description of patrick, who may have been brought up Delany by its poverty, ignorance, moral Judith’s Tullow abode, deeming it unsuit- a Protestant, but who died a Catholic.lxiv laxity and lack of religious sensibility. able as an option for a religious foundation, maybe for Benedictine Nuns – His father, also named Daniel, died The following account was given by Miss which never materialised: young, following which the boy was Browne to the first Brig idine Sisters: reared by two maternal aunts, Miss Fitz- Miss Browne would cede most heartily patrick and Mrs. Corcoran, shopkeepers He constantly went through the diocese her interest in the house and country in Mountrath. Senator David Norris’ to put down faction-fighting. He possessed by her for a godly purpose [i.e. (b.1944) mother was a Fitzpatrick from believed in taking people quietly, point- of accommodating the proposed religious Mountrath, and the Fitzpatrick family ing out the sinfulness and barbarity of foundation]. But what a diminutive had been in possession of a rosary beads such behaviour. He went round to each tenement like hers and little patch of (since disappeared) which once belonged home and tried to enlist the wives and garden for anything like the due accom- to Bishop Delany.lxv mothers on his side. He dreaded crowds modation of one forth of so numerous a assembling. The people were too Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 6

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excitable. The greater number of them had veto in Episcopal appointments.lxxvi pitch outside O’Callaghans’ premises in got very little religious training and had no the Square, the present-day FDC offices. secular teaching.lxx Among Bishop Delany’s many achieve- His head was placed on a 14 foot high ments were the completion of Carlow pole at, or near, the penal chapel gate.lxxx After many unsuccessful initiatives to Collegelxxvii in 1793, the building of address these issues, Daniel Delany set Tullow Parish Church in 1805 and Thomas McGrath quotes a letter from up Sunday schoolslxxi, a choir and a band. Mountrath Parish Church in 1809, the Bishop Caulfield of Ferns (who had no His inspiration came from hearing a founding in Tullow of the Brigidine Sisters sympathy for the rebels) to Archbishop group of children at play on a mud-patch and Patrician Brothers in 1807 and Troy of Dublin. Dr. Caulfield had been told by near the penal law chapel at the junction 1808 respectively. a Carlow student of Bishop Delany, that he of Mill Street and Chapel Lane. Their was in a miserable way, his Chapel filled game included a garbled verse for the The replacing of the old Penal Law with soldiers or horses, himself often Latin hymn, “Ave Maris Stella” (Hail Star of Chapel in Tullow began in 1799, appar- insulted; and could not venture home, but the Sea) from the Vespers of Our Lady. ently without a lease having been remained in the town with Miss Browne granted. Dr. Delany had great difficulty and was much emaciated, however he On the following Sunday Fr. Delany in obtaining the lease for a site, at a writes in good spirits and has his chapel offered to teach liturgical hymns to the reasonable price, from the local landlord, free now, the yeomanry in that quarter young people of the parish. After a slow Robert Doyne.lxxviii It seems that Doyne had killed at least one hundred of the beginning this approach provided a was won over to grant the lease by the United wretches...lxxxi successful means of evangelising the advice of his wife, influenced by a youth and through them the adults.lxxii society call from her social superior, Bishop Delany decides to re-found the Judith Wogan-Browne.lxxix Brigidine Sisters The Old Chapel building became a centre for two lay adult religious associations, Tullow in 1798 Because of the difficulty in keeping the called respectively the Confraternity of Tullow was the scene of much bloodshed Sunday Schools supplied with teachers, the Blessed Sacrament and the Confrater- in the aftermath of the 1798 Rebellion. Bishop Delany decided that the only way nity of Christian Doctrine. In 1800 Early in July 1798 the fugitive Wexford forward was to invite in a group nuns to Bishop Delany described the chapel as rebel leader, Fr. John Murphy of provide continuity in the work. He had being for ‘for the greater part reduced Boolavogue, Co. Wexford, and his com- hoped to persuade the Presentation Sis- almost to a heap of ruin’, though aggregate ters to come to his assistance, but they Mass attendance on a Sunday was 3,000.lxxiii were unable to provide the required personnel. There would also have been The Christian Sunday School education a difference of emphasis between the of children was carried out by volunteers Bishop’s wish that the children of both from these confraternities who were rich and poor be educated, and the Pres- trained by Bishop Delany, and who made entation option of concentrating on the great use of music and singing in their needs of the poor. ministry. The teaching of literacy to those too poor to avail of the local hedge He therefore decided to invite suitable schools proved attractive, and led pupils candidates from his team of catechists to on to ability to read religious texts. The form the nucleus of a home-grown reli- Sunday schools progressed over time to gious community. These women came weekday classes, evening classes, and from neighbouring areas in Tullow, Clon- even to home instruction. more and Ardattin. Their names and ages were, Eleanor Tallon (age unknown), Due to a relaxation in the penal laws, Dr Margaret Kinsella (48), Judith Whelan Delany was able to exercise his ministry (37), Brigid Brien (30), Catherine Doyle in a more public manner. He was coura- (29), and Eleanor Dawson (29). geous enough to begin the ringing of the Angelus bell, and to institute an annual Delany’s criterion for choosing his first sisters Corpus Christi Procession.lxxiv was essentially spiritual. It could be summed up in ‘that they should build a lasting Delany expressed an abhorrence of poli- love of God on the ruins of their lxxv lxxxii tics. But his wish for rapprochement Fr. Murphy monument, Tullow self-love’. with the authorities, in support of freeing his religious mission, meant that in the panion, James Gallagher of Ferns, Co. Within twenty-two months of establish- 1790s he was one of several bishops who Wexford, were captured, tried, tortured ing the congregation, Delany had built a signed a loyal address to the government. and executed in the Square in Tullow, Co. forty-foot extension to the original con- He was also one of a minority of bishops Carlow. Fr. Murphy’s body was decap- vent building and enclosed it with a ten who were willing to give the government a itated, and the body burned in a barrel of to twelve foot high wall, thus emphasis- Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 7

108 Judith Wogan-Browne (1756-1848)

ing that the Brigidines were to be an en- read spiritual literature. On the other A nun, to Delany, was to be ‘all evangel- closed order.lxxxiii hand Delany wrote that Sister Clare ical meekness, sweetness, gentleness, Doyle was ‘very good in everything but charming condescension, forbearance The Brigidine Congregation was, in Dr. the spelling which was miserably and and charity’…Nuns to be ‘moderate in Delany’s view, re-founded on 1st Febru- shamefully bad in almost every word. speech’ and to ‘avoid … the behaviour… ary 1807, the feast of St. Brigid, Tell her so.’ (Delany’s emphasis)lxxxv of low life among the uneducated’ and Patroness of the Diocese. To emphasise ‘those unacquainted with the manners of this link with St. Brigid’s early Irish order Mary O’Riordan gives examples of poor decent polished society’. They were to of nuns, an Oak Tree from Kildare (site spellings from the account books of 1840, e.g. aspire to polished society ‘however of St. Brigid’s convent) was planted by “maches”, “medison”, “coffy”, “tathbrish”. humble their origin or deficiency’. They Bishop Delany in the Tullow convent were expected ‘to be gentlewomen and garden. The tree still dominates this garden Whether prompted by issues around possess some tincture of the habits and which was designed by Bishop Delany. literacy, social graces, or the obligations attainments of the upper orders’. lxxxvii of enclosure, an exasperated Miss In an interesting link with Tullow’s Wogan-Browne wrote to Delany that she The contribution of Judith Wogan- medieval Augustinian friary, Doctor was unable to teach them as they Browne was pivotal to the development Delany gave the Sisters the Rule of Saint appeared incapable of learning; Delany of this culture in the infancy and the early Augustine and the Directory of the replied that she should take them gently as growth of the Brigidine project. Visitation Order, written by Saint Francis they did not have the advantages of de Sales, a saint he had come to admire her upbringing.lxxxvi Delany also gave her control of the during his time in France. finances of the convents in Tullow and in Because of her membership of the Mountrath (established 1809). JudithWogan-Browne and Catholic gentry, and her continental the Brigidine Sisters learning, Miss Wogan-Browne was Judith Wogan-Browne’s importance ideally suited to this task given to her by extended beyond managerial and educa- Dr. Daniel Delany was Miss Wogan- Dr. Delany. Highly educated and gifted, tional, even to the spiritual. Delany Browne’s spiritual advisor, and he she trained the first sisters in literacy, appointed her to take his place at all engaged her services to train the first European languages, music, needlecraft community meetings during his absences Brigidines Sisters. The boarders in Ypres and etiquette. An example of her embroi- from Tullow. This role even extended to followed the Divine Office and sang the dery is to be found in the Delany presiding at the weekly ‘Chapter of chant in Latin. Judith Wogan-Browne’s Museum, attached to Tullow Parish Faults’, when the sisters ‘manifested their knowledge of convent ‘enclosure’ and Church. consciences’.lxxxviii In these matters she organisation, as well as her academic could be said to be taking the spiritual training, and her competence in the ways place of the superior and also functioning of polite society were a great resource for as a mistress of novices. . Her status of the new venture. exercising power, without being a member of the order, may have led to tension Mary O’Riordanlxxxiv states that Bishop in the Tullow Convent. Delany, “invited her to spend much of her time in the little convent with the The Tullow Brigidine Annals state that Sisters, and without “living in”, to actu- Delany stipulated that the sisters should ally become one of the household, even not eat or drink with anyone except though she had no intention of becoming himself and Miss Browne.lxxxix a nun”. In 1809 Daniel Delany established a These six local women, who joined the second convent in Mountrath, Co. Laois fledgling Tullow convent, did not have (Queen’s County). Mountrath and the life-experience of the Irish aristo- Tullow were the only two convents cratic ladies who previously had entered established in his life time. He encour- religious life on the continent. In this aged both to keep in constant communi- new departure they were the pioneers of cation with each other. a life choice which was to become widely chosen and very influential in Ireland, The First Brigidine Schools and subsequently emulated world-wide. Dr Catherine Ann Power questions Mary Delany instructed the sisters to charge the O’Riordan’s assertion that the ‘six were ‘children of the rich according to the practically illiterate’. She contends that, Example of Judith Wogan-Browne’s branches they were learning’; and to given that they had been chosen by Needlework. (Courtesy of Delany charge the poor at the same rate they Delany in the first instance as catechists, Museum, Tullow) were paying in the neighbouring schools. they must have had the basic literacy to He gave £20 per year to cover the fees of Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 8

109 Judith Wogan-Browne (1756-1848)

orphans and other poor children.This Church. He married an English heiress, Wogan-Browne was a committed sup- mission of teaching both rich and poor named Sarah Pearson on 1st December, porter of Catholic Emancipation. His pupils was from time to time to lead to 1785.xcvi She was a “lady of considerable last appearance in public was at a meet- problems in the area of snobbery.xc property in Westmoreland”.xcvii The couple ing of Protestant gentry in Naas in 1811. lived at Castle Browne, and had no children.xcviii Wakefield in 1812, the year of Thomas’ In 1815 the Brigidines agreed to take or- death, wrote, ‘Wogan Browne (he never phans from Dublin to be boarded out in Thomas’ conversion to Protestantism used his Christian name) although a the Tullow neighbourhood. This work drew the following comment from convert, is still considered a Catholic.’ was to pass on to Margaret Aylwardxci, Christopher Kelly Dillon, ‘young This ambiguity was to prove an impor- who used the template to found the St. Browne of Castlebrowne has read his tant issue at his funeral.cvi Brigid’s Orphanage (non-residential, recantation, and by doing so has bartered using a system of foster homes) in Dublin his religion for a wife.’xcix in 1856, and who went on to found the Dispute at the Funeral of Thomas congregation of Holy Faith Sisters in As High Sheriff of Co. Kildare in 1789 Wogan-Browne Dublin in 1867.xcii Wogan-Browne was involved in the suppression of the Defenders in 1795.ci Thomas Wogan-Browne died in 1812 at As the government became increasingly Castle Browne, apparently by his own interested in education and with the first Lord Cloncurrycii said that Thomas was, hand.cvii Thomas’ brother, Michael, was stirrings of the Protestant ‘Second Refor- ‘a man of an extremely amiable disposi- on military service abroad at the time. mation’xciii, Delany saw the need to attract tion, and filled with the most ardent love His sister, Judith, was the closest family better educated women to his institute. of his country, and the most earnest de- member present at the burial. The inter- By 1812 he urged this course on his two sire to do his duty in all the relations of ment service was to be held in accor- communities in Tullow and Mountrath. life’.ciii dance with the rites of the Established In 1798 Thomas Wogan-Browne was Church at the Wogan-Browne Mausoleum, in By 1820 the sisters were able to advertise mistakenly arrested, as a rebel, by Crown Mainham, beside Castle Browne. that they taught Italian, French, English, soldiers on the street in Naas. A hanging the Sciences, and all the ‘accomplish- noose was placed about his neck. He was When the mourners had gathered, Judith ments’ necessary for ‘the manners and saved in the nick of time by the arrival of Wogan-Browne, as chief mourner on the life-style’ of ‘a young lady’.xciv a dragoon with a letter addressed to Wogan- day, and possessed of a strong and deter- Browne from the Lord Lieutenant.civ mined character, objected to the service Gradually as the school’s reputation grew being held in accordance with the rites of the fee-paying pupils were attracted to Thomas Wogan-Browne was also a noted Established Church. The following is Lord Tullow from Dublin, Wexford, Kildare amateur architect. As well as remodel- Cloncurry’s recollection of the incident: and Kilkenny. These pupils lodged in the ling Castle Browne, he also had commis- town. In 1824, to remedy the situation of Upon these respective grounds, the two ‘respectable’ pupils having to stay in the parties among his neighbours claimed the town, the nuns applied to Bishop Doyle for right of interring his body according to permission to set up a boarding school. their particular customs; and they fought out the quarrel in the churchyard over his Because of Judith Wogan-Browne’s con- coffin. Which party prevailed, I now trol of the convent finances, Dr. Doyle forget; but this I know, that no man was gave his permission on condition that ever buried, who during this life, they gain ‘Miss Browne’s consent’. This exhibited or entertained less of sectarian was not given because ‘she did not want rancour, or whose living feelings were the responsibility in her lifetime’. A sim- less in unison with the passions that sig- ilar situation had arisen in the lifetime of nalled his funeral.cviii Dr. Delany with exactly the same result. The Brigidines were the first congrega- Judith Wogan-Browne would have been tion to open both select and boarding well aware of an earlier dispute in the schools; (by 1837, the school had 1740s between the Rector of Mainham received its first boarder). Dr. Power Church, Rev. John Daniel, and Stephen quotes O’Riordan that, ‘they provided a Browne, her grandfather, regarding the broader educational background which original siting of the mausoleum. The would enable girls to take their place in upshot of that particular controversy was society as cultured, poised, and essen- sions for Malahide Court (home of his that Browne sited the mausoleum on his tially feminine women’.xcv Talbot cousins)cv, Ballinlough Castle, Co. own land, three feet outside the boundary Westmeath, and Killeen Castle, Co. Meath. of the graveyard of Mainham Church.cix Thomas Wogan-Browne (1758 -1812) In the present matter of the burial of her Thomas Wogan-Browne, brother of He served as a magistrate for a second brother, Thomas, Judith’s will was to Judith, had conformed to the Established term from 1806 to 1811. Thomas prevail. The local priest (probably Fr. Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 9

110 Judith Wogan-Browne (1756-1848)

Mark Kennedy) from nearby Clane was On the advice of a Catholic barrister, Judith Wogan-Browne was always gov- called. He duly conducted the funeral service Denys Scully, and of his solicitor, E. H. erned by her interpretation of Delany’s according to the rites of the Catholic Church.cx Gibbons, Delany got around this problem written instructions; and as executrix of by depositing the vast bulk of his estate his will, she considered herself to be Death of Bishop Delany in debentures in the bank, in the names bound by his intentions, in so far as it was Daniel Delany died on 9th July 1814. of individual sisters, in groups, who in her power to do so. From 1812 his health had been visibly could only act with unanimous agree- deteriorating. His house at Bishop’s ment. Both he and Judith Wogan-Browne General Michael Wogan-Browne Cross on the Dublin Road, Tulllow, was were also to feature in these groups. The (1760 – 1824)cxxi in bad repair, the front wall having fallen names of those in whom his money was in. He was prevailed upon by the con- vested were: Daniel Delany, Judith In 1812, Judith’s other brother, Lieut. vent Superior, Mother Catherine (Eleanor Wogan-Browne, Eleanor Dawson, General Michael Browne, of the Saxony Dawson) to move to the convent, which Catherine Neale, Mary Fitzgerald and Army, inherited Castle Browne and its he did in June 1813. The community Anne Lalor. encumbered estates from their late room was vacated for him and was pro- brother, Thomas. Saxony was allied to vided with his own bed and furniture. His will, dated 7th December 1811, there- Napoleon’s France, and Michael was at On 2nd July Bishop Delany suffered an fore gave no indication that the bulk of Moscow when he heard of his brother’s attack of apoplexycxi and it was apparent Delany’s estate had been handed over to death. Napoleon is said to have signed that he was in his final days. He had a Catholic institution. His will listed his passport to return home. Wogan- visits from Archbishop Troy of Dublin such items as land, tenements, Govern- Browne’s early return to Ireland saved and Bishop Moylan of Cork. As he lay dying ment, Grand Canal, Royal Canal Deben- he was surrounded by a group of priests, tures, household furniture, plate, pictures, sisters and brothers, as well as some local prints, books, and went on to state lay people. He raised his hand to give them bless- that these: ing.Miss Browne, whom he had deputed to instruct the Sisters, and to whom he ‘I leave and bequeath to my dear and had willed his property in trust, then esteemed friend, Miss Judith Browne asked his blessing that she might fulfil all actually living in Tullow, Co. Carlow, his intentions. He looked up to heaven, and late of Castle Browne, Co. Kildare. raised his hand for the last time, and I also appoint the said Miss Judith solemnly gave her his blessing in the Browne sole executrix of this my last will most devout and affectionate man- and testament. ner.Shortly after, he fell into his agony, which continued until 2.a.m., when he This will was proved by Judith Browne, calmly expired while Mass was being Spinster, on October 15th 1814, “Amount offered in his room.cxii not £500”.cxvi

Mother Mary Joseph Fitzpatrick, who On the other hand, the Patrician Brothers had been present, returned to her convent had to be content with being left an in Mountrath. She frequently told the annual income of £20.cxvii Fr. Peter Kenney, S.J. sisters there, that, from her kneeling position, she ‘saw a halo and a glow of It is not recorded if Miss Wogan-Browne him experiencing the disastrous French light surround his head and face’ as continued in her religious role. However, retreat from Moscow. This Wogan- Bishop Delany expired.cxiii four months later the future Bishop of Browne was by times Commander of the Kildare and Leighlin, James Doylecxviii, Guards, Governor of Dresden, and Aide- Four bishops, including Archbishop then a member of staff at Carlow Col- de-Camp to the King of Saxony. Troy of Dublin, seventy priests, and a lege, wrote to Martin Doyle, ‘Miss crowd of up to five thousand people Browne should be satisfied with manag- The valuable library of the late Thomas attended Bishop Daniel Delany’s ing the temporalities of the late doctor Wogan-Browne was auctioned off by Sher- requiem Mass.cxiv without aspiring to inherit his spiritual iff Thomas Finlay on 31st October, 1812. jurisdiction’.cxix Bishop Delany’s Willcxv- Miss Judith In 1813 General Michael Wogan-Browne Browne appointed Executrix Following the death of Bishop Doyle in was spotted in full military uniform and 1834, Edward Nolan was appointed decorations at a Daniel O’Connell rally, Delany had as much as £7,000 at his dis- Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin. supporting Catholic Emancipation, held posal. This money was apparently in the Fishamble theatre in Dublin. acquired from his mother and his aunts. Fr. P. Malone writing to Bishop Edward As the law on charitable bequests was Nolancxx in 1834, states that, ‘one had to In 1814 Michael Wogan-Browne, unwill- penal, money left for Catholic religious be firm as a rock’, and ‘very determined’ ing to live in Ireland in the absence of purposes was often sequestered. with Miss Browne. Catholic Emancipation, sold Castle Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 10

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Browne, along with 219 acres of land, to 12th July 1821 from Sr. Mary Anne Lalor My Lord, Fr. Peter Kenney S.J.cxxii, heading a group to Bishop Doyle states: “Miss Browne is Understanding that Miss Browne of of 14 Jesuits for a price of £16,000. now quite satisfied to be without the Sisters at Castlebrowne, having left a house for night, though at first she felt it very much”.cxxiv nuns and the same being in your gift, I This purchase was not without criticism. recommend the Poor Carmelites of Blanchard- John Gillard writing in the Hibernia In 1828 Miss Browne decided to sell her stown. May I expect an answer?cxxviii Magazine made the following point: house in Tulow and to move to Dublin. The following announcement appeared Miss Browne went on to take an interest The magnificent edifice of Castle on 12th May of that year in “The Carlow in the educational situation in her native Browne in the county of Kildare, which Morning Post”:cxxv area, and how it impacted on the poor of cost £26,000 in building, has been pur- Castle Browne, Mainham and Clane. A chased by a party of Jesuits for £16,000. To be sold for the term of three lives and report of the time stated: Ireland now stands in imminent danger. eleven years, and subject to a small If Popery succeeds, our fairest plains will annual rent:- the house, offices, and gar- Their poverty…obliges them to once more witness days worthy to rank den lately occupied by Miss Browne in withdraw their children from school with those of bloody Mary, and the walls Tullow. They are well situated, exceed- occasionally for agricultural or domestic of Dublin shall again become the lamen- ingly commodious, and fit for the imme- purposes…Many are also prevented from table bulwarks against popish treachery diate reception of a family. Proposals to attending school through want of and massacre.cxxiii be made (by letter, post paid) to Miss clothing.cxxix Browne, Cullen’s Wood Avenue, A good deal of the Castle Browne land Ranelagh, Dublin or to Mr. Serenus The Annals of the Clane, Co. Kildare was retained by General Wogan-Browne. Kelly, Monastery, Tullow, who will show Presentation Sisters from 1839 state: It remained the property of his male the premisescxxvi. Mr. and Mrs. Sweetman, a worthy and re- descendants in Ireland (resident in spectable catholic family, came to live in Dublin and in Naas) until the Land Act Judith Wogan-Browne and Clane Longtown within a few miles of Clane, of 1923 made sale obligatory. Convent School being ever prominent in works of benev- olence and remarkable for their great The new owners replaced the name of Judith Wogan-Browne, having sold her charity. They did not remain ignorant of Castle Browne with its former name of house in Tullow, lived in Dublin from the wretched state of the poor around Clongowes, and opened a school for the 1828; from there she continued to them. Mrs. Sweetman cxxxwent amongst education of the sons of the Catholic financially administer the Tullow con- them, instructed, clothed and employed gentry. vent.cxxvii A letter in the Delany Archive, the women in spinning for their liveli- dated September 26, 1837, from a Fr. F.S. hood. Her next attention was to the poor General Browne died on 27 February Coleman to Bishop Edward Nolan, children and Mr. Sweetman met her 1824 at the house of Peter Chagneau. shows her continued interest in support- wishes in nobly contributing £700 to the His wife was Augusta Frances Prescott. ing convents: building of the Convent. Miss Judith She was a daughter of Col. Thomas Prescott, Guards, and a granddaughter of the first Viscount Falmouth. She died at Tours, France, on 30th October 1857.

General Browne’s son, Francis, married a daughter of Baron General de Trobriand, Chief of Staff to Marshal Davout. Francis was a Major in the Aus- trian Army. He died in Tours in 1876, leaving two sons and two daughters.

Their eldest son, Francis William Nicholas Wogan-Browne (1854 – 1927), was a Colonel in the British Army.

Miss Browne leaves Tullow

Less than seven years after Delany’s death, Judith Wogan-Browne suffered an extended attack of ill health. This necessitated her moving into the convent for care which even extended to sisters stay- Original Convent Primary School, Clane, Co. Kildare ing up with her at night. A letter dated, Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 11

112 Judith Wogan-Browne (1756-1848)

Browne generously co-operated in this request for permission to build a new time went on she kept her eyes closed. good work by giving the magnificent refectory, kitchen and more cells. cxxxiv When asked why she did this, she replied donation of £350. She had for many that she was “more recollected by it”. years ardently wished for the accom- Mother Catherine McAuliffecxxxv was the Then it came to a stage when she was plishment of this event and, in her zeal- Superior of Tullow convent during most unable to eat; Mother Catherine states, “it ous desire for the education of poor of Miss Browne’s remaining years. A was astonishing how long she existed female children of the Castlebrowne Estate, prolific and chatty correspondent, she wrote: without nourishment”.cxl she consulted by letter the saintly and Miss Browne has just passed through the celebrated Rev. Dr. Kenny.cxxxi community room to the chapel, to make Judith Wogan-Browne’ funeral Mass was her usual daily visit to the Blessed Sacra- attended by Bishop Haly and about Miss Browne wrote to Dr. Kenney S.J., ment, and I told her I was writing to you twenty priests. Provincial, of the Jesuits, requesting him, and asked her had she any commands for subject to the bishop’s permission, to you – on which she desired me to say At her own request, Miss Browne was help them persuade a religious order to everything kind to you for her, and that buried among her ‘sisters’ in the Tullow come to Clane so that the poor female Sister Xavier is now so much engaged convent graveyard, rather than with her children would receive an education. that she hopes you will pardon her for not distinguished family members, in their writing to you. cxxxvi mausoleum at Mainham, Co. Kildare. In a long letter, dated 25 April 1828, to the benefactors, Dr. Kenney suggested This Sister Xavier had been Miss Judith Wogan Browne’s Willcxli that the convent be built in Clane, near Browne’s maid (lady in waiting), Ann the church, on the grounds of the Patri- Doyle, from Tullow parish, mentioned Miss Browne’s will was signed in the cian Society School House, rather than at above. She was professed as a Brigidine presence of James Lawler and Wm Deer- Mainham or Castle Browne. sister on 6th August 1845. Sister Xavier ing on 2nd March 1847. Two codicils taught in the local primary He finally advised, school, and after thirty two The circumstances of a crowd of young years of religious life in Tul- girls passing and re-passing our limits low Convent, died there on 22 (Clongowes Wood) or meeting our pupils November 1877 at the age of when going to or returning form school 79.cxxxvii would, in spite of our vigilance, or that of the nuns be liable to many In another letter is found the unpleasant consequences.cxxxii following quip from Mother Catherine: Work on building the convent started in 1836. Miss Browne is in In 1838 the newly appointed Bishop good spirits today, since she Francis Halycxxxiii asked the Presentation heard that the bishop will be Sisters to come to Clane. home soon…cxxxviii

th On 25 April 1839 five sisters arrived to Death and Burial of Judith The original Brigidine Convent building Tullow, found the convent. The first Superior Wogan-Browne Co. Carlow (now demolished). This is where Ju- was Mother Teresa Brenan. She, with Judith Wogan Browne died th dith Wogan-Browne spent her last years. Also to two other nuns, arrived from Marybor- on the 6 June 1848. The be seen here are the Kildare oak tree, the Sacred ough (Portlaoise), Queen’s County (Co. Tullow annals record this as Heart Temple, and the monstrance-shaped garden Laois); two sisters came from Carlow, follows: designed by Bishop Daniel Delany, as well as the and one from Drogheda, Co. Louth. Miss Browne after a life well spire of the Delany parish church spent died at the advanced The Jesuits from Clongowes College age of 98 were of great assistance to the nuns in were added in the presence of James P. setting up the new school. The Mountrath annals mark this event Lawler and Patrick Murphy on 9th and with a comment on the margin, ‘Miss 10th Of November 1847. Miss Browne returns to Tullow Browne died’. Having lived in Dublin from 1828, Judith In the will she bequeaths the sum of Wogan-Brown, in 1840, wrote to Bishop However, Mother Catherine McAuliffe £2,200 with interest to Bishop Francis Haly requesting to take ‘lodging in the in a lengthy letter, dated 14 June 1848, to Haly and to Mr. Edward Mooney of Hen- convent’ because of her increasing infir- Mountrath convent, describing her death, rietta St., Dublin. She states that this mity. The bishop agreed. She paid £10 refers to her constantly as, ‘our dear Miss principal was secured by her in the judge- per annum for her room. The nuns were Browne’. ment she obtained against her brother, ‘greatly inconvenienced’ because they She noted how in the early stages, Miss General Michael Wogan Browne “for the had to give up their refectory to her. Browne read much of books such as “The penal sum of Four thousand four hundred Because of this the bishop granted their Art of Dying Well” by Bellarmine.cxxxix As pounds….which judgement has been assigned Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 12

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by me to secure a debt of Two hundred and they may offer the Holy Sacrifice of the Col. Franz William Wogan-Browne, as fifty pounds with interest at five per Cent to the Mass for the eternal repose of my soul… he was known, had a distinguished career Community of Tullow Convent”. She then and whatever I may owe to the Convent in the British army, serving in India, South bequeaths £1, 250 plus interest, in trust, at Clane out of the annuity granted by me Africa (where he was Colonel- in-command to Dr. Haly and Edward Mooney, which for the support of that Institution at my during the Anglo-Boer War), and England. she is “entitled as one of the next of kin death, my Will is that it shall be paid by of my late Sister Eliza Browne”. She my executor with the same punctuality as Franz and Bridget Wogan- Browne’s bequeaths £50 to Dr. Haly and £25 to Mr. any of my lawful debts. I leave and eldest son, Francis Thomas served with Mooney, her executors. After her funeral bequeath to the poor of the parish of Tul- the British Army in the Boer War at the and other expenses the residue is to be low ten pounds.’ same time as his father. He died, by divided in equal shares between her drowning, in a swimming accident in nephews, Thomas Wogan Brown and A day later, the 10th November, 1847, she Greystones, Co. Wicklow in 1902. Francis Brown. added a further codicil, noting that in be- queathing property to Doctor Haly, in the She states that she was entitled to an an- event of her nephews dying without law- nuity of £100 for her life, charged on the ful issue, she had omitted to add the estate of her nephew, Thomas Wogan words, “his Executors, administrators Browne, by the will of his father. She and assigns”. The will is accordingly had not claimed this for several years, amended to rectify this omission. and now bequeathed all arrears due to the said Thomas Wogan Brown. The Killing of Lieutenant J.H. Wogan- Browne (1896 – 1922)cxlv To Bishop Haly she bequeaths her large On Friday 10th February 1922 Lieut. John arm chair, mahogany tea store, and a Hubert Wogan-Browne was shot dead large New Testament. and robbed of £135 by a gang of three men on the main street of Kildare town. ‘I give and bequeath unto Mrs. Catherine Jack, as he was known, had just withdrawn the McAuliffecxlii and the Community of Tul- cash from the bank, to pay the soldiers in the low (with whom I wish my remains to local Royal Field Artillery Barracks. rest in their Cemetery) a Portrait of the Right Reverend Doctor Delany and one A truce had been declared the previous of Lady Daltoncxliii – also all furniture June, ending the Irish war of independ- ever belonging to me in rooms or in the ence. The Anglo-Irish Treaty had been way of Kitchen furniture or utensils….I signed the following December. The 7th give and bequeath to Mrs. Joseph Fitz- January 1922 saw the Dail pass the patrick and the Community at Mountrath. Treaty by 64 votes to 57. A mahogany box…..to my Dear Mrs. Walsh of Gardiner Street Convent…… Preparations were being made for the To Sister Xavieria Doylecxliv my old Sil- handing over of British power, including ver Watch, a Gold ring and Secretaire… military barracks to the Irish Govern- .I appoint the said Right Reverend Doc- ment. The threat of a civil war, due to tor Haly and the said Edward Mooney disagreement among the former com- executors of my Will.’ rades over the acceptance of the treaty, began to loom large. th On the 9 November, 1847, Miss Lieutenant John Hubert Browne added a codicil stipulating that if The civil war was to formally break out th Wogan-Browne. ‘My said Nephews Thomas Wogan on 28 of June 1922, with the storming (Courtesy of Mark McLoughlin) Browne and Francis Browne shall die of the Four Courts which had been taken without issue lawfully begotten, My will over by anti-treaty forces. Early Life in such a case is that the property in the above will bequeathed by me to the said Ancestry Jack Wogan-Browne was born on 23rd Nephews shall after their deaths be Jack Wogan-Browne was a great-grand- July 1896 near Aldershot in England, vested in and become the property of the son of General Michael Browne and where his father was stationed. He Right Reverend Francis Haly….In trust Augusta Frances, making him a great-grand- attended Cheltenham College, where he for promoting any object he may con- nephew of Judith Wogan Browne. was a keen Rugby player. sider best calculated to promote the honor and glory of My Heavenly Father. He was the youngest son of Colonel Military Career I leave and bequeath to the reverend Francis William Nicholas Wogan- In 1914, on the eve of the Great War, Denis Muldowney ten pounds and to the Browne (1854 – 1927) and of Bridget John Hubert Wogan- Browne was reverend Joseph Murray five pounds that Costello, formerly of Foxrock, Dublin. admitted to the British Army as a Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 13

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gentleman cadet. He served in France branch of the Hibernian Bank. There the was carried out by the 7th Brigade IRA. from September 1915 with the Royal cashier, Charles Swain, issued him with This resulted in the arrest of a number of Field Artillery, as part of the Tenth notes and silver to the amount of £135, men from the Ballysax and Suncroft Irish Division. which he put into a haversack. areas of Co. Kildare. These included the driver of the hired car. Most of those He received a number of promotions, and Wogan-Browne left the bank, and was arrested had served in C Company, 6th was mentioned in dispatches in Novem- walking by the national school, when he Battalion, Carlow Brigade IRA which ber 1917. He was appointed aide-de- was confronted by two individuals hold- operated in the Ballyshannon and Sun- camp to general officer commanding the ing revolvers. One shouted ‘hands up’, croft areas. Three were committed from brigade and as acting captain. He was and tried to grab the haversack. Wogan- the Parish Court, Newbridge, Co. transferred to Alexandria, Egypt in 1919. Browne struggled with one assailant and Kildare, but were released from Moun- was dragged across the road. He dropped tjoy Prison by order of the Adjutant Gen- Posting to Kildare Town the haversack. The other assailant eral on 29th May 1922. It seems that there Jack was posted to the 48 (Howitzer) grabbed the haversack, threw it into a car, was lack of evidence against them, and Battery stationed in Kildare town in and shot Wogan-Browne in the head over no one was willing to make a statement 1920. Being stationed in Kildare meant the right eye with a .35 automatic pistol. in the case. that Jack was close to the family home in The car and driver had been hired from a Naas, Co. Kildare. He often served Mass local garage a short time before. The Funeral in Naas in the mornings before travelling assailants got into the car where a third on to Kildare. assailant was sitting behind the driver. The funeral of Lt JH Wogan Browne took The car then drove off. place, with full military honours, on 14 Athletic Prowess February 1922. Jack was a talented athlete. He won the The incident had occurred one hundred 880 yards final of the Irish Command and fifty yards from the barrack gate. The Requiem Mass took place in the RC sports in June 1920 by 10 yards. He The sentry on duty, Driver Harold church, the Curragh. Gun carriage, played senior Rugby with Lansdowne Onions, ran to the scene, carried Wogan- pallbearers, firing party, trumpeters, and Rugby Club in Dublin, at three three- Browne down to the barrack gate, put following party from the 48 Battery RFA, quarters, helping them to win the senior him into a cart, and brought him to the were in attendance. The body and per- championship in 1921. Jack had repre- barrack hospital where he was sonnel attending the funeral were then sented the British Army at Leyton on 26th pronounced dead. transported from the church gates to the January against a United Hospitals team. Depot Barracks, Naas. From there a He was scheduled to line out with Lans- Response of Irish and procession, led by an army band, then downe the day after the robbery. British Authorities proceeded to the cemetery at Naas, where the interment took placecxlvi. Political and Military A joint search by RIC, British Army and Situation in Kildare Irish Volunteer Police failed to find the J.H. Wogan-Browne’s culprits. affairs are settled Kildare town was regarded by the British The immediate British War Office as a safe area, being part of the Curragh response was to suspend the evacuation Jack Wogan-Browne’s sister Mrs. Claire – Newbridge – Kildare triangle. There of troops from Ireland. Lillis paid his mess bill in Kildare Bar- had been no trouble in the town; and the racks, and money found on his person relations between the barracks and the Two days after the killing Michael were used to pay his groom and servant, local people were generally good. Collins contacted Winston Churchill by and to pay for clothes left with a tailor. telegram. This telegram stated that he Illustration 35 However, with the passing of the treaty, had ‘just been informed by telephone that the release of republican prisoners, and we have captured three of those respon- John Hubert Wogan-Browne Obituary the increasing instability, the British were sible for the attack on Lieutenant Wogan- John Wogan-Browne’s obituary was anxious to evacuate their troops and their Browne. Everyone, civilian and soldier printed in the next edition of the Clon- families as quickly as possible. Instruc- has co-operated in tracking those respon- gownian. It noted his popularity among tions were issued to all military stations sible for abominable action. You may “all classes and parties”. His father, to revise security. These instructions had rely on it that those whom we can prove Colonel F. Wogan Browne was now the not reached Kildare barracks. guilty will be suitably dealt with.’ last surviving male representative of the Brownes of Caltlebrowne. The Events of 10th February 1922 Churchill reported on this to the House At 10.30 a.m., on the 10th February Lieut. of Commons on the next day. The writer remarked that after the sale of Wogan-Browne collected a cheque from Clongowes, the family continued to hold Lieut. Col. Arthur Graves Leech, battery Arrests made considerable property in the neighbour- commander, for £135, the weekly pay for Following the initial investigations, the hood, which was finally sold to the the 48 Battery. He walked alone the 500 case was taken over by the officer com- tenants at the beginning of the 20th cen- yards from the barracks to the Kildare manding 1st Eastern Division IRA and tury. The writer went on to state that, Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 14

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even after of the great agrarian crisis The Legacy of Judith Wogan-Browne Christianity in Clane & Rathcoffey, from which the country had recently The story of the Wogan-Browne family Clane, Co. Kildare: Clane and Rathcof- emerged, no bitter recollections of their is one of an influential presence on the fey Ecclesiastical History Committee ownership can be traced. national and international stage. Judith’s Cullen, S., (2015) Charles Wogan (1685- contribution could be argued to have 1752): The amazing career of a “Wild The obituary felt bound to record that been the most influential and long-lasting Geese” patriot, The Bridge, St. Mocua John Wogan Browne was not unworthy of all. The late Brigidine Sister Mary Historical Society of his honoured ancestors, great soldiers O’Riordan states: Cunningham, B. (2010) The Annals of and great Catholics. It concluded: Miss Browne was…gifted with the abil- the Four Masters. Dublin: Four Courts His record as an officer, a sportsman, and ity to impart to the Sisters many other di- Press an athlete is publicly known, and needs mensions of their lives, - spiritual, Dalton, E.A. (1911) History of Ireland. no words of ours to enhance it. educational and cultural – that have re- Vol.1. London: The Gresham Publishing dounded to the benefit of several genera- Company Death of John Hubert tions of Brigidines, down to the Dixon, W.M., (1902) College Histories: Wogan-Browne’s parents present day.cxlix Trinity College Dublin, London: F.E. Robinson & Co. Jack’s mother had died in June 1920. His From its beginnings in Tullow, the edu- Failte Ireland (2010) Carlow- trails of the father Col. Franz Wogan-Browne died in cational success of the Brigidine Sisters saints. Carlow: Carlow County Council France on 12th April 1927 while on a has spread from Ireland to Australia, Furlong, N., (1991) Fr. John Murphy of motor tour. He is buried in St. Iduc. He Papua New Guinea, China, England, Boolavogue (1757-1798). Dublin: Ge- was the last holder of the Wogan-Browne Africa, Mexico, New Zealand, United ography Productions name in Ireland. The death of his son, States and Wales. They have branched Gibbons, M. (1931) Glimpses of Jack, is referred to in his obituary: out into areas such as parish work, prison Catholic Ireland in the Eighteenth Cen- and hospital ministries, holistic centres, tury, Restoration of the Daughters of St. It was a crushing blow from which he asylum seekers, and homeless, trafficked Brigid by Most Rev. Dr. Delany, Dublin: never recovered, and shortly after he left his women and children, local, national and Browne And Nolan Limited place, Keredern, near Naas, never to return.cxlviii global issues. Law, H.A. Sir. Charles Wogan, The Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquar- The Wogan-Browne family Judith Wogan-Browne, in the view of ies of Ireland, Seventh Series, Vol. 7, No. in more recent times Mary O’Riordan, can be truly hailed, 1 (Dec. 31, 1937) apart from Bishop Daniel Delany, as per- Quidnunc, An Irishman’s Diary, The Irish During World War II an aunt of Jack, haps the greatest Brigidine benefactor, Times, 1 February, 1954. Madam Anna Wogan Browne, a nun in described in the Brigidine records as this saintly McEvoy, J. (1993) Carlow College 1793- the Cenacle Congregation, died at the age and devoted daughter of the Churchcl 1993. Carlow: The Carlovian Press of 90. These nuns had come from France to Ireland to establish their first Irish Bibliography McGuire, J.I. Quinn, J., Editors (2009) foundation at Killiny, Co Dublin. A Brigidine Nun (1963) Watching for the Dictionary of Irish Biograph , Cam- Dawn – The Story of a Great Irish bridge University Press In 1984 Sister Conleth Campbell, a mem- Bishop. Enniscorthy: Redmond Broth- McGrath, T., Editor (2008), Carlow His- ber of the Brigidine congregation in ers Printers tory and Society. Dublin: Geography Australia, made contact with Mrs. Judith Brigidine Annals, Delany Archive, Car- Publications Williams (nee Wogan- Browne) a low College McGrath, T. (1999) Religious Renewal descendant of Thomas Wogan-Browne, a Brigidine Post Primary School, Patrician and Reform in the Pastoral Ministry of nephew of Judith Wogan-Browne, and Post Primary School, Tullow (1978) A Bishop James Doyle of Kildare and whose ancestors had come from Ireland. Commemorative Magazine Leighlin, 1786 – 1834. Dublin: Four Mrs. Williams and her husband, Colin, Bunbury, T. (2014) The Glorious Mad- Courts Press came to Ireland, on holiday, in 1988, and ness, Tales of the Irish and the Great McLoughlin, M., (2014) Kildare Bar- visited the Brigidine sisters. War. Dublin: Gill & Macmillan racks From the Royal Field Artillery to Carlow Historical and Archaeological the Irish Artillery Corps, Sallins, Co. Kil- At the time of writing (2016), Professor Society (1989) Carloviana dare: Merrion an imprint of Irish Aca- Jocelyn Wogan-Browne who holds the Church of the Most Holy Rosary, Tullow demic Press Thomas F.X. and Theresa Mullarkey (2005) Tullow its Church & its People Magray, M.P., (1998) The Transforming Chair of Literature, Fordham University, Publication to commemorate bicentenary Power of Nuns: Women, Religion, and New York, is a Fellow of the Medieval of dedication of parish church Cultural Change in Ireland, 1750-1900, Academy of America, and on the Edito- The Clongownian (1927) Oxford University Press rial Board of Speculum. She graduated Comerford, M. (1886) Collections relat- Morrissey, T., (1996) As One Sent, Peter with BA from University of Melbourne, ing to the Dioceses of Kildare and Leigh- Kenney S.J. 1779-1841 Dublin: Four M.Phil., from University of Oxford, and lin., Vol I and Vol. III. Dublin: James Courts Press PhD from University of Liverpool. Duffy and Sons Murphy, D., The Wogans of Rathcoffy, Cullen, S., Editor (2011) A History of The Journal of the Royal Society of Anti- Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 15

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quaries of Ireland Vol. 1, No. 2 (2nd Quar- Bernie Deasy, Archivist, Delany Archive, that Mrs. F.J. Lillis (nee Wogan-Browne), ter) © 1890 Royal Society of Antiquaries Carlow College Palmerston Park, Dublin, a descendant of of Ireland Margaret Doyle, Archivist, Clongowes the Rathcoffey Wogans, loaned pedi- Nolan, W. and McGrath, T., Editors Wood College grees, deeds and patents for an exhibition (2006) Kildare History & Society Dublin: Michael Haren held in the Heraldic Museum, Dublin Geography Publications David Kenny Castle, in February 1954, to mark the ter- O Ciardha, E., (2004) Ireland and the Ja- Dr. Thomas McGrath, Registrar, Carlow centenary of Colonel Edward Wogan. cobite Cause, 1685-1766, Dublin: Four College This would indicate a family connection Courts Press Ltd. Mary McQuinn between Edward Wogan and the Wogan- O’Riordan, M. Pathfinders, The Brigi- Michael Meade Browne family. dine Story, Dublin, Brigidine Convent Charles Payne O’Riordan, M. (2001) Judith Wogan- Dr. Catherine Ann Power, Historian vii The Pale was the part of Ireland di- Browne (1755-1848), Dublin, Brigidine Eliza McCormack, Sotheby’s, Dublin rectly under the control of the English Convent Marie McFeely, National Gallery of Ire- government. It passed through the land O’Toole, J (1993) The Carlow Gentry, land of Castle Browne. Carlow: Jimmy O’Toole Ann O’Shaughnessy, Malahide Castle viii was an Power, C.A., (2014) A History of the and Gardens Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658) English military and political leader. He Brigidine Sisters in Ireland and Aus- Len Roche, Solicitor became one of the principal commanders tralia, Unpublished Ph,D. Thesis submit- Bro. Stephen Sweetman FSP, Archivist, in the English Civil War on the Parlia- ted to Trinity College, Dublin Patrician Brothers, Sydney mentarian side. He was a signatory of Tullowphelim Historical Society (2001) King Charles I’s death warrant. He be- Ogham (00/01) Volume 17 st i came 1 Lord Protector of England, Scot- Walker, L. (Date not given) To Build Catherine Ann Power, A History of the land and Ireland. He has been classed as and to Plant, Tullow, Patrician Brothers Brigidine Sisters in Ireland and Aus- a dictator, and also as a champion of lib- Generalate tralia, Unpublished Ph,D. Thesis p.79. erty. His measures against Catholics in Walker, L. (1981) The Purpose of His Judith was given this second name, Scotland and Ireland have been charac- Will, Galway Clementina, in memory of Princess terised as genocide. Maria Clementina Sobieska of Poland, ix This date is incorrect. Edward Wogan Newspapers who was rescued in Innsbruck by Ju- died in 1654 The Irish Times, Feb. 1, 1954 dith’s relative, Sir Charles Wogan, and x was knighted by the The Irish Times, Feb. 16, 1954 became the wife of King James III, the Charles Wogan “Pretender”, King James III. . The Kildare Observer, Aug. 7, 1915 Stuart claimant to the English, Scottish xi Hugh A. Law, Sir. Charles Wogan, The and Irish thrones. See section below on Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquar- Websites Sir Charles ies of Ireland, Seventh Series, Vol. 7, No. http://www.turtlebunbury.com/history/hi Wogan. ii 1 (Dec. 31, 1937) pp 253 – 264, states story_family/hist_family_wogan- Seamus Cullen, A History of Christian- that Sir Charles Wogan was from browne.html ity in Clane & Rathcoffey, p. 89, refer- Richardstown. His proposed family tree http://www.archivesandrecordsmanage- encing The Clongowes Record gives William and Anne Wogan as ment.blogspot.ie/2005/06/clongowes- 1814-1932, p.48, maintains that Judith Charles’ grandparents. wood-college-archives.html Wogan –Browne was born circa 1756, xii Margaret Gibbons, op. cit., p. 16 states http://www.holyfaithsisters.org and not 1750 as indicated on her head- that Sir Charles was the grandfather of http://www.kildare.ie/library/ehistory/20 stone iii Judith Wogan-Browne. This would ap- 12/06/ www.turtlebunbury.com/history/his- pear to be incorrect. The grandfather of http://onlinecollection.nationalgallery.ie/ tory_family/hist_family_woganbrowne.h Judith Wogan-Browne is given Law, op., view/objects/asimages tml iv cit., as Nicholas Wogan of Rathcoffey. www.presentationsistersunion.org Margaret Gibbons, Glimpses of Turtle Bunbury, op. cit. p. 2 agrees that www.presentationsistersunion.org/spiri- Catholic Ireland in the Eighteenth Cen- Nicholas Wogan was Judith’s maternal tuality/default.cfm?loadref=283 tury, p.23. Sean O’ Shea, Property grandfather, as does Seamus Cullen. www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~irlker/pe- Owners in County Carlow in the Year xiii Email, dated 23 March 2016, from nallaws.html 1307, Carloviana 2016, outlines an in- Seamus Cullen, to the author www.susiewarren.com.au quisition carried out for King Edward I xiv (from the Latin, Jacobus, by Sir John Wogan. It states that “Ed- Jacobitism meaning James, and denoting Irish sup- Acknowledgements mund le Botiller holds on barony of Tu- port for the exiled House of Stuart) was Turtle Bunbury, Travel writer, historian lagh Offelmyth” (Butlers of Tullow). v the main political ideology among Irish and author Denis Murphy, The Wogans of Rath- Catholics from the Battle of the Boyne Mario Corrigan, Kildare Library and Arts coffy, The Journal of the Royal Society (1690) and the French Revolution Service of Antiquaries of Ireland, Fifth Series, nd (1789). Seamus Cullen, Historian Vol. 1, No. 2 (2 Quarter, 1890), pp. 119 xv O Ciardha, E., Ireland and the Jacobite Sr. Mary Dalton CSB, Brigidine - 129 vi Cause, 1685-1766, p. 377 Archivist The Irish Times, Feb 16, 1954 reported Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 16

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xvi The “Flight of the Wild Geese” refers England, Scotland and Ireland xxxiv Margaret Gibbons, op. cit., p.24 to the departure of the defeated Jacobite xxi Quidnunc, An Irishman’s Diary, The xxxv Turtle Bunbury, op. cit. p. 2 Army under Patrick Sarsfield to France Irish Times, 1 February, 1954. xxxvi The Talbot family came to Ireland after the Treaty of Limerick in October xxii An account of this adventure was pub- in 1174 with Henry II. It survived the vi- 1690. More generally the term “Wild lished by Charles Wogan in 1722, under cissitudes of history in Malahide Castle Geese” refers to Irish soldiers who served the title, “Female Fortitude Exemplified (with one break under Cromwell) from in continental armies in the 16th, 17th, and in an impartial narrative of seizure, and 1185 until 1976. These events included 18th centuries. marriage of the Princess Sobieski, as it the Battle of the Boyne (12th July 1690) xvii O Ciardha, E., Dictionary of Irish Bi- was particularly set down by Mr. Charles when fourteen members of the family sat ography. Arthur Dillon (1670-1733) Wogan (formerly one of the Preston pris- down to breakfast that morning in the was born in Co. Roscommon. He was a oners) who was chief manager of the Great Hall of the castle; following their Jacobite general in the French service, whole affair”. Reprint, Cathy Winch, fighting in the Jacobite cause that day, all commissioned by King Louis XIV. He trans., The Rescue of the Princess fourteen were dead by evening. The had a distinguished military career in Clementina (Stuart): A 1719 Adventure family remained Roman Catholic until such theatres as Spain (1693-1697), Ger- of the Irish Brigades (Belfast Hist. & 1714. many (1701), and Italy (1702). In 1711 Educ. Soc. 2008) xxxvii Email to the author, dated 25 Nov. King Louis XIV conferred the title Count xxiii The story of rescue of Princess 2015, from Ann O’Shaughnessy, Castle Dillon on him, and the governorship of Clementina is well known in Austrian Host, Malahide Castle & Gardens the city of Toulon. (Murphy, David, history, and has been the subject of a xxxviii http://onlinecollection.national- Dictionary of Irish Biography). number of films in the German language. gallery.ie/view/objects/asimages xviii James Butler (1665-1745), 2nd Duke Seamus Coffey, Charles Wogan (1685- xxxix Ibid., p. 24 of Ormond, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, 1752): The amazing career of a “Wild xl Mary O’Riordan C.S.B., Judith Wogan- and Jacobite, was born in Dublin Castle, Geese” patriot, The Bridge 2015. Browne (1755 – 1848), p.1 and was educated in France and at Ox- xxiv O Ciardha, E., Ireland and the Jaco- xli Archibald Hamilton Rowan (1751- ford. His first wife, Anne Hyde, was a bite Cause, 1685-1766, p. 200,201 1834) was a wealthy landowner whose niece of the Duke of York, later King xxv Dr. James Wogan was from Rathcof- ancestors came from Co. Down. A James II. Ormond was a member of the fey (McGrath, T., Kildare History & So- United Irishman he was associated with English House of Lords, Chancellor of ciety, p282,283). He was a brother of Sir the leaders, Wolfe Tone, Lord Edward Oxford University and of Trinity Col- Charles Wogan and of Nicholas Wogan. Fitzgerald and Napper Tandy. He lived lege, Dublin, as well as a member of the James Wogan received his doctorate in in exile for some years in France and in Royal household. After “The Glorious 1730, and taught theology at the Sor- the United States, and was permitted to Revolution” he changed his allegiance to bonne from 1732 until his death in 1742. return to Ireland in 1806. King William, and was suitably re- In 1733 Abbe James Dunne, later Bishop xlii Email to this writer from Seamus warded, being made a gentleman of the of Ossory, wrote to James III proposing Cullen. W. Macneile Dixon in College king’s bedchamber, and a privy council- Dr. Wogan as Bishop of the vacant Dio- Histories Trinity College Dublin pp.66 - lor. He took part in all King William’s cese of Kildare and Leighlin. King 68 states: ‘ To Moore whatever honour Irish campaigns, and in his other conti- James offered Dr. Wogan the position, we can give is due for his exertions, not nental battles, reaching the military rank which he declined. King James III had only to restore order, but on behalf of of Major General. He was appointed a the appointment of Irish Catholic Bish- Protestant prisoners, and for the use he member of the Irish House of Lords. He ops in his gift, which was a further source made to restrain the more vindictive ac- also found favour with Queen Anne, of anger and fear among the Protestant tion of James and his agents’. Dr. Moore being appointed Lord Lieutenant of Ire- authorities in England and Ireland. went on to hold educational posts in Italy, land (1703-1707). His political career in Hugh A. Law, op. cit., p. 257 proposed a the Rector’s chair of the University of Ireland brought him much criticism in family tree showing the three aforemen- Paris, while he held in addition the post England, as did his military exploits on tioned Wogan brothers as coming from of Principal of the College of Navarre the continent. He fell out of favour with Richardstown, and not from Rathcoffey and the Professorship of Philosophy, the new King George, and in 1715 was xxvi O Ciardha, E., op. cit., p. 262,263 Greek, and Hebrew forced to flee to France, where he threw xxvii www.ricorso.net>Wogan_C>life xliii Turtle Bunbury, op. cit., p.1 in his lot with the “Old Pretender”, who xxviii Ibid., p. 216 xliv Knight appointed him Captain General of his xxix Ibid., p. 299 xlv Catherine Ann Power, A History of the abortive invasion forces. Ormond died xxx Jonathan Swift (1667-1745) was an Brigidine Sisters in Ireland and Aus- in Avignon in 1745, and was allowed by Anglo-Irish satirist, essayist, political tralia, Unpublished Ph,D. Thesis, p. 79. the Whig administration to be buried in pamphleteer, poet, and cleric who be- xlvi Seamus Cullen, op. cit., p.89 Westminster Abbey. ( Hayton, James, came Dean of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, xlvii Turtle Bunbury, op. cit., p.3 Dictionary of Irish Biography). Dublin. xlviii Mary O’Riordan, op. cit., p.2 xix O Ciardha, E., Dictionary of Irish Bi- xxxi Ibid., p. 32 xlixwww.turtlebunbury.com/history/his- ography xxxii Denis Murphy, op. cit., p. 128 tory_family/hist_family_woganbrowne.h xx Judith Clementina Wogan-Browne xxxiii Seamus Cullen, Charles Wogan tml was christened in memory of this Polish (1685-1752): The amazing career of a l The author is indebed to Michael Princess who was the disputed Queen of “Wild Geese” patriot, The Bridge 2015 Meade, and to Michael Haren, for the fol- Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 17

118 Judith Wogan-Browne (1756-1848)

lowing translation and background re- ercising ecclesiastical jurisdiction and all Bishop’s House, Killarney: Part 1” Col- search into this motto and crest: “He regulars of the popish clergy” to leave lectanea Hibernica,No. 14 (1971), p. who is not a stork is a tiger”. The sig- Ireland within a year. Prof. Lecky in 138. Bishop Delany was prepared to nificance of the motto is that the Brownes History of Ireland in the 18th Century “yield up my little Convent of St. Brid- stood their ground in their loyalty to summarised these laws as follows: The get”, if it could accommodate the said Catholicism; they did not fly away when Irish Catholic was forbidden to exercise proposed community. (p. 139) challenged. The coat of arms was be- his religion, receive an education, enter a lxiii Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 78. stowed on the Browne family by King profession, hold public office, engage in Ibid. p. 59 states that Delany was aware Charles 1. trade or commerce, live in a corporate that certain suitable catechists would be li Turtle Bunbury, op. cit., p. 2 town, own a horse worth more than £5, deterred from becoming nuns through lii Ieper is the Dutch and the only official own land, lease land, accept a mortgage, lack of means. He hoped that school name for this city. Ypres is most com- vote, keep arms, hold a life annuity, buy fees and his own wealth would provide monly used name in English, due to its land from a Protestant, receive a gift of for these candidates. This must have role in World War I, when only French land from a Protestant, inherit land from proved impractical, because shortly after was used in official Belgian documents, a Protestant, inherit anything from a Delany’s death, his second successor, including maps. Protestant, rent land that was worth more Bishop Doyle, made having a dowry An English Benedictine Convent was set than 30 shillings a year, reap from his compulsory for a postulant to enter the up in Ypres during the penal laws era. land any profit exceeding a third of the convent This became an Irish Convent in the 17th rent, be guardian to a child, when dying lxiv Thomas McGrath, op. cit. p. 308 Century. Its first Irish Abbess was Mary leave his infant children under Catholic lxv Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 17. Butler (1641 – 1723). She was born in guardianship, attend Catholic worship, Margaret Gibbons, op. cit., p. 66,67 Callan, Co. Kilkenny. (James E. Kelly in, himself educate his child, send his child lxvi These illegal pay schools were set up Treasures of Irish Christianity, Vol. III - to a Catholic teacher, employ a Catholic as a response to the penal laws. As well Ed. Salvador Ryan, p. 64). teacher, send his child abroad to receive as taking place outdoors, they also could In 1914 the convent, including its an education. Law compelled him to at- operate in houses or in barns. Several archive, was destroyed by German tend Protestant worship. thousand were flourishing in 1824. ( Rev. bombs. The small community were res- www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~irlker/pe- Martin Brenan, Schools of Kildare & cued by two Irish soldiers. (Turtle Bun- nallaws.html Leighlin A.D. 1775-1835, p.41) bury, The Glorious Madness, p.7). lxvii Bro. L.H. Walker, The Purpose of his These Irish Dames of Ypres eventually lvii Email from Sr. Maire Hickey OSB to Will, p. 5 transferred to Kylemore Abbey, Co. Gal- Bro. Stephen Sweetman, March, 2016 lxviii Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p21 way, where the religious community re- lviii Explanatory panel, Bishop Delany lxix Bishop James Keeffe took his Doc- mains to this day. Museum, Tullow torate equivalent degree from the Sor- liii Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 79. lix Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 78 bonne, Paris, and had been parish priest Choir sisters were generally engaged in lx Turtle Bunbury, op. cit., quoting Mary of Tullow, before being named bishop in professional duties, as distinct from lay Peckham Magray, The Transforming 1752. (Comerford, Collections Dioceses sisters who carried out domestic duties Power of Nuns: Women, Religion and of Kildare and Leighlin Vol 1, p. 83). He livwww.presentationsistersunion.org/spir- Cultural Change in Ireland, 1770-1900. continued to reside in Knocknatubrid, ituality/default.cfm?loadref=283. This It may be noted Bishop James Keefe Tullow. Keeping a low profile due to the would give further evidence of Judith’s (1702-1787) was also the parish priest of penal laws banning bishops, Dr. Keeffe’s year of birth being 1756. Tullow. On moving to Kildare in 1779, letters from Rome to him were ad- lv Nano Nagle was born to wealthy par- he left Delany in charge of the parish. dressed: “Patrick Keeffe, Shopkeeper, ents in Ballygriffin, Co. Cork in 1718. (Thomas McGrath, op. cit., p. 309 Tullow” and his letters to Rome were She was related to Edmund Burke, the lxi The Rt. Rev. Dr. James Verschoyle signed “ex loco nostrii refugii”, i.e. “from parliamentarian and orator. Due to her (1750 – 1837) was Bishop of Killala and our place of refuge.” In his eighties he uncle, Joseph Nagle, converting to Achonry, and minor Canon of St. began the building of Carlow College. Protestantism, and holding extensive Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin. He may property on their behalf, her parents were have been a member of the Irish Parlia- lxx Margaret Gibbons, Glimpses of able to bypass the penal laws, and, de ment. He married Frances Walsh on Catholic Ireland in the Eighteenth Cen- facto, to hold on to their lands. 8.04.1780. The family of Verschoyle tury, p. 133 www.presentationsistersunion.org men- (Verschuyl) emigrated from the Nether- lxxi In 1780, Robert Raikes, from tions Nano Nagle as being a pupil in in lands to Ireland in 1568, having suffered Gloucester, an Anglican layman and phi- the Irish Benedictine Abbey in Ypres religious persecution because of their lanthropist, opened Sunday schools for (1728-1734). The same article refers to Calvinism the education of poor children who, in Judith Browne, Foundress of the Brigi- lxii Mary O’Riordan CSB, Judith Wogan- the early days of the industrial revolution, dine Sisters, as being a pupil there (1767- Browne, p. 3, and Stephen Sweetman had to work 6 days, and were only free 1774) FSP., as yet unpublished book on Daniel on Sunday. Teaching literacy led on to lvi The first of a series of major penal laws Delany - chapter on Judith Wogan- the learning of Catechism. The move- against Catholics was enacted by the Browne - quoting Evelyn Bolster RSM, ment spread through publicity in the Irish Parliament in 1697: “all papists ex- “The Moylan Correspondence in Gentleman’s Magazine, and in the Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 18

119 Judith Wogan-Browne (1756-1848)

Arminian Magazine. – Email to the distinction between ‘choir’ and ‘lay’ sis- cviii Seamus Cullen, A History of Christi- writer from Mr. Charles Payne ters. anity in Clane & Rathcoffey, p. 80 lxxii Bro. L.H. Walker, op. cit., pp 10,11 xcii Margaret Gibbons, op. cit., pp. cix Ibid., p.90 lxxiii Thomas McGrath, Religious Renewal 226,228, and www.holyfaithsisters.org cx Stroke and Reform in the Pastoral Ministry of xciii The Second Reformation was an cxi Mary O’Riordan, Pathfinders: Part 1 Bishop James Doyle of Kildare and evangelical campaign from the 1820s on- , the Tullow Story p.14 Leighlin, 11786 – 1834, p. 30 wards. It was organised by fundamental- cxii Mary O’Riordan, op. cit., p.15 lxxiv The Angelus is a prayer, usually ac- ists in the Church of Ireland and in the cxiii Ibid., p. 14 companied by the ringing of a bell. The Church of England. cxiv This is reproduced in Margaret Gib- angel referred to is Gabriel, a messenger xciv Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 77 bons, op. cit., pp. 318, 320 of God who revealed to Mary that she xcv Ibid., p. 77 cxv Margaret Gibbons, op. cit, p. 320 would conceive a child to be known for xcvi Ibid., p.78. Margaret Gibbons, cxvi Thomas McGrath, Religious Renewal the Son of God (Luke 1:26-38). Corpus Glimpses of Catholic Ireland in the Eigh- and Reform in the Pastoral Ministry of Christi is a feast of the Catholic Church teenth Century, p. 132 gives the date of Bishop James Doyle of Kildare and in honour of the Eucharist, held, in those his conversion as 1777 Leighlin, 1786-1834, p.32 days, on the first Thursday after Trinity xcvii Turtle Bunbury op. cit., p.4 cxvii Bishop James Warren Doyle (1786- Sunday. [Latin: Corpus Christi Body of xcviii Ibid., op. cit., p.4 1834), known as JKL (James of Kildare Christ]. xcix Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 78 & Leighlin), was born close to New lxxv Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 34 c This portrait, from the contents of Ross. Following his joining the Augus- lxxvi Thomas McGrath, Kildare History & Mount Juliet, was sold by Sotheby’s tinian Order in 1805, he studied for his Society, p.314. Catherine Ann Power, op. Dublin (October 20, 1987) for $12,599 Doctorate at Coimbra, Portugal (1806- cit. p. 43 refers to the Synod of Bishops USD, £7,615 GBP 1808). He served in the Portuguese and held in Tullow in 1807 where this deci- ci The Defenders were a secret oath- British forces opposing the French invasion was taken. Because of the subse- bound agrarian society founded in Co. sion of Iberia. He was ordained in 1809 quent outcry this proposal was rejected Armagh in response to attacks by the in Enniscorthy. Dr. Doyle was Professor by the bishops at their general meeting in Protestant Peep o’ Day Boys. By 1795 of Rhetoric and then of Theology in Car- Dublin the following year. they had joined with the United Irishmen low College from 1813-1819. In 1819, lxxvii Carlow College was founded in 1782 and took part in the 1798 Rebellion. at age 33, he was consecrated Bishop of by Bishop James Keefe. It educated cii Valentine Lawless was the 2nd Baron Kildare and Leighlin. He was politically Catholic priests and laity. Cloncurry. His father, Nicholas, was a assertive, and a prolific writer of books lxxviii Margaret Gibbons, op. cit., pp. blanket manufacturer. On the death of and pamphlets on pastoral, political, ed- 156,157 his father, Valentine inherited the Lyons ucational and interdenominational mat- lxxix Mary O’Riordan CSB, op. cit., p.4 estate, near Celbridge, Co. Kildare, ters. Dr. Doyle was a powerful ally, and lxxx Margaret Gibbons, op. cit., p. 191, which was formerly owned by the sometime critic, of Daniel O’Connell in and Nicholas Furlong, Fr. John Murphy Aylmer family, whose ownership ex- the political campaign for Catholic of Boolavogue, 1753-1798, p.162 tended back to the Anglo-Norman settle- Emancipation, appearing before parlia- lxxxi McGrath, T., in Kildare History and ment. Lyons House was built for Lord mentary committees of the houses of Society, p. 314 Cloncurry in 1797. (Patrick J. Duffy, Kil- Lords and Commons in 1825. He helped lxxxii Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 61 dare History & Society (Editors: William to establish the National School system lxxxiii Ibid. p. 64 Nolan and Thomas McGrath), p.31). in 1831. In 1833 he completed the con- lxxxiv Mary O’ Riordan CSB, Judith Cloncurry was a friend of Wolfe Tone, struction of Carlow Cathedral, and died Wogan-Browne, p.4 Robert Emmet, Lord Edward Fitzgerald, the following year. lxxxv Ibid., p. 80 and Henry Grattan. His sympathy for the cxviii Catherine Ann Power, op., cit., p. 81 lxxxvi Thomas McGrath, op. cit. p. 312 1798 Rebellion led to his imprisonment cxix Bishop Edward Nolan was born in lxxxvii Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 78, in the Tower of London. He was re- Tullow in 1793. His mother, Mary quoting Unpublished Rule of Brigidine leased, and in later life became active in Moore, married James Nolan (b. 1758) in Congregation (1st February 1814) the promotion of tillage among his ten- 1787. Dr. Comerford in Collections, lxxxviii Ibid. p. 81 ants. Bishop Delany was a friend of Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin vol.1 lxxxix Brigidine Annals, T. VI A7 Lord Cloncurry. Margaret Gibbons, op. p.122 recounts, that while Mary Moore xc Ibid., p.67 cit., p.322, refers to Fitzpatrick’s The Life was still a girl, Dr. Keeffe, the then xci Margaret Aylward (1819-1889) was of J.K.L. Here Fitzpatrick criticises De- Bishop (See note 4 above) gave her an born in Waterford to a wealthy merchant lany for spending too much time on visits episcopal ring, telling her to keep it for family. Having made two attempts at re- to the “patriot peer”, Lord Cloncurry, or one of her sons who should be a bishop. ligious life, she worked in Dublin, as a with Bishop Moylan of Cork. Edward’s mother kept the ring, not men- laywoman, for the relief of the poor. She ciii Turtle Bunbury, op. cit., p. 4 tioning the matter except to her husband. served a six month’s prison sentence be- civ Ibid., p.4 When Bishop Keefe died she gave it to cause of a child custody case arising out cv Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 78 his successor, Bishop Delany, informing of her work for orphans. In 1867 Mar- cvi Turtle Bunbury, op. cit. p.4 him of the circumstances of how it came garet Aylward founded the Holy Faith cvii Turtle Bunbury, op. cit., quoting Lord into her possession. Dr. Delany accepted Sisters, as an un-cloistered order with no Cloncurry, p. 5 it, but only on trust, and returned it before Carloviana 2017 Judith Wogan Browne_Layout 1 21/10/2016 11:30 Page 19

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his death in 1814. Edward Nolan was ed- Carlow Morning Post, 12 May 1828, adver- cellent educational background fitted her to ucated in Carlow College from an early tised the sale of Judith Wogan-Browne’s fulfil the Delany wish for highly qualified age (1804-1811) and in Maynooth, where house, stating that it was ‘fit for immediate re- entrants to the Brigidines, and contributed to he was ordained in 1819. He was on the ception of a family’. her influential role in the congregation. staff of Carlow College from 1819 to cxxvii Delany Archive, KL/EN/064 Mother Catherine was appointed Superior of 1834. Dr. Comerford (ibid. p123) deals cxxviii Seamus Cullen, op. cit., p. 143 Tullow Convent in 1841, and again in 1868, with his controversy with Bible Society cxxix Delany Archive, KL/FH/0033, has a let- 1867 and 1870. She put major work into the in Carlow, 1824. Professor Nolan was ter, dated 20 March 1839 (a month before the revision of the Brigidine constitutions, con- vice-president of the college when nuns move into Clane Convent) , from M.J. sulting widely, before they were submitted to Bishop James Doyle (JKL) died in 1834, Sweetman to Bishop Haly implying that Miss Rome for approval in 1840s. Mother Cather- and he succeeded Dr. Doyle as bishop. Browne is due to move into Clane Convent. ine was also a writer of the congregation’s He died four years later, at the age of Margaret Gertrude Sweetman, nee Blackney, annals. (Mary O’Riordan, Pathfinders, pp. forty-four, a victim of typhus fever b. 1790 (app.) was a daughter of Walter 20, 25) caught in the course of his ministry. Blackney b. 1714 of Ballyellen, Carlow. The cxxxv Ibid. p.23, Reference not given Blackney family was seated in Carlow from cxxxvi Ibid. p. 23 cxx Turtle Bunbury op. cit., p.6 the seventeenth to the close of the nineteeth cxxxvii Ibid. p. 23, Reference not given cxxi Fr. Peter Kenney S.J. (1779-1841) century. They are stated to derive their cxxxviii St. Robert Bellarmine S.J. (1542- received his early education in the back- descent from the Blacknies of Ricenore, Co. 1621) was an Italian Cardinal, scholar and streets of Dublin. He studied for the Dublin, who ranked among the principal gen- writer. priesthood in Carlow College, in England try of that county in Tudor times. (The Irish cxxxix Delany Archive, BC/AIr/310 and in Sicily, where he was awarded his Genealogist, Vol 3 #2, p. 44) quoted in cxl Delany Archive, KL/DD/12 D.D. degree. On returning to Ireland, he www.susiewarren.com.au cxli Nuns, in those days , were given the title, was appointed Vice-President of Margaret Blackney married Michael Sweet- “Mrs.” Maynooth College. In 1814 he set up man, b.1775 cxlii The author has not been able to trace who Clongowes College. He was sent to the this lady is, or the whereabouts of her portrait. United States, by the Jesuit General, as cxxx Seamus Cullen, op. cit., p. 143 cxliii Judith Wogan Browne’s former maid; she Visitor and Overall Superior, in 1819-20 cxxxi Ibid. p. 145 had the same name in religion as one on Ju- and 1830-33. cxxxii Bishop Francis Haly was born c.1783 in dith’s aunts in Ypres. cxxii Bradley, Michael, 2005, Clongowes the parish of Doonane, Queen’s County cxliv Cf. Mark McLoughlin, Kildare Barracks Wood College Archives Article, available (Laois). In 1807 he entered Maynooth Col- From the Royal Field Artillery to the Irish Ar- from http://www.archivesandrecords- lege and was ordained priest in 1812. He tillery Corps, pp. 120-136 management.blogspot.ie/2005/06/clon- served as curate in the parishes of Rathvilly cxlv Kildare Library and History Service gowes-wood-college-archives.html, and Mountrath, and in 1822 he was appointed cxlvi The close ties between Jack Wogan- [Accessed 29 February 2016] Parish Priest of Kilcock. Haly was a cousin Browne and his sister Claire is also shown in cxxiii Mary O’Riordan, Judith Wogan- of Bishop Edward Nolan. On the latter’s the following news item from the Kildare Ob- Browne, p.8 death, Francis Haly was elected his successor server 7 August 1915: cxxiv Ibid. p.8 in 1838. He served as Bishop of Kildare and “The marriage of Mr. Francis Lillis and Miss cxxv Bro. Serenus P. Kelly was a native of Co. Leighlin for seventeen years. During that Claire Wogan Browne took place very quietly Leitrim. He joined the Patrician Brothers in time “many fine Churches were erected, and on 31st July 1915, at the church of Our Lady Religious Communities established, espe- of Victories, Kensington. In the absence of her April, 1808. A journeyman-gardener, cially those whose chief work is the education father, the bride was given away by her brother, Mr. Patrick Kelly had come to Tullow from of the poor”. (Comerford, Collections Vol. I, J. Wogan Browne, R.F.A”. (Courtesy of Kildare Li- Dublin in the service of Sir Robert Doyne of p. 144). He added a wing to Carlow College, brary and Arts Servicescxlvii The Clongowian, St. Austin’s Abbey. In his early years Bro. and was instrumental in the establishment of 1927, pp. 103-104cxlviii Mary O’Riordan Ju- cxlix- Serenus Kelly suffered from ill health, not many primary schools. He was a constant dith Wogan-Browne (1755-1848), p.15 helped by the conditions under which the reader, especially of English authors. His ex- Ibid. p. 15. Mary O’Riordan, op. cit. p. 16, tensive notebooks written in his own hand quoting the late Fr. Burke-Savage S.J., states early Brothers lived. In 1824 he went to Eng- consist of quotations from the works of that a portrait of Judith Wogan-Browne was land and, in 1829, to France to collect money Robertson, Pope, Swift, Las Casas, but espe- auctioned, in 1986, in Kilkenny. cl Hugh A. for the building of the new monastery in Tul- cially from those of Edmund Burke of whom Law, Sir. Charles Wogan, The Journal of the low. In 1830 Bro. Serenus was sent by Dr. Haly was an enthusiastic admirer. He Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland, Sev- Bishop James Doyle (JKL) to England to col- died in 1855 and is buried in Carlow Cathe- enth Series, Vol. 7, No. 1 (Dec. 31, 1937). p. lect money for the building of Carlow Cathe- dral. His extensive library was bequeathed 257 dral and for Tullow Parish Church. Bro. to Carlow College. cxxxiii Ibid., p. 81 Serenus died on February 3rd 1859, aged 79, cxxxiv Ann McAuliffe was born in the parish and is buried in the grounds or building of the of St. Peter and Paul in Cork city in 1791. Parish Church in Tullow. She joined the Brigidine novitiate in Tullow on 28 April, 1828, aged 37, and took the name cxxvi Catherine Ann Power, op. cit., p. 81; The Mother Catherine. Her mature years and ex-

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121

RICHARD II AND ART MAC MURROUGH:

Conflict in Carlow in 1394. Samuel Kinirons

On 2 October 1394 the inhabitants of with unusual accuracy thanks to the dis- tober Richard II crossed the Suir and Waterford witnessed an event which had covery of seven transcribed letters which headed north. It seems that the scribe not occurred in one hundred and eighty- were found in a formulary book by Pro- who transmitted the letters into the for- four years. They saw an English monarch fessor Edmund Curtis in the 1920s.iii mulary book did not feel that many of the step onto Irish soil. That monarch was These are near contemporary copies of names of people and places were worth Richard II, a king not known for his mar- letters detailing Richard II’s 1394-5 ex- his time and thus abbreviated them to the tial qualities, and yet it was he, rather pedition, as well as his 1399 expedition first letter only. To complicate matters than his more warlike predecessor, who led which saw him return to Ireland once further Curtis found different copies of an army to the increasingly beleaguered Lord- more.iv Of particular interest to us are the the same letters within the formulary ship of Ireland. first three letters which provide an ac- book but the initials given within these count of the military conflict with Mac copies were not necessarily the same. It is undeniable that by the late fourteenth Murrough in 1394. The last of these was Curtis’s translation includes the second century there had been a marked decline written by a member of Richard II’s army set of initials within square brackets. For in the king’s power within Ireland. This whose identity is unknown. The other example, the name of the place where was the result of multiple factors whose two were written by Richard II himself Richard II spent the night of 19 October breadth and complexity require more at- and were possibly addressed to Thomas was given as both M. or B. depending on tention than can be afforded to them here. Arundel, the archbishop of York and which copy of the letter you read. In Cur- One of these factors must be mentioned, chancellor of England. Some historians tis’s translation it is recorded as ‘M. however, as it is of central importance in have disputed the identity of the recipient [B.]’.x We are however sometimes given this study. That is the resurgence of Ire- though it is certain that he was a bishop.v place-names in full. It is certain that on land’s native elite, who were wielding the 20th October the king’s army camped power with worrying independence of Over the course of the summer of 1394 at Jerpoint, the king himself was presum- the English king. Chief among these was the king commandeered a large number ably lodged within Jerpoint Abbey whose Art Mac Murrough (Mac Murchadha). of ships to take his host across the Irish remains still stand today.xi Thus, with Sea.vi He set sail on the 1st October from these few fully written place-names we The Mac Murroughs had steadily grown Milford Haven and after a calm crossing can create a frame on which to build up in strength over the course of the 14th of only a day and a night he landed at the entirety of Richard II’s campaign. It century and were one of the primary Waterford. Here he waited for the arrival is possible to literally join up the dots and threats to the Lordship. The revival of of his uncle, the duke of Gloucester.vii then scan the area of the route for places their power is perfectly demonstrated by While he was in Waterford it seems that which could be the abbreviations we are their resumption of the title of king of Le- Mac Murrough attacked and burnt the left with. A grasp of toponymy is crucial inster, which had previously been al- town of New Ross, an event which is for this approach, as the place-names lowed to slide into disuse. Art Mac recorded in the Annals of the Four Mas- have often changed greatly in the past Murrough succeeded to the title in the ters.viii While the entry within the Annals six-hundred years. later 1370s and had since presented a se- appears after the entry which states that rious thorn in the side of the English ad- Richard II had landed in Waterford and Curtis believed that ‘M. [B.]’ might have ministration on the Lordship. A ‘proceeded thence to Dublin’, we should been modern Ballyhale, which lies be- fluctuating pattern of negotiation and not interpret this as meaning that the at- tween Waterford and Jerpoint.xii We can open conflict characterised these years. tack on New Ross took place after be certain that the king and his army The under-resourced English Justiciars Richard II had left Waterford.ix The ob- spent two days at Jerpoint and there he simply did not have the means of dis- servation that Richard II went from Wa- ‘heard of the landing of ‘our very dear lodging Mac Murrough, who collected terford to Dublin was written in uncle, the Duke of G at Wa- with impunity black rents from the Eng- hindsight. As we shall see, once Richard terford [J.], for which reason we stayed lish towns which bordered his lands.ii II went on the offensive there was no time for there on Wednesday and Thursday, Curbing the increasingly alarming activ- Mac Murrough to conduct such a raid. awaiting the arrival of our said uncle’.xiii ities of Art Mac Murrough was thus one of the Again growing tired of waiting for his main reasons for Richard II’s expedition. The attack on New Ross may indeed uncle, he proceeded north on 23 October, have been what spurred Richard II into camping at a place which is referred to in We can follow the course of this venture departing without Gloucester. On 19 Oc- the copy of the letter as ‘B. [M.]’.xiv Cur-

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122 Richard II and Art Mac Murrough: Conflict in Carlow in 1394

tis failed to definitively locate it but it would have generally made up the ma- personally bore witness to on the second could possibly be modern day Moonhall jority of the fighting men, with the men- expedition, as fleeting, with the Irish in Kilkenny, Moonhall being an anglici- at-arms serving as the backbone of the rarely choosing to fight on open ground sation of the original Irish Móin Hál.xv army.xxiii Armed with powerful yew bows, but rather ambushing the English force as The townland of Moonhall contains sev- which are now referred to as longbows, it made its way through dense forest. eral interesting archaeological sites in- the English archers had met with consid- cluding a castle whose exact nature is erable success upon the fields of France ‘Very frequently they assailed the unclear as almost nothing of it survives.xvi during the opening stages of the Hundred vanguard, and threw their darts Also in Moonhall’s favour is the fact that Years War.xxiv It is highly probable that a with such force that they pierced it lies roughly midway between Jerpoint large number of these archers were in haubergeon and plates through Abbey and where the army rested the fact mounted (though they would have and through. Many English strag- night of the 24 October, which is given fought on foot), particularly when we glers they put to death, when par- in the letters as ‘Leglin’.xvii take into account the rapidity of Richard ties went out to forage without II’s movement once the campaign began waiting for the (proper) hour, or Curtis identified ‘Leglin’ as Old Leighlin in earnest.xxv the hoisting of the standard. For but it might also be suggested that the the horses of the country scour the camp was at Leighlinbridge. Leighlin- It seems likely that Richard II also made hills and valleys fleeter than a bridge was at this time often simply re- use of troops levied in Ireland, both loyal bounding deer; wherefore they ferred to as Leighlin and it stood closer English subjects and the Irish enemies of did much mischief to the army of to Mac Murrough’s strongholds than Old Mac Murrough.xxvi The latter would have the king.’xxix Leighlin.xviii It was at Leighlin that provided indispensable service as guides. Richard II was finally joined by the duke Richard II’s movements, once he entered It seems that on the first expedition the of Gloucester. Richard II noted that his Mac Murrough’s lands on the 26th Octo- English managed to lessen the threat of camp at Leighlin was ‘near to the wood ber, seem to have been totally without Irish ambush and improve the effective- of G. [K.], wherein our chief adversary hesitation, which hints that he knew pre- ness of their own archers simply by un- M [H.] had his house and cisely where he was going. Understand- dertaking the expedition late in the year. stood on his defence’.xix Mac Murrough ing the nature and characteristics of these The second expedition was undertaken at must, therefore, have been fully aware of ‘native’ soldiers, both those that may the height of summer, when the foliage the nature of the force which he faced at have served Richard II and those who and scrub of the Irish forests would have this point. fought against him, is crucial to our un- been at their densest, thus giving the Irish derstanding of the campaign. more opportunity to ambush and greater While it may have been relatively easy cover from the English arrows.xxx This for Mac Murrough to assess the size and Many of our contemporary sources on may have been one of the contributing strength of Richard II’s army, for us it is medieval Irish warfare are written by factors for the second expedition’s rela- far more difficult to create an accurate men who were not Irish themselves so tive military failure when compared to picture of this force, as it invariably is we must exercise caution when using the first. Whether this late campaigning with most medieval armies. Professor them. These sources naturally attempt to season was part of the English strategy or sim- Lydon estimated its size to have been be- highlight the technological inferiority ply a lucky coincidence is hard to establish. tween eight and ten thousand men.xx His- and simple barbarity of the Irish. Frois- torians have since tended to hover around sart claimed that he was told by a veteran The day after the duke of Gloucester the lower end of this spectrum but all are of these wars that the Irish ‘never leave a joined Richard II at Leighlin the army agreed that it was a very large army, huge man for dead until they have cut his still made no effort to attack Mac Mur- by Irish standards.xxi One can make a throat like a sheep and slit open his belly rough. He wrote in his second letter that strong argument that this may indeed to remove the heart, which they take ‘there we stayed the Sunday, on which, have been the single largest force to have away. Some, who know their ways, say as you know, we are not wont to ride ever campaigned in Ireland by this date. that they eat it with great relish.’xxvii out’.xxxi This is a good example of how in It seems likely that the components of the middle ages religious considerations the army were similar to those of the While not as barbarous as they appear in could often outweigh practical military armies which had fought against the these sources, the Irish did wage war in ones, particularly for a man as pious as French and Scottish over the previous an entirely different manner to their con- Richard II.xxxii five decades. This would have meant that temporaries in most of Europe. This was it was comprised of a potent mixture of to a great extent a result of the landscape ‘On Monday, very early we thought to well armoured and heavily mounted of the country. Froissart recounted that it encamp in the said wood of G. [K.], men-at-arms accompanied by a large was said of Ireland that it ‘is one of the which is, as we said before, the chief numbers of archers.xxii We have good most difficult countries in the world to fortress that our enemy MacMurrough records of the composition of the stand- fight against and subdue, for it is a [H.] has.’xxxiii Thus Richard II began his ing force which Richard II left behind strange, wild place consisting of tall campaign in earnest. It is of interest to him in 1395 and if we infer that this force forests, great stretches of water, bogs and note that Richard II arrived at Mac Mur- probably represented the 1394 army in uninhabitable regions’.xxviii Jean Creton rough’s stronghold ‘very early’. This sug- miniature, we can see that the archers described the engagements, which he gests that he had set off from Leighlin Carloviana 2017 Kinirons_Layout 1 13/10/2016 16:50 Page 3

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under the cover of darkness in order to L , where M has his dwelling; and catch him unawares. With knowledge- T. of H , and with him When Art Mac Murrough fled from his able local guides and a large number of the Lord de P , well sup- stronghold at Garryhill on the 26th Octo- mounted troops within his army this ported with men-at-arms and ber he sought refuge in another strong- could have been achievable and as we archers, in the third post : all of hold within another wood. Unusually, we have seen there is a strong possibility that whom have nobly made their ut- are given the name of this wood in full in Richard II had both. This strategy seems most endeavour to harass the Richard II’s second letter. The wood is to have worked well as Richard II above-said enemies.’xxxviii called ‘Laveroc’.xlv In the third letter it is recorded that within the day ‘our said recorded that, after fleeing Garryhill, enemy was dislodged, and his principal Whether these ‘garrisons’ were estab- Mac Murrough went to ‘the said wood of house burned in our presence; and there lished while the main army waited at L.’.xlvi This is clearly a reference to the that day and night following were fought Leighlin, or whether they simply as- wood of Laveroc. several skirmishes’.xxxiv saulted the strongholds on the mornings of the 26th and 27th October is not known. Mac Murrough was not given any time The determining the location of ‘the said The nature of these strongholds is also to rest at his stronghold at Laveroc. Early wood of G.[K.]’ is naturally of great im- uncertain. It is unlikely that they were on the morning of the 27th October ‘the portance in our understanding of the substantial stone castles like Ballylough- Earl M.’, who Curtis identified as the earl campaign. Edmund Curtis equated ‘the lan and Ballymoon, both built by English marshal, surprised Mac Murrough and wood of G.’ with Garryhill, which was lords in western Carlow between 1200 very nearly captured the ‘said Mac Mur- originally known as Garbh-Choill, ‘the and 1320.xxxix However, they may have rough and his wife in their beds. But they, rough wood’.xxxv Curtis’s argument is been comparable to the more diminutive being told of the affray, escaped with convincing as Garryhill is not only rela- stone castles of a later date such as Rath- great difficulty’.xlvii The speed of the Eng- tively close to Leighlin but it was also the nageeragh and Ballyloo. These two cas- lish movement and the early hour of their seat of the senior branch of the Mac Mur- tles seem to date from around the time of attacks seems to have surprised him once roughs in the sixteenth century.xxxvi While Richard II’s campaign or perhaps a little more. The ease with which they captured we can say with relative confidence that later, and are both of Irish origin.xl Rath- the Mac Murrough stronghold at Laveroc the first Mac Murrough stronghold at- nageeragh is of particular interest as it also hints at the fact that it may have been tacked by Richard II in October 1394 was was probably a Mac Murrough strong- a moated site rather than a more formidable indeed in the area of Garryhill, it is diffi- hold. It might even be suggested that this stone castle such as Rathnageeragh. cult to establish a more precise location. that this was the stronghold at Garryhill, Some archaeological evidence suggests the castle being only two kilometres from Edmund Curtis’s translation and interpre- that it may well have been located where Garryhill itself.xli However, Prendergast tation of the letters was exemplary. It is Garryhill house stands today. This is sup- maintained that the two were entirely therefore somewhat surprising that he en- ported by the local tradition that there separate Mac Murrough residences.xlii countered problems when trying to locate was indeed a castle of some sort at Gar- Laveroc despite having the relative lux- ryhill itself.xxxvii It is also possible that some, if not all, of ury of being provided with its full name. Art Mac Murrough’s strongholds were No such place-name now exists within The way in which the stronghold was moated sites. Moated sites were essen- Carlow. However, Curtis did identify taken is unclear. What is apparent is that tially fortified farmsteads, comprising of Laveroc in a couple of sources dating Mac Murrough evaded capture. Perhaps an encompassing earthen bank topped by from well after 1394 in which it is written the most detailed account of the actual a palisade. The earthen bank, generally as ‘Leveroke’.xlviii He believed that it lay military confrontations comes not from rectangular in shape, was surrounded by south of Garryhill and was somewhere the letters of Richard II but rather from a fosse which was often filled with water. on the River Barrow. xlix The source which the third letter written by the anonymous Within the enclosure would have been a formed this opinion states that Elizabeth member of his army. hall and perhaps a couple of smaller I acquired ‘Leveroke, and also to sixteen buildings. Nothing of these internal struc- towns standing upon the river of ‘Our very redoubted lord and tures usually survives.xliii Originally Barowe’. l While these sixteen towns def- King did set certain garrisons thought to have been solely the preserve initely do stand on the Barrow there is no very cunning- of the English, further research has suggestion that Leveroke does also and it ingly, as it seemed to me, your shown that they were also adopted by the seems that Curtis was overly presump- poor subject, round the Irish ene- Irish.xliv While not possessing the same tive while using this source. Merely mies. That is to say the Earl of defensive qualities as stone castles, sketching a map of Curtis’s proposed R , and with him the moated sites were a lot easier to build and route shows that had Laveroc been lo- Lord de B , with cer- it is possible that border regions such cated where Curtis believed it to have tain men-at-arms and archers, in Carlow would have had a large number been then it would have been illogical for one post ; the Earl M , of them in the late middle ages. Unfortu- Art Mac Murrough to flee to there from with certain men-at-arms and nately, the fact that they were for the Garryhill. To head southwest would have archers, in another post, very near most part made of earth and wood means been to head away from the Mac Mur- the woods of G and that they were all too easily destroyed in rough heartland and towards the general Carloviana 2017 Kinirons_Layout 1 13/10/2016 16:50 Page 4

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direction the English had come from. These documents do not allow us to pin- placed with a bh which in Irish is pro- Furthermore, he ran the risk of being cut point the exact location of MacMur- nounced as a v. Thus Leath-bheirrach off from his allies to the northeast and being rough’s stronghold but they do narrow would be pronounced as Laveroc.lvii hemmed in on the banks of the Barrow. the range of possible locations to an un- precedented level. The townlands form a I find Mac Samháin’s argument is highly Following Curtis’s example, I searched relatively dense cluster around the village convincing, even more so after talking to through later documents for references to of Kildavin. This location for Laveroc is locals who pronounced the place-name Leveroke. I managed to locate three ref- backed up by the research of Kenneth of Beirrach as Bheirrach with a distinc- erences. One was merely a passing men- Nicholls, who in his extensive genealog- tive v sound at the start of the place- tion but the other two proved to be highly ical study of the later descendants of the name. Mac Samháin’s suggestion that I useful in locating the area of Laveroc. Mac Murroughs, dealt briefly with the search the area which he thought to be The first, dating from 1586, is a lease of Kavanaghs of Leveroke. He wrote that the origin of the name of the broader area land taken from ‘the countries of Feran their seat was located in the ‘district of known as Laveroc was therefore taken O’Neile and Leverocke’.li In this case Leverock (corresponding to Kildavin very seriously. Mac Samháin believes Leverocke seems to be the individual at Parish)’.liv Kildavin also lies to the east of that this was the small hill between mod- the head of the sept rather than the geo- Garryhill, the logical direction for Art ern day Kildavin and Barragh church, a graphical location but we can safely as- Mac Murrough to flee when he was at- townland which is promisingly known as sume that the sept is named after the land tacked from the west. Ráithín Ardach (fort of the high field).lviii it occupied. The second reference, dating My survey of this area did indeed un- from 1589, is the grant of the same con- It is therefore clear that the Leverock out- cover an archaeological site which has, fiscated lands to ‘James Fitzgeralde’.lii lined by Nicholls is the same area as the as of yet, gone unnoticed and unrecorded. What is particularly exciting about these Laveroc mentioned in Richard II’s letter. Within a small field at the front of a farm two references is that they both list the I have undertaken a small survey of the on the top this high ground, one can townlands that form the lands confiscated area marked out by the townlands which make out the remains of a stout, stone from Feran O’Neile and Leverocke, and appear in the Elizabethan documents in wall (52˚ 41’ 21.17’’ N/ 6˚ 42’ 32.29’’ W). while Leverocke can’t be linked to a the hope of finding a trace of what might It runs from east to west before making a modern place-name these late sixteenth have been Mac Murrough’s stronghold. right angled turn to the north. Here it con- century townlands can be. The townlands The area which once belonged to the Ka- tinues within the confines of the small are spelt slightly differently in both en- vanaghs of Leverocke is situated at the field before disappearing at the verge of tries but they clearly refer to the same northern end of the Blackstairs Moun- the farmhouse itself. Its large, solidly set places. Both entries list the amount of tains, where the River Slaney and River stones are indicative of it being relatively land granted in each townland. They ap- Derry join. This very fertile ground has old. Whether this is indeed a medieval pear in the first reference as Ballyshane been heavily farmed, which naturally has feature is hard to tell, it could just as eas- Carragh ½ a ploughland, Ballyperis ½ resulted in the destruction of many ar- ily be a well built field wall dating from pl., Kildonan ½ pl., Ballywalteryn (Bal- chaeological sites. The act of looking for the nineteenth century. However, it re- lyvaltrym, 2nd reference) ½ pl., Clonegall the stronghold from which Mac Mur- mains the only possible medieval site that 1 pl., Cowlemelaghe ½ pl., Bally keouy- rough and his wife barely escaped can I found within the area of Ráithín Ar- cke (Ballikeomicke) ½ pl., Garryhiscye (Gar- therefore be likened to searching for a dach. It must be noted that my survey rihiste) pl. ½ and Lehon (Behon) ½ pl.liii needle in a haystack, in which the needle was by no means comprehensive. may or may not have already been re- Using both lists I believe to have identi- moved. The survey included not only the area of fied most of them and some possible lo- Ráithín Ardach but also the broader area cations for those I am not certain of. They Ciarán Mac Samháin, writing in response which belonged to Feran O’Neile and are listed in the same order and those in to an article I wrote on the subject of Leverocke in 1586. Two archaeological bold are certain matches, while those in Richard II’s 1394 campaign, informed sites in this area are of particular interest italics are not. Ballyshancarragh, Bal- me that perhaps the best chance of find- when studying the route taken by lypierce, Kildavan, (Ballyvally or Bal- ing the site is through a close study of the Richard II in 1394. The first is a recorded lyvolden), Clonegall, Coolmela, name Laveroc.lv His own research rein the Archaeological inventory of (Ballyshonock or Ballycormick), Garry- vealed that the actual name of Kildavan County Carlow as the site of a castle in hasten and Ballon. It transpired that not parish is Barragh from the Irish beirreach the townland Clonogan. The inventory all these townlands are in Carlow despite (small hilltop).lvi He hypothesizes that the records that the ‘present remains consist what the Elizabethan documents claimed. La in Laveroc comes from the Irish leath of a rectangular enclosure (45mx 35m) Garryhasten, Coolmela and Ballyshon- (half, side or district). The name Laveroc defined by a ploughed-out remains of ock are all just across the border in is, by his reasoning, a compound of leath two banks with intervening fosse’.lix Ac- county Wexford. and beirrach. Irish, as with the other cording to a valuation of the manor in Celtic languages, features initial conso- 1540 it was already ‘ruinous’; this sug- While the original lists make no distinc- nant mutations which alter the pronunci- gests that it could have been old enough tion between the lands confiscated from ation of the first letter of the word when to have been in use in 1394.lx My visit to Feran O’Neile and Leverocke, we can following certain particles or adjectives. the site revealed that any remains of the clearly see that they were side by side. In this case the b in beirrach would be re- ‘castle’ have now disappeared almost en- Carloviana 2017 Kinirons_Layout 1 13/10/2016 16:50 Page 5

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tirely. This is indeed unfortunate as it will ered (it might already have been if it was fication of the broader area referred to as now be hard, if not impossible, to deter- one of the sites mentioned above), iden- Laveroc is a perfect example of this. mine the original nature of the site and tifying it as the stronghold which appears Such a discovery lends us yet more establish whether this could have been in the letters could prove difficult. One knowledge on the geographical frame- Mac Murrough’s stronghold at Laveroc. possibility of identifying it would be to work of Mac Murrough power, a power find a large number of arrowheads which was so strongly felt in Carlow Far more promising is a moated site in around the site as we know that it was throughout the medieval period. the townland of Garryhasten in county probably attacked by large numbers of Wexford. This relatively large moated English archers. However, such finds are ii Robin Frame, Mac Murchadha, Art Caomhá- site is well preserved though completely relatively rare, as victors of medieval bat- nach, Oxford Dictionary of National Biography overgrown. Moated sites generally date tles generally collected used arrows after (http://www.oxforddnb.com.elib.tcd.ie/view/article/17700) [accessed: 21 June 2016]. from the thirteenth or fourteenth cen- a fight and any which they missed were iii All Souls (Oxford), MS 182. turies so there is ample reason to suppose usually picked up by the local popula- iv Edmund Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters from that this one was in use in 1394.lxi In the tion.lxv Richard II in Ireland, 1394-5’, Royal Irish Acad- third letter detailing the course of emy Proceedings, Vol. 37 (1927), 276-303, at p. 277. Richard II’s campaign, it is recorded that After his escape from Laveroc, Art Mac v T.F. Tout, Chapters in the Administrative His- after Mac Murrough had escaped from Murrough, who must have seen that his tory of Medieval England: The Wardrobe, The Laveroc, the earl marshal had the strong- position was becoming increasingly un- Chamber and the Small Seals, Vol. III (Manches- hold burnt to the ground and also burnt tenable in the face of the immense and ter, 1928), p. 493. Tout argues that the archbishop accompanied the king to Ireland and that the let- ‘some fourteen villages round about the swift moving English army, decided to ters were probably addressed to Bishop Waltham said wood, and had four hundred cattle surrender. Richard II recorded that the who was the treasurer at the time. vi driven away with him’.lxii Interestingly day after the capture of Laveroc, the 28 J. F. Lydon, ‘Richard II’s Expeditions to Ire- forty meters south-east of the moated site October, Mac Murrough ‘came humbly land’, in Peter Crooks ed., Government, War and Society in Medieval Ireland (Dublin, 2008), 216- is a burnt mound. ‘An area of burnt and to obey us and to surrender and 231, at pp. 219-221. black clay (dims. 13m N-S; 9 E-W) was submit’.lxvi Richard II’s army continued vii Lydon, ‘Richard II’s Expeditions to Ireland’, lxiii 221; Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 289-290. visible when ploughed’. This has been to campaign in Ireland after this date but viii recorded as a possible Fulacht Fiadh but arguably the biggest threat to his domin- The Annals of the Kingdom of Ireland, ed. John O’Donovan, Vol. IV (Dublin, 1856), p. 731; Cur- as we can see there is no real indication ion of the Lordship had been subdued. tis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 282. that it is one. Perhaps it was a part of a Mac Murrough, after agreeing to certain ix The Annals of the Kingdom of Ireland, 729. larger settlement which included the terms, was released. However, the Irish x Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 290. One may moated site and which was destroyed by king by no means upheld his promises. also wish to refer to the edited versions of the letters which appear in Anglo-Norman Letters and the earl marshal on 27 October 1394. Al- This necessitated Richard II’s return to Petitions from All Souls MS. 182, ed. M. Do- ternatively, it could have been the prede- Ireland in 1399 but this time he found minica Legge, (Oxford 1941), 142, 154, and 160. cessor of the moated site which was built Mac Murrough far more prepared.lxvii Citations are document numbers unless otherwise noted. as a replacement after Richard II’s men Richard II did not catch Mac Murrough xi Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 290. had burnt the original. Even if the moated unawares as he had at Laveroc but rather xii Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 298. Alterna- site is not the stronghold of Laveroc itself faced an elusive enemy who used the tively, ‘M. [B.] could refer to Mullinavat which in it could also be one of the fourteen vil- rough terrain to his advantage. Thus Irish is Muileann an Bhata. See loganim.ie lages razed to the ground by the earl mar- Richard II was unable to bring Mac Mur- (http://www.logainm.ie/en/27577?s=Mullinavat) [accessed: 7 June 2016]. shal. So far it is the most likely candidate rough to heel as he had on the first expe- xiii Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 290. Curtis’s however, being both of the right date and dition. Indeed, Richard II was compelled translation of the text comes complete with his being located within the lands confis- to cut his second expedition short when own estimation of the full words framed in angu- lar brackets. cated from Leverocke in the 1580s. he heard of the treason being plotted xiv lxviii Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 291. against him in England. He returned xv Loganim.ie A more in-depth archaeological survey of home to meet forced abdication and (http://www.logainm.ie/ga/26753?s=Moonhall) the region pertaining to the lands of death. Mac Murrough outlived him by [accessed: 7 June 2016]. Gowran could be another Leverocke needs to be undertaken if we lxix contender as it lies directly on the path Richard II some seventeen years. took but the problem remains as to how it could are to have any hope of definitively find- have been denoted as ‘B. [M.]’. Perhaps it is a ing and identifying Art Mac Murrough’s It might therefore be argued that the con- reference to St. Mary’s Collegiate Church which stronghold of Laveroc. It is possible that flict in Carlow and Wexford in the year lies within Gowran. Muine Bheag might also it was built near or on the site of Hunt- 1394 had little impact upon medieval Ire- seem like a possibility but it is too far from Jer- point and on the wrong side of the River Barrow. ington Castle. The area surrounding the land. However, it must be acknowledged xvi Archaeology.ie Barragh church and Carnavane holy well that the personal presence of the king of (http://webgis.archaeology.ie/historicenviron- is also worth investigating as such holy England, particularly at the head of such ment/) [accessed: 8 June 2016]. xvii Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 291. sites could at times be associated with a a huge army, was a momentous event in xviii lxiv Colum Kenny, ‘New Leighlin: An Anglo-Nor- stronghold. Ultimately, we must also the country’s history. The letters discov- man settlement’, Carlow History and Society: In- entertain the possibility that the strong- ered by Curtis are of great value, not only terdisciplinary essays on the history of an Irish hold might have already disappeared, in understanding the aims and strategy of County (Dublin, 2008), 213-234. xix Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 291. particularly if it was made primarily of the English but arguably more so in un- xx Lydon, ‘Richard II’s Expeditions to Ireland’, earth and timber. If it were to be discov- derstanding their opponents. The identi- Carloviana 2017 Kinirons_Layout 1 13/10/2016 16:50 Page 6

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224. l Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 301. (Dublin, 1994). xxi Nigel Saul, Richard II (New Haven, 1997), p. li The Irish Fiants of the Tudor Sovereigns: Dur- 279. ing the reigns of Henry VIII, Edward VI, Philip & Secondary Sources xxii David Nicolle, Crécy 1346: Triumph of the Mary, and Elizabeth I, ed. Éamonn de Búrca, Vol Longbow (Oxford, 2000), pp. 15-22; Peter Arm- II (Dublin, 1994), 4918. Citations are document Archaeology.ie (http://webgis.archaeology.ie/his- strong, Otterburn 1388: Bloody border conflict numbers unless otherwise noted. toricenvironment/) [accessed: 8 June 2016]. (Oxford, 2006), pp. 27-28. lii Irish Fiants, Vol III, 5344. Armstrong, Peter, Otterburn 1388: Bloody border xxiii The Soldier in Late Medieval England liii Irish Fiants, Vol II, 4918; Irish Fiants, Vol III, conflict (Oxford, 2006). (http://soldier- 5344. Barry, Terence B., The Medieval Moated Sites of lews1.rdg.ac.uk/search_musterdb.php) [accessed liv Kenneth Nicholls, ‘The Kavanaghs, 1400-1700, South-Eastern Ireland: Counties Carlow, Kilkenny, 10 July]. cont.’, The Irish Genealogist, Vol 5, No. 6 (1979), Tipperary and Wexford (Oxford, 1977). xxiv Mike Loades, The Longbow (Oxford, 2013), p. 730- 734, at p. 734. Barry, Terence B., The Archaeology of Medieval 56. lv Kinirons, ‘In the footsteps of a king’. Ireland (London, 1987). xxv Loades, The Longbow, 42-43; Curtis, ‘Unpub- lvi Ciarán Mac Samháin, ‘Laveroc’, History Ire- Brindley, Anna and Kilfeather, Annaba, Archaeo- lished Letters’, 291-293. land, Vol. 24, No. 2 (2016), 12; loganim.ie logical Inventory of County Carlow (Dublin, 1993). xxvi Lydon, ‘Richard II’s Expeditions to Ireland’, (http://www.logainm.ie/ga/s?txt=Barragh&str=on) Curtis, Edmund, ‘Unpublished Letters from 224. [accessed: 21 July 2016]. Richard II in Ireland, 1394-5’, Royal Irish Academy xxvii Jean Froissart, Chronicles, ed. Geoffrey Br- lvii Mac Samháin, ‘Laveroc’. Proceedings, Vol. 37 (1927), 276-303. erton (London, 1968; 2nd edn; London, 1978), p. lviii Mac Samháin, ‘Laveroc’. In English this town- Frame, Robin, Mac Murchadha, Art Caomhánach, 410. land is referred to as Raheen. Oxford Dictionary of National Biography xxviii Froissart, Chronicles, 410. lix Brindley and Kilfeather, Archaeological inven- (http://www.oxforddnb.com.elib.tcd.ie/view/arti- xxix Jean Creton, ‘Translation of a French Metrical tory of County Carlow, 739. cle/17700) [accessed: 21 June 2016]. History of the Deposition of King Richard the lx Brindley and Kilfeather, Archaeological inven- Kenny, Colum, ‘New Leighlin: An Anglo-Norman Second, written by a contemporary, and compris- tory of County Carlow, 739. settlement’, Carlow History and Society: Interdis- ing the period from his last Expedition into Ire- lxi Terence B. Barry, The Archaeology of Medieval ciplinary essays on the history of an Irish County land to his Death; from a MS formerly belonging Ireland (London, 1987), p. 84. (Dublin, 2008), 213-234. to Charles of Anjou, Earl of Maine and Mortain; lxii Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 293. Kinirons, Samuel, ‘In the footsteps of a king: Trac- but now preserved in the British museum; accom- lxiii Michael J. Moore, Archaeological Inventory of ing the route taken by Richard II during his cam- panied by prefatory observations, notes, and an County Wexford (Dublin, 1996), 185 and 1028. paign against Art Mac Murrough in 1394’, History appendix; with a copy of the original’, ed. John Citations are reference numbers unless otherwise Ireland, Vol. 24, No. 1 (2016), 14-17. Webb, Archaeologia xx (1824) 1-423, at pp. 33- noted. Loades, Mike, The Longbow (Oxford, 2013). 34. lxiv Kieran D. O’Conor, The Archaeology of Me- Loganim.ie (http://www.logainm.ie/en/) [accessed: xxx Saul, Richard II, 289. dieval Rural Settlement in Ireland (Dublin, 1988), 21 July 2016]. xxxi Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 291. Fig. 22. Lydon, J. F., ‘Richard II’s Expeditions to Ireland’, xxxii Saul, Richard II, 293-326. lxv Tony Pollard & Neil Oliver, Two Men in a in Peter Crooks ed., Government, War and Society xxxiii Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 291. Trench: Battlefield Archaeology-The Key to Un- in Medieval Ireland (Dublin, 2008). xxxiv Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 291. locking the Past (London, 2002), p. 46 and pp. Mac Samháin, Ciarán, ‘Laveroc’, History Ireland, xxxv Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 299. 54-55. Vol. 24, No. 2 (2016), 12. xxxvi Samuel Kinirons, ‘In the footsteps of a king: lxvi Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 291. Moore, Michael J., Archaeological Inventory of Tracing the route taken by Richard II during his lxvii Lydon, ‘Richard II’s Expeditions to Ireland’, County Wexford (Dublin, 1996). campaign against Art Mac Murrough in 1394’, 230-231. Nicholls, Kenneth, ‘The Kavanaghs, 1400-1700, History Ireland, Vol. 24, No. 1 (2016), 14-17, at p. lxviii Saul, Richard II, 289. cont.’, The Irish Genealogist, Vol 5, No. 6 (1979), 16; Curtis, Unpublished Letters’, 299. lxix Anthony Tuck, ‘Richard II’, Oxford Dictionary 730- 734. xxxvii Anna Brindley and Annaba Kilfeather, Ar- of National Biography Nicolle, David, Crécy 1346: Triumph of the Long- chaeological Inventory of County Carlow (http://www.oxforddnb.com/view/article/23499?d bow (Oxford, 2000). (Dublin, 1993), 746. Citations are reference num- ocPos=2) [accessed: 19 July 2016]; Robin Frame, O’Conor, Kieran D., The Archaeology of Medieval bers unless otherwise noted. ‘Mac Murchadha, Art Caomhánach’ Rural Settlement in Ireland (Dublin, 1988). xxxviii Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 292-293. (http://www.oxforddnb.com.elib.tcd.ie/view/arti- O’Conor, Kieran D., ‘The Ethnicity of Irish Moated xxxix Tadhg O’Keeffe, ‘Rathnageeragh and Bally- cle/17700) [accessed: 19 July 2016]. Sites’, Ruralia 3 (2000), 92-100. loo: A Study of Stone Castles of Probable 14th to O’Keefe, Tadhg, ‘Rathnageeragh and Ballyloo: A Early 15th Century Date in County Carlow’, The Study of Stone Castles of Probable 14th to Early Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ire- Bibliography 15th Century Date in County Carlow’, The Journal land, Vol. 117 (1987), 28-49, at p.28. of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland, Vol. xl O’Keeffe, ‘Rathnageeragh and Ballyloo’, 43. Primary Sources 117 (1987), 28-49. xli O’Keeffe, ‘Rathnageeragh and Ballyloo’, 29. Pollard, Tony and Oliver, Neil, Two Men in a xlii John P. Prendergast, ‘The Plantation of the All Souls (Oxford), MS 182. Trench: Battlefield Archaeology-The Key to Un- Barony of Idrone, in the County of Carlow’, The Anglo-Norman Letters and Petitions from All Souls locking the Past (London, 2002). Journal of the Kilkenny and South-East of Ireland MS. 182, ed. M. Dominica Legge, (Oxford 1941). Prendergast, John P., ‘The Plantation of the Barony Archaeological Society, Vol. 3, No. 1 (1860), 20- Creton, Jean, ‘Translation of a French Metrical His- of Idrone, in the County of Carlow’, The Journal of 44, at p. 24. tory of the Deposition of King Richard the Second, the Kilkenny and South-East of Ireland Archaeo- xliii Terence B. Barry, The Medieval Moated Sites written by a contemporary, and comprising the pe- logical Society, Vol. 3, No. 1 (1860), 20-44. of South-Eastern Ireland: Counties Carlow, riod from his last Expedition into Ireland to his Saul, Nigel, Richard II (New Haven, 1997). Kilkenny, Tipperary and Wexford (Oxford, 1977), Death; from a MS formerly belonging to Charles of The Soldier in Late Medieval England p. 1, p.73, p. 103. Anjou, Earl of Maine and Mortain; but now pre- (http://www.medievalsoldier.org/) [accessed 10 xliv Kieran D. O’Conor, ‘The Ethnicity of Irish served in the British museum; accompanied by July]. Moated Sites’, Ruralia 3 (2000), 92-100. prefatory observations, notes, and an appendix; Tout, T.F., Chapters in the Administrative History xlv Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 291. with a copy of the original’, ed. John Webb, Ar- of Medieval England: The Wardrobe, The Chamber xlvi Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 293. chaeologia xx (1824) 1-423. and the Small Seals, Vol.3 (Manchester, 1928). xlvii Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 293. Froissart, Jean, Chronicles, ed. Geoffrey Brerton Tuck, Anthony, ‘Richard II’, Oxford Dictionary of xlviii Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 301. The (London, 1968; 2nd edn; London, 1978). National Biography spelling of the name, as with the spelling of most The Annals of the Kingdom of Ireland, ed. John (http://www.oxforddnb.com/view/article/23499?do names during this period, was subject to change O’Donovan, Vol. IV (Dublin, 1856). cPos=2) [accessed: 19 July 2016]. but remained recognisable. As we shall see there The Irish Fiants of the Tudor Sovereigns: During were a number of alternative spellings. the reigns of Henry VIII, Edward VI, Philip & xlix Curtis, ‘Unpublished Letters’, 301. Mary, and Elizabeth I, ed. Éamonn de Búrca, 4 vols

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to remembering our scouting days. Mar- tin Doogue has been a good friend all down the years and a great Carlow man. Johnny Callinan who worked in Finegans of Tullow Street at the time gave years of SCOUTING IN CARLOW service to the Carlow Scouts. His daughter Elaine is a lecturer in history at Car- low College. The Troop was divided into S four Patrols of eight scouts. Each had a IN THE 1950 Patrol Leader (P/L) and an assistant Pa- trol Leader (A/P/L) and was given a dedicated corner in the room. The patrol Dan Carbery worked and moved as a unit and became close friends during all the activities. rowing up in my native town Car- low in 1950s a major influence on Gmy life was my membership of the Boy Scouts Troop. The Scout movement was founded by Robert Baden-Powell in 1908. He was pop- ularly known as BP and had a distinguished career in the British Army where he excelled at military scouting in enemy territory. This included mapping and survival skills and he adapted the experience for use by young boys in the scout organisation. There is so much that could be written about the history of how it developed in Ireland and Carlow including the establishment of a branch of the National Boy Scouts – Na Fianna in the town in 1913. I really wish to concentrate on my own personal experience.

Revival Ready to depart for camp at Avoca, 1955. Sitting up on lorry: Dan Carbery, Jack This quote from Wikipedia is very appro- Burns, Oliver Duggan, Pat Healy. Standing: Tony O’Hanlon,Paddy Brophy, Tony priate “Scouting is a movement that aims Little, Johnny Callinan. Kneeling:Michael Horan, Donal Littleton, Paddy Hynes. to support young people in their physical The driver of the truck (Corcoran’s) is Jim Nolan mental and spiritual development that they may play constructive roles in society with a strong focus on the outdoors I was attending secondary school at the The initial patrol leaders were Jack and survival skills”. The Troop of Scouts Christian Brothers Academy in Bishop Burns, Pat Healy, Paddy Hynes and I joined in 1953 was the 1st Carlow. It was Foley School and some of my friends Tony Little. revived that year after some dormant including Jack Burns, Pat Healy, and Pat Uniform years. It was part of the Catholic Boy Darcy had joined up the reformed troop. Scouts of Ireland (C.B.S.I.) which had We had our Scout Den in the Old Uniforms were purchased gradually as been established in 1927 in Dublin with a Schools, College Street, which is now the the total expense would have been too troop formed in Carlow in 1929. It thrived Parish Centre. It was a wonderful place much at one time. When possible boys in the town through the thirties and forties with plenty of room out in the back yard obtained some items such as belts etc and I as a small boy living in Pembroke for learning all the marching drills. from former scouts. The uniform con- had seen the scouts’ parade from time to We had the most dedicated officers in sisted of navy shorts, long sleeved navy time. I loved the uniform especially the Johnny Callinan Scoutmaster (S/M) and shirt of strong material (we always had broad brimmed hat like the “Mounties” in his assistant Scoutmasters (A/S/Ms) the sleeves rolled up), beret with badge, Canada wore in the films. Unfortunately Paddy Brophy, Tony Kirwan, Tony black knee socks with garter tabs, neck- when I joined this hat had been replaced O’Hanlon and Martin Doogue. I still erchief and woggle, leather scout belt (I by a beret with our badge (much meet Tony O’Hanlon for coffee from still have mine but wonder how it went more practical). time to time when we invariably go back around my middle), lanyard and whistle.

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A neckerchief was special to the troop and our colour was sky blue with a white border (very hard to keep clean). There was a badge over the right-hand pocket – Gasóga Catoilicí na hÉireann (the Irish for Catholic Boy Scouts of Ireland). Your patrol colours were attached to your right shoulder. On your left sleeve were attached white stripes. One for A/P/L, two for P/L and three for Senior Patrol Leader S/P/L. We also could earn merit badges for various skills and these were stitched to our right sleeve. Service stars were over our left pocket. Rawly badge for the basic scout test was worn on left pocket. You will gather that we were very proud to wear our uniform particularly with all the various badges. We wore black shoes which had to be kept polished. Curracloe, Co. Wexford, 1959. Johnny Callinan and Dan Carbery We began to prepare for the Rawly test shaving using the wing mirror on Carberys’ Pickup Truck which it was necessary to pass to officially become a scout at an Investiture tea and whatever cooking we managed to succession of short blasts was “rally, Ceremony. The scout motto is “Be Pre- do. Each patrol had a set of three billy- come together” and an important one pared” and in our case it was the Irish cans of different sizes. The smallest one alternative long and short blasts was for version “Bí Ullamh”. Our badge was a fitted inside the middle size one and then cookhouse “time to eat”. cross with the shamrock and the motto at they both fitted into the largest one mak- the base. We loved learning the special ing them easy enough to carry. There Investiture scout salute with the thumb holding was a stiff wire clip handle (removable) down the little finger and the remaining The first Investiture ceremony for the for the lids which could also be used as st three fingers extended. The scout hand- scouts of the revived 1 Carlow Troop of frying pans. We felt like real pioneers shake or handclasp was made with the the Assumption was held on Sunday surviving out on the hill for those few th left hand. To this day I will often greet for- October 11 1953. The record of the hours which were normally Sundays or mer scout friends using this handshake. event by A/S/M. P. Brophy reads as various holidays. We lit fires for boiling follows. “The ceremony was performed The Scout Law was divided into twelve the water and cooking. The first opera- by our Chaplin Rev. D.B. Kennedy Adm parts which I can still recite – Loyal, tion was cutting away a square of grass assisted by Chairman of the troop com- Trustworthy, Helpful, Friendly, Courte- sod for the setting of the fire. At the end mittee William Duggan. The Officers of ous and Kind, Obedient, Cheerful and of the day the sod was reinstated to grow the troop present were Scoutmaster John Thrifty, Brave, Pure and God’s Glory in again. Each patrol had a separate loca- Callinan A/S/MS P. Brophy, A. Kirwan, mind. Our organisation was true to the tion for their fire and camp area some A. O’Hanlon and Martin Doogue. Com- overall scout ethos but with some addi- distance apart from each other. All activ- mittee members present were D. Carbery, tional influence from the Catholic Church. ity was based on each patrol working as R. Healy, A. Burns, T. Phelan. Guests a separate unit. This was a wonderful were P. Governey Chairman of Urban Hiking education in learning to work as a team. Council, Lt. McManamy (F.C.A.) as well We quickly got involved in a kernel On the hike we practiced various scout as visitors from scout headquarters. The activity of scouting going on all day skills such as semaphore signalling with P/Ls invested were J. Burns, P. Healy, T. hikes. In our case it meant gathering at flags and laying trails. These were Little and P. Hynes of the Beaver, the den in College Street and various ways of using stones and short Curlew, Badger and Swift Patrols also marching/walking across Graiguecullen sticks to leave instructions for those A/P/Ls D. Carbery, I O’Neill, T. Fleming Bridge out the Killeshin Road up past the following you such as “follow this trail”, and P. Darcy along with scouts T. Church to a field on the bend above the “turn right”, “turn left”, “do not follow O’Neill, M. Leonard, S. Sullivan, E. town water reservoir. We had permission this trail”, “danger” and even one for “I Dooley, P. Doyle, R. Phelan, P. Corcoran, from the owner to use this field and an have gone home”. We learnt to give the C. Watchorn, P. Farrell, D. Fenlon, M. extensive area of the adjoining hill for various whistle signals (we each had a Byrne, O. Duggan, C. Darcy, M. Sulli- our day’s activities. We carried with us scout whistle). One long blast was for van, J. Hayden, T. Farrell, P.J. McDon- in our rucksacks the food etc. we needed “alert – look out for my next signal”’ two nell, D. Lyttleton, M. Darcy, M. for the day. We also carried billy cans short blasts – “carry on”, “dismiss” three Brennan,J. Carroll, D. Walsh and T. which we used for boiling the water for long blasts was “danger I need help”. A O’Brien. We were now official scouts.

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The learning of new skills continued. no firewood available in the field where nothing like a full day of scout activity to Drilling was very much part of our scout- we actually camped so we had to walk prepare you for a sound night’s sleep. ing experience. We achieved a good some distance to get it and carry it back. We stayed up later than we would at standard of marching including how to Getting it in the boat was a real adven- home as each night we gathered around get back into step with your fellow scouts ture. We thought we were real woods- the camp fire entertaining each other with when your left foot went forward as men like Davy Crockett. songs and sketches. One day Paddy everyone else was using their right one. Brophy and Martin Doogue our A/S/Ms Older photos such as those taken at the went around Clonegal and the rural 1932 Eucharistic Congress in Dublin houses in the area inviting the local show scouts carrying a timber pole called people to come and attend one of our a staff and wearing the broad rimmed hat. camp fires for a sing song etc. It was a We did not have either of those. I men- long summer evening as we gathered tion this because Carlow sent Scouts to around the fire entertaining the people the event to act as stewards, first aid with our songs and recitations. Martin attendants and guards of honour when Doogue always a great man on these required. They camped in the grounds of occasions tried to get some of the locals Terenure College. Learning to make to perform. It took some time but when knots with ropes was very much a scout- they got going we wondered were they ing activity. The sheet bend, clove hitch, there for the full night. We gave them reef knot and bowline were some of them. our traditional mugs of cocoa along with biscuits. One man eventually got up and First Aid was a very useful knowledge to recited “The Trimmings of the Rosary” have and we got good tutoring. I can still with the greatest number of verses of recite the instructions we were given in anything I had ever heard. We thought the case of an accident where someone he would never stop. I think that brought has been injured. It goes as follows – the proceedings to a close and a great night “Keep cool, act promptly, send for the was had by all. doctor if the case is serious, do not move the patient until their injuries are attended On the night of the 5th of August I went Long serving scout Jerry Carroll at to, your job is to prevent further injury, to bed and asleep to be awoken at mid- Scout Den, John St., 1960s not to cause it”. night by one of my friends to tell me I was 14 years old my birthday being on CAMPING The Troop at that time did not own any 6th August. It is strange how one remem- We now come to the most exciting part tents so we hired them and tarpaulins bers clearly events like that after over 60 of scouting which is going on Camp. from Petrie Brothers of Usher’s Quay in years. In a photograph I have taken on The first camp I experienced was a train- Dublin. The tents we used were single this camp I note we had the following ing camp for leaders to a site beside the pole circular bell tents which could easily visitors Dick Healy, Johnny Brophy, Bill Derry River near Huntington Castle, hold ten scouts or more all sleeping with McDonald former S/M and his wife, Clonegal Co. Carlow in summer of 1953. our feet towards the pole like the hands Peter Duggan of Market Cross clerical This was a huge experience for me as a of a clock. We learnt how to erect the student, Jim Wynne and a young Donal 13 year old. It was a totally new experi- tent and the proper way to set the guy McCartney (now Patron of Carlow His- ence for all of us young scouts who at- ropes and where to drive the pegs in the torical and Archaeological Society) a for- tended. Those who participated in the ground. This had to be done to allow mer leading scout. The owner of the site Camp were as follows: John Callinan adjustment in the length of the guy ropes. we camped on was I think Mrs Manning S/M, Paddy Brophy A/S/M, Martin I thought I was doing a great job tighten- Robertson of Huntington Castle and Doogue A/S/M, Jack Burns P/L Pat ing up the ropes but was told to leave a during the time on camp she gave us a Healy P/L, Paddy Hynes P/L, Tony Little certain slack as when it rained the tent tour of her castle home. On Sunday we P/L, also Pat Darcy, Teddy Fleming, canvas would shrink and could pull the marched into Mass in Clonegal Church Terry O’Neill, Dan Carbery, Michael pegs out of the ground. We had no sleep- and were almost late so were at the rear Leonard, and Iggy O’Neill. ing bags in those days so were taught to of the Church. We had learnt not to wear make up a bag with two overlapping our scout knives to Mass and to give During the Camp Johnny Brophy an ex blankets fixed together with large blanket scout salute at the appropriate time. I S/M and brother of Paddy stayed with us safety pins at the sides. We tied one end also noticed for the first time that some for a number of days. I mention this closed with a short piece of light rope and men at the rear of the congregation took because he was a very experienced Scout could then crawl in the other end. We time out for some fresh air during the ser- and using a rowing boat that was avail- had a tarpaulin on the ground inside the mon. All part of one’s growing up educa- able to us took myself and Pat Healy up tent but were expected to have our own tion. It was a very successful first camp. the Derry River to fetch firewood. He individual ground sheet to keep us warm showed us the proper and safe way to use and dry underneath. It took a while to get In 1954 we had a full troop camp to the an axe for cutting the timber. There was used to the hard ground but there was grounds of Ballyfin College Co. Laois. I

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being a P/L by then was to search for the brother. I part of what we called an am sure there were others advance party who went but it is Terry that I recall. down to the camp site on I do not wish to write too the Saturday to prepare for much but swimming under- the arrival of the rest of the water in the dark depths of troop on Sunday. Our the lake searching for a equipment was brought body was a traumatic expe- down by lorry (it may have rience for a 15 year old boy. been from Graiguecullen We were diving for a Corn and Coal Co. or Cor- considerable time and corans who both helped us because we got so cold from time to time). We were told to come out of selected the locations for the water. When he was the individual patrol tents recovered with a rope and (Bell Tents) and a Ridge grappling hook made from Tent (two poles) for the of- the cooking tripod Terry, ficers. An important early myself and others who had task was to prepare a Camp at Ballyfin College, 1954 been taught life- saving and latrine (we called it the resuscitation by the Red Kybo) which involved dig- water to make sure to have enough. Cross at the swimming club ging a narrow deep trench about eight When it cooked it flowed out over the top were requested to endeavour to revive feet long and erecting a screen around it. – another lesson learnt. him. It was of course far too late as he was so long underwater. Maybe I should The site for this camp was rather wet I practiced my woodcraft by making a not go into so much detail but it was a never ground and it put our scouting survival small chair to sit on which was better to be forgotten experience. skills to the test. One precaution we took than the ground. I was very proud of my was to dig a small trench by removing the lashing skills. We had a visit from the At the end of the summer of 1954 I went grass sod around the outside of our tent well-known local TD Oliver J. Flanagan to boarding school at Castleknock Col- to prevent rainwater from flowing in (father of the present Minister for For- lege in Dublin so could no longer take under the lower canvas wall of the tent. eign Affairs). I took a photo of him fulltime part in our troop activities. I of We did not have a small Marquee tent on sitting in my chair. Unfortunately he broke course kept in touch and in 1955 as a this camp as they did on later camps. it which is my reason for remembering member of a newly formed senior patrol This meant we had to largely spend our the man. joined the annual camp on Major time out under the open sky including Bailey’s estate at Ballyarthur near Avoca when eating. The bell tent was fine for The camp will always be remembered by Co. Wicklow. This was a wonderful sleeping in but as you could only stand those involved for a very tragic occur- camp in which we enjoyed excellent up close to the central pole it was not of rence. There was another troop of scouts weather. Johnny Callinan was still the great use during the day. camping elsewhere on the Ballyfin scoutmaster with Martin Doogue and College grounds at the same time. They Tony O’Hanlon as A/SMs. Our senior Our system for cooking was to give one went swimming in the large artificial lake patrol included Oliver Duggan, Pat patrol this job for the day, rotating of which is there and one of their scouts got Healy, Jack Burns, Michael Byrne, course from day to day. It meant the into difficulty and was drowning. A Paddy Hynes and myself. We helped the scouts in the patrol on cooking duty did young Patrician Brother from the College officers to run the large camp. A most little else all day except prepare and serve heard the cries for help and dived in to welcome visitor on this camp was a meals together with the washing and save the boy. At the same time one of our former scout Peter Duggan who was a cleaning of cooking utensils. It did of scouts Hugh Governey observed the newly ordained priest. He arrived one course mean that the other scouts not on crisis and blew the danger signal (three evening in a very old car he had bought duty had much more time for games and long blasts) for help on his scout whistle for his holidays after his ordination. learning of skills. There were 52 on which brought any of us nearby to the After his holiday he was taking up an camp and I recall cooking 104 sausages scene. Mr. McDonnell the father of one appointment in the U.S.A. We had such in a frying pan over an open fire. No of our scouts P.J. McDonnell who was fun with this car as it had to be pushed to matter where you sat the smoke always visiting that day dived into the lake and get it started. Fr. Peter said Mass for us seemed to be blowing into your eyes. A pulled the scout to safety. Unfortunately each day in an open tent and I have a major problem was keeping the food hot the brother who had gone to the rescue photograph showing me serving his Mass when it was cooked so we tended to got into difficulties and disappeared in my scout uniform. That was one side serve it as it was cooked. I also learnt under the water. Terry O’Neill and my- of him. The other side was when we how rice expanded when cooked. I pre- self arrived and as we were swimmers in were having a fun boxing match with pared rice for the troop in a large dixie our local swimming club in Carlow we gloves in a ring prepared with a rope for vessel. I kept putting more rice into the were requested to dive down under water the scouts. I took a swing at him and

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struck harder than intended. He then came after me but I went down and would not get up, much to the enjoyment of all present. A further highlight of this camp was our trips to the seaside beach at Arklow by train. At the time the Dublin-Wexford train stopped at a small station Wooden- bridge which was quite close to our camp beside Woodenbridge Golf Course. We marched down the hill from the site to the station. Johnny Callinan our S/M had negotiated special group rates for us (we thought they were army rates) and we enjoyed our trip to spend the long day at the beach. We also went swimming in the Avoca River and played a football match against a local youth team. A very unpleasant occurrence happened in the hot weather. Many if not all of us managed to Carlow Scouts Den at Youth Centre, opened 1967 be attacked by ticks (insects which stuck friends former P/Ls Pat Healy and Pat chimney breast we procured from a to our skin). They were very difficult to Darcy. At this stage the Den was down quarry near the dancing board on remove and I recall we blocked up a sheep in John Street where we were given Killeshin Hills and timber from the old dip to fill it with water and having poured rooms by Muintir na Tíre. Having no floors of the Cathedral which was being large doses of disinfectant into it we im- permanent den was a difficulty for the renovated at the time. Fr. O’Laoghaire mersed ourselves by having a bath. This I troop and our Chaplain with the commit- (O’Leary) along with volunteers such as remember helped to remove the insects tee set about erecting one within the Phil Merne, Paddy King, Eamon Horan much to our relief. Scouting certainly boundary walls of the old fever hospital and many others completed the building gave us new experiences. The following year in 1956 I camped with the troop again as a senior scout in Curracloe Co. Wexford. Johnny Callinan was still S/M. He gave all those young years of his life in the service of Carlow Scouts. I only stayed for about a week as I had been selected to run with the Irish Students Athletic Team in Lisbon Portu- gal. I trained on the beach running with Martin Doogue to prepare for the trip. Over the following years I attended some short weekend camps including one in Curracloe again. I had my final full annual camp in 1960 at Dunmore East Co. Waterford. As usual Johnny Callinan was S/M but several young men had come up through the ranks and were to prove great scout leaders. These included Sean Farrell, Tom Brophy and Dan Carbery, Paddy Brophy and Jack Burns at camp in Curracloe, 1955 Stephen Fleming who were among those who kept scouting active in Carlow over Jack Burns at camp in Curracloeon of the new home for our troop. This was the following years. Green Lane which had been purchased opened in July 1967. for a Youth Centre. Telegraph poles from New Scout Den along the disused railway line from At this stage I had moved away from involvement in Carlow Scouting but We now had Fr. Sean O’Laoghaire a Goresbridge to Borris were purchased wish to acknowledge the great work done curate in the Cathedral parish as an out- from the P & T. The details of the con- by all the leaders including Colin Whelan standing Chaplain. At his request I struction would make a separate article who over the years have kept the move- joined the troop committee with my in itself. Stone for the corner piers and ment going in our community right up to

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of Leighlin. Yet even when excommunicated, it was alleged that Donatus Oduyling continued to celebrate masses and other divine offices even in the presence of people who were themselves under sentence of excommunication. Dunleckney vicarage This was in contempt of the Bishop (Milo Roche, Bishop of Leighlin, 1464- 1490), the authority of Rome and the under rules of the church.8 On 20th May 1486 Pope Innocent VIII issued a papal mandate to the abbot of Baltinglass in the Diocese of Leighlin, challenge in 1486 the archdeacon of Leighlin and Fintan Olerchur (O’Lalor), a canon of the Dio- cese, to investigate that matter by sum- Niall O’Brien moning Donatus Omorra before them to publicly accuse Donatus Oduyling of being in the wrong.9 The presence of all In 1486 Donatus Omorra (O’Moore), perpetual vicar of the parish church of Odagh, Diocese of Ossory, made a petition to the Pope for the perpetual vicarage of Dunleckney in the Diocese of Leighlin. The incumbent at Dunleckney was Donatus Oduyling (O’Delaney or O’Duigan).1

Dunleckney parish

The petition of Donatus Omorra tells us that Dunleckney was known as the church of St. Mary de Arone, alias Dunalhac, and was valued at less than 12 marks sterling.2 The present ruins at Dunleckney suggest a large medieval church belonging to a well off parish. But the value of a medieval parish changed over time, to reflect economic conditions at the time, but also to avoid papal taxation on an overvalued parish. In 1441 Dunleckney graveyard Dunleckney was only valued at less than 8 marks when the vicarage passed from Thomas Omolmohy to his son, of Raymond ‘le Gros’ Fitzwilliam Irish surnames in the challenge for John Omolmohy.3 Fitzgerald. Before 1207 the advowson of Dunleckney shows how much County Dunleckney was granted to the nunnery Carlow had gone Irish since the Samuel Lewis claimed that a preceptory of Graney in Kildare.6 After the partition mid-fourteenth century when it was the of the Knights Templars was located at of Leinster in 1247 part of Dunleckney administrative capital of Anglo-Norman Dunleckney between 1300 and 1308.4 gradually passed to Roger Bigod, Earl of Ireland. Evidence for this claim is not forthcoming Norfolk and Lord of Carlow.7 and the records of the Knights Hospi- In February 1483 the Earl of Kildare, as tallers, who took over much of the Tem- The challenge for Dunleckney viceroy of Ireland, claimed at the Limer- plar property after the latter order was ick Parliament that he had brought the suppressed, do not mention Dunleckney.5 In 1486 Donatus Omorra claimed that counties of Carlow and Kildare within Donatus Oduyling, vicar of Dunleckney, the king’s obedience. But much of the The large church at Dunleckney is more was under sentence of excommunication recovered lands were still waste as the probable because it was the caput of the for celebrating masses in a non-conse- absentee owners refused to return to live barony of Dunleckney and therefore crated place. This was against the rules there and Kildare made fresh grants of chief seat of the de Carew family, heirs as decided under the synodal constitution land between Carlow and

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Leighlinbridge.10 It seems that Dunleck- was involved in this affair but it could be In the papal mandate of 1486 Donatus ney was beyond the area of this recon- connected. The peaceful succession of Omorra was allowed to retain his quered land and thus beyond the laws father and son to the vicarage of vicarage of Odagh while acquiring the against papal provisions to benefices. Dunleckney in 1441 was also a vicarage of Dunleckney and the rectory distant memory.16 of Kilcolmanbrack for life. Donatus The Irish Parliament of 1471-2 voted Omorra claimed that Kilcolmanbrack against Irish clerics who were disobedi- Kilcolmanbrack rectory was “near the said vicarage [Dunleck- ent to the commands of the king and ney]” and so he could easily manage all acted as papal commissioners with attain- At the same time that Donatus Omorra three parishes. The papal mandate also der of their provisions. This was a was making a challenge for Dunleckney allowed Donatus Omorra to dispense renewal of legislation against papal he was also eager to have the rectory of with Dunleckney or Kilcolmanbrack and provisions begun in England in 1351 but the parish church of St. Brigid (worth 4 acquire another benefice with cure of in Ireland beyond the Pale such statutes marks) at Colymbruych (Kilcolman- souls or without, even if they were parish 11 were ineffective. In 1483 the new king, brack, County Laois), in the Diocese of churches.22 Subsequent documents show Richard III, ordered the Earl of Kildare Leighlin. This parish was of lay patron- that Donatus Omorra was successful at put to into effective execution of the age and in 1486 was held by Cornelius acquiring Dunleckney and Kilcolman- statute of premunire against those who Olerchur, clerk. We are told that brack while retaining Odagh. obtained benefices by papal provision. Cornelius Olerchur (O’Lalor) held the Richard III had a great desire to bring rectory for a number of years without The Dunleckney parishioners 17 Ireland within effective English control title or right. Petitions to the Papacy for but his death at Bosworth in August 1485 a church benefice often say that the Little account is given about the parish- cut short his reign and it was not until the incumbent held the parish under dispute ioners of Dunleckney in the challenge of 1530s that the English government without title or right. Without a diocesan 1486. The Pope dispensed Donatus gained some control of the Irish church.12 register or other documents, it is nearly Omorra to have Dunleckney without any impossible to decide who had proper title strict regulation to care for the soul of the 23 Excommunication of the to a parish unless the parish appeared parishioners. It seems they, like us, are Dunleckney vicar elsewhere in the papal archives. silent observers on the whole story. In the many papal registers granting parishes to The papal documents do not say who Yet sometimes, even within a papal man- medieval Irish clerics, sometimes acquir- these excommunicated people were that date, new information can be acquired. ing a few parishes at the same time, the received mass from Donatus Oduyling. Donatus Omorra claimed that Kilcol- parishioners are characters in the back- These people could have been so called manbrack was of lay patronage but the ground. In the world of ambitious clerics Irish rebels or more likely unhappy papal mandate said the rectory was in the seeking income from many benefices, or clerics. In 1484 Calcerandus de Andrea, presentation of the abbess and convent of using a parish as a passage to somewhere dean of Leighlin, got himself elected by St. Augustine, Graney, O.S.A., in the else like Donatus Omorra with Dunleck- 18 the chapter as the new Bishop of Leighlin Diocese of Dublin. The convent of St. ney, it is not so much amazing that many in succession to the late John Camoys. Mary at Graney, in County Kildare, was Irish people still remained Roman There is no record of a person called John founded by Walter de Riddlesford the Catholic as England and the Irish govern- Camoys as Bishop of Leighlin. Calceran- first about the year 1200 with charters of ment embraced the Protestant faith in the dus claimed that John Camoys was confirmation given in 1207 by Pope sixteenth century but that the Irish kept appointed bishop but failed to secure Innocent III and King John. Up to 1409 any version of Christianity at all in the physical possession of the office.13 The the convent was headed by a prioress but world of the ‘Rome runners’. new Pope, Innocent VIII (August 1484 to by 1459 the head was usually referred to July 1492), may have encouraged his as an abbess and by 1476 the title of Donates Omorra after abbess was officially recognised. It was fellow Italian to make a challenge for the getting Dunleckney Diocese of Leighlin. intended to suppress the convent in 1535 but this was avoided on the payment of a It would seem that Donatus Omorra took The so called election was in direct con- fine. When the convent was suppressed advantage of the last part of the papal 19 flict with Milo Roche who was Bishop of in 1540 it held eleven rectories. provision as by 1489 he no longer held Leighlin since 1464 and in 1484 was Dunleckney but still held Kilcolman- 14 As noted above, the convent of Graney very much alive. Bishop Milo did not brack, and was instead perpetual vicar of held the advowson, or right of presenta- back down in this clerical revolt and took St. Mary, Harone (Ballyroan, County tion, of the vicarage of Dunleckney by on the rebels. In a short time Bishop Milo Laois) in the Diocese of Leighlin. Dona- the grant before 1207 of William de won and possibly excommunicated the tus Omorra still held Odagh in Ossory Carew.20 In 1540 Graney still the advow- rebel clergy. Pope Innocent took back his and was rector of Clonbrye (Kilcolman- son of Dunleckney and the vicarage friend and made him abbot of St. Mary brack), in the Diocese of Leighlin. In while the rectory was shared in two Abbey, OSB, in Sicily, while continuing about January 1489 Maurice Omorra halves by MacMurrough and the Earl to claim that Calcerandus was Bishop of resigned as abbot of the Cistercian 15 of Ormond.21 Leighlin. We have no direct evidence monastery of St. Mary at Abbeyleix and that Donatus Oduyling of Dunleckney Donatus Omorra was elected abbot in his

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place. In May and June 1491 Thateus Yg- 1 J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of Papal Vol. XVII Alexander VI (1492-1503), corayn (O’Doran), professor, O.F.M., Registers Relating To Great Britain and Part 2: 1495-1503 (Stationery Office, challenged Donatus Omorra for the abbot Ireland, Vol XIV, 1484-1492 (Stationery Dublin, 1994), no. 49 position at Abbeyleix on the basis that he Office, London, 1960), p. 125 16 J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of had no proper title and allowed the abbey 2 J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of Papal Papal Registers Great Britain and Ire- to fall into ruins. Thateus Odecrayn Registers Great Britain & Ireland, Vol land, Vol. IX, 1431-1447, p. 192 (O’Doran) also laid a claim for Ballyroan XIV, 1484-1492, p. 125 17 J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of and Odagh along with other churches on 3 J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of en- Papal Registers Great Britain & Ireland, the basis that Donatus Omorra illegally tries in the Papal Registers relating to Vol XIV, 1484-1492, p. 125 detained those parishes.24 Great Britain and Ireland: Papal Letters, 18 J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of Vol. IX, 1431-1447 (Stationery Office, Papal Registers Great Britain & Ireland, Thateus O’Doran successful removed London, 1912), p. 192 Vol XIV, 1484-1492, pp. 25, 126 Donatus Omorra and became abbot of 4 Audrey Gwynn and R. Neville Had- 19 Audrey Gwynn and R. Neville Had- Abbeyleix and vicar of Odagh. In 1497 cock, Medieval Religious Houses Ireland cock, Medieval Religious Houses Ire- William Clinton, chancellor of Ossory, (Irish Academic Press, Dublin, 1970), p. land, pp. 317, 318 successfully removed Thateus O’Doran 340 20 Eric St. John Brooks, Knight’s fees in from Odagh and got the parish (worth 5 5 Charles McNeill (ed.), Registrum de Counties Wexford, Carlow and Kilkenny 25 marks). In 1498 it was directed that the Kilmainham (Stationery Office, Dublin, in 13th-15th Century, p. 61 vicarage of St. Nicholas of Odagh, worth 1932), p. 162 21 Newport B. White (ed.), Extents of 8 marks and vacant, yet occupied by 6 Eric St. John Brooks, Knight’s fees in Irish monastic possessions, 1540-41 William Clinton, chancellor of Ossory, Counties Wexford, Carlow and Kilkenny (Stationery Office, Dublin, 1943), p. 124 should be united with the Cistercian in 13th-15th Century (Stationery Office, 22 J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of abbey of Holy Cross in County Tipper- Dublin, 1950), pp. 60, 61 Papal Registers Great Britain & Ireland, 26 ary. This seems not to have happened 7 Margaret Murphy, ‘Roger Bigod and Vol XIV, 1484-1492, p. 126 and in 1505 William Clinton still held the lordship of Carlow, 1270-1306’, in 23 J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of 27 Odagh. Meanwhile Donatus Omorra, Lordship in Medieval Ireland: Image and Papal Registers Great Britain & Ireland, the challenger for Dunleckney, seems to Reality, edited by Linda Doran & James Vol XIV, 1484-1492, p. 126 disappear from the records. Lyttleton (Four Courts Press, Dublin, 24 Michael J. Haren (ed.), Calendar of 2007), p. 85 Papal Registers Great Britain & Ireland, Conclusion 8 J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of Papal Vol. XV, 1484-1492, nos. 303, 664, 672 Registers Great Britain & Ireland, Vol 25 Anne P. Fuller (ed.), Calendar of en- The challenge for the vicarage of the XIV, 1484-1492, p. 125 tries in the Papal Registers relating to church of St. Mary de Arone, at Dunleck- 9 J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of Papal Great Britain and Ireland: Papal Letters, ney by Donatus Omorra was not part of Registers Great Britain & Ireland, Vol Vol. XVI Alexander VI (1492-1503), Part any great desire to have a large parish XIV, 1484-1492, p. 125 1: 1492-1498 (Stationery Office, Dublin, church in a beautiful landscape. Instead 10 A.J. Otway-Ruthven, A history of Me- 1986), no. 701 the challenge and subsequent acquisition dieval Ireland (Ernest Benn, London, 26 Anne P. Fuller (ed.), Calendar of Papal was simply a vehicle to get into the 1980), p. 400 Registers Great Britain & Ireland, Vol. Diocese of Leighlin while retaining his 11 R.D. Edwards, ‘Papal provisions in fif- XVII, 1492-1503, Part 2, no. 574 parish in the Diocese of Ossory. The real teenth century Ireland’, in Medieval 27 Michael J. Haren (ed.), Calendar of en- ambition of Donatus Omorra was to Studies Presented to Aubrey Gwynn, S.J., tries in the Papal Registers relating to become abbot of Abbeyleix in the Dio- edited by J.A. Watt, J.B. Morrall & F.X. Great Britain and Ireland: Papal Letters, cese of Leighlin. After getting Dunleck- Martin (Dublin, 1961), p. 278 Vol. XVIII 1503-1513 Pius III & Julius II ney Donatus Omorra quickly exchanged 12 A.J. Otway-Ruthven, A history of Me- (Stationery Office, Dublin, 1989), no. 21 it for a parish like Ballyroan in County dieval Ireland, p. 401; R.D. Edwards, Laois, near to Abbeyleix, to further his ‘Papal provisions in fifteenth century Ire- ambition. land’, in Medieval Studies Presented to Aubrey Gwynn, S.J., p. 280 After the challenge of 1486 Dunleckney 13 faded into the background and does not Michael J. Haren (ed.), Calendar of en- appear in later published editions of the tries in the Papal Registers relating to Calendar of Papal Registers. The Great Britain & Ireland, Vol XV, Innocent expelled vicar of Dunleckney, Donatus VIII: Lateran Registers, 1484-1492 (Sta- tionery Office, Dublin, 1978), no. 88 Oduyling, also faded from the scene and 14 we learn nothing of his later history. It is J.A. Twemlow (ed.), Calendar of en- hoped that even in his excommunication tries in the Papal Registers relating to condition Donatus Oduyling found peace Great Britain & Ireland, Vol XII, 1458- 1471 (London, 1933), pp. xxix, 208 even if he couldn’t enjoy the peaceful 15 surrounds of Dunleckney. Anne P. Fuller (ed.), Calendar of entries in the Papal Registers relating to Great Britain and Ireland: Papal Letters, Carloviana 2017 Carlow Seven_Layout 1 17/09/2016 16:07 Page 1

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ean O’Neill in his book Mother Agatha O’Brien tells us that “On SMonday 10th April, 1837 Mother Cather- ine McAuley with six nuns arrived in Carlow on Purcello’s mail coach. They were met outside the town by Bishop Nolan, Dr. Andrew Fitzgerald, President of Carlow College and an assembly of Carlow Seven the clergy and townspeople.” They were welcomed in the great hall of Carlow College and ate dinner at the Presentation Convent. John McDarby On 11th April (the feast of St. Leo the Great) the Bishop celebrated Mass in their temporary convent. Sister M. Elizabeth Strange 24 recently founded convent of Mount Ver- According to Leaves from the Annals of Sister M. Aloysius Strange 22 non. The Carlow Sisters helped with the Sisters or Mercy by Mary Teresa Sister M. Philomena Reid 23 every duty. Austin Carroll Publ: HJ Hewitt, New Sister M. Veronica McDarby 27 and th York, 1888, Fr. Maher, nephew of Sister M. Margaret O’Brien 21 About noon on 10 Novmber, 1843 the Bishop Cullen read a letter to the Sisters Queen of the West weighed anchor. This of Mercy in June 1843 indicating that I am the great, great nephew of Sr. Veron- Bishop Michael O’Connor of Pittsburgh ica. She was born in 1816 to James and would seek Sisters of Mercy for his Diocese. Catherine McDarby. She entered the convent on 8th January 1837 and was th Dr Fitzgerald, President of Carlow Col- professed on 17 June, 1841. lege was dying and the nuns visited him daily. He died on October 2. Bishop It was said that the community would O’Connor (Pittsburgh) chanted the eighth suffer on losing seven of its best mem- lesson of the Office for the Dead at Dr. bers; schools could not give up so many Fitzgerald’s Funeral. This was where the without serious loss. Relatives strenu- sisters first saw Dr. O’Connor. ously opposed a proceeding which might deprive them of those at hand to cheer, Bishop seeks volunteers console and advise them. The missioners beseeched them to put no hindrance to On the evening of October 4, Bishop the work of God. O’Connor called to the Carlow Convent accompanied by Fr. Maher. He requested Sisters Set Out a few nuns for his distant mission. Next morning he said Mass in the convent. The Sisters were to meet Bishop O’Con- nor in Dublin on November 3 and sail for Mother M. Frances Warde He received permission to put his views Liverpool. On All Souls’ Day the Sisters before the community. He spoke of the bade adieu to their Carlow home. results he hoped would come from the Crowds came to say good bye; the poor, was a three masted sailing vessel of about work of the Sisters in his diocese. He the blind, the maimed joined the gather- 500 tons. The nuns stood on deck gazing emphasized the good to be done instruct- ing. “The cries and wailings which rent on the receding land with mingled feeling the young and old, founding a hospi- the air made the doleful pageant resemble ings the strongest of which was “grati- tal. He described the city. He praised the a funeral procession of the olden time. tude to God who was making us his population’s cooperativeness with his The bishop and priests came procession- humble instruments for extending His efforts. He said he would not urge any ally to conduct them outside the town and Church on the great American Conti- one to embark in the cause who didn’t shower blessings and good wishes upon nent.” The nuns travelled in secular dress feel a strong desire to promote God’s them.” The Sisters looked their last on – black cashmere dresses with white tulle glory and the salvation of souls. He the pretty town in which they had, when caps, trimmed with white ribbons, asked for their prayers and consideration. little more than children, consecrated Mother Warde had lavendar ribbon trim. their pure hearts to God for ever. The ladies cabin was placed at their Mother M. Cecilia decided to send the disposal and the sisters devoted them- mission and selected: They traveled to Naas, Dublin, selves to the care of the steerage and Mother M. Frances Warde aged 32 Kingstown and Liverpool, where they second-cabin passengers, many of whom Sister M. Josephine Cullen 28 stayed with the Mercy Sisters in the were ailing during the whole voyage. Carloviana 2017 Carlow Seven_Layout 1 17/09/2016 16:07 Page 2

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There were three days of fearful storms On 22nd December, 1843 the but then the sky brightened and the Sisters took possession of their waters rolled placidly below. In the first convent in America – a second week of the voyage the gentle- brick structure on Penn Street. men organized “The Atlantic Social and Mother Warde ordered every- Literary Association of the good ship thing necessary for chapel, Queen of the West.” Dr. O’Connor was community room, cells and president and the ladies were admitted as novitiate. The parlor had been honorary members. The group discussed neatly furnished before their ar- historical and scientific subjects. rival.

On 10th December, 1843 The Queen of On New Years Day 1844 the the West reached New York. On 11th four professed sisters renewed December Bishop O’Connor and Father their vows and Elisa Jane Tier- Convent, now a retreat centre. Quarter, Bishop Elect of Chicago brought nan entered as the first Ameri- Photo: J.McDarby the nuns to meet Bishop Hughes of New can postulant. York. The nuns were escorted to the ica McDarby died 26th February, 1881 and Sacred Heart Convent on Houston Street On 22nd February, 1844 the first cere- Mother Elizabeth Strange died in 1900. where they were to rest for a few days mony took place in Penn Street chapel after the fatigues of the voyage. when Sr. Margaret O’Brien received the Mother Agatha O’Brien died in Chicago white veil with a small number of guests on 8th July, 1854 and Mother Frances th On 14 December they set out by rail for in the little chapel. It was George Wash- Warde died in Chicago on 17th Sep- Philadelphia. Bishop Kenrick met them ington’s Birthday – a good omen of their tember, 1884. and escorted them to the Orphan Asylum success in America. The work started by the Carlow Seven The first public ceremony was the lives on in Pittsburgh, Chicago and across profession of Sister M. Aloysius Strange the United States – St. May’s Academy, and the reception of Miss Elisa Jane St. Paul’s Cathedral School, St. Xavier’s th Tiernan on 11 April, 1844 in St. Paul’s Academy and Mercy Hospital. Cathedral which was full to capacity. Sr. Frances Warde loved gardens, music th On 17 May 1844 the sisters got title to and great conversations. Sr. Josephien 108 acres in Westmoreland County. Cullen was a great teacher and had a zest for visiting the sick, St. Aloysia was a Sr Philomena Reid received the habit in great teacher with organizational skills, th Pittsburgh and was professed on 13 Sr. Elizabeth was a refined tender-hearted April, 1845. Sr. Margaret O’Brien was woman, Sr. Agatha O’Brien had remark- the first sister to receive the habit in Pitts- able judgement, quick understanding and burgh and was professed in September piety, Sr. Philomena Reid was charitable, 1846. She was later sent as superior to obliging and trusting, Sr Veronica Mc- Chicago. Darby answered the convent door with amiable and patient qualities – “when she Important Work died there was general mourning in the city for the loss of so kind and warm a The sisters opened St. Mary’s Private sister,” said Sr. Sheila Carney, Special Academy for girls on Penn Street in Assistant to Carlow University President September 1844 with an excellent for Mercy Heritage. programme of studies Sr Veronica McDarby May we remember them here in Carlow The vows, spirit and community life Ireland as fondly as they are remembered where they stayed with Sisters of Charity made the Pittsburgh sisters reflective and in Carlow University Pittsburgh every th for four days. On 18 December, the mature. They had new experiences, chal- year on Founders Day 21st December. party set off for Pittsburgh. Most of the lenges and problems. The smog, climate, journey was by stage – a slow and time spent teaching and preparing, uncomfortable means of travel. On affected the health of the sisters. December 21st they reached their des- tination and after Mass and holy Com- Sr. Philomena Reid died in 1845, St. munion they went to the Orphan Asylum Aloysia Strange died in 1847, Sr. of the Sisters of Charity in Pittsburgh. Josephine Cullen died in 1852. Sr. Veron- Carloviana 2017 Role of Catholic Clergy in Carlow_Layout 1 19/09/2016 20:17 Page 1

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The Influential Role of the Catholic Clergy in Carlow during the Revolutionary Era

Judy Bolger

ishop Patrick Foley, a conservative Foley was quite assumptive stating that nationalist, described the Easter any Irishman who dared to bear that RisingB as a ‘mad insurrection’.1 A strong name must undoubtedly have supported advocate for the Home Rule movement, the Irish involvement in the war. He he believed the people of Carlow sup- applied further emphasis on the Irish ported his thinking and denounced the involvement, not only in the fight against events of Easter Week. However, it would the enemy – but more importantly – in appear that Carlow, like much of the coun- strengthening the already weak bond be- try, was breeding a cultural nationalist tween Ireland and England: generation prior to 1916 who did not support Bishop Foley’s conser-vative attitude. These men beyond doubt have rendered The emergence of the Gaelic League and very substantial material service to the growing interest in resurrecting the Irish cause of the Allies; but their services have language would fully ferment during the been still more valuable, and still more 1910s and Carlow would not go unaf- welcomed, in so far as they are significant fected by the movement. Coupled with the signs and impressive symbols of the great Fig 1. Bishop Patrick Foley influence of education, the aftermath of change which has come over the senti- Courtesy: Delaney Archives the Rising, and Britain’s attempts to rule ments of the people of this country in re- with an iron fist, Ireland was gaining gard to Great Britain within the past Or was Bishop Foley’s assumption that momentum through the growing power of twenty or thirty years. Up to that time, the ‘the great mass of the population’ in par- Sinn Féin during the period and Carlow mind of the great mass of the people were ticular those of the Carlow area, were followed suit. filled with ‘treasured wrongs’ of centuries, convinced that Redmond’s Home Rule and their hearts were charged with resent- Bill had ‘wrought a change in their minds In his Lenten Pastoral letter, delivered to ment and hatred, […] although it had ex- and hearts’ and that it was nothing short 5 the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin in ploded more than once in futile attempts of ‘marvellous’? February 1916, Bishop Foley (see figure at rebellion. […] In certain centres similar 1) noted that there were ‘about 12,000 sentiments still linger—but as regards the Richard Killeen highlighted that the men of our people in the Royal Navy and great mass of the population, there can be Great War ‘left nothing and nowhere upwards of 300,000 of our race in the little doubt that the ameliorative measures untouched. And in Ireland a new genera- British Army’ fighting in the Great War.2 passed by Parliament in recent times have tion with a new cultural politics that tran- He went on to praise these men and skil- wrought a change in their minds and scended mere Home Rule awaited its 6 fully linked the notion of a man’s Irish hearts which is little short of marvellous.4 chance.’ In contrast to Foley’s assump- identity with supporting the Irishmen tive notion that the people of Carlow fighting for the Crown. Foley stated that With such certainty of unanimous sup- were in strong support of the parliamen- ‘[t]here is no Irishman worth the name port for the Home Rule movement, tary attempts at Home Rule and Irish who has not followed the fortunes of Bishop Foley must have been quite involvement in the Great War, it would these fearless fellows with interest and shocked when those whom he claimed appear his assumption – was just that. admiration, who [was] not proud of their were no longer ‘filled with treasured Discussing Easter Week, James Carty remarkable bravery,’ and who was not wrongs’ embarked on another ‘futile argued that ‘[i]n reality these men and ‘prepared to do what he [could] to attempt at rebellion’ on Easter Monday their comrades who died in action or by encourage and sustain them.’3 Here, 1916. But, were these men a minority? execution had lit a flame which will

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never be extinguished.’7 Carlow Volun- was supplied by the Gaelic League.’12 teaching of the Irish language. R. F. Fos- teer, John McGill noted that prior to the The Gaelic Leaguers were adamant to ter argued that, ‘[i]ncreasingly the rebellion, ‘[n]ational feeling in the coun- keep the Irish language alive by encour- Church enlisted Irish-language education try was at a very low ebb.’8 He insisted aging its use nationwide. Hyde and as part of its campaign against English that the actions of the rebels in Dublin in- MacNeill believed that the lack of a ‘gutter literature’ and popular entertain- spired their fellow countrymen, and that national language distorted Ireland’s ment.’16 This was done particularly well ‘[t]he heroism and self-sacrifice of the claim of autonomy. The task of their gen- in Carlow through the dedicated leader- men who fought, re-enkindled the spirit eration was therefore to ‘recreate’ a sep- ship of Father John Killian, Parish Priest of freedom in the people, especially in arate cultural Irish nation that would of Tullow (see figure 2), who was an the young men and women, and the de-anglicise itself by rejecting English ardent supporter of the Irish language whole countryside was stirred into customs such as language, literature and movement. Akin to Bishop Foley, Killian action.’9 For most though, the actions of sporting activities. McCarthy explained was educated at Carlow College and the rebels did not necessarily ignite that the Gaelic League was well received served as a Parish Priest in the county of nationalist support. Instead, it was the throughout the country as it ‘caught hold Carlow until 1930.17 Killian was part of counteractions of the British which put a of the popular imagination [and] became the Coiste Ceanntain initiative, sup- sour taste in the mouth of the country. In much more than a mere language or ported by the Gaelic League, to ensure the aftermath of the Rising, around 3,500 literary organisation.’13 Intrinsic to its the standard of Irish taught by the teach- people throughout Ireland were arrested appeal, and quite possibly the reasoning ers. The Coiste Ceanntain was estab- in connection to the events; of which behind its success, was that the League lished in October 1912 and, as Killian 2,000 were detained and transported to promoted national self-confidence and stated, it was ‘determined to give to all Welsh, English and Scottish prisons. self-reliance by educating the Irish the teachers of the county and adjoining More severely, the seven signatories of people about their own history and districts an opportunity of learning the Proclamation as well as nine others heritage. Carlow is eminent of the move- Irish.’18 Those involved in the initiative involved in the rebellion were executed, ment’s nationwide expansion, not only were primarily school teachers. However which Diarmaid Ferriter claimed ‘did with the recorded mentioning of Gaelic the initiative garnered a considerable much to change public opinion.’10 Fer- Leaguers such as Éamon Price (who was amount of support from the overall com- riter claims that these decisions made by at Jacob’s Biscuit Factory during the munity; this is evident from the atten- the British, ‘ensured that in the long term, Rising) coming to the county as a ‘Gaelic dance of ‘politicians, public represent- the Rising came to be seen as the starting League organiser’; but more significantly atives, Gaelic Leaguers, professional point for all subsequent Irish history. [… through Michael O’Hanrahan, who men’; and interestingly, the unified ‘new ] It was a momentous event that trans- established the first branch of the Gaelic friends and old enemies’ at a meeting in formed the focus of Irish nationalism, League in Carlow.14 November 1912.19 This support from the deepened political consciousness and community indicates that the county of created its own mythology.’11 And though Nationally, the Gaelic Leaguers imple- Carlow was eager to re-establish the it did not have direct routes in Carlow, mented a revival of the Irish language, national language. supporters, and those with similar nation- which was done most proficiently alist ideologies, most certainly did exist through education. In Carlow, this revival in the county. of the Irish language was further supported by the clergy who placed Indeed, for the sleeping nationalist the education as one of their central objec- actions of the Easter Week awoke a tives. As Thomas McGrath noted, Bishop stronger desire to break free from British Foley who was ‘very keen to promote ed- rule. However – and more significantly – ucation’, had been a student, professor a brewing cultural nationalism had and president of Carlow College, and already been penetrating through the therefore placed an extremely important early years of the twentieth century. This emphasis on educating his diocese.15 expression emerged through the Gaelic During the years 1910-1919 nationally Revival in the form of literary works, the average attendance rate in schools from Irish writers such W.B. Yeats, Lady was less than seventy percent. However, Gregory and J.M. Synge. However, in the Kildare and Leighlin Diocese Donal McCarthy argued that even more attendance boasted seventy-five percent prolific in the creation of cultural nation- in many of the rural schools, and in the alism was the Gaelic League, founded by Carlow urban district it was as high as Douglas Hyde and Eoin MacNeill in eight-four percent in some schools. 1893. McCarthy claimed that the ‘nation- Therefore, the syllabus of the schooling alistic, and even separatist, impact of system was instrumental in modelling the Fig 2. Fr John Killian Yeats and his friends was profound, but revolutionary generation of Carlow, con- Courtest: Delaney Archives it was limited and confined mainly to sidering the strong rate of attendance. fellow poetic natures. However, what the By December 1912, classes had com- literary revival lacked in popular appeal Central to the education system was the menced in various centres in the district. 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139 The Influential role of the Catholic Clergy in Carlow

However, due to financial difficulties the worked quite successfully. Killian interest in Gaelic culture was higher on Coiste Ceanntain sought to be institu- reported that ‘practically all the teachers his agenda than his political beliefs or tionalised by the Carlow County Com- in the whole area’, a total of 140 alliances. He stated that he ‘never joined munity of Technical Institution. This was ‘Catholics and non-Catholics’ joined the Sinn Féin, as [he] did not like Griffith’s done with the assistance of Bishop Foley, classes and worked ‘at high pressure.’26 ‘kings, lords and commons’ stuff, and who had not initially been an enthusiastic The role of the nationalist teacher in rev- green as [he] was then, [he] could foresee supporter of the Irish-Ireland movement olutionary Ireland cannot be underesti- catastrophe when the Republicans and in its early years. However, McGrath mated, not only for their influence on Sinn Féin coalesced under de Valera’s noted that he did become a keen their pupils but also for their own leadership.’33 Similarly, Francis O’Duffy supporter of teaching Irish in the strength in participating numbers – the stated, that it was ‘through the Gaelic schools.20 A scheme and a syllabus were most obvious examples being Éamon de League’ that he became ‘interested in formulated. The syllabus is revealing – in Valera and Thomas MacDonagh who national politics.’34 Duffy served as the more ways than one – of the overtly were both originally secondary school secretary of the Carlow branch of the nationalistic position education was to teachers.27 In Carlow, Francis O’Duffy Gaelic League and was ‘acquainted with play in formatting the minds of the revo- taught as a secondary school teacher in Padraig Pearse’ who had given a lecture lutionary period. Expressively through the Christian Brothers School prior to in Carlow, and subsequently corre- the historical period which was to be enlisting as a Volunteer.28 Killian men- sponded with Duffy ‘for some years af- taught from the ‘earliest time to 1172 tioned quite frequently the ‘willingness’ terwards.’35 Intelligence Officer for the AD’, when Irish history was destroyed of the teachers, who made ‘the most of 3rd Battalion in Carlow, Michael Fitz- by the Anglo-Norman invasion.21 their opportunities’ to attend the Irish patrick also stated that before he ‘ever language classes outside their work became a member […] of the IRA’, that Foster argued that ‘the way that educa- hours, and in most circumstances on Sat- he was already acquainted with ‘several tion operated in Ireland for the revolu- urdays.29 To imagine the teachers from of the leaders’ from his time spent as the tionary generation [was] an important Carlow were also fuelled with a similar secretary of the Gaelic League.36 Thus, element in the process of political radi- nationalist ideology, parallel to de Valera there is little doubt that young adults of calisation.’22 Foster also pointed out that and MacDonagh, would not be difficult the Carlow area, those of whom taught or many of the leaders of the Irish Republi- when examining their dedication to the those of whom listened, evolved in a sim- can Army (IRA) came from a Christian Irish language movement. Killian was so ilar manner as those involved in the Brothers educational background; he pleased with the achievements of the Rising and those who were part of the insisted that ‘many dozens’ of the lead- initiative that by July 1914 he believed, leadership behind the War of Independ- ers, such as Éamonn Ceannt, John the ‘language question [was] settled in ence. That is, they belonged to a genera- McBride, Terrence MacSwiney and this part of Ireland’.30 He equated success tion whose nationalist education– Richard Mulcahy were schooled through with a basic desire of reconnecting with fostered on the Irish language movement a Brothers ethos.23 In Carlow, the Irish the Gaelic history of the nation, and he – formulated their personal development. classes’ syllabus consisted primarily of believed the national language question Thus, the success of the Gaelic League, Christian Brothers’ texts and Hyde’s could be answered, simply, if there were even before it laid the foundations of po- ‘Story of Early Gaelic Literature’.24 To ‘in every town in Ireland even one man litical beliefs, created a sense of cultural ignore the notion that a similar nationalist who love[d] the old tongue, the language nationalism which evolved the minds of impact from the Brothers’ texts was had movement will be safe ere the dawn of the generation both nationally and on a in Carlow would be foolish. As Foster 1915.’31 Granted an interest in the lan- local level – such as in Carlow. In Feb- furthered stated, ‘[e]ducation in Ireland, guage movement did not necessarily ruary 1918, Bishop Foley discussed the like literature and a number of other cul- equate to a revolutionary agenda, but for emergence of the Volunteer organisation tural phenomena, has always taken on a most of those who did get involved, the and what he termed the ‘revolutionary political and religious complexion.’25 It language movement played an important party’, which were beginning to appear is of no coincidence that many of the role in their early years before enlisting. across Ireland. However, he was under future leading players in the national the belief that they had ‘little support in struggle came from similar educational Traces of the influence of the Gaelic any part of our Diocese’.37 He went on to backgrounds; with the support from the League’s impact on education, and the instruct that parishioners ‘would be clergy, educating the minds of the youth language movement appear frequently in guilty of a grave dereliction of [their] through the Gaelic League’s ethos was the witness statements from Carlow duty,’ if they did not ‘warn’ those young done on a national level. Therefore, to natives who were active Volunteers dur- men […] against the efforts which may consider the role of education in con- ing the War of Independence. Adjutant in soon be made through secret societies tributing to the national Irish language the Carlow Brigade, Pádraig Ó Catháin, and other agencies’.38 Bishop Foley movement, Carlow is an example of the native of Tinryland, is a particularly urged the clergy to keep ‘in close touch initiative’s impact at a local level. This is interesting example, though he was with the young men of their parishes, [… evident in the achievement of Killian and ‘naturally interested [in] Home Rule and ] and to leave nothing undone to prevent his dedication to the language movement. its controversies, [he] was more inter- them from becoming the prey of those ested in athletics, Gaelic football and the people who masquerade in the garb of Under the control of the Committee of language movement.’32 Moreover, patriots.’39 Again, it appears that Bishop Technical Institution, the initiative Ó Catháin explained that initially his Foley’s assumptive notions regarding his Carloviana 2017 Role of Catholic Clergy in Carlow_Layout 1 19/09/2016 20:17 Page 4

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diocese’s rebellious attitude were not conscription be enforced.45 David Fitz- nationalist sympathies of this newspaper what he thought. Prior to and indeed de- patrick believes that the ‘conscription cri- cannot be denied, especially in the spite the events of the Rising and its af- sis reinvigorated the strategy of violence, article’s conclusion which openly termath, Volunteering Organisations almost quiescent since the Rising, […] denounced the British, snidely remarking were forming and expanding throughout headquarters was determined to resist that there was ‘really something wrong the country - evidence of the brewing conscription by force, should attempts be with the spirit of the English people, who cultural nationalism that had been al- made to capture or disarm the Volun- can, seemingly, look calmly at Indians, ready gaining momentum before 1916. teers.’46 Sinn Féin and the Volunteers Irish, Canadians, Australians, etc. were inundated with support and men defending the empire. It would be inter- Examples in Carlow included the forma- ready to join their forces; Fitzpatrick con- esting to know how many born English- tion of the Rathvilly Company in 1914, tinued that, ‘[m]embership of Sinn Féin men were among them.’52 of which IRA member John McGill and the Volunteers soared during the hailed from. He also claimed that by protracted crisis over conscription, as In November 1915, with similar praise 1917, there were ‘companies of Volun- hitherto unorganised districts followed for Carlow’s enlistment, Bishop Foley teers […] in every parish’ of the county.40 the lead of those already activated discussed an upcoming recruitment Akin to Carlow, the continuous growth through by-elections or agrarian agita- meeting in a Nationalist and Leinster of the Volunteers despite the events of tion.’47 Carlow is a local example of this Times article where he argued that ‘as a 1916 was occurring nationally. Charles increased enlistments to the Volunteers. matter of fact, this town of Carlow, and Townshend stated that throughout Pádraig Ó Catháin stated that the especially the Nationalist portion, had Ireland, despite being ‘temporarily paral- conscription scare ‘filled the Volunteer furnished a far larger proportion of its ysed by the large-scale arrests that had ranks’ in the Carlow area.48 It is impor- population than most cities and towns in followed Easter week, the Volunteers had tant to note that a lot of the support that England and Scotland have done.’ He been rebuilding locally even before the came with the scare of the crisis went then gave his support and encouragement majority of the arrested Sixteeners were away after the Crown decided against to the speakers of the meeting in obtain- released in mid-1917.’41 Yet, the Volun- enforcing conscription in Ireland. ing new recruits throughout Ireland with teers’ political position did not fully cul- Ó Catháin said that when the crisis hopes that such new recruits would minate until October 1917 when Éamonn passed the ‘new recruits vanished with ‘mark up to the standard of Carlow in de Valera, a prominent member of the it’.49 However, the impact of the threat quality and quantity’.53 This article is Volunteers, was announced as the presi- was felt, clearly in the ranks of the important as it demonstrates the extent of dent of Sinn Feín. This was a pivotal Volunteers, but also in the already weak- the Bishop’s political involvement. How- moment that Townshend argued ‘signi- ened public opinion of the Crown ever, when the conscription crisis took fied the combination of the military and hold in 1918 the clergy’s support of the political organisation’ in a manner which Even before the serious threat of con- Irish involvement in the War, including would gain further momentum in the scription in early 1918, the threat of its Bishop Foley’s, was swiftly removed and early months of 1918.42 possibility had been felt by some of the the Church’s nationalist attitude came to public. In fact, in the Carlow area The the fore throughout the country. As In the months that followed the Rising, a Nationalist and Leinster Times were Townshend noted, the Church’s: general sphere of change was beginning adequately concerned with the threat of to appear in Ireland in which the Volun- conscription in August 1915, and pub- Hierarchy opposed compulsory military teers and Sinn Féin flourished, and the lished a piece openly denouncing con- service not just on universal principle, public’s support for the Crown was scription on the evidence that Ireland had but specifically for Ireland on the basis ambiguous. F.S.L. Lyons noted ‘that a already supplemented the British Army that the Irish had not given their consent groundswell of discontent and frustration quite sufficiently. They ably argued their to the war. This was in one sense had begun to make itself felt in the coun- objections through a comparison of democracy in the abstract, but in identi- try, and that the repressive regime which enlistment figures of English recruits and fying Ireland as outside the political com- had been the almost automatic reaction that of the Irish, reporting that ‘certain munity represented as Westminster it was of the authorities had already revealed its journals [boasted] that a street in London also pure nationalism.54 bankruptcy.’43 However, this uncertain contributed 78 [soldiers] to the forces’.50 atmosphere was to become overtly Carlow had offered an impressive Thus, the Church took collective action certain and united in an anti-regime sen- amount of soldiers, but did not garner the and on 18 April 1918 it issued a declara- timent. Tim Pat Coogan argued that ‘Irish same praise as its London counterparts tion that stated that the Church was public opinion went into convulsions’ in despite noting that ‘Bridewell Lane in ‘[d]enying the right of the British govern- April 1918 when the Military Service Act Carlow contributed between 90 and 100’ ment to enforce compulsory service [and was announced.44 Needless to say, the men.51 The newspaper articulated that pledged] to resist conscription by the outrage felt by the Volunteers and Sinn conscription was wholly immoral due to most effective means at our disposal.’55 Féin towards the Bill was immense. Con- the already uneasy relationship between This pledge was appended to the door of sidering they were vehemently against the two countries and despite the uneasy every parish. Alongside the pledge, the voluntary enlistment from the War’s out- relationship, Ireland already offered an Church organised countywide Masses of break, they therefore evoked a non-con- impressive amount of soldiers for which Intercession on the following Sunday stitutional plan of response should the Crown should be grateful. The advocating a policy of passive Carloviana 2017 Role of Catholic Clergy in Carlow_Layout 1 19/09/2016 20:17 Page 5

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resistance.56 Bishop Foley discussed the which was deeply rooted in the conscrip- plans in a letter to Father Michael tion crisis, aligned the varying actions of Murphy, Parish Priest of Maryborough, nationalism in Ireland. Not only did it and instructed his clergy to advise their gather public support, but more impor- people to ‘go no farther than passive tantly it united all elements of Irish soci- resistance.’57 Bishop Foley believed it ety: the Church, Sinn Féin and the would be ‘madness’ for the Military Volunteers, and even the Irish Parliamen- Service Bill to be enforced.58 He was, tary Party (IPP), who had withdrawn however, adamant in his instructions to from Westminster when the Bill was an- Murphy in promoting ‘passive’ resistance nounced.71 With the IPP nearly dissolved, as opposed to an aggressive revolt. This Sinn Féin won the 1918 General Election was immensely important to Bishop and the Irish War of Independence was Foley to communicate a collective and on the horizon in 1919. In a bittersweet Dublin-based plan of action to his clergy irony for those executed after Easter as he was apprehensive that otherwise Week, Ireland now stood united due to there might be violent actions by certain Britain’s forceful threat of conscription. ‘hotheaded priests.’59 Such revolutionary As Townshend stated, ‘[t]he venerable priests included the outspoken Father Fenian mantra on ‘England’s difficulty’ Michael O’Flanagan whose strong – a deceptive idea in 1916, when Britain connection to Sinn Féin made him a na- Fig 3. Tullow native, was armed to the teeth – fitted reality tional outcast of the conservative clergy. Fr. Patrick Joseph Doyle much better in the last years of the war. On a more local level, one cannot help Courtesy: Delaney Archives As Britain’s resources dwindled, the con- but assume that Bishop Foley might scription issue became even more press- have been referring to Tullow native, ing. […] In Ireland, the issue was clergy rejected the militant style of the 72 Father Patrick J. Doyle, Rector of ‘the committee; a response which Doyle be- dramatically more explosive.’ Indeed, Rebels’ Paradise’, Knockbeg College the conscription crisis provided the final 60 lieved was due to the priests not being (see figure 3). ‘prepared to face the crisis with a realistic push for Irish unity against the forceful- outlook.’66 The military-influenced meas- ness of the British; however it was the Doyle was a prominent figure during the ure outlined by Doyle and Ó Súilleabháin period building up to the threat that al- revolutionary period in Carlow for many did not need to be implemented as the lowed anti-British sentiment to flourish. reasons. When the threat of conscription crisis never came to bear. However, James Carty described this period as par- arrived he and Volunteer Gearóid Ó Súil- Doyle was to play an important role as ticularly ‘ripe for an active revival on the leabháin arranged for a public meeting in broadest national lines of the tradition of 61 adviser to many local rebels and leaders the Market Square of Carlow. A large in the coming years under the cover of independence’. What made this moment crowd attended the meeting, ‘with sev- Knockbeg College, thus gaining it the ideal was, as Carty continued, the al- eral priests and prominent laymen’ liance of ‘Sinn Féin on the political side, 62 label ‘the Rebels’ Paradise’. His role was among the attendees. As a result of the of such importance that, as he claimed, and the Gaelic League on the cultural side, meeting, and under the direction of Ó [who] had been preparing the grounds when the National Army was established, 73 Súilleabháin, whose ‘clear, decisive Michael Collins requested him to be the for generation.’ military outlook was invaluable’, a small First Chaplain of the army.67 As serving committee was formed to establish a plan Commander-in-Chief Ó Súilleabháin Indeed, the conscription crisis played a of response for the Carlow area should crucial role in uniting Ireland against the 63 wrote directly to Bishop Foley and re- conscription be formally introduced. quested Doyle’s service as per Collins’ Crown in a far greater capacity than the The committee created a public subscrip- wishes. He stated that the new Free State Rising ever achieved. Unlike the Rising, tion which produced ‘a large sum’ within Army, would benefit greatly ‘now in the which sparked conflicting reactions, the weeks, together with ‘considerable hands of Catholic Irishmen’ and thus ‘re- conscription crisis coordinated the varied stocks of food’ should an ‘emergency’ shades of green throughout the country 64 ligious ceremonies would be more than a arise. It was also decided that in the formality.’68 But, Bishop Foley ‘immedi- to a vibrantly united force of contention event of an ‘emergency’ - as in a forced ately dictated a curt refusal’.69 Discussing to the Crown in 1919. However, this rounding up of Irish men - ‘all able-bod- the decision in his witness statement, unity was based not only on a rejection ied males were to disperse through the Doyle made sure to note that Bishop of conscription, but more effectively on Slieve Margy Hills so as to avoid being a sense of cultural nationalism. The edu- 65 Foley was ‘a Nationalist of the Home seized by the press-gangs.’ Rule School who found it difficult to cation system which emerged through the adapt himself to the new regime, which he Gaelic League in the early years of the Following the decisive procedural plans was inclined to regard as a mushroom growing century provided both student and of the newly-formed anti-conscription of doubtful provenance.’70 teacher with a fundamentally nationalist committee Doyle attended a meeting for ethos which was encouraged through a the priests of the Kildare-Leighlin Dio- Despite Bishop Foley’s doubts about the rejuvenation of the Irish culture cese where he communicated the com- new regime’s ability, their rise to power, and language. mittee’s objectives. The ‘majority’ of the Carloviana 2017 Role of Catholic Clergy in Carlow_Layout 1 19/09/2016 20:17 Page 6

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In Carlow, the impact of this rejuvenation 2 Carlow College (CC), Delany 25 Foster, p. 31. rekindled the flame of nationalism which Archives (DA), KL/PF/00297, ‘Foley’s 26CC, DA, KL/CL/017/0015 (8), ‘Letter was bursting at the seams, despite Bishop Pastoral Letter’, 27 February 1916. by John Killian’, 6 December 1913. 3 Foley’s conservative outlook. What CC, DA, KL/PF/00297, ‘Foley’s Pas- 27 Foster, p. 52. formulated Carlow’s cultural nationalism toral Letter’, 27 February 1916. 28 4 BMHWS 654: Francis O’Duffy. evolution was the dedicated work of its CC, DA, KL/PF/00297, ‘Foley’s Pas- 29 CC, DA, KL/CL/017/0136, ‘Letter by clergy, albeit in various strengths of na- toral Letter’, 27 February 1916. John Killian and Gearóid Ó Súilleab- 5 tionalism - from the conservative strand After years of political battles and at- háin’, 20 November 1917. of Bishop Foley to the overtly revolution- 30 tempts, John Redmond’s Irish Parlia- CC, DA, KL/CL/017/0015 (8), ‘Letter ary Father Patrick J. Doyle and those in mentary Party (IPP) were successful in by John Killian’, 6 December 1913. between, such as Father John Killian in obtaining Home Rule for Ireland 31 Ibid. Carlow and Father Patrick Doyle in through the Home Rule Act (1914). 32 Borris. Despite their various levels of BMHWS 1572: Pádraig Ó Catháin. However, the Act was suspended during 33 contribution, their influence lay in their Ibid. outbreak of WWI (Richard Killeen, A 34 educating roles during the revolutionary Short History of the Irish Revolution BMH WS654: Francis O’Duffy. 35 period in Carlow. Therefore, when 1912 to 1927 (Dublin: Gill & Macmil- Ibid. 36 considering Carlow’s position as a viable lan LTD, 2007), p. 50). BMH WS1443: Michael Fitzpatrick. 37 piece in the revolutionary puzzle of the 6 Ibid., p. 50. CC, DA, KL/PF/00325, ‘Foley’s Pas- nation, the role of the clergy be- 7 James Carty, Ireland from the Great toral Letter’, 8 February 1918. 38 comes fundamental. Frame to the Treaty of 1921: A Docu- Ibid. mentary Record, 3rd edn (Dublin: C. J. 39 Ibid. Bibliography 40 Fallon Ltd, 1965), p. 194. BMH WS1616: John McGill. 8 Bureau of Military History Witness 41 Charles Townshend, The Republic: Bureau of Military History Witness Statement (BMH WS) 1616: John Statements The Fight for Irish Independence (Lon- McGill. Carlow College: Delany Archives don: Allen Lane, 2013), p. 6. 9 BMH WS1616: John McGill. 42 The Nationalist and Leinster Times Townshend, The Republic, p. 6. 10 43 Ferriter, Diarmaid, A Nation and Not a Diarmaid Ferriter, A Nation and Not a F.S.L. Lyons, ‘The new nationalism, Rabble (London: Profile Books LTD, Rabble (London: Profile Books LTD, 1916-18’, in A New History of Ireland 2015) 2015), p. 162. VI: Ireland under the Union 1870-1921, 11 ______, The Transformation of Ireland Ibid., p. 168. ed. by W.E. Vaughan (Oxford: Oxford 12 1900-2000 (London: Profile Books Ltd, Donal McCarthy, ‘From Parnell to University Press, 2010), pp. 224-239 (p. 2005) Pearse 1891-1921’ in The Course of 226). 44 Foster, R. F., Vivid Faces: The Revolu- Irish History, ed. by T. W. Moody and Tim Pat Coogan, Ireland in the Twen- tionary Generation in Ireland 1890-1923 F. X. Martin (Dublin: Mercier Press, tieth Century (London: Hutchinson, (London: Penguin Group, 2014) 2001), pp. 245-259 (p. 246). 2003), p. 70. Fitzpatrick, David, Politics and Irish Life 13 McCarthy, p. 247. 45 Maurice Walsh, Bitter Freedom: Ire- 1913-1921: Provincial Experience of 14 BMH WS1572: Pádraig Ó Catháin. land in a Revolutionary World 1918- War and Revolution (Cork: 15 McGrath, p. 827. 1923 (London: Faber and Faber, 2015), Cork University Press, 1998) 16 R. F. Foster, Vivid Faces: The Revolu- p. 17. 46 ______, ed., Terror in Ireland 1916-1923 tionary Generation in Ireland 1890- David Fitzpatrick, The Two Irelands (Dublin: The Lilliput Press, 2012) 1923 (London: Penguin Group, 2014), 1912-1939 (Oxford: Oxford University ______, The Two Irelands 1912-1939 p. 53. Press, 2006), pp. 72-73. 47 (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2006) 17 John McEvoy, Carlow College 1793- Ibid., p. 72. 48 McGrath, Thomas, ed., Carlow: History 1993: The ordained students and teach- BMH WS1572: Pádraig Ó Catháin. and Society (Dublin Geography Publica- ing staff of St Patrick’s College Carlow 49 BMH WS1572: Pádraig Ó Catháin; tions, 2008) (Carlow: The Carlovian Press, 1993), p. BMHWS1616: John McGill; Townshend, Charles, ‘Making Sense of 170. BMHWS1508: Michael Doorley Easter 1916’, History Ireland, 14 (2006) 18 50 CC, DA, KL/CL/017/0015 (8), ‘Letter ‘Conscription’, The Nationalist and ______, Charles, The Republic: The by John Killian’, 6 December 1913. Leinster Times, 28 August 1915. Fight for Irish Independence (London: 19 Ibid. 51 Ibid. Allen Lane, 2013) 20 52 1 McGrath, p. 828. Ibid. The Nationalist and Leinster Thomas McGrath, ‘Politics, Education 21 and Religion in the Age of Revolution: CC, DA, KL/CL/017/0015 (8), ‘Letter Times, though nationalist in their rheto- by John Killian’, 6 December 1913. ric, their nationalist sympathies were Bishop Patrick Foley of Kildare and 22 Leighlin, 1896-1926’, Carlow: History Foster, p. 34. wholly constitutional and supportive of 23 and Society, ed. by Thomas McGrath Ibid., p. 40. John Redmond’s Irish Parliamentary 24 Party (IPP). (Dublin Geography Publications, 2008), CC, DA, KL/CL/017/0015 (8), ‘Letter 53 pp. 811–860 (p. 840). by John Killian’, 6 December 1913. ‘Foley Discussing Recruitment Meet- ing’, The Nationalist and Leinster

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Times, 6 November 1915. 62 Ibid. Women: Irish Female Activists in the 54 Townshend, The Republic, p. 13. 63 Ibid. Revolutionary Years 1900-1923 55 Dublin, National Library of Ireland, 64 Ibid. (Dublin: The O’Brien Press, 2003), p. EPH E103, ‘Anti-Conscription Pledge’, 65 66. BMH WS807: Very Rev. Patrick J. 72 21 April 1918. Doyle. Charles Townshend, The Republic: 56 Townshend, The Republic, p. 13. 66 Ibid. The Fight for Irish Independence (Lon- 57 67 don: Allen Lane, 2013), p. 7. CC, DA, KL/CL/012/0113 (36), ‘Let- Ibid. 73 James Carty, Ireland from the Great ter from Foley to Murphy’, 12 October 68 CC, DA, KL/PF/MC/022, ‘Letter Frame to the Treaty of 1921: A Docu- 1918. from Gearóid Ó Súilleaváin to Bishop 58 mentary Record, 3rd edn (Dublin: C. J. Ibid. Foley’, 5 May 1922. 59 Fallon Ltd, 1965), p. 194. Ibid. 69 BMHWS807: Very Rev. Patrick J. 60 BMH WS807: Very Rev. Patrick J. Doyle Doyle. 70 Ibid. 61 Ibid. 71 Sinéad McCoole, No Ordinary

Free State soldiers in Borris ?

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New Website and Social Media, a vehicle to promote local history. John Kelly

sation, allowing users to comment on the content. The home page presents the most recent posts under headings, such as: ‘News and Events’, ‘Projects’ and ‘Lectures’. The homepage now also has a number of slides which present information and link to both topical issues and the main areas of the website which are used (for example: membership, lectures, Carloviana and information about the society). The overall impact of these changes results in a much more informative and active homepage. In addition to these changes, two exciting and useful additions have also been made to the website. These are a full set of back issues of Carloviana available to read online and audio recordings of public lectures.

Carloviana Online

It has been a long held aim of the society to scan and digitise past issues of Carloviana and make them freely available. This process was carried out by Our new website home page members in 2016 and all back issues of Carloviana from 1947 to 2015 are now Carlow Historical and Archaeological Design to design and launch an improved available to read on the website (more Society has for a number of years main- and more interactive website. A new recent editions will be made available tained both a website and Facebook page Twitter account was also launched and after a suitable period of time from to inform both members and the public this will complement the society’s very publication). In conjunction with the of the activities of the society and of popular Face- book page. Carloviana index (which has also been upcoming events. In 2016, in conjunc- updated and is available on the website) tion with the digitisation of back issues Website Changes this is now an extensive, valuable and of Carloviana and a successful pilot unique resource now available to all scheme to record and make available The new website relies on ‘posts’ to website users, and in particular to public lectures on the website, the man- present timely information on current students and researchers. agement committee of the society activities. These are tagged using key- reviewed the present website structure words and categorised, allowing an easy Audio of lectures and content. This review resulted in the search of past activities and posts. They society engaging with O’Brien Web are also dynamic and encourage conver- 2016 also saw the making available of Carloviana 2017 New Website_Layout 1 19/09/2016 21:29 Page 2

145 New Website and Social Media, a vehicla to promote local history

recordings of public lectures on our website. These commenced with ‘The life & times of Micheál Ó hAnracháin’ by Dr. Conor Kostick and ‘The Black Death in Carlow and Leinster’ by Finbar Dwyer. It is hoped to continue to do this with future lectures, which will allow patrons who cannot attend these interesting and educational presentations to listen to them at a later date. Another innovation regarding lectures was the making available of a number of lectures recorded by society member Seamus Murphy during the 1970s to the 1990s by the Murphy family. While the sound quality of these variable (due to the age and technology limitations when they were recorded) they nevertheless are another valuable resource for visitors to the website. Members who have recording of old lectures are encouraged to make these available for digitisation so the society can expand our lecture archive.

Facebook and Twitter

Finally as well as the society’s well Facebook established Facebook page, a Carlow Historical Twitter account now also in place. Facebook is a great way to post and share photographs, full articles and comments. Twitter offers the society a vehicle to post short informative messages to followers and to link to items on our Facebook page or our website. Members are encouraged to follow and share both the Carlow Historical and Archaeological Society Facebook and Twitter accounts detailed below.

Website: www.carlowhistorical.com Twitter: @CarlowHist Facebook: @CarlowHistoricalAndAr- chaeologicalSociety

Twitter

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The collection of cess, pardons and fines by Robert Hartpole in Forth O’Nolan, Clonegal and Rathvilly in the 1570s

The exactions of a minor demon or the service of a faithful countryman?

John Kelly Extract from the plate depicting the rescue of Cosby and Harrington which was led by Hartpole. From The Image of Ire- land, John Derricke, 1581.

In the ‘The Irish Constitutional century Ireland. While primarily dealing successours, be from henceforth named, Revolution of the Sixteenth Century’ with the complaint by the Earl of called, accepted, reputed, and taken to be Brendan Bradshaw described a Ormond, this paper will also examine a Kings of Ireland’3 . After the initial policy ‘prototype of a species of minor demon similar complaint by Sir Peter Carew of ‘surrender and regrant’ under Lord whose influence on Irish history was to relating to the cessing of Leighlin and the Deputy St Leger, measures employed by be altogether more baneful than the Barony of Idrone in the same period. subsequent Lord Deputies and other major demons’. Bradshaw was referring officials turned increasingly martial Local military and civic to Sir William Brabazon1, but in the starting with the campaign against the administration in the 1570s microcosm of Carlow and Queen’s O’Moores and O’Connors by Lord County of the Tudor period should this Justice Brabazon in 1546 and which by epithet also be applied to Robert Following the Kildare rebellion of the 1571 under Lord Deputy Sidney rested Hartpole2? Hartpole’s activities between mid 1530s there was a determined effort upon a martial interventionist model 1569 and 1571 on the Earl of Ormond’s to reconquer, pacify and ultimately settle involving local Constables, Seneschals, lands in County Carlow resulted in a Ireland and its people. From a and Captains operating under a formal complaint against him and his constitutional perspective the passing of commission of martial law. men instigated under Ormond’s orders the Crown of Ireland Act on 18 June 1541 which is preserved in the State Papers. by the Irish Parliament changed the legal As Constable of Carlow Hartpole This paper will examine his role, powers relationship between the English King controlled the garrison at Carlow and he and personality; the specific political and and Ireland from Lordship to Monarchy. also had a personal band of irregulars social circumstances which existed in The medieval Lordship (created by the and/or kern. Officers such as Hartpole Carlow in 1570 and what is known about much disputed Papal Bull ‘Laudabiliter’ were entitled to ‘the profits of their work, the individual characters named in the in 1155) was replaced with a putative being legally entitled to ‘traitor’s goods’ document and their roles in society. Kingdom of Ireland and Henry VIII and which amounted to a third of the his heirs were inserted as monarchs of moveable goods and possessions of those The State Papers for the period contain Ireland. The Act stated ‘The King’s they put to death’4. He was in receipt of various complaints about cess and other highnesse, his heyres and successours, a number of commissions to execute excesses by State officials; but what Kings of England, be alwayes Kings of martial law in this period authorising him makes this document so significant is the Ireland, and that his Majestie, his heyres to ‘execute martial law in the co. wealth of genealogical, economic and and successours, have the name, stile, Catherlogh; with power to search out, social data about the population of the title, and honour of King of Ireland…… after the order of martial law, all area and the reality of their lives in 16th .... and that his majestie, his heyres and disorders committed in the county, and Carloviana 2017 Collection of Cess_Layout 1 07/10/2016 19:46 Page 2

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on finding any persons to be felons, Controversy’ of 1576. This was caused Peter Carew’s land claims in Carlow and rebels, enemies, or other notorious evil- by Sidney’s plans to reform cess and led Meath, which was a major factor in the doers, to punish them by death or to serious resistance to his proposals both rebellion of the Earl’s brothers in 1569. otherwise, observing however, in all in the Pale and in the Dublin For his part Sidney grumbled that points the instructions of the lord administration. It ultimately led to Ormond persecuted him ‘with unjust and justice’5. Another legal device used by Sidney’s recall in 1578. Edmund untrue informations, alleging that his the administration was the granting of Tremayne, who had been Chief Secretary people could have no justice’14 and that pardons. These were frequently used to of Ireland until March 1571, wrote that he was his ‘professed foe’ acting provide post facto protection for the ‘the burden of the cess is chiefly grievous ‘sometimes with clamour but oftener overzealous application of powers and it to the tenants. The landlords sitting so with whispering’15. is interesting that Hartpole received a well and so wealthy as they never did in pardon on 31 October 1573 just after the time past for they have their rents agreed Ormond’s complaint also should be period of the complaint6. To illustrate the and the tenant being bound to discharge viewed in the context of the concession effect of such instruments it is useful to all burdens’12. granted in June 1569 by the Queen in examine an earlier Hartpole pardon return for his agreement to abolish Coign which indemnified him for acts The complaint against Hartpole arose out and Livery, that he was ‘to be exempted committed ‘in the execution of martial of his activities on the Carlow lands of from all cesses and impositions on his law, during which they may have Thomas Butler, the Earl of Ormond in the own lands and manors, save the Queen’s offended, without malice, against the period 1569 – 1571. It is interesting that subsidy, in the counties of Kilkenny and rigor of the laws’7. Describing this the complaint occurred just after the Tipperary’16. In response Sydney stated system Rapple concludes that ‘English ending of the rebellion by Ormond’s he had no objections to this exemption perpetrators of martial-law abuses were brothers. Hartpole in his capacity as a for Kilkenny and Tipperary but worried as least as likely as the most well- local military leader opposed the revolt ‘if this is granted for his lands within the connected Irishman to receive an official and was a witness to the submission of Pale, other landowners will look for the pardon wiping away their indiscretions’8. its leader, Sir Edmund Butler. Ormond same privileges’17. However Sidney’s played a key role in diffusing the revolt departure on the 25th of March 1571 left The granting of such untrammelled and severely punishing some of its Lord Justice (later Lord Deputy) Sir powers to locally based officials, participants (but not his brothers who William FitzWilliam18 in charge of the whoseholdings had been seized from were treated leniently) and in making the administration. Ormond may have local landholders, coupled with a general complaint he may have been attempting caused the complaint to be made at this drive for self-enrichment among English to strengthen his position by an assertion time in the expectation of a sympathetic officials in Ireland, was a recipe for of the rights and independence of hearing from Fitzwilliam who ‘main- trouble. An almost contemporary account his Lordship. tained that Ormonde’s presence was the from the period says that Escheators, best guarantee for the peace of the South Sheriffs and Clerks ‘doe daylye cheate of Ireland, and most of the Dublin and juggle away the inheritance of the officials were of the same opinion’19. subiectes of that kingdome’9. A more modern analysis by Hammer10 identifies ‘the chronic corruption of English military officers in Ireland’ who were ‘determined to squeeze the maximum financial benefit’ from their posts as the cause of low morale and desertion among troops and a major obstacle to the full extension of English authority and control in Ireland The cessing of Carlow The most frequent complaint that emerges in this period was about Cess11. Cess was a term for the controversial Sidney had a fractious relationship with levy imposed to fund the maintenance of Ormond during his deputyship. Ormond garrisons in Ireland through imposing the resented Sidney’s efforts at reform and obligation of victualling and billeting the was in Edward’s view ‘alarmed by soldiers on a local area. It was a Sidney’s penchant for high-handed simmering problem throughout this arbitrary rule, for government that period as successive Lord Deputies used operated outside the common law and Thomas Butler, from Graves, J., The it to supplement the meagre budgets drew heavily on the use (and abuse) of Taking of the Earl of Ormonde, A.D. allocated by London to maintain the 13 the royal prerogative’ . In particular 1600, JKSEAS, Vol 3, No 2 (1861) administration and led to the ‘Cess Ormond criticised Sidney’s support of Sir Carloviana 2017 Collection of Cess_Layout 1 07/10/2016 19:46 Page 3

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Ormond’s Men said manor’ for 21 years30. His wife lieutenants who commanded groups of Margaret was an O’Byrne of Portrushin men under his authority. Owen Dowlagh The witness statements in the complaint and her brother Hugh Geangach O’Byrne O’Byrne (Hartpole’s brother in law and were recorded by two of Ormond’s was an ally of Sir Edmund Butler. Hugh a member of the Gabhal t’Siomon or trusted men, Patrick Gough and Walter Geangach would be granted the lease of Coulteman sept of the O’Byrnes) is Archer Jnr., under a written instruction of the Manor of Clonmore in February named as Hartpole’s Sergerant33. Ormond dated 21 August 1571. 157531. Grace died in 1605 and was O’Byrne lived in Tinryland and his name buried in Baltinglass Abbey where the is linked with Hartpole until at least Gough was an Alderman of the City of top of his altar tomb remains. It is 1584. He is referred to in three pardons Dublin at this time. He had served as inscribed ‘Here lies that noble and as: ‘Owen Dowlaghe, of Sheriff of Dublin in 1560 and would be 34 20 illustrious man, James Grace, formerly of Teghenrylamne’ , ‘Ouin O Byrn, of its Mayor in 1575 . He was witness to a 35 21 Killerige, an inhabitant Rathvilly, who, Tenrillane’ and ‘Owen doulagh O number of deeds and received grants of 36 lands in Dublin and Arklow from when living in the world, was both Birne’ . He seems to have been 22 particularly despised (probably because Ormond . In the restricted confines of courageous in war and distinguished in the Irish Tudor administration the paths hospitality; but now, being taken from he was primarily oppressing his own of Hartpole and Gough were bound to among the living, he craves, of your countrymen and neighbours) and one of cross and both served on the Commission charity, the support of your prayers. He the complainants, Shane Mac to form County Wicklow23 in 1578. died truly full of days, in the year of Our Gillapatrick of Kilbride called him ‘a Lord’s Incarnation 1605 on the 23rd day common extortioner’. The use of Gaelic Walter Archer Jnr was a member of one of February, in the 68th year of his age. Irish lieutenants by English Captains was 32. of Kilkenny’s principal families, who May he rest in peace’ not uncommon and resulted in a situation were resident in the City since the 13th (as in this case) where ‘the captains and century24. A Walter Archer was Portreeve Irish strongmen seemed to have of Kilkenny in 1345 and according to everything stitched up, much to the Carrigan ‘from thence to the year 1652 chagrin of those landed gentlemen and the name of Archer is found no fewer householders who were forced to submit 37. Hartpole’s band than sixty-four times in the lists of civic to their extrractions’ seems to have been largely a clan affair. Magistrates, as Portreeves, Sovereigns, 25 Gillepatrick Mac Fir (Sergeant), William Mayors, Sheriffs, Coroners, &c’ . He was married to Elizabeth Shee (daughter Mac Fir and Tadhg Mac Fir were also of Henry Shee, Mayor of Kilkenny and members of the Coulteman sept. The member of another prominent Kilkenny Mac Fir name appears on a contemporary family). The Archer family were trusted list of gentlemen in the neighbouring 38 and in the servants of Ormond and performed legal Carlow barony of Idrone Coultemon family pedigree39. Other and clerical work on his behalf, acting as members of the band identified are the witnesses in a large number of legal wonderfully named Maurice Bony documents. Walter went on to hold lands O’Currin and Tadhg Mac Richard. in the areas of Carlow from which the 26 Theobald Fitz Thomas of Lisnavagh is complaint originated and an inquisition into his will, which took place on 18th described as a horseman and servant of October 1626 in Carlow, recorded that Hartpole; this is almost certainly ‘Walter Archer was seized of the rectory, Theobald Butler fitzThomas who is listed 40. On the parsonage, &c. of Tullephelim, in a Fiant of 1566 27 Grave slab of James Grace, reproduced complainants’ side is another Butler Killkroughaghe, and Rathvill’ .Walter by kind permission of James Dempsey, died on the 4th of January 1625 and was family member; Robert Fitz Edmund www.megalithicireland.com buried in the family burial plot in ‘in St. Butler of Williamstown. Robert’s James’ Chapple, in Our Ladie Church’28. deposition complains about Hartpole’s treatment of a number of individuals in James Grace, Constable of Rathvilly, was Hartpole and his confederates the Rathvilly area. As he made representations on behalf of a number of from another Ormond client family, By 1571 Robert Hartpole had risen to whose services on behalf of the Earl complainants he was probably a person become an important local official with of standing in the area and his action may resulted in their description by Brady as extensive landholdings in Carlow and 29 suggest tension between the local branch ‘Ormond’s chief henchmen’ . In Queen’s County as a result of his service. August 1572 Grace received from of the Butler family, and Grace, who was He was Sheriff of County Carlow and Ormond’s man (in his deposition Butler Ormond ‘the house, castle, manor and Constable of Carlow Castle, controlling ‘sittie’ of Rathville in county Carlow, accuses Grace of receiving a bribe of a both his own band and the garrison of cow from Hartpole in return for with the towns, villages or hamlets of the castle. Rahell, Brossalleston, Walterston, ‘concealing of his wicked practices’). Richardeston and Rathdonill, parcel of Hartpole had a number of loyal Hartpole’s Sub-Sheriff of County Carlow Carloviana 2017 Collection of Cess_Layout 1 07/10/2016 19:46 Page 4

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Barony of Forth, Down Survey 1656-58, Reproduced by the kind permission of the Board of Trinity College Dublin

was William Beg. Like most minor kern as given as the ‘apprehension of dozen horsemen, where they ‘consumed figures named in the State Papers of this thieves and other like malefactors, and the country so much that the inhabitants period he makes a brief appearance and therein and all other services to use are unable to pay their rents’. Hartpole then disappears into obscurity. Another themselves uprightly and faithfully, upon and Davells frequently operated in named Hartpole subordinate is Donal loss of such entertainment as they either tandem (as appears to be the case here). Mac Gerald of Moyle, who was ‘captain have or shall have at the King’s Majesty’s On the 1st of August 1579 Davells was of Harpoole’s kern’ and commanded hands’42. Hartpole and Keating were murdered in his bed in a Tralee Inn ‘100 kern and boys and a dozen horse’. contemporaries and held adjacent lands (along with Arthur Carter) by his friend Kern were native Irish light infantry and in Slievemargy in 156343. Hartpole, and godson, John of Desmond. Like most referred to disparagingly by Shakespeare Robert Bowen, John and Peter of the settler families the Hartpoles and in Richard II as ‘those rough rug-headed Hovington and a number of members of Davells intermarried and Hartpole’s son, kerns, which live like venom where no the Keating family (including Robert) are William, married Henry’s daughter, venom else but only they have privilege named in a pardon issued September Eleanor. The connection continued in the to live’. A more accurate account of the 157844, which given the date and next generation when Robert Hartpole period describes them as ‘a kinde of individuals involved may have been (Hartpole’s grandson) and Thomas footeman, sleightly armed with a sworde, issued in respect of their participation in Davells of Ballyhide were leaders of the a targett of woode, or a bow and sheafe the Mullaghmast massacre. rebel forces in Queen’s County during of arrows with barbed heades, or els 3 the 1641 rebellion. However it appears dartes’41. In an order issued in 1552 to Mac Gerald was accompanied on duties they were more interested in seizing corn William Keating for 30 kern for in Rathvilly by Art Duff, Captain of Sir and cattle than fighting and Colonel Catherloghe and Leighlin, the duties of Henry Davell’s kern who commanded a Walter Bagnal, blaming them for the

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rebels’ failure to take Carlow Castle, claimed that Hartpole had cessed the kept all his seized goods. The same fate deposed that ‘the failer of Thomas inhabitants of Forth O’Nolan several befell the labourer, Moriertagh Boy, who Davells of the Queens County Esquire times but the inhabitants neither agreed after being discharged of felony was still and Robert Harpool who promised to to the cess nor were ever paid for the charged 8s in fees and Hartpole also kept assist him, & block it vpp on that side the Kine (cows) or sheep taken. Even the his 3 cows. Barrow they failed of taking the said lowest class of person did not escape his Castle, & leaving Captain James Byrne eye and he took a hen and heap of wheat The most illustrative, and complicated, to mayntayne the seidge on the towne from every poor cottier yearly. allegation concerns what may have been side’45. a scam perpetrated by O’Currin and four Hartpole is also accused of seizing of the Mc Fir family (William, Patrick, Cloaking extortion or garrans (small horses) and hackneys; and Tadgh and Gillepatrick) on Tomoltagh administering justice? holding them until a fine was paid for Kinsella of Kellistown. William McFir The statements of the deponents their release. Maurice Maol O’Currin, a and O’Currin allegedly stole a plough contained in the complaint make priest at Myshall, had one plough garran horse from Patrick Mac Fir and sold it to fascinating and sometimes entertaining seized and kept for 10 days. The reason Kinsella. Tadhg (brother of Patrick) reading and the complete text is given for the seizure of horses was that complained to Harpole. Gillepatrick Mac reproduced in full at the end of this paper. they were required to pull carts of Fir then detained Kinsella and O’Currin. The complainants represent all strata of munitions but the inhabitants disputed Hartpole seized the plough horse and society in the area from cottiers, this and stated that Hartpole ‘did convert fined Kinsella 9s but O’Currin and labourers, kern, freeholders and the most part of the profit for his own William Mc Fir escaped any punishment. husbandmen to clerks and gentlemen; use’. and even includes a complaint from the Idrone and Leighlin - Sir Peter Priest of Myshall. While Hartpole’s Commission allowed him to execute any rebels on sight, he The Carlow lands which the complaint appears more interested in the collection refers to include Forth O’Nolan, which of fines and bribes than meting out any the Ormond deeds record as ‘The barony serious punishment. A number of persons of Forth O’Nolan, an ancient Irish alleged to be, or of having assisted, rebels territory, had in the early times of the were able to evade the ultimate penalty Conquest been regarded as a Norman by paying fines. For example, in acquisition; it had long reverted to Irish exchange for a horse and a guarantee of lords, but the Earl as palatine lord now good behaviour, Dermot Mac Donell claimed to be paramount lord there’46. Enac (described as a notorious rebel by Other Butler holdings included ’Rathvile, Robert Fitz Edmund Butler) avoided Clonmore, Calleghniefelleyne, Kallasne having to answer to the sessions. For (Kellis-town), Powerstown and Leghlen, buying a pair of old hose from a rebel the in the county of Catherlogh’, granted by unfortunate Shane Tommie of Henry VIII in 1538 to Piers Butler in Rathehouth, claims he was ‘delivered to acknowledgement ‘of the eminent his utter impoverishment’ as Dowlagh, services lately performed in the wars of Hartpole and Beg each individually Ireland, not only by the said Peter earl of visited him collecting fines totalling 20s Ossory and Ormond, but also by his son 4d and a peck of malt (valued at 7s 8d). Sir Peter Carew from “The Life James lord Butler, treasurer of Ireland, The redoubtable O’Moores also make an and Times of Sir Peter Carew”, even to the effusion of his blood in his appearance when Fergananim and J McLean, 1857 majesty’s wars against the Geraldines Edmund O’Kelly, Edmund O’Dowran Carew’s Petition and others’47 and 2 other known rebels were released to them by Hartpole following the return Also in 1571 another complaint against Several deponents claim that Hartpole of a ‘plough of garrans’ stolen from him. cess and the methods used for its and his men collected fines and payments collection in the barony of Idrone was 48 for pardons which were never given, Hartpole was also not above meddling made by Sir Peter Carew . This again sometimes returning for multiple with due process. Henry Mac Art of illustrates the resentment engendered in payments. Cahir Mac Donogh O’Nolan Ballintrane and Brian Mac Gerald of both smallholders and landowners by this of Ballintrane, paid a fine but never Kilconnell both claimed that they were obligation. They complained that received a pardon and had to obtain the subject to trials by rigged juries. Mac the cess imposed upon the barony of pardon elsewhere. Callogh Mac Owny Gerald accused Hartpole of picking the Idrone to support and supply the garrison O’Kelly of Raheenkillane is named as a jury ‘to cloak his extortion rather than to of the fort of Leighlin was collected at up deponent against Hartpole and accused minister justice’. But even being found to twice the agreed rate and was not him of forcing Cahir Roe and Donogh innocent under Hartpole offered no repaid even when the garrison had Duffe Mac Lecy Ne Kelly to pay for a protection. Edmund O’ Hea was cleared received its full pay. They claimed pardon they never received. 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Barony of Idrone, Down Survey 1656-58, Reproduced by the kind permission of the Board of Trinity College Dublin inhabitants of the barony without FitzWilliam wrote to Hartpole from Trim about the conduct of officers and officials discretion or equal charge of every that ’he does not intend to lose her in Ireland were legion, they were usually person according to their abilities’49. Majesty any more monies, through his stifled by the intervention of courtiers Carew proposed to the Council that a (Hartpole’s) negligence; nor any further and councillors anxious to protect their payment of ‘100 marks yearly for the to licence his doings. Mr Hartpole will do friends and relatives55’. However it seems barony to be discharged of cess is well to attend his affairs at Dublin, as he in this case that Ormond’s complaint reasonable and if they think it is then the is bound to do’52. FitzWilliam intervened may have had some success. An order barony to be discharged’. This resulted in again in August 1575 ordering Hartpole from the Lord Deputy and Council dated an order from the Privy Council in 1572 to ‘restore the kine and garranes, which September 1573 notes that ‘A third part decreeing that an annual order for all he wrongfully levied upon Sir Peter of the land in the Forth O’Nolan supplies would be made for the garrison, Carewe and his tenants’53; and also in appertaining to the earl of Ormond has that cess would be imposed according to September, when he wrote from been stayed from cess by an order of the the ability of each person to pay and if Maryborough that ‘Sir Peter Carewe has queen’s letters’. However any apparent the garrison received their full pay then complained that you have not restored his success was short lived as the same order the supplies were to be paid for in full. pledges according to our order taken at went on rescind these exemptions, The Council also agreed to consider Trym. As he is to enter into bonds of reasoning that these ‘lands are not part of Carew’s offer and in a letter to the Queen 100l. st. to pay you such lawful duties as the lands which the earl holds freed of dated June 1573 confirmed they had ‘ffor you shall prove before us, we straightly antiquity and this service of defence, the reformacion of the cess of Odron, we charge you to deliver the said pledges’54. being a general service whereunto all have taken order, and caused the same to With the death of Carew in November of such freed lands (of the earl’s and others) be exemplified vndre your Mates great that year and the return of Sidney to ought to bear cess and contribute to this seal of this Realm’50. replace FitzWilliam the problem seems charge’ and Hartpole and Davells were to have petered out with no further ordered to ‘cess the third part’56. However this settlement appears to have correspondence on the matter. been ignored by Hartpole and in 1572 However despite Ormond achieving a Garrett McShane Oge of Idrone Aftermath temporary respite from cess, Hartpole’s complains that Hartpole was again activity continued unabated. Complaints ‘taking of provision upon part of the Writing about the period Hammer states about his conduct were brought to the barony of Odrone’51. In January 1574 ‘complaints to the English government attention of the administration but never

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resulted in any serious consequences. An of both Ormond and Carew. example of this can be seen in the complaint against him by Sir Peter However, Hartpole’s failure to exercise Carew, where Hartpole ignored the his martial law powers to the fullest instructions of both the Lord Deputy and extent wasn’t a mark of his altruism but Council. His relationship with Lord rather a strategy to maximise the potential Deputy FitzWilliam was problematic and for personal gain. He may also have he took a critical view of Hartpole’s understood that the execution of rebels activities and methods. Hartpole was also and other malefactors would result in an the subject of an investigation by Lucas upsurge in retaliation and violence, Dillon (Chief Baron of the Irish making his profitable activities much Exchequer) who in May 1573 heard more difficult. This may be the key to evidence from Donell Emagherie alias understanding Hartpole. He was an Galligowney in relation to ‘certain arriviste settler in an unsettled and articles of accusation against Robert dangerous land, whose primary drive was Hartpole’57. However, circumstances, to survive and establish a patrimony for and perhaps not a small amount of his family. To achieve this he astutely frustrated resignation, eventually forced availed of every opportunity afforded by FitzWilliam to moderate his approach his position to consolidate and expand his and he discharged Hartpole from an holdings and wealth. However any ordered appearance in May 1575 because admiration for his dogged determination Page 1 of the Book against Hartpole he was needed ‘to defend the county and ambition must be balanced against recorded in State Papers. Reproduced Carlow’58. By this time FitzWilliam was his involvement in the massacre at by kind permission of the National a sick man, complaining that his Mullaghmast. His central role in this Archives of the UK continued presence in Ireland ‘increases event (where an unsuspecting gathering 64 mine infirmities of shoulder, arm, side, of the O’Moore Clan was summoned for The Book Against Robert Hartpole and stomach, that I look shortly to service and then wiped out) is undisputed. become serviceable for nothing else but While the death toll at Mullaghmast was Examinations taken by Walter Archer 59 the worms of this land’ . This led to the almost certainly less than other incidents the younger of Kilkenny, gent and return of Sidney in September 1575 and in the period (for example Ormond Patrick Gough of Dublin merchant. saw Hartpole return to favour where he executed over 165 of his brother’s men By virtue of the earl of Ormond’s quickly performed a volte face in relation for their role in Edmund Butler’s revolt in letters directed to us in that behalf, 21 62 to the cess issue and sponsored a 1569 ) the motive of Mullaghmast was August 1571. ‘Petition of the Gentlemen of the Queen’s not retri-bution but elimination and this County’ pleading ‘not to contribute with alone is a more than sufficient reason to (i) Examinations of the inhabitants of the English Pale to the composition place Hartpole in Bradshaw’s minor Forth O’Nolan for cess’60 demon category. Final Judgement Fergananim als Shane Mac The last word (and judgement) on Gillapatrick O Bruie of Ballyluge, So was Hartpole a minor demon or Hartpole can perhaps be left to Richard Cahir Mac Phelim of Ballykealey, faithful servant? Even the opinion of his Bagwell, author of ‘Ireland under the Donogh O’Nolan of Ballintrane, gent superiors was divided; Sidney writes Tudors’ and a man of strong Unionist depose that from 10 December 1569 positively of him while FitzWilliam had sentiment. Bagwell wrote that despite until 21 August 1571 Robert a much dimmer view. In his favour being ‘accused upon oath of having Harpoole of Carlow, gent did several Hartpole was acting lawfully under seized a vast number of cattle on all sorts times levy and take in the name of Commission and his methods appear to of pretences, of forcing labourers to cess of the inhabitants of Forth have ensured a measure of control within work, and in general of every sort of O’Nolan 30 kine and 60 sheep to his Carlow which was not exerted by other violence and corruption……No own use and 39 kine and 48 sheep to officials in their areas (Agard and particular notice seems to have been the lord deputy’s use of which he kept Harrington’s lax supervision of the taken of the charges against him, for he 9 kine and 9 sheep for himself. The O’Byrnes and O’Tooles respectively had remained in Carlow to found a family, inhabitants were never paid for these. led to ‘an inordinate incidence of and to be remembered as a chief actor in They are informed that Harpoole has highway robbery and the chronic one of the most horrible tragedies made an acquittance for the payment extortion of coyne and livery’61) but it 63 recorded even in Irish history’ . due for the cess to the lord deputy in also must be acknowledged that Hartpole the name of all the inhabitants of didn’t have the same intensity of Forth O’Nolan without their consent. interaction with Irish clans in his area of responsibility. He also appears to have Henry O Hea of Olerd, husbandman carried out his duties without prejudice deposed that Harpoole compelled (at least in this instance) cessing the lands

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him to pay 24s 5d Irish in the name Gillapatrick redeemed them for 16 Mac Fir and Maurice Bony O’Currin of a fine for a pardon which O Hea groats. now servants to Harpoole, stole a says he never received. plough garran from Patrick Mac Fir Gillepatrick O’Currin, clerk deposed of the Shanballe in County Carlow in Edmund Mac Gyffryre of the same, that Owen Dowlagh upon the like January 1571 and the deponent husbandman deposed that Harpoole colour took from him 2 kine and still bought the caple from William and in April 1572 took three kine and one keeps them. He also took a plough Maurice. Tadhg Mac Fir, brother to calf from him for the like fine. garran and kept it for 10 days until William made fastness to Mr O’Currin redeemed it for 2s 4d Harpoole upon this deponent James Mac Ke of Rathrush, sterling. whereupon Gillepatrick Mac Fir, freeholder deposed that Harpoole in sergeant to Harpoole apprehended April 1571 forced him and Oghe Mac Cahir Mac Phelim of Ballykealey this deponent and Maurice Bony one Ke, his brother to pay 6 marks for the gentleman says that Owen Dowlagh of the thieves and took the garran and like fine. took from him one garran and kept it 9s from this deponent for his for 8 days and this deponent was apprehension. Harpoole compelled Gillepatrick O’Currin of Myshall, driven to send him horsemeat within the deponent to find sureties to pay clerk deposed that Harpoole in May the same time to Carlow. the fastness money and to suffer the compelled him to pay for the like fine principal thieves to escape without 26s 8d. Gerald Towen of Rathehouth punishment. husbandman deposed that Owen Gillepatrick also deposes that Dowlagh took from him from Melaghlin Oleyn of Rathrush, kern Harpoole in May took from Ke boye Rathehouth 2 plough garrans upon deposes that he being taken by O’Currin and Dermot O’Currin of pretence of the said carriage when Harpoole for suspicion of felony was Agherlare, turner 2 plough garrans the whole country of Carlow was kept in the gaol of Carlow for 3 weeks which were sold for 40 shillings for charged but with 20 garrans and one and at that time Owen Dowlagh, the like fine. of the garrans was detained with him sergeant and brother-in-law to for 8 days and for the delivery of the Harpoole took from him in April 1571 Cahir Mac Donogh O’Nolan of other garran he took 20d sterling. 3 kine and 16 sheep and at the last Ballintrane, gent deposed that sessions he was bailed further upon Harpoole took from him one hackney Melaghlin Mac Tadhg of Kilbrickan recognisance and then was driven to (price 4 marks) for the like fine. And deposed that Owen Dowlagh took pay 40 shillings. Harpoole refuses to that he never gave him any pardon one plough garran and detained it for return the kine and sheep. but he was driven to get a pardon by 7 days. another means. Cahir Rea Mac Donnell of Edmund Mac Art of Kilconnell Ballinesiaghe gentleman and Gerald Melaghlin Mac Tadhg of Kilbrickan, freeholder deposes that Owen Mac Shane Balle confesses that gent says that Harpoole in May 1571 Dowlagh took from him a plough where Gerald was apprehended by took from him for the like fine 26s 8d. garran and detained it for 8 days. Harpoole, Gerald being a proclaimed rebel for the last commotion, and Donogh O’Nolan of Ballintrane, Maurice Maol O’Currin of Myshall, committed to Carlow Castle in May freeholder deposed that Harpoole in priest deposed that Owen Dowlagh 1572 and kept there until his brothers April 1571 took from him by coercion took from him one plough garran and Dalough Mac Shane and Owen Mac and from his man John Roogh for the kept it for 10 days and Owen took Shane were bound sureties to like fine 43s 4d. divers other garrans of the Harpoole to deliver to him Cahir inhabitants upon the same pretence to Rea’s horse, valued at £20 for Shane Mac Gillapatrick of Kilbride, the number of 20 garrans and enlargment of Gerald. husbandman deposes that Owen detained the same in like manner. Dowlagh a common extortioner and John O’Kelly of Kellistown horseman brother in law to Harpoole on 6 Brian Mac Gerald of Kilconnell, deposes that Harpoole about 12 July March 1570 by colour of certain husbandman deposed that Robert 1571 apprehended Fergananim and carriage in carts of certain munition Harpoole seized all his goods upon Edmund O’Kelly his brother, and to be carried to the west did cess suspicion that Mac Gerald should Edmund O’Dowran with 2 other upon the inhabitants 20 garrans commit felony and after by verdict of known rebels for certain robberies being but a small portion of the 12 men appointed by Harpoole and kept them in Carlow Castle for country of Carlow and did convert (rather to cloak his extortion than to one night and the next day after a the most part of the profit to his own minister justice) this deponent was parley with the rest of the O’Mores use and amongst the rest took 2 taxed to pay 46s 8d. and restitution made of a plough of plough garrans from this deponent garrans which were stolen from and did the same at Carlow in his Tomoltagh Kinsela of Kellistown, Harpoole, he suffered them to go at own plough [sic] 8 days until Mac husbandman deposes that William liberty. 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divers others depose that Harpoole kern and boys and a dozen horse with Edmund O’Nolan of Killeane, kern exacts of them a hen of every poor Art Duff, captain of Mr Davells’s kern deposed that William Beg, sub-sheriff cottier and a heap of wheat of every twice continued in the manor or to Mr Harpoole took from him a cow plough yearly. lordship of Rathvilly spending meat for pretence of a fine of pardon which and drink therein and took a levy of he never procured. Donogh Mac Ke with divers others meat for every meal, a groat for every deposes that Owen Dowlagh, servant kern and 2 white groats for every boy. Gerald Tonnue of Rathehouth, and brother in law to Harpoole and They consumed the country so much husbandman deposes that William Tadhg Mac Richard servant, took that the inhabitants are unable to pay Beg, sub-sheriff to Harpoole took for from them twelve months ago 10 kine their rents. pretence of serving a writ and in the name of cess. discharging him thereof, 14s 3d William Barret of Ballyrichard in the sterling. William O’Nolan of Killenbride, gent lordship of Rathvilly, husbandman deposes that William Beg of Carlow deposes that Robert Harpoole, sheriff Jowan Ny Worroghe of Killenbride, sub-sheriff upon pretence of a fine for compounded with him for 7 marks widow deposes that William Beg on 6 a pardon took from Walter Mac and a hackney (price 8 marks) that he June 1570 came to Killenbride and Turlough in April 1571 and from should not be impeached for felony with force took a cow and a heifer Shane Kinsela, labourers, 2 kine. whereof he had been impeached. And from her and compelled her to pay this deponent rather than he should 13s 4d upon pretence of a pardon Harpoole also, after apprehending be put in trouble, albeit guiltless of which she never sought and in Oweny O’Ryan, son in law to that fact yet being taken by Harpoole November he took from David Mac William, about Christmas last put for that cause consented to give him Ke her son in law for the like cause, him in prison in Carlow and kept him payments aforesaid and upon 3 kine and a heifer to Harpoole’s use. there until William redeemed him payment was discharged. He also from Harpoole for 6 kine and 9 paid 20 shillings to Theobald Fitz Callogh Mac Owny O’Kelly of shillings for fees of the gaol. Thomas of Lesaeveagh horseman, Rahnid Kelleane deposes that servant to Harpoole for his further Harpoole did with great force compel Shane Tommie of Rathehouth, deliverance and he deposes that Cahir Roe and Donogh Duffe Mac labourer says that on 3 June 1571, William Beg, the sub-sheriff must Lecy Ne Kelly, kern to pay 26s 8d and Owen Dowlagh, servant to Harpoole have of him a cow or a garran 2 kine for the said pardon which they came to him and apprehended him besides 2s 6d paid him for his fees. never had in May 1572. upon pretence that in the commotion time he should have bought of one of Robert Fitz Edmund Butler of Shane Roe of Killenbride, the rebels a pair of old hose for a Williamstown, gent deposes that husbandman deposes that Harpoole white groat and compelled him to Harpoole on 10 October 1570 did with great force in April 1571 for give him 7 shillings sterling for his apprehended Edmund O’Hea, plough the like sum take 3 kine from Donal deliverance. Harpoole took 13s 4d holder to this deponent for suspicion Mac Ke of the same, husbandman from him for the same cause and of felony and then seized all his goods and willed the said Donal to cause William Beg sub-sheriff, a peck of being but some kine, a ‘bircnyne’, a the rest of the inhabitants of the town malt, price 7s 8d and so was this pan and certain wool and household to be contributors to the same deponent delivered to his utter stuff. Edmund was committed to ward extortion. impoverishment. until he was quit of felony by inquest taken before the sheriff and Fergananim Mac Gillapatrick and Henry Mac Art of Ballintrane says discharged, paying 10s for his fees divers others of the said inhabitants that Harpoole upon pretence that this but Harpoole still detains his goods. depose that Harpoole cessed the deponent bought 2 lambs of the rebels Robert also deposes that Harpoole inhabitants with strange kerne taking apprehended him and by inquest of about the same time came to every meal for every kern, 2 white 12 men commonly appointed by Williamstown and apprehended for groats and for every boy a white Harpoole to colour his extortion, he suspicion of felony Moriertagh Boy, groat with such meat and drink as was assessed to pay Harpoole 20 labourer and committed him to they can find. shillings and Owen Dowlagh took 3s prison and took 2 kine which were all 4d from him and William Beg. the goods he had to maintain himself Dallogh Mac Shane Balle of Grace’s and his wife and infants. Harpoole, Castle deposes that Harpoole took (ii) Examinations of the complaints of finding no sufficient matter against from him a brass pan to pledge with the inhabitants of Rathvilly, taken on him, discharged him paying 8s for his other inhabitants for carpenters’ and 12 August 1571. fees but Harpoole detained the 2 kine other labourers’ meat working at besides another cow which he gave to Carlow. James Grace of Rathvilly, gent James Grace, constable of Rathvilly deposes that Donal Mac Gerald, for concealing of his wicked Fergananim Mac Gillapatrick with captain of Harpoole’s kern with 100 practices. Carloviana 2017 Collection of Cess_Layout 1 07/10/2016 19:46 Page 10

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he took a mare from the deponent in 15 Cal. Carew MSS, 1575-1578, p 350 Robert also deposes that Harpoole pledge for a noble for his pains. The 16 SP 63/28, no.59 after he apprehended his son, James deponent paid him the noble but he 17 SP 63/30 f.74 Brian and sent him to Dublin Castle does still withhold from this deponent 18 Sir William Fitzwilliam represented where he remains, the sheriff the said mare to his hinderance County Carlow in the House of detained a horse and a hackney of 40s. Commons in the Irish Parliament of (value 20 marks) which James had at 1559; Malcomson, R., The Carlow the time of his apprehension. Shane Enace and Gerald Mac Parliamentary Roll, 1872, p 2 Dowlough of Clonmore, husbandman 19 Bagwell, R., Ireland Under the Tudors, Robert also deposed that on 6 May depose that Harpoole continually 1885, Vol II, p 307 Harpoole finding a stolen garran in spends the inhabitants of Clonmore 20 Harris, W., The History and Antiquities the possession of Donal O’Neill of with kern taking every quarter 8s of the City of Dublin, 1766, pp. 313-318 Lesaeveagh husbandman took from besides the spending of meat there at 21 Curtis, E. Ed., Ormond Deeds Being him one horse (price 20 marks) for the sheriff’s pleasure and taking in the Medieval Documents Preserved at discharging thereof. money for every meal, two white Kilkenny Castle, V5. 1941. Entries 197, groats a kern as often as they come 199. Robert further deposes that Harpoole and the sheriff’s sergeant do so pill 22 Curtis, Ormond Deeds, V5. Entries received in February 1570 a horse and poll them with fines, distresses 233, 192. (price 20 marks) of Dermot Mac and other new found extortions as the 23 Curtis, Ormond Deeds, V5., 263, Donell Enac of Castle Mór poor men are not able to live if Document dated 1596 in Carew Mss horseman, a notorious rebel for a remedy be not provided. 24 Curtis, Ormond Deeds, V1., 78 reward to suffer him to be in quiet in 25 Carrigan, Rev. W, The History and Antiquities the county without bringing him to References: of the Diocese of Ossory, Vol III, p 73 answer to the sessions. 26 Ryan, J, The history and antiquities of 1 Lord Justice of Ireland in the 1540’s the county of Carlow, 1833, p 154 Nicholas Tirre of Crosslow, gent whose career was dogged by allegations 27 Unfortunately lands in these areas deposes that Donogh Mac Gerald of corruption exchanged hands on a number of Mac Shane óg of Mothill servant to 2 For a more complete biography see occasions and the author has not been Robert Harpoole about 6 June 1571 Kelly, J., Robert Hartpole, Constable of able to identify when Archer took came to Croscloth and stole 2 plough Carlow, Carloviana No. 64, 2016, pp. possession of these lands but it is likely garrans of Tirre and kept them until 72-84 to have occurred after the death of Jams a fastness of 20s paid by him he had 3http://www.legislation.gov.uk/aip/Hen8/ Grace in 1605 restitution and about 31 July Donogh 33/1/section/I. 28 Walsh, D. stole from Tirre 4 plough garrans 4 Edwards, D. Beyond Reform: Martial http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~irlk which with 20s fastness money are as Law & the Tudor reconquest of Ireland, ik/history/archer.html yet unrestored. Early Modern History (1500-1700), Issue 29 Brady, C., The Chief Governors, 1994, 2, Volume 5, 1997. p 288 Hugh O’Moran of Grace’s Castle, 5 1829, Fiants Elizabeth 30 Curtis, Ormond Deeds, V1., 232 husbandman deposes about 20 July 6 Fiants Elizabeth, 2333 31 Byrne-Rothwell, D., The Byrnes and 1571 Syme Mac Gillapatrick of 7 Fiants Elizabeth, 629 O’Byrnes Vol II, p 69 Tullow, Co Carlow, gent apprehended 8 Rapple, R., Martial Power and 32 Corlett, C., The Grace memorial stone Dorane Toresoelaght alias Edmund Elizabethan Political Culture, 2009, p at Baltinglass Abbey, 4/10/12, More a notable rebel, for stealing 3 243 http://www.countywicklowheritage.org, garrans in the night and sent him to 9 Unknown, Discourse on the mere Irish accessed 17 May 2016 Harpoole to be imprisoned. Being in of Ireland, Transcribed by Hiram 33 This is rank in a Tudor Captain’s prison Harpoole discharged him at Morgan, c. 1607–1608, company the request of Donal Mac Gerald and http://www.ucc.ie/celt/published/E60000 34 Fiants Elizabeth, 2103 kept the garrans with him. 1-004/index.html 35 Fiants Elizabeth, 3497 10 Hammer, P., Elizabeth’s War’s, 2003, 36 Fiants Elizabeth, 4321 (iii) Examination of the complaints of p 71 37 Rapple, R., Martial Power and the inhabitants of the manor and 11 For a full examination of Cess, see Elizabethan Political Culture, 2009, lordship of Clonmore taken by Walter Brady, C., The Chief Governors, 1994 p221 Archer the younger at Clonmore, 22 12 SP 63/35, no 21, Advice in Edmund 38 Patrick Mc Firr at Oldtown, Colloghe August 1571. Tremayne’s hand touching cess Mc Firr at Orchard and Mortoghe Mc 13 Edwards, D., The Ormond Lordship in Firr at Killgreney (Kilgraney) listed in Edmund ne Kelly of Clonmore, County Kilkenny, 1515-1642, 2000, p McLean, J., The Life and Times of Sir husbandman, deposes that William 200 Peter Carew, kt., p254. Beg now sub-sheriff, came to distrain 14 Brady, C., A Viceroy’s Vindication? Sir 39 Byrne-Rothwell, D., The Byrnes and for the earl of Ormond’s rent and Henry Sidney’s Memoir of Service in O’Byrnes Vol II, p422 after he had received the whole rent, Ireland, 2002, p 57 40http://www.turtlebunbury.com/family/b Carloviana 2017 Collection of Cess_Layout 1 07/10/2016 19:46 Page 11

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unburyfamily_lisnavagh/bunburyfamily_ 48 Carew’s successful ancestral claim of 57 Carte Mss, Vol. 4, 1570-1574, p 72 lisnavagh_williamI.html the Barony in 1568 had contributed to the 58 Fiants Elizabeth, 2586 41 Dymmok, J., A Treatise of Ireland, Butler brother’s rebellion of 1569. Ciaran 59 Bagwell, R., Ireland Under the Tudors, c.1600, Brady describes him as ‘the leading 1885, Vol II, p 299 http://www.ucc.ie/celt/published/E59000 opponent of the government’s attempts 60 SP 63/62 f.200 0-001/index.html to impose cess in Carlow’. He died in 61 Brady, C., The Chief Governors, 1994, 42 Carew Mss, MS 635, p 92a November 1575. p 278 43 Fiants Elizabeth, 533, 534 49 SP 63/35 f.56 62 Edwards, D., The Butler Revolt of 44 Fiants Elizabeth, 3497 50 Hooker, J., The Life and Times of Sir 1569, Irish Historical Studies, Vol. 28, 45 TCD, 1641 Depositions Project, online Peter Carew, p 272 No. 111 (May, 1993), pp. 228-255 transcript January 1970 51 Carew Mss 605, p 21 63 Bagwell, R., Ireland Under the Tudors, [http://1641.tcd.ie/deposition.php?depID 52 Carte Mss, Vol. 4, 1570-1574, p 93 1885, Vol II, p 229 ] accessed 53 Cal Carew MSS, 1575-1588, p 22 64 SP 63/33 f.85 Saturday 07 May 2016 10:29 AM 54 Carew Mss, MS605, p 50 46 Curtis, Ormond Deeds, V5., Preface 55 Hammer, P., Elizabeth’s War’s, 2003, 47 Carte, T., The Life of James Duke of p 71 Ormond, 1851, Ixxxix 56 SP 63/42 f.54

Final Page of the Book against Hartpole recorded in State Papers. Reproduced by kind permission of the National Archives of the UK

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Remembering James Connor A forgotten Carlow casualty of the Easter Rising, 1916 Dr Shay Kinsella

Introduction lunchtime concert in the Town Hall. It sleeves rolled right up to his shoulder, was the last time she ever spoke to her holding his hands as if dripping while he Midnight on Montgomery Street, Easter husband in their home. That evening a watched a figure on a cot.’vi Monday 1916. friend of his called into the house to explain to her that James had in fact taken As the clock ticked towards midnight in three people up to the city in his motor her home on Montgomery Street in Car- and that she was not to worry: he would low town, Mrs Eleanor Connor grew ever leave them down on the outskirts and re- more anxious about her husband, James.i turn home without delay. He had still not returned from his motoring trip to Dublin and rumours of trouble They had been married almost eleven in the capital had already reached his years and their union was a very happy hometown that evening. One local man one. He called her Ellie; she called him had managed to make his way out of the Jim. Their five young children, all under city on a bicycle and created a buzz of the age of nine, slept soundly upstairs, conversation on Carlow’s streets that unaware of their mother’s worries that evening with his claim that ‘the streets of night. She tried not to think too much Dublin are a battlefield’.ii The non- about how they would be affected should arrival of the evening train from Kings- something have happened to their father. bridge to Carlow served only to heighten She took enormous pleasure in nurturing anxieties and made Eleanor even more Jim’s relationship with their daughters nervous for her husband’s welfare.iii He and son and took especial joy in observ- was usually so solid and dependable in ing him in his fatherly role. It was a his timekeeping —the quintessential fas- relationship she had never experienced tidious businessman — and to calm her- herself: her own father had died of pneu- self, she repeated her expectation that he monia in the same year that she was would return at any minute. However, born.iv As her vigil continued, ‘Bill the James Connor with his wife Eleanor, with no sight or sound of his Ford car baby’ as she called him (her youngest and their second daughter, Bertha, turning for home into Montgomery child, not yet two) began to cry and taken c. 1910. Street, it was becoming abundantly clear Eleanor went upstairs to comfort him.v (Courtesy of Alan Winter) that something had happened. She had no intention of going to sleep until Jim returned but to soothe the child, Earlier that day, James had agreed to she lay beside him on the bed. There she When she eventually woke up, the night drive a friend back to his job in Dublin, drifted into a fitful sleep and experienced was over and the light of Easter Tuesday having spent the Easter break with rela- a most terrifying and lifelike dream, a morning was pouring into the bedroom. tives in Carlow. His papers and the vivid premonition that was to remain Carlow town was a picture of peace out- account books of Clogrennane Lime with her for the rest of her life: side her windows but her husband had Works still lay open across the dining still not returned. She glanced anxiously room table where he and his secretary ‘I had a vision of people being carried in at the child that lay asleep beside her, and had been working earlier that morning. and out, wounded, but then it changed to she thought also of the unborn child in For some inexplicable reason, Eleanor an operating room with instruments her womb, due in six months time. Connor was uneasy about the trip to the mounted on wheels - all things I had capital from the outset and had advised never seen in my life - and in the centre What had happened to their father? What her husband strongly against it. That was of the room, a doctor was standing. He had happened to Jim? in the morning, before she left for a had his hands washed and he had his * * * * *

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death, with the help of his Griffith’s Valuation of 1852 shows that widow’s recollections and the James Connor held a substantial farm of emergence of a significant over 53 acres in Clogrennane, and that body of family records, the his tenancy on the Rochfort estate may story of James Connor can have involved some herding duties for now be presented for posterity: his landlord.xii On this holding, the old Carlow’s only civilian casualty schoolmaster raised a family of eleven of the Easter Rising of 1916.vii children. His fifth son was born in June of 1853 and was given the traditional The Connors of Clogrennane family name of Abner. In a household where literacy and education were obvi- By 1916, the Connor family ously held in high regard, Abner Connor had been resident in Carlow (father of our subject) was probably for several generations, dating brought up with expectations to look back to the early 1800s. It is beyond the land for his own future occu- Montgomery Villa, the former Connor family home widely believed that the family pation. By his early twenties, he had on Montgomery street, Carlow migrated to Carlow from secured a prestigious white-collar posi- another county: oral evidence tion as an agent for the Barrow Naviga- within the family suggested tion Company, in charge of monitoring Events and publications in this centenary origins in Cork, while a newspaper clip- and processing the commercial barge year have explored the heroism and self- ping (following James’s death) men- traffic on the river, which at that time was lessness of those Carlovians who pursued tioned ties to Co. Wexford.viii In any a very substantial and demanding busi- the dream of Irish independence during case, members of the family had settled ness. As a twenty-five year old whose Easter Week 1916. The deeds of Michael in the Clogrennane area by the second star was in the ascendant, he married a O’Hanrahan, Thomas Traynor and Fr. Al- decade of the nineteenth century. In local farmer’s daughter, eighteen year old bert Bibby and the tragic death of Nurse 1844, James Connor (grandfather of our Marianne Roche of Milford in Cloydagh Margaret Kehoe have rightly formed the subject, for whom he was named) was a church on 31 October 1878.xiii In addi- core of local commemorations and the tenant farmer on the Rochfort landed es- tional to his professional duties, Abner enthusiasm with which the centenary tate when he married local girl Mary also maintained his links with the land events have been greeted locally bodes Anne Bolton. It is believed that he was and paid his landlord Horace Rochfort an very well for a dignified and meaningful the same ‘James Connor’ who had been annual rent of almost £20 for a holding engagement with our revolutionary past listed as the schoolmaster of the Protes- in Clogrennane up to 1888.xiv in Carlow. Encouragingly, Carlow’s his- tant school in the area in the autumn of torical fraternity has been busy at work, 1824 where he educated 45 local chil- Following their marriage, Abner and harvesting new Rising-related gems from dren, boys and girls, both Protestant and Marianne Connor lived in a house on the the vast quantities of archives now avail- Catholic.ix The schoolhouse was a small Athy Road in Carlow town. Their eldest able— perhaps most prominently the one, located just above the famous lime- child, James Connor was born there on story of Friarstown woman, Brede Con- stone quarry of Clogrennane in the vil- 11 October 1879. At some point after nolly who was present in the GPO during lage of Raheendoran. James Connor James’s birth, it would appear that Abner Easter week. Such local individuals have enjoyed a salary of over £14 a year and Connor (up to this point a member of the begun to be given due (if belated) recog- farmed a garden of 2 acres attached to the Church of Ireland) decided that his fam- nition for their efforts in the cause of Irish school. In subsequent years, frequent ily should join Carlow’s small Methodist freedom. However, research has also blasting at the quarry became a matter of congregation. This conversion may yielded stories of Carlow natives who concern for the building and the well- explain the fact that James Connor was were caught up in the doings of that week being of those inside it and it was relo- not baptised into that church until 9 June outside of rebel circles, the story of cated to safer territory beside St. John’s 1885, at the age of five, probably in the James Connor foremost among them. Church in Cloydagh at some point after old Wesleyan chapel on Meeting House His dramatic, intriguing and moving 1827.x It is unclear how long James Con- Lane (now Charlotte Street).xv From this story has been all but forgotten in the nor continued to teach, but he occupied time onwards, the Connor family were county and was in danger of being lost. himself primarily as a farmer by the time firmly entrenched in the local Methodist In the course of researching the history he started a family in the late 1840s. Church and became prominent members of the lime manufactory Connor leased There is evidence of an extended family of that congregation. and ran at Clogrennane in 1916, this network in the area at this time. One author found that none of the manage- ‘Abner Connor’ (probably James’s James’s birth was soon followed by that ment team, the employees or the resi- brother) signed a petition supporting the of Florence (b. 1882), William (b. 1885), dents of Raheendoran, Ballinabranna or establishment of a female national school Abner jun. (b. 1888), Lillian (b. 1891), Milford were aware of his story, a fact in nearby Ballinabranna in 1835 and John (b. 1894) and Alice (b. 1897). compounded by the fact that he lay in an another branch of the Connor family Some of the middle children were born unmarked grave in isolated Clody ceme- ended up as the well-known lock-keepers in Cherryville, near Rathdowney in tery. 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appears to have taken him), but by the at the time of his mother’s death and fol- endeavours. Undoubtedly, he gained in- time of Alice’s birth in 1897, Abner’s lowed her remains out to old Clody valuable experience by observing and work as agent for the Grand Canal Com- cemetery in the family heartland of Clo- accompanying his father in his clerical pany (which had purchased the Barrow grennane for burial— what Abner and organisational duties; he may even Navigation Company in 1883) brought described as the ‘family burying have served an informal apprenticeship the family to live in Barrow House (now ground’.xix Located inside the demesne with him. By 1901 at the age of 21, how- demolished) on the Leighlin road in of Clogrennane House and at only a cou- ever, he was following his own independ- Graigue— the residence of the water- ple of fields’ remove from the lime ent scheme of advancement and was ways agent in the town and previously works, Marianne Connor was laid to rest working as a ‘builder’s clerk’ in Carlow lived in by former agent and luminary on in a cemetery which held the remains of (according to the census of that year), the local stage, Henry Cole. The house many Catholics, Protestants and Dis- developing a wide knowledge of building backed onto the river, on whose busy senters from the locality. As her husband materials which would serve him well in banks the young Connor children spent and children said their last goodbyes at his later career as a lime manufacturer.xxi many hours, providing many appealing, the grave, her eldest son could not have At that time, he was a boarder in the if dangerous pursuits to the young and known that he would ultimately be the home of fellow Methodist and well- reckless. On Monday 7 June 1897, thir- only member of her family to join known Carlovian, Marlborough Clarke teen year old William Connor (the her there. Douglas— a house agent and amateur brother closest in age to James) was play- historian who had been instrumental in ing with some friends around Webster’s The opening of the new Methodist chapel arranging the building of the new lock when he climbed aboard a raft on the Athy Road on 15 April 1898 pro- Methodist chapel in the town.xxii It would which had been left behind by some duced a unique and touching artefact per- seem that Douglas was acting as a chap- workmen in the chamber of the lock, full taining to the Connor family at this point. erone and mentor of sorts to young James to a depth of 16 feet.xvi Somehow, he lost As part of a fund-raising initiative to Connor in the absence of his own father. his footing and fell into the water. Young clear debts on the new church (a sale was A hard worker who was determined to Connor struggled to get out and the held in the Town hall in May 1899), a advance himself, James’s occupational screams of his playmates alerted a young decorative cloth was signed by 183 mem- prospects looked bright, and he enjoyed woman who ran for her father. This was bers of the Carlow congregation and the similar good fortune in his personal life. the lock-keeper Michael Webster, who signatures were subsequently embroi- was slumbering in a nearby boat having dered over by C.A. Bayley. The cloth At some point around 1904, James been up all the previous night on duty — (now in the possession of Avril Hogan , became romantically involved with a a man who had previously saved 28 lives née Hadden) was signed individually by young woman from Rathdowney in on the same stretch of water.xvii When the eight surviving members of the Con- neighbouring Queen’s county. The awakened by his daughter, he ran to the nor family, headed by ‘J. Connor’. Methodist community in mid-Leinster scene and without removing an article of Poignantly, his father Abner also wrote was a well-integrated group and the clothing, Webster ‘plunged into the basin down the name of his recently deceased Rathdowney chapel formed part of the and rescued the lad as he was sinking for wife so that all members of his family wider Carlow circuit of societies. It is the third time’. He dragged William were recorded together for posterity. probable that James met the acquaintance Connor to the lock wall where he was Given the geographical scattering and of Eleanor Sophia Proudman (born in pulled to safety by Mrs. Webster. Web- tragic deaths which befell the family over 1883 and known to friends and family as ster’s heroism was recognised by an the next two decades, their names on the ‘Ellie’)xxiii in the course of his religious award from the Royal Humane Society cloth serves as a poignant record of a observances or while socialising among the following month (the certificate for united family group on the cusp of great the Methodist community. After the which mentions William Connor by change in 1898. death of Eleanor’s father in the year of name) and he also received a generous her birth, her mother Jane married Isaac financial subscription and testimonial of James Connor: 1900-1908 Wilde, a prosperous general merchant in thanks from the townspeople. Donations Rathdowney where the family lived in were received from all sectors of Carlow A year or so after his wife’s death, Abner the centre of the town. Eleanor spoke society— a grateful son and father ‘W. & Connor decided to leave his employment, very highly and greatly admired her step- A. Connor’ listed among the his home and relatives in Carlow and father whom she always found to be kind subscribers.xviii relocate his young family to Fermoy in and generous. In her late teens, she Co. Cork where he set up a business as a moved to Dublin to train as a draper’s However, having narrowly averted one timber agent.xx However, his eldest son apprentice, honing skills which were to tragedy, the family could not avoid the did not make the move and instead serve her for the rest of her life. By 1904, devastating loss of Mrs Marianne Connor decided to seek his future in his native at the age of 21, she had met and agreed the following year, on 24 January 1898. county. Nothing is known of James Con- to marry James Connor of Carlow— a Her cause of death is unknown but at just nor’s schooling, but his intellectual young and upcoming man of obvious tal- 38 years of age, she left Abner Connor a capacities as an adult prove that he ent who offered the promise of a secure, widower with seven children to rear, the received a rigorous and broad education stable and comfortable home and future. youngest of whom, Alice, was only ten which amply equipped him for his future They were married on 6 September 1905 months old. James Connor was eighteen commercial, industrial and economic in Abbeyleix Methodist church by the Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 4

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Rev. Jones Whitla.xxiv The subsequent shortly after these announcement of their union in the soci- incidents.xxxii He al- ety columns of the Irish Times says much most certainly called about their desired social standing and James Connor aside alerted the world at large to the couple’s and explained his sense of respectability, with every expec- intentions, suggesting tation of social and occupational prosper- to his capable ity. Their wedding may well have been employee that he the last occasion on which many mem- should take on the bers of the Connor family assembled to- works himself. Al- gether, for at this point James’s father James Connor’s public advertisement of his takeover of though we cannot be Abner was contemplating a move across Clogrennane lime Works, c.1910. specific as to the the Atlantic with some of his younger (Courtesy of Carlow County Library) exact date on which children. He emigrated to Toronto in Connor became the Canada that same year with his son ancient history when Thomas Thompson lessee and managing director of the William and daughters Florence and Wil- took on the lease. Writing his report, works, he had certainly assumed these hemina; his children Frederick and Lil- ‘The Agricultural Labourer’ for the positions by 1910. lian followed in 1906 and 1908 Royal Commission on Labour in 1893, respectively.xxv This left only James and W.P. O’Brien noted how ‘Clogrennane The owner of the site, Horace Cosby his younger brother Abner as the last was then famous’ but that the industry Rochfort (1877-1957) of Clogrennane remaining members of the family was ‘now all but extinct’ in the locality House was lucky in his new lessee: a in Carlow. and that only one kiln was then in opera- young, assertive, enthusiastic and capa- tion.xxviii From the lack of advertising ref- ble individual who had high expectations James Connor and erences to the firm in the contemporary and an impressive vision for the business. Clogrennane Lime Works press, it is likely that the business was As hard-working, respectable and consci- merely ticking over and that no major entious tenant farmers on the Clogren- Despite the sadness of the geographical capital investment was made during this nane estate for generations, the Connor split in the family, James dedicated him- period. Thus, Connor began working at family’s stock was well known and self to making every success of his mar- Clogrennane when it was in a modest and appreciated by his new landlord. From riage and career prospects. Shortly after unpromising condition, but in constant his time as manager, Connor had appre- his marriage, he entered the employment operation nonetheless. ciated the potential of the enterprise and of Thomas Thompson & Sons of had formulated great plans for its devel- Hanover Works in Carlow, the well- The shocking accidental death of the opment. However, the move into taking respected engineering firm which had foreman quarrier in a blasting accident on over the business required serious finan- been established in 1878. At some point site on 13 January 1908 (‘the most cial clout which may have been beyond in the 1890s, the firm had acquired the upright and trustworthy man he ever had the personal resources of the thirty year lease on the prestigious Clogrennane in his employment’ in Thompson’s esti- old. A large mortgage and significant Lime Works in the village of Raheendo- mation)xxix was the first fatality in over investment were required to enable him ran, the most successful limeburning half a century at Clogrennane, but to purchase the lease and initiate his en- business in the country which had been inevitably led to questions about safety visaged schemes of improvement. Al- operating since the late eighteenth cen- standards and conditions at the site. In though extremely prudent with his tury but which was experiencing several one local’s opinion, the incident was ‘the money, and although he appears to have difficulties in the Ireland of the early most shocking and melancholy accident accumulated significant personal re- 1900s.xxvi James Connor was appointed that occurred in that part in his remem- sources over the years, he may well have manager of this enterprise at some point brance. [...] It had cast a gloom over the received assistance from Thompson at around 1909, at the age of thirty.xxvii His district, and they all regretted it this point; they certainly maintained a appointment is very telling of his effi- extremely’.xxx It is not clear if James close and healthy professional relation- ciency, skills and managerial potential at Connor was the manager at this point, but ship right up until his death. By 1916, this point and attests to the high levels of he was certainly in charge a short time with his clear objective of making trust Connor enjoyed from his employer. afterwards when a strike among the lime- Clogrennane’s products once again burners caused him and his employer ‘a favourably known throughout Ireland as It was a very difficult time at the works lot of trouble. [...] There was an ill will’, the most excellent of their kind, it was when James Connor made the move into to use his own words.xxxi With this strike widely understood throughout the busi- management. The demand for lime had following so soon after the fatality at the ness community that James Connor ‘had been in serious decline since the 1880s, premises, events at Clogreanne seemed spared no expense in perfecting the due to a series of economic crises and to greatly unsettle Thomas Thompson works with that object in view’.xxxiii scientific debates about the efficacy of who expressed a wish to cut his links Indeed, his wife recalled (somewhat the product for agricultural purposes. with the enterprise. It is hardly coinci- regretfully) after his death, that ‘every- The days when all seven kilns at the site dental that he allowed his lease on thing had been mortgaged in the effort to were in constant operation seemed like Clogrennane to lapse at some point get the lime works business going’.xxxiv Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 5

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One of Connor’s first professional ac- and equipped with up-to-date machinery huge opportunity for the business follow- tions after taking on the lease was to set- by Messrs. T. Thompson, Ltd.’, according the disastrous outbreak of Foot and tle the strike action among the ing to Connor’s initial takeover Mouth disease in Swords, Co. Dublin, in limeburners and quarrymen which he had announcement)xxxvii but it was left to Con- June 1912. In notices inserted in the inherited and which was still lingering in nor to see the project through to comple- provincial press (Leinster Express, Irish the air around Clogrennane. In a defiant tion. Perhaps most importantly, the five Homestead etc.) Connor reminded read- but risky move as he set out his stall, kilns were overhauled and newly brick- ers that following the slaughter of ani- Connor refused to employ the leaders of lined which brought them to a capacity mals, the Department of Agriculture the strike. Although this led to a dozen of 120 tons per week.xxxviii An impressive advised the application of lime. To this workmen’s compensation cases over the steel rail network was constructed to end, he recommended next few years, James clearly felt it was carry the limestone from the quarry to the ‘CONNOR’S CAUSTIC LIME, if ap- important to start out with a clean slate kilns in three large tip barrows— an plied in Autumn or Winter would guard and make his authority supreme. The ac- innovation masterminded by Connor your cattle and sheep from such diseases tion sent out a clear message about his himself. According to his wife, ‘Jim de- as murrain, blackleg and fluke, and will expectations from his workforce, and for signed a truck to convey the mined rocks in addition sweeten and increase your the next few years it appears he enjoyed down to the grinder. This truck travelled pasture.’xliii excellent relations with his employees, loaded downhill from the quarry to the treating them well and gaining their loy- grinder’.xxxix Reflecting his passion for Elsewhere, he recommended ‘CON- alty in return. Having set his house in motor cars and bikes, Connor oversaw NOR’S GROUND LIME’ for pastures order, he then announced the changes at the mechanisation of the premises, and meadows in Autumn to remove the kilns to the public at large. Forming investing in a 30 horsepower Crossley moss, coarse grass and fungoid growth a prospectus of sorts, the following engine (230 r.p.m), compressors, stone and to produce earlier, sweeter and heav- extract from the printed advertisement breakers, a 30 foot rock drill and four ier herbage that was richer in colour.xliv testifies to Connor’s confidence in both new lime trucks for the transportation of his own abilities and the potential of his the finished products. He also made By 1912, Clogrennane Lime Works was business, his vision for the company, his many structural changes, such as the con- enjoying considerable commercial suc- marketing capacities and his keen knowl- struction of a manager’s residence on site cess and despite his troubles in earlier edge of local commercial infrastructures: with an office overlooking the kilns for years with some workers, James Connor ‘I beg to inform the public that I have his convenience, or that of his overseer was very highly respected in the area. In taken over the above kilns. They are [...] Matthew McDonald in his absence. one incident in November, he showed capable of turning out the Best Lime Thatch was replaced by slate or flat roofs himself to be an indulgent and generous Procurable in Ireland in almost unlimited on several outbuildings and a new employer with one troublesome individ- quantity. They will be Under My Per- portable office adjoining the weighbridge ual whom Connor felt obliged to sack, sonal Supervision, and I shall endeavour was constructed. The ten workmen’s having caught him drinking on the job on to execute all orders promptly. [...] You houses on site (in two terraces known as two or three occasions. The dismissal Will Not Be Disappointed. [...] My strict the ‘top street’ and the ‘lower street’) caused some tension between the boss rule is — “First Come, First Served”.xxxv were also modernised and repaired.xl By and his workers. However, following Most notably, he made himself the name 1916, 28 labourers were employed by discussions with the offender, Connor and face of the company, offering attrac- Connor at the works. eventually agreed to give him one more tive personal guarantees and entreaties chance and even offered him a shilling.xlv that customers would be well-treated Connor also made a bold and telling It was such incidents that led Sergeant and satisfied. move in his efforts to re-brand the com- Thomas Farrar of Milford Constabulary pany by dropping the ‘Clogrennane’ Barracks to report the following year that His position as lessee/managing director tag— the only time in the history of the James Connor was ‘a most popular man’ at Clogrennane was a great source of company that this was attempted. Show- in the locality’.xlvi However, it was an act pride for James Connor in these years. ing huge pride in both his own abilities of generosity that Connor possibly lived He wanted to be identified with the busi- and in his family name, he publicised the to regret as on the following night (9 No- ness and was very happy to be defined by firm in 1912 as simply ‘Connor Lime vember 1912), the engine house at the it (describing himself as a ‘Lime manu- Works, Carlow’.xli He wanted to present lime works and its considerable contents facturer— Master’ in the census of 1911), it as a family business and use his own were maliciously burned.xlvii The inferno so it is important to take a look at his reputation as an honest, hard-working consumed the engine shed, an adjoining projects and achievements during his and reliable businessman as a recommen- grinding shed, the firm’s expensive short tenure at the helm of Clogrennane dation for the company. In one of his Crossley engine and over 200 gallons of Lime Works from c.1909 to 1916.xxxvi early advertisements for ‘A Big Crop of oil. In the absence of an insurance policy Structurally, the site was in need of refur- Sound Turnips’, he referred to his prod- (Connor claimed that the insurance com- bishment when he took on the lease and uct as ‘my lime’ and offered farmers panies had quoted exorbitant rates), an badly needed capital investment in terms advice about when and how lime should appalled but determined Connor sought of modernisation and mechanisation. It be applied to their land and promised that £120 compensation from the county at was a process that Thomas Thompson it would continue ‘to give excellent re- quarter sessions. In his testimony to had begun (the kilns had been ‘re-built sults for at least five years’.xlii He saw a Judge Brereton Barry KC in Carlow Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 6

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courthouse on 5 February 1913, Connor tographs perfectly captures the confident cessity for work, travel and family pur- stated his belief that the fire was professional aura he wanted his cus- poses, but it was a potent status symbol undoubtedly linked to some disgruntled tomers to invest in: tall starched white and allowed him to express his youthful employee, following the dismissal of the collars covering his neck, impressive energy on the road. ‘Ford’ appears to drunken worker. However, despite his suits adorned with handkerchiefs, hair have been his manufacturer of choice and suspicion of two men in particular, Con- neatly parted and combed. His handlebar we know that on least at least one occa- nor clearly did not want to fuel tensions moustache developed into a full beard as sion, he purchased a vehicle from their by naming individuals in court; he the years went on, and he found that he agents, James Khan & Son in Tullow.lii It merely sought financial compensation. needed a pair of spectacles full-time. The is perhaps also worth noting that his men- He gave evidence that on the night of 9 images reflect all the hallmarks of the tor Thomas Thompson also acted as a November 1912, the site was locked up upwardly mobile middle classes of pre- Ford agent at this time.liii It represented a and ‘the place and property were left revolutionary Ireland. By 1911, Connor significant investment: a five passenger secure by the men in charge, and that had moved his family into 26 Mont- touring car like the one Connor owned shortly before midnight a flame of fire gomery Street in Carlow town.xlix It was cost £185 in 1916.liv It was a matter of was seen issuing from the petroleum a quiet residential street where the Con- pride for James Connor to be in a position tank, which spread to the engine house, nors’ neighbours included engineers, to travel in it on the dusty roads to resulting in the complete destruction of printers, asylum attendants as well as Clogrennane every day, where it the property.’xlviii grooms and shopkeepers. The fact that undoubtedly gathered a film of lime the house was a very short distance from before he returned to town every evening. His overseer Matthew McDonald and the Methodist chapel may have been a another employee James Lalor testified factor in the Connors’ choice of home, It was also a pursuit which occasioned that all fires in the sheds had been extin- but choosing to live away from his place him some not insignificant trouble in the guished when they closed up the plant at of industry is also indicative of James years before 1916. On 12 April 1912, 4.30pm on the evening in question. Connor’s social sense of self. The house Connor left the lime works at around Many Raheendoran residents were was commodious, an impressive eight- 7.30 in the evening to return home to woken up around midnight and observed roomed late-Georgian townhouse with a Montgomery Street.lv It was getting dark ‘a solid wall of fire’ at the plant which fanlight above its doorway, fronted by a but lighting-up time (when motorists could not be extinguished by the assem- low granite wall with wrought-iron rail- were obliged to light their head-lamps) bled crowd. Connor’s case was well pre- ings.l Significantly, number 26 was one was officially not until 7.52pm. How- pared and he arranged to secure expert of only three of the 33 private dwellings ever, on his journey Connor noticed that evidence from William Adam, an on the street to be ranked a ‘1st class one of his tyres was punctured which employee of the Crossley Brothers en- house’ in the census returns of 1911. Its slowed him down considerably. At gine firm who noted that the oil would sideboards and mantelpieces proudly dis- 8.10pm, he was stopped on the outskirts not go on fire by itself and that a 15lb played photographs of the family. The of Carlow by Constable David Mc- weight had been lifted from the tank lid outbuildings at the rear consisted of only Connell of the Royal Irish Constabulary which was then opened — thus ruling out a shed and a fowl house, suggesting that and charged with driving a car without the possibility of accidental fire. A man’s the vast majority of their victuals and lights. When the case reached petty ses- muddy footprint was also observed on a grocery needs were purchased in the sions the following month, the policeman fly wheel by which he appeared to have town. To consolidate their middle-class conceded that Connor was driving very gained illicit access to the works over a standing, they named their home ‘Mont- slowly but that this did not excuse his wall later that night and Sergeant Farrar gomery Villa’ and by 1916, the house- neglect of proper procedures on such a testified that ‘there were some bad char- hold was looked after by one servant —‘a dark night. Connor’s usual solicitor, John acters in Raheendoran’. The judge was nice little maid’, according to Eleanor.li J. Duggan pled the exceptional circum- very impressed with the evidence offered By 1916, the house was home to the Con- stances of the case and his client was and came to the quick conclusion of foul nors’ five children. Their eldest daughter fined a nominal 2 shillings. It was a play, ‘that somebody [acquainted with it] Ella was born in 1906 and was followed harmless and minor matter, but in subse- set fire to the place on purpose and in quick succession by her sisters Eileen quent years, James Connor would be through animosity’. Connor was awarded (known as Bertha, b. 1908), Rhona (b. brought before the courts on a significant £97 with his costs and a further £8 1910) and Amy (b. 1912). James Con- number of occasions in connection with allowed in expenses— a ruling which nor’s first son, William was born in his motor car as members of the RIC was unsuccessfully opposed by Carlow Montgomery Villa in October 1913. took issue with his speed, his parking or District Council. For Connor, the com- his papers. While he was a respectable pensation was insufficient and he had to James Connor: the motorist and mannerly figure in Carlow’s business settle for the purchase of a 25 horsepower and social worlds, James became far Crossley engine when the sum was paid. With hard-earned cash in his pocket, a more confident and assertive, even bold Despite such unsavoury setbacks, James business to run and a social reputation to when he sat behind his steering wheel. Connor’s business grew from strength to enhance, James Connor was eager to pur- Moreover, it was James’s responses— in strength from 1910 onwards and he dis- sue one of his major passions in life: his the form of questions, delaying tactics, played all the outward signs of a man on love of motor bikes and cars. A presti- even open defiance— which give key the rise. A series of contemporary pho- gious vehicle was not only a practical ne- insights into his personality. 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self-assured individual who felt entitled papers by Doyle. Duggan further punc- criticism which had been thrown at to drive his vehicles as he saw fit. tured Doyle’s case by producing corre- Methodist Jeremiah Jordan of spondence from Doyle which appeared Enniskillen (labelled a ‘Protestant rene- On 10 June 1913, Connor was charged to threaten Connor with high costs and gade’) by his co-religionists when he be- with ‘interrupting the free passage of the pointing out to the court that Doyle came a Nationalist MP and announced public’ by placing his motorcycle on the worked on commission and had a vested his support for Home rule in the 1880s.lxii footpath in the village of Moneenroe in interest in compelling Connor to pay his Professor David Fitzpatrick has also ex- Co. Kilkenny; he was convicted and duties in Carlow. Laughter rang through- plored ‘the long connection between fined 2 shillings the following month.lvi out the court when it was disclosed that Methodism and Orangeism in Ireland’, Yet again, on Tullow Street in Carlow the car of the prosecuting Council, was analysing the social as well as the politi- town on 29 September October 1914, actually registered in Co. Wicklow! cal links.lxiii Connor’s speed or the parking of his mo- Although the bench eventually ruled that torcycle attracted the attention of Consta- owners should declare and pay the duties Unlike James Connor, who was never ble William Warrington. On inter- in the county in which the car was kept, politically active, the actions of his father viewing Connor, it was discovered that they mitigated the £20 penalty to £5 and and brother in Canada tell us much about he did not have the proper licence to recommended ‘to the proper authority the family’s ideologies. Soon after emi- drive the vehicle and he incurred a fine that there be no fine at all. [...] That was grating with his father and siblings, of five shillings in court.lvii The issue of the first case of its kind, and was really ‘when only a lad out from the County motor duties (licensing and registration not one for a penalty’. It is unclear if Carlow’ William Joseph Sanderson Con- fees) was a very contentious topic in con- Connor was ultimately subjected to the nor (who as a child had been rescued temporary Carlow and many noted indi- penalty, but the case certainly created a from Webster’s Lock) joined the Cana- viduals were convicted of neglecting lot of debate. The Irish Automobile Club dian army and took a course of instruc- their obligations: for example, in October defended Connor’s stance and the story tion at the Royal Military College of 1913 Dr. Edward Dundon of Borris had was debated in the pages of The Motor Canada.lxiv Like his older brother, been fined £20 for failing to register his News journal and in some of the English William was determined to succeed in car.lviii However, while Connor was not newspapers. One journalist there (‘Wan- life: ‘Promotion was his ambition. With alone in receiving censure in this regard, derer’) noted the unfortunate trouble and close attention to discipline and ever he was perhaps exceptional in coming expense the Council had experienced mindful of his several duties, his promo- before the courts in this matter on because of the case and criticised Con- tion was rapid’. Qualifying with the rank repeated occasions. nor’s apparent disregard for the expen- of Sergeant Major of the 9th Battery, sive upkeep of the public roads in his Canadian Field Artillery, he joined a bat- James Connor’s final appearance in court native county: ‘The circumstances stated tery of Toronto’s Mounted Police force took place in June 1915 (just a year in the accountant’s report are not such as ‘where he made himself a host of friends before his death) on charges of failing to are likely to secure for Mr. Connor the in the ranks of the officers’.lxv He served make necessary declarations about his sympathy of his brother motorists’.lx with distinction on the Wilton Avenue car. In court, it was implied that he had Ironically, his love affair with his motors Division police force, Station No. 4.lxvi used various stratagems to confuse the ultimately played a key role in his tragic authorities as to whether he had paid his death in 1916. Toronto was a profoundly loyalist city duties or not.lix The case at petty sessions and has been dubbed ‘the Belfast of in Carlow on 12 July 1915 attracted con- James Connor’s politics Canada’ by one historian in a recent siderable publicity and was described in study.lxvii In the years before the outbreak court as ‘the first case of its kind’. Con- Before exploring the events of 1916, it is of World War I, the Connors made them- nor was charged by John Doyle, the appropriate here to comment on the Con- selves known as committed Loyalists. accountant of Carlow County Council nor family’s politics. As conscientious William became a Freemason and proud with failing to make proper declarations and dutiful Protestant tenant farmers, member of the ‘Black Knights of Ire- about his motor car and for not paying they were certainly of Loyalist stock. land’, the Canadian offshoot of the Royal the duty in the county. Although the Following the deaths of James and Black Institution— an openly loyalist council were aware of several defaulters William in 1916, one Canadian newspa- fraternity with Orange associations. In in this matter, it appears that Doyle chose per reported that ‘the family has a distin- addition, he and his father Abner were to specifically proceed against Connor as guished record in military service. [...] charter members of the Orange Order, at a test case, probably because of the lat- The family was well represented in the Loyal Orange Lodge No. 1684 E.F. ter’s small notoriety in motoring of- Crimean war, and several of its members Clarke Lodge— one of the most active fences. Connor’s counsel, John J. were killed in the Wexford rebellion of lodges in the city. It was a very proud Duggan argued that his client was enti- 1798’.lxi Whether or not such claims are moment for him when as Sergeant Major, tled to declare and pay his duties in any accurate is difficult to ascertain, but it he crossed the Atlantic to represent the 9th county he chose. He produced evidence certainly attests to the family’s wish to be Battery of the Canadian Field Artillery at that Connor had registered the car in perceived as Loyalists in 1916. In addi- the coronation ceremony of King George Gorey, Co. Wexford the previous March tion, it must also be noted that Method- V in Westminster on 22 June 1911. and had duly paid the licence in the post ism has been traditionally associated with Three years later, with the outbreak of the office there after having been served the Loyalist politics, a fact evidenced by the Great War, Connor announced his inten- Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 8

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tion to volunteer ‘for active service in While he was glad of the opportunity to final surviving pieces of documentation defence of his country and the old Union train and instruct 420 non-commissioned relating to his professional life is a post- Jack [...] to uphold the honour of England officers and privates at the Canadian card dated 20 April 1916 (just four days and the Flag of our Country’.lxviii He of- training school at Shorncliffe, Kent on before his shooting) and which bears his fered his services to his old associate of- the southeast coast of England, he could signature. It was a brief note to his col- ficers in the 9th Battery and was accepted. not hide his despondency about the hor- league Thomas Thompson at Hanover His friends, old comrades and well-wish- rors of war. He wrote a letter to one of Works in Carlow town offering a loan of ers threw a surprise farewell party for his sisters in Toronto stating that of the the Clogrennane trucks ‘any time you him at his father’s home on Ontario 160 men who had left Canada with him, send for them’. It was a generous offer, Street on 27 August 1914, the details of only 35 remained alive when he had indicative of the respect and deference which prove not only his great popularity left Belgium. Connor had always shown to the elder but also his committed sense of loyalism: ‘Many were the expressions of regret and At this point, the Easter Rising was only sorrow indulged in by those present, at a matter of weeks away. While his own losing the presence of one who had en- sense of patriotism appears to have taken deared himself to all, by his sociable and a far more subdued bent, James Connor amiable disposition. Anyone coming in took great pride and interest in his contact with Bill Connor found him a brother’s career and welfare. Although true friend. [...] A suitable reply was he had no inclination towards a military drowned in an outburst of applause and career for himself, he certainly valued the with the singing of “Rule Britannia” and cause for which William was fighting. Lieutenant William J.S. Connor (1885- the National Anthem, the party took their His support of the local Ballinabranna 1916), younger brother of James Con- departure, with many handshakes and company of the Irish Volunteers in late nor who served and died in the expressions of good will.’lxix August 1914 (comprising a 5 shilling Canadian Field Artillery in World subscription) can, in all probability, be War I. (Courtesy of Alan Winter) The following day he travelled to Val- seen as a foreshadowing of Irish Parlia- cartier, Quebec where he enlisted on 16 mentary Party leader John Redmond’s entrepreneur. As a memento, the post- September 1914 at the age of 29. At a speech at Woodenbridge the following card was returned to the Connor family height of 6½ feet tall, he made an impos- month in which he encouraged the Vol- at some point after James’s death. ing soldier. His attestation record notes unteers to support the British wartime his dark hair and complexion, his brown effort, with the expectation that Home So what actually happened to James hair and the presence of a plate in his Rule would be granted after the war.lxxiv Connor on Easter Monday 24 April upper jaw. James Connor was certainly not a sepa- 1916?lxxv Despite the fact that it was a ratist, and his support for the branch of bank holiday, Connor spent several hours He left Toronto with the 1st Contingent as the Irish Voulunteers closest to Clogren- that morning working in the dining room Sergeant Major of the Ammunition Col- nane must be understood as an expres- of Montgomery Villa with his secretary umn.lxx By late October 1915, he and the sion of his wish for a domestic defence from the lime works, going over his 160 other men in his battery found them- force, should Ireland be attacked by Ger- accounts and writing letters for the night selves on the firing line in Belgium and man forces. Following the split in that mail. As he was working, a knock came France, where he proved himself a com- movement, we find no further involve- to the front door. It was a friend and mitted soldier and leader. He gave ‘effi- ment of James Connor with either Red- neighbour, a Mr. Belton who asked the cient service’ at the Battle of Langemarck mond’s Irish National Volunteers or the favour of being driven back to his job as (part of the first battle of Ypres) in late separatist Irish Volunteers. a foreman of a munitions factory in October and was offered the position of Dublin, following an Easter visit to rela- Lieutenant ‘for valour and courageous James Connor and the tives in the town (the Beltons ran a shop conduct’. This he refused because it in- Easter Rising, 1916. on Tullow Street). His train had failed to volved a transfer to the infantry, ‘and he arrive at Carlow Railway Station. How- was too much attached to the artillery to This is how we find James Connor in ever, Eleanor Connor was gripped by a leave’.lxxi For the next fifteen months, he 1916: happily occupied with a young niggling malaise against the trip and ad- took only one period of furlough of six family and commercial concerns in Ire- vised her husband against it. Eventually, days and it was reported that he had not land while keeping an eager eye on pro- it was arranged that Jim would drive Bel- been sick once since leaving Canada. He ceedings on mainland Europe which ton, but only to the city’s outskirts— took part in all the battery’s big engage- directly affected members of his imme- which appeared to pacify his wife. ments, escaping each time (including the diate family. In April 1916, his brother Around noon, Eleanor readied herself to gas attack during the Battle of St. Julien Abner (aged 28) was also engaged in the attend a lunchtime concert in Carlow in April/May 1915) ‘without a wartime effort, working in Cork as the Town Hall where Madame Marie Lev- scratch’.lxxii On 6 March 1916, William manager of a munitions factory. The ante’s renowned ladies’ orchestra were was promoted to the rank of temporary week before the rising, James was typi- performing. As she made to leave, she Lieutenant and left Belgium for the rela- cally occupied with paperwork at put her head in at the dining room door tive safety of England on 22 March.lxxiii Clogrennane Lime Works. One of the and said, ‘Jim, I hope you do not change Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 9

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your mind and drive into Dublin, because I feel that if you go, you will bitterly regret it’. He replied, ‘No, I am not going to go’. With this reassurance, she left the house.

Shortly after her departure, however, another knock came to the door. It was a young couple ‘from the country’, completely unknown to the Connors, who explained that they had heard about James driving to Dublin and requested to be taken along. The young woman explained that she and her husband were attempting to get back to their shop in the city, but had been stranded like Belton in Carlow when trains failed to arrive at the railway station. Her pleas were insistent and James Connor took pity on her. A map showing the route of James Connor’s final motor journey Eleanor Connor later heard that she had through Dublin city centre on the afternoon of Easter Monday 1916. ‘begged’ to be taken along and com- The dotted line represents the site of the shooting. mented that ‘Jim, of course, couldn’t turn down a woman especially, and he agreed Castle (where Volunteer Sean Connolly the perimeter railings. Mallin was soon to take them’. He explained that he and Constable James O’Brien had met joined by Countess Constance would not be going into the city and the their deaths only a few hours previously, Markievicz, revolver in hand and dra- woman replied, ‘Oh, that’s alright! If on opposite sides of the struggle) towards matic ostrich feather in her Citizen Army you can leave us down, we’ll find our the Bank of Ireland on College Green. hat, and she was appointed his second-in- way’. James then sent word to a friend Here, the woman said ‘that’s far enough command. It is alleged that she was per- to inform his wife when she got home to take us. We’ll find our way. We know sonally responsible for the death of that she was not to worry— that he a back way and it’ll bring us right to young and unarmed Constable Michael would drive only to the outskirts of the where the store is’. All three passengers Lahiff of the Dublin Metropolitan Police city and that his passengers would have then disembarked with thanks for the dri- inside the Green that Monday afternoon, to make the rest of their journeys on foot. ver’s kindness and made their own way who apparently refused rebel orders to With this plan in mind, he slipped the through the streets. Connor knew the leave the park; he was shot three times in Clogrennane Lime Works cheque-book city centre well and he also made for the head.lxxix into his jacket pocket for safe-keeping, home, turning right towards Grafton left his children in the care of the maid Street and the roads for the south. On The next step was to arrange roadblocks and he and his three passengers climbed reaching St. Stephen’s Green (at some on the surrounding streets to prevent the into his Ford motor car (‘the latest point around 4.30-5pm), he unwittingly approach of British troops. An ICA sec- model’) shortly after lunchtime and drove straight into one of the major bat- tion was detailed to erect these barricades headed for Dublin. tlefields of the Easter Rising.lxxvii with whatever materials were to hand: cabs, horse-carts, drays and indeed motor The journey must have taken in the At around noon that day in beautiful sun- cars; contemporary photographs survive region of three hours. It was a beautiful shine, Commandant Michael Mallin showing the contents of these barricades. day and the conversation in the car prob- (Chief of staff of the Irish Citizen Army Several unsuspecting motorists drove ably touched on the Easter holidays, the and second in command to James Con- through the Green in the early hours of war effort and politics. For some nolly) had arrived at the twenty-two acre the Rising and had their vehicles com- unknown reason as he reached the out- public park from Liberty Hall. Initially, mandeered at gunpoint. However, skirts of Dublin city, Connor decided to he led a tiny force of just 36 men (mostly Fearghal McGarry has written that ‘a sur- continue right into its heart. His wife was Irish Citizen Army) with supporting units prising number of people refused to led to believe that he spotted some unset- of women and Fianna Éireann boys. relinquish their cars or possessions until tling signs of trouble and was concerned They entered the Green, a strategic site they were threatened or even shot’.lxxx for the safety of his passengers. He later which was to be used as a depot area.lxxviii Initially, some expressed their outrage told her that ‘he couldn’t see letting a Their numbers swelled as the hours and but others gave in at the sight of rebel woman poke her way through the streets days of the Rising progressed. Firing guns. Laurence Kettle, chief of the through Dublin to find her home’ and so some warning shots, they cleared the sur- Dublin Corporation electricity depart- he unknowingly drove towards the bat- prised bystanders and holiday-makers ment was one such individual who had tlefields of the Rising in the city from the park and immediately began en- his car seized at a barricade on the Green centre.lxxvi In the late afternoon, his car trenching themselves, barricading the en- on Monday afternoon.lxxxi Initially, the drove down Dame Street past Dublin trance gates and digging trenches behind rebels appear to have acted in a relatively Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 10

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resentment of wealthy Dubliners in what remained a very status-conscious society’.lxxxviii In all probability, Connor regarded the party who halted him as nothing more than troublesome gurriers and youthful hooligans. In his own words, as he later described them to his wife, they were ‘trigger-nervous gun- slingers’. The notion of giving his beloved car up to them was ridiculous in the extreme. However, he almost certainly suffered a shock as well. Earlier that afternoon, James Stephens had witnessed the ‘surprise and fear and rage’ of another wealthy businessman who was ordered to hand over his vehicle to rebels on the Green.lxxxix It is likely that James Connor experienced the same emotions. A press photograph (Daily Mirror, 2 May 1916) showing a barricade erected at St. Stephen’s Green on Easter Monday. Note the motor car In some desperation, he looked up the at the rear. street and spotted the barricade at the far end, at the Harcourt Street gate to the chivalrous fashion given the battle that account of the seizure of another car on Green by the Hotel Russell. To Connor’s was ensuing: saluting drivers to halt, the Green gives us a sense of what prob- eyes, with his considerable building ex- requesting them to step out and on one ably happened when the rebels heard perience, it looked weak and ill-con- occasion, even directing a chauffeur as he James Connor’s motor approaching: lxxxii structed, with large gaps between the cars drove the car into a barricade. How- ‘A loud cry came from the park. The and he judged he would be capable of ever, as the hours went on, they became gates opened and three men ran out. Two driving through it. According to Volun- less diplomatic and tolerant. They were of them held rifles with fixed bayonets. teer Liam Ó Briain, this particular barri- losing patience and were being harassed The third gripped a heavy revolver in his cade was ‘not packed closely enough and by angry ‘separation wives’ at the Green, fist. They ran towards the motor car cars returning from Fairyhouse races fil- the dependants of Irishmen fighting in which had just turned the corner, and tered through from time to time during the British army who were alerting ap- halted it. The men with bayonets took lxxxv the afternoon, although fired on spas- proaching motorists to the dangers and position on either side of the car.’ modically by the men at the gate where directing them to use alternative routes. the Countess [Markievicz] was in com- By the time James Connor made his way According to reports, Connor ‘was chal- mand’.xc Connor made a split-second to the Green, the rebels at the barricades lenged by armed Sinn Feiners. It is pre- lxxxvi decision to try his luck at crashing were determined to take the cars. ICA sumed that he did not obey the call’. through it and he drove rapidly away member James O’Shea claimed to have Subsequent events make it clear that he from the armed rebel group towards this shot the cap off a British staff officer as refused to give up his vehicle and stayed barricade. His attackers were in no mood his motor car was driven slowly along the at his steering wheel, his foot on the ac- to let him escape. By the late afternoon, side of the Green by the Shelbourne celerator. He looked at the group that lxxxiii it has been said that the rebels were Hotel. Other rebels were shooting at surrounded him, guns in hand. As a car showing themselves to be ‘inexperienced tyres to immobilise vehicles they had owner and successful businessman, he and undisciplined, but very keen to assert halted and one man who attempted to was at a significant social and economic their authority’ and Frank Robbins, a ser- retrieve his car from a barricade near the remove from many of the rebels on the geant in the ICA noted how ‘furious’ his Shelbourne Hotel but was warned off at Green, who typically came from work- fellow rebels became when barricade gunpoint. Another man, Michael Ca- ing-class backgrounds. In addition, sev- construction was opposed.xci Accord- vanagh was shot dead by rebels at the eral of the personnel who were manning ingly, they aimed their weapons at Con- same location when he attempted to the barricades were little more than nor’s car. A volley of bullets was fired at retrieve his cart of theatrical props from youths, with one ambulance driver claim- him from several guns, at least four of a barricade and remonstrated with ing that ‘many of them were mere boys; lxxxiv which reached their target: according to rebels. in fact only about one in ten was a man; later newspaper reports, he sustained they had a great many girls, ranging from xcii lxxxvii wounds to his face, shoulder and hip. When he reached the top of Grafton about 13 to 20’. This made for con- The car itself was also riddled with bul- Street, James Connor ran into one group siderable tension when they approached lets, piercing through the back seat and of rebels at the Fusiliers’ Arch, blocking middle-aged or elderly car-owners and the front before striking the driver.xciii In the thoroughfare along the western side McGarry has argued that ‘the young age James Connor’s mind (as he later ex- of the Green past the Royal College of and working-class composition of the pressed to his wife) shots also seemed to Surgeons. The writer James Stephens’s insurgents would have sharpened the be coming from the College of Surgeons Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 11

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and this is entirely possible as Frank his colleagues to send an ambulance. Robbins and a band of ICA men had They were reluctant to oblige, citing the taken over that building in the late after- dangers on the streets but when the doc- noon. From the roof, they observed pro- tor claimed he would then have to bring ceedings against motor cars on the the patient in his own car, they relented. street below.xciv So it was that James Connor, in great pain, was lifted into an ambulance and The Ford car managed to crash through driven the short distance to the hospital the barricade and in dire straits, Connor accompanied by the doctor. Poignantly, sped into the relative safety of Harcourt on being admitted in a feverish state, he Street. However, he pulled the car onto gave his address for the Meath Hospital the pavement a short distance later when register as ‘Clogrennane’.xcvii Among the he realised he could drive no further; per- personal items which were taken from haps his vehicle had been too badly dam- him (and later returned to his wife) was aged. Bleeding profusely from several the Clogrennane Lime Works cheque- places, he stumbled down from the car book, now soaked in his blood. It is and made his way to the nearest house for unknown what ultimately happened to assistance. He attempted to climb the his beloved motor car. It certainly never short flight of granite steps leading to an made its way back to Carlow and in its imposing Georgian doorway; he gripped abandoned state it may well have ended Dr. Richard Lane Joynt (1867-1928) the iron railings but collapsed before he up in a rebel barricade at some location who rescued and subsequently per- reached the top. The house belonged to a over the next few days. formed surgery on James Connor in dentist who had heard the car driving rap- the Meath Hospital on 26 April 1916. idly up the street before stopping outside Although his family understood that he (Courtesy of the Library of the Royal his door. On opening his door, he found was operated on immediately after ad- College of Surgeons of Ireland) a badly wounded man lying on the ground mission, records show that this was not and somehow managed to bring him in- the case. In fact, Connor was not oper- side. He immediately telephoned his ated on until Wednesday 26 April, two The death of James Connor neighbour, Dr. Richard Lane Joynt (1867- days after he was shot. The reasons for 1928) the surgeon at the Meath Hospital this are unclear but it was definitely not After his surgery, Connor lay in his hos- who lived directly opposite. The name of the case that the operating theatre was pital ward in great pain, his family com- this dentist who assisted James Connor occupied. Certainly, the hospital was in pletely unaware of what had happened to has sadly not been recorded and he cannot the throes of several traumas at the time him. Eleanor Connor spent a restless be positively identified; there were as of Connor’s admission— the dead body Easter Monday night and Tuesday, grad- many as 19 dental surgeons living and/or of Constable Michael Lahiff who had xcv ually realising that something terrible had working on Harcourt St. at this time. been shot on the Green had been brought happened. Road, rail and newspaper However, there are three clues to his iden- there earlier that afternoon and over the communication from Dublin had halted tity: his house had a flight of steps outside next few days, there were many fatalities and she was desperate for news. Over the front door, he lived ‘opposite’ Dr. and dozens of wounded were admittedx- cviii the next few days, she heard stories of Lane Joynt’s home at No. 84 and Eleanor — but the operations register shows Carlovians who had managed to get out Connor had a vague recollection that he that only two Rising-related operations xcix of Dublin on bicycles or on foot and she may have been called ‘Robert’. Taking were performed during Easter week. went to them for news of her husband — all of this evidence into account, we can From this it can possibly be inferred that all to no avail. By her own accounts, she propose that Connor’s helper was dental Connor’s wounds were ‘clean’ and that it remained in the dark for an agonising surgeon Robert P. Thompson of 19 was initially believed that all bullets had nine days until she received a note from Harcourt Street. exited his body (even though Eleanor her brother-in-law Abner Connor in Connor believed that there were ‘bullets Cork, that ‘Jim was in the Meath Hospi- Connor was extremely fortunate in his lodged in his shoulder’ on admission). In tal, slightly wounded’. She received the rescuers and could not have fallen into performing the operation on the Wednes- same news when she was visited by the better hands. Dr. Lane Joynt was one of day, Dr. Lane Joynt makes no reference Carlow merchant, William Henry Had- Dublin’s most eminent surgeons, a mem- to a bullet extraction. However, the den— a fellow Methodist and family ber of the Council of the Royal College patient’s wounds certainly required atten- friend. Both men had probably learned of Surgeons, a pioneer of x-ray works tion and his brief notes in the operations of James’s situation from an article in the and widely celebrated for his orthopaedic log give further insight into the attack on Irish Times of 4 May listing the Rising’s work with maimed soldiers of the Great Connor. In the description of the surgery xcvi dead and wounded. Word of the shooting War. He had just returned from work to ‘gunshot wound of R[ight] shoulder & spread throughout the town and was at the Meath Hospital, and when he saw G[un] S[hot] of R[ight] buttock’, it reported in the Nationalist on 6 May, James Connor he immediately under- becomes clear that Connor was indeed where it was portrayed as a very unfor- stood the seriousness of his injuries. shot from behind as he drove away from tunate incident for the town and county: From Thompson’s house, he telephoned the rebels.c Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 12

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sad and emotional reunion: Dr. Richard Lane Joynt. ‘The others just ‘When I arrived at the hospital, I found take them off their hands, you know, a lit- Jim in a state of great excitement with tle bit’, she claimed, ‘but they don’t roll two soldiers, patients, trying to calm him them up. But Dr. Lane Joynt is very par- down. When he realised I was there, he ticular [...] and he always does it’.cii settled down, and I sat beside his bed, holding his hand. Pretty soon he went to On some occasions, Jim Connor was a sleep, and I did too; I was exhausted.’ lucid as ever, recounting his experiences to his wife and explaining what had hap- It was morning when she awoke and pened to him. Although ‘in a very seri- received an unpleasant message from the ous condition’ and occasionally delirious, matron that visitors were not allowed to he was at times compos mentis enough stay all night. to be outraged at the hardship and losses he had sustained and he was determined Realising that her husband needed her to seek compensation from government badly by his side, Eleanor travelled back authorities. Five weeks after his shoot- to Carlow to make arrangements for her ing, he contacted John L. Scallon & Co., children. The two eldest girls were sent solicitors of Suffolk Street with instruc- to stay with a cousin in Ballinaboley (the tions to set a compensation claim in train. Methodist Smyth family), while the three A representative from the firm met with youngest were sent with the maid to live Connor (and probably his wife and with her mother and stepfather in Rath- brother) and ascertained the basic facts of downey. As she was organising these the case.ciii On 3 June, the firm wrote to moves, a note arrived from the matron of the under secretary at Dublin Castle, Sir the Meath Hospital, asking Mrs. Connor Robert Chalmers, explaining that they to return quickly to assist in the care of had been ‘instructed to claim compensa- her husband— clearly having realised the tion from the Treasury for the injuries positive impact his wife had on James’s sustained by [Connor], and the damage well-being. Dismissing her pregnancy done to the motor car’. However, the Press clipping (Toronto Evening fatigue, she returned to Dublin and only other notes in the surviving file are Telegram, 7 July 1916) announcing the searched around the city for a place to handwritten ones by government offi- tragic deaths of the Connor brothers board, eventually finding a lodging house cials: ‘Forms issued but not returned’ and close to the hospital where she made ‘Cancelled. No claim form received’. In ‘Mr Connor employs a large number of arrangements to stay indefinitely. For the the meantime, James Connor had died men at Clogrennane Lime Works and we next number of weeks, she nursed her and the case was never pursued by hope that his wounds are not serious’.ci husband but also walked through his widow. Eleanor made immediate arrangements Dublin’s damaged streets, providing to get to Dublin to see him. A local cler- invaluable first-hand evidence of the As the weeks progressed, James’s condi- gyman (probably Canon Samuel Ridge- scene in the days immediately after tion deteriorated gradually. On one way who sympathised greatly with the the Rising. occasion as she slumbered at the bedside, family) carried her in the side carriage of his wife overheard a doctor tell his his motorbike to the train station, where ‘During the day I sat with my husband interns, ‘She can do more for him than she stood the whole journey on a packed and now and again, I walked to see the we can’. On the evening of Wednesday train to the capital. At Kingsbridge, she damage that was done during the bomb- 14 June, seven and a half weeks after his was met by her mother who had travelled ing. More than once I saw a lorry piled shooting, a weary Eleanor Connor left from Rathdowney to be with her daugh- with bodies of “Sinn Féin”, mostly young her husband and made her way back to ter, and they were joined by a sister of the people, almost all dressed in the bright her lodging house. In the early hours of woman who had travelled with James green uniform. On many of the streets, I the following morning, a knock came to Connor on Easter Monday— her family had to walk between two rows the door. Her landlady woke her up and wished to accommodate Eleanor while of soldiers’. told her that a man had come from the she was in Dublin. On the cab journey Meath Hospital with word that James had into the city, Eleanor witnessed the During a quiet moment one day, Eleanor taken a turn for the worst and they feared destruction on the streets and the young spoke with a nurse and happened to men- he was dying. Hurriedly, Eleanor made woman told of the wholesale destruction tion the terrifying vision that she had her way to him but when she arrived she wrought in her sister’s shop by looters experienced on Easter Monday night. was informed that Jim had already passed during the Rising. Having been fed by The nurse immediately showed signs of away. Heartbroken and in shock, she her hosts, Eleanor made her way to the recognition and claimed that there was expressed her wish to go to look at him Meath Hospital and enquired for her hus- only one surgeon in the hospital who one last time: ‘But a young doctor band. On reaching his ward, they had a rolled his sleeves all the way up in the advised me to think of him as I knew him manner she had described, and that was and I went back to the house, accompa- Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 13

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nied by the man who brought me there consolation but Abner Connor struggled ernment’s attention in London. The Irish earlier as it was late at night’. to come to terms with the deaths — Parliamentary Party’s MP for Queen’s within three weeks of each other—of his County, Patrick Joseph Meehan had James Connor was only 36 years old two eldest and ‘beloved’ sons in two sep- actually been in Dublin on Easter Tues- when he died on 15 June 1916. Ironi- arate tragedies. day and on his return to Portlaoise, cally, on that very same date, unaware of arranged for the transportation of food his elder brother’s fate, Lt. William Con- Life after James Connor supplies to the affected civilian popula- nor left England to return to the theatre tion in the city.cxii He subsequently met of war where his own destiny awaited James Connor was universally mourned with prisoners in Richmond Barracks and him.civ Numbed by the news, Eleanor left in Carlow, all regretting ‘the death, under announced that he was eager to help her husband’s funeral arrangements to particularly sad circumstances of a young affected families in any way.cxiii her brother-in-law Abner (who had trav- townsman’ as the Sentinel reported.cix Although a nationalist, Meehan was elled up from Cork) and William Had- The Irish Times reported that ‘much appalled by the violence of the rising and den. His death notice in the Carlow regret is felt in Carlow at the death of Mr. was happy to take up James Connor’s Sentinel noted how he was ‘deeply re- James Connor, a large employer of case. In mid-June, a couple of days gretted by his sorrowing wife and family labour in the district’.cx Operations at before Connor died from his wounds, he and relatives’.cv On Saturday morning, Clogrennane Lime Works had ceased asked a question about the matter and 17 June 1916, his coffin was loaded onto completely when news of his wounding sought government assistance for the a train at Kingsbridge station and arrived came through in early May and there was affected workers at Clogrennane. How- in Carlow at 11 o’clock. After a service palpable shock there when his death was ever, the Home Secretary Herbert Samuel in the Methodist chapel, he was carted announced. This feeling was shared by asked Meehan to postpone his question out to Clogrennane and carried across the his many friends and associates in the until after a parliamentary recess. When fields to Clody graveyard, within sight local business community. Just five days Connor passed away in the interim, the and earshot of the lime works he had after his death, Carlow Rural District matter became all the more pressing. loved so much. There he was buried in Council passed a resolution which paid the Connor family grave, alongside the tribute to the public and private man, in On 22 June, during a debate on ‘Distur- remains of his beloved mother. which they called upon ‘the Irish Parlia- bances in Ireland’, the Home Secretary mentary Party to use their utmost pres- was again questioned by Meehan about It is unlikely that Lt. William Connor sure on the government with a view of his knowledge of the work stoppage at ever learned of his elder brother’s death. compelling them to pay adequate com- Clogrennane as a consequence of the Less than three weeks later, on 4 July pensation to the widow and orphans of rebellion and inquired about any possible 1916, he was serving in the trenches on our fellow county-man, Mr James Con- assistance which could be lent to the ail- the Ypres Salient in France, acting as For- nor, who was shot down when passing ing premises and its workforce— this ward Observation Officer for the 4th Bat- through the streets of Dublin on Easter mention on the parliamentary platform tery, Canadian Field Artillery. On that Monday on his legitimate business. Fur- being some indication of the magnitude very day, ‘a cheerful message’ he had ther, that we affirm that his was a valu- and commercial importance of the firm previously written to his Orange brethren able life in the industrial world, the loss on a national level at this time.cxiv was read aloud at a meeting of the Clarke of which is the cause of the shutting Although referred to inaccurately as the Lodge in Toronto.cvi However, at about down of a local industry and thereby ‘Rahendoran Lime Works’ in the printed 2pm, he was struck in the back by a frag- depriving over 50 families of means record, Meehan brought the government of a ‘minnenwerfer’ (a German of support.’cxi ment’s attention to the enforced redun- short-rage mortar). Seriously wounded, dancy of 28 labourers at the site owing to he was given morphine but could not be Copies of the resolution were sent to Connor’s tragic death. He also asked brought out of the trenches until nightfall John Redmond, leader of the Irish Parlia- ‘whether these men, who have families when his comrades carried him to a mentary Party and to Carlow’s MP, dependent on them, will be compensated dressing station at Zillebeke. He died Michael Molloy. The death does not for these losses under any scheme of early the next morning in No. 2 Field appear to have been mentioned at any compensation applicable to Ireland’. The Ambulance at the age of 31.cvii He was County Council meeting. clear implication was that the local later buried in Vlamertinghe Military labourers deserved financial assistance Cemetery in Belgium. News made its The sad state of affairs at Clogrennane from the government because of the neg- way slowly across the Atlantic to Abner even merited discussion in the hallowed ative impact of the rebellion at a local Connor snr. in Toronto. A letter from halls of Westminster in the weeks after level. In reply, Samuel lamented Con- William’s comrade Captain W.A. McKee the shooting. Appeals were made by the nor’s death but stated firmly that no com- assured him, ‘You have the satisfaction workers and their friends for assistance pensation scheme was envisaged for the of knowing that he lived an honest clean in getting the plant back on its feet in the affected men. The Home Secretary’s life, doing his duty to God country and absence of their manager. Interestingly, brief investigation into the matter fellow-men. His death, while hard to it was a politician from a neighbouring informed him that nothing could be done bear, was a glorious one, for he gave his county rather than the MP for Carlow at government level and that ‘some at all to the greatest cause this world has who brought the matter repeatedly, least of the men have since found other ever known’.cviii This offered some small doggedly and very publically to the gov- employment’— within just one week of Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 14

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Connor’s demise. treasurer), Edward Duggan, civil engi- her a further lease on the property for 31 neer W.P Hade (designer of the Croppy years at a very generous annual rent of The lime kilns were discussed one last Grave memorial in Graigue) and Ben- just £36. Accordingly, as administratrix time in the House of Commons on 9 Au- jamin Slocock of Hanover House and of James’s estate, she sought legal assis- gust 1917 when Meehan asked the Irish stud, among many others.cxvii A subscrip- tance and was provisionally granted a Chief Secretary, Henry Duke, if he was tion list remained open for several weeks, Court lease on the site for seven years by aware of the devastating impact of Con- receiving well over a hundred generous Mr Justice Ross in late 1916 or early nor’s death on local industry, that ‘the donations in sums from 1 shilling up to 1917.cxx However, as reported in the works have been shut down and many £5, from a range of professionals and Freeman’s Journal in August 1917 (in an men thrown out of employment; if he is artisans (doctors, politicians, landlords, article entitled ‘Echo of the Insurrec- aware that the surrounding districts were merchants, clergymen, auctioneers, engi- tion’), it was noted that ‘as [Rochfort’s] supplied from these works, and the clos- neers, watchmakers, farmers, bank man- estate was heavily encumbered, it ing down of the same has resulted in agers) in Carlow and the neighbouring became necessary to come to the court to inconvenience to the district and the re- counties of Wicklow, Kilkenny, Kildare, get sanction for the reversionary moval of a source of employment; and Waterford and Wexford, as well as fur- lease’.cxxi It appears that Rochfort’s many whether the Department of Agriculture ther afield in Dublin, Tyrone and Lon- debtors and the Clogrennane estate’s will undertake the working of the lime don. The fund (compiled from surviving encumbrancers were concerned by his industry in the district, or, in the alterna- printed lists of subscriptions) totalled generosity, and to safeguard their entitle- tive, whether a grant will be made to help £110 11s— which would have been very ments they wanted the case to be heard on this local industry if some capital gratefully received by Eleanor Connor as before the Lord Chief Justice. Indeed, it could be raised locally to revive she attempted to start a new life.cxviii This appears that their concerns won through the industry?’cxv was not the only act of kindness she en- because Eleanor Connor was never joyed in those difficult months. In her old granted the extended lease and Duke replied that the lime works were age, Eleanor recollected being asked to Rochfort’s attempt at chivalry was not eligible for assistance from the visit Canon Ridgeway in the summer of dashed by his financial embarrassments. Department of Agriculture because they 1916. As executor for ‘The Brown’s At some point in early 1918, Eleanor were a private enterprise. There, the mat- Fund’— to assist in the education of the admitted the impracticality of running the ter ended. children who had fallen on hard times— business herself and finally decided to he was in a position to offer some money cut her links with Clogrennane. By this In her own words, Eleanor Connor was to part-fund the attendance of the two point, a new party was expressing inter- left ‘destitute’ after her husband’s death. eldest Connor girls (Ella and Rhona) at est in the concern— one that was to be at Much of his wealth had been tied up in Mrs. Wilde’s secondary school in its helm for the next thirty years. John the business and he left a paltry £115 in Abbeyleix. Certainly, Eleanor left Car- Hearne (1874-1960) was an extremely cash when his will was administered on low with a heavy heart but with the sym- successful builder, quarry owner and 15 December.cxvi In straitened emotional pathies of her neighbours and friends businessman from Co. Waterford— the and financial circumstances and by now ringing warmly in her ears. modern-day successor of his building heavily pregnant, her only real option firm only ceased trading in 2008.cxxii He was to leave Montgomery Villa and bring The landlord of the Clogrennane quarry, had been working on a project in Carlow her children to live with her mother and Horace Rochfort Cosby was also eager to during Easter 1916 and was hugely stepfather in Rathdowney. At around the assist the widow. Left with no choice, impressed with the quality of Clogren- same time, the townspeople of Carlow Eleanor had instructed auctioneer Robert nane lime. He was shocked by the shoot- rallied together to offer their support and Bell to arrange for the sale of James’s in- ing of Connor and sympathised greatly make a meaningful financial contribution terest in the lease of Clogrennane Lime with his widow. In 1917, with works at to the family’s welfare in the establish- Works (which still had a number of years the site stalled and no solution in sight, ment of ‘The Connor Testimonial to run) and a notice to this effect first he approached Eleanor Connor and dis- Fund’— a fitting tribute to James’s mem- appeared in the Nationalist on 30 Sep- cussed the lease on Clogrennane with ory. On Thursday 28 September 1916, ‘a tember 1916.cxix It ran for a number of her, recommending that she hold an auc- large and representative meeting of [his] weeks, each time promising ‘Full partic- tion on the property. This story is personal friends and townsmen’ includ- ulars next issue’ which never materi- recorded in a memo held by the Hearne ing Carlow’s MP Michael Molloy, was alised. In the meantime, Rochfort family, the details of which are shared held in the Town Hall and presided over approached her with an idea of remaining here by John G. Hearne of Waterford, by Michael Governey (J.P. and Chairman on as nominal lessee which was an attrac- who recounts his grandfather’s first of the Urban Council). Governey briefly tive idea. He felt terribly for Eleanor involvement at Clogrennane, a man recounted the details of Connor’s shoot- Connor, not only angered in a political referred to in his family as ‘Big Dad’: ing and explained their wish to assist sense by the violence of the rebels but as Eleanor and her five young children. A the father of young children himself, he The owner [Connor] had a young family committee was formed which included empathised with the widow on a personal [...] and Big Dad approached the widow many prominent figures from Carlow’s level. He was determined to assist her in about taking over the works but insisted civic and commercial worlds, including carrying on the lime burning business that it should be by public auction. As William Hadden (as joint secretary and and told her that he was willing to give far as I remember, Big Dad was working Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 15

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on a Bank job in Carlow at the time and lot of sympathy for me’. In 1923, she ing in Ireland. was very impressed with the quality of married Henry Mitchell, a local farmer the lime they were getting from Clogren- from Quarrymount, Errill and they emi- Remembering James Connor nane. He also said in his memo that, grated to Toronto that same year (with all when he acquired it, he promised the but her eldest daughter), later settling in Mrs. Eleanor Mitchell ran a successful widow that any of her sons could have a Ferndale, part of the Detroit Metropolitan business as a beautician in Ferndale, cul- job there in memory of their father. I area, Michigan. The couple (who had tivated a beautiful garden and remained think some of them worked there for one daughter of their own, Maryanne) hale and hearty up to her 100th birthday. a time.cxxiii became naturalised citizens of the USA She died on 14 December 1985 at the age in 1929 and voted in every subsequent of 102. Although she led a happy life in Through her solicitor, Eleanor Connor election. Her son William (1914-1987) America, she remained completely again gave instructions to Robert Bell to —who as ‘Bill the baby’ had cried on devoted to her first husband’s memory. sell her husband’s interest in the lease on Easter Monday night— served as a com- She retained James Connor’s blood- the premises and a public auction was ad- missioned officer in World War II. Whit- stained chequebook in her possession vertised, to be held at the kilns them- field also served, as a lieutenant in the and his photograph was mounted on her selves at 1 o’clock on Monday 22 April Coast Guard in the Pacific. Amazingly, bedroom wall throughout her life. In her 1918. The event was heavily advertised Whitfield also enjoyed a highly success- old age, she recorded her memories of his in the local and national press. In a ful career in the entertainment life and death, and often wondered at the notice in the Irish Independent the week industry.cxxvi He was part of the original accuracy of the vision she had experi- before the event, Bell stressed the impor- radio cast of The Lone Ranger (1937) enced on Easter Monday night, believing tance of the sale by claiming that ‘these and received a Theatre World award for ‘my spirit must have left my body and kilns are favourably known throughout his role as MacDuff in Macbeth along- gone to be with my husband, because Ireland for the excellent quality of its side Michael Redgrave on Broadway. He that’s just what happened’.cxxvii Her products’.cxxiv There was a great deal of appeared in a dozen Hollywood movies, recorded recollections remain an invalu- interest in the auction, not least from the such as Butterfield 8 alongside Elizabeth able source of social and family history workers themselves who had now been Taylor. However, it was his debut in Tap pertaining to Carlow in 1916. out of work for two full years. However, Roots (1948), an American Civil War it would appear that the bids at this auc- drama in 1948 that is perhaps most inter- For a century, the only monument in tion were insufficient and that the interest esting. There, he starred alongside stone to James Connor stood on another in the lease was not sold on this date. Oscar-winner Susan Hayward, Boris continent. An impressive grave marker According to John Hearne, he acquired Karloff (of Frankenstein fame) and the to his memory was erected by his father the works by way of a subsequent tender Irish actor Arthur Shields who had actu- Abner in Mount Pleasant Cemetery in where sealed bids were submitted, rather ally fought in the rebel garrison in the Toronto soon after the deaths of his two than the open auction mentioned G.P.O. in 1916. It is unknown if the eldest sons. The text of the headstone above. He bid in the region of £4,500 for actors were on friendly terms or if the commemorates James’s death ‘from gun- the lease and got it for that amount. The topic of the Rising ever came up between shot wounds inflicted by Sinn Feiners, other bids were for little more than them behind the scenes, but their work on Irish rebels’, and William’s death in £3,000. Hardly surprisingly, Eleanor the film makes for a remarkable coinci- France later that same year. Abner also Connor felt she came off very badly in dence— compounded by the fact that had his wife’s name inscribed on the the transaction as much of the purchase Connor’s character leads an attack in the headstone, before his own was added fol- price would have gone to the owner, Ho- film in which Shields’s character is lowing his death in 1940. No memorial race Cosby Rochfort and his creditors. killed. It is safe to say that James Connor was ever erected over the Connor family She claimed that ‘the business was sold could never have imagined such a career plot in Clody cemetery and over the for a large sum of money, but I got noth- for his second son. years, the exact location of James’s grave ing out of it’; her family believe that she was lost to memory. This certainly con- received as little as £750 from Back in Ireland, the Connor family was tributed to the loss of the story from pop- the deal.cxxv represented by James’s brother Abner ular memory in the locality but other Ernest Connor (1888-1967) who lived factors may have been at play: namely Eleanor settled down to life in Rath- for years in Mount Hanover, Carlow and his Loyalism and Protestantism. downey where her second son, Whitfield who was a director of Thomas Thompson was born on 3 December 1916— a child & Co. engineering firm. His son Fred In the years after the Rising, when tri- who would never know his father. Using was a well-known figure in Carlow life. umphalist Nationalist and Republican her earlier experience as a draper’s James Connor’s eldest daughter ‘Ella’ narratives reigned supreme, James Con- apprentice, she bought two knitting (1906-1956) was the only one of her sib- nor’s religion and his politics possibly machines and began to make stockings, lings to remain in Ireland when her made him a problematic case in the and also served in her stepfather’s gen- mother emigrated in 1923. Ella married county story. While the fate of a local eral store on Chapel Street in the village, Mr. Edwin Winter and had two sons, Eric man who was shot in the city centre and and eventually ran the place for a number (b. 1939) and Alan (b. 1947). Alan Win- left behind a widow and five young chil- of years. She found the local community ter, now resident in Dublin, is the only of dren (the eldest of whom was only nine) very kind and welcoming: ‘They had a James Connor’s grandchildren now liv- appears eminently worthy of remem- Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 16

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brance, the narrative possibly became James Connor’s personal friend, William April 1983, in which she gave a further ac- muddied for some when it was recalled Hadden. A wreath was then laid by two count of her memories of the life and death of that Connor was not shot among the representatives of Clogrennane Lime her husband James Connor, and of the events throngs of rebels, but by them on St. Ltd., Derry Dillon and a Connor of Easter 1916 (hereinafter referred to as Stephen’s Green for refusing to hand kinswoman, Marion Mathews. Finally, ‘Eleanor Connor 1983 tape recording’). Both over his car for a barricade. He was not Alan Winter unveiled a commemorative of these invaluable sources have been made a hero of the Rising, but by defying rebel limestone plaque to his grandfather’s available to the author by Mr Alan Winter demands, had arguably acted in opposi- memory on a side wall of the cemetery, (grandson of Eleanor and James Connor) and tion to it. Furthermore, as a Methodist, accompanied by a slow air on the bag- his family. the son of a member of an Orange lodge pipes. The dignified event proved a ii Eleanor Connor 1983 tape recording. in Canada, and the brother of a soldier maturity and nationalistic confidence, iii The failure of the evening trains on Easter fighting in the trenches in France, it rejecting the premise that the exposition Monday 1916 was recorded in the Nationalist became clear that Connor did not share of such tragedies within the larger narra- and Leinster Times, 29 Apr. 1916 (as ‘pecu- Republican sympathies and had certainly tive of 1916 can in any way constitute liar, if not sensational, experiences’). Trains not died for ‘the cause’. Given these historiological treachery to rebel aspira- south of the town (e.g. from Bagenalstown to facts, and the rise of nationalism in tions. It remains possible to admire the Carlow) were also stopped. Carlow from 1916 onwards, it is hardly heroic deeds and aspirations of the iv Her father, William John Proudman of Rath- surprising that his contribution to Carlow founding fathers of our Republic, while downey, Queen’s county, died in 1883. life were glossed over and dispatched to simultaneously acknowledging the Eleanor was born on 10 April that year. oblivion. Even as a nominal opponent of human tragedy of losses of individuals on v William James Proudman Connor (1913 - independence, his politics were deemed all sides, who called Carlow home a cen- 1987), eldest son of Eleanor and James Con- to be of the wrong sort— his story had no tury ago. By shedding light on this for- nor. Much of the Connor family genealogy is place in the dominant political narrative gotten episode, context is gained and taken from papers in the possession of Alan of the county which chronicled and cele- knowledge of the reality of 1916 at a Winter (hereinafter ‘Connor family papers’), brated the fight for freedom. local level is deepened. much of which was painstakingly compiled by his relative, the late Fred Connor of Car- However, 100 years on as citizens of a Following this highly successful pro- low— a nephew of James Connor. maturing Republic, the story of James gramme of centenary commemorations, vi Compiled from Eleanor Connor interview Connor must be re-explored, and this can it is hoped that James Connor’s name has transcript and Eleanor Connor 1983 tape be achieved without in any way prejudic- been re-inserted in the county narrative. recording. ing a sense of national pride or undermin- His story is a direct and significant vii Huge thanks are due to Alan Winter, Eric ing the commemorations of the patriot Carlow link with the Rising, representing Winter and John Crilley (grandsons of James dead. Even at the level of a human inter- the human face behind larger, momen- Connor) for facilitating this research and est story, it has much to offer but beyond tous and inspiring events in our history, making their family papers available for this, Connor’s tale tells us much about but it also recalls the life, work and de- study. A debt of gratitude is also due to Elaine the Rising itself and Carlow’s reaction to cency of one individual who contributed Callinan who first introduced the author to it. As the centenary approached, the significantly to life in Carlow and who Alan Winter. process of remembrance was assisted by fell innocently during the birth of a viii Connor family papers; unidentified news- the inclusion of Connor’s name and the nation. In this light, the politics of the paper clipping in family files, reporting on the date of his death on the ‘Remembrance matter ultimately become irrelevant. The death of Lt. William J.S. Connor in June Wall’ in Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin final word should be left to his widow 1916. which was unveiled on 3 April—listing who, in her twilight years, hoped to look ix Details of ‘Clogrenane’ school of 1824 all casualties of the Rising. Back in Car- on his death as a reflection of the man given in Rev. Martin Brenan, Schools of Kil- low on 9 April 2016, as one of the initia- and not the movement which over- dare and Leighlin AD 1775-1835 (Dublin, tives of the ‘Carlow Ireland 2016’ whelmed him: ‘Jim Connor, you know, 1935), p. 358. programme of events run by Carlow hecxxviii really met his death doing a good x Information mentioned in a letter by John County Council, an inclusive, interde- turn. That’s what it was’. Alexander II of Milford House, 18 Dec. 1873 nominational remembrance event was (Alexander papers, Milford House). held in old Clody cemetery. In glorious i The introduction is based on the oral testi- xi National Archives, ED1/1/34/12b (applica- sunshine, a crowd of over 100 people mony of Mrs Eleanor Mitchell, given in her tions for female national school at Bal- made their way behind piper Paul old age in Michigan, Detroit, USA. Mrs linabranna, Co. Carlow). Dempsey and flag-bearers (organised by Mitchell (formerly Mrs James Connor) pro- xii Griffith’s Valuation, townland of ‘Clo- Ballinabranna-Milford-Raheendoran vided two essential pieces of testimony re- grenan’ in the parish of Cloydagh, available Development Group) from the old kilns garding her first husband’s experiences in at askaboutireland.ie, accessed 12 May 2016. at Clogrennane to the graveyard. Short 1916. The first was an interview she gave in xiii Marriage certificate of Abner Connor and reflections from local clergymen (Fr. her nineties, which was transcribed by her son Marianne Roche, 1878, available at John McEvoy and Rev. Peter Tarleton) William Connor (hereinafter referred to as http://churchrecords.irishgenealogy.ie/church were followed by a prayer from Mrs. ‘Eleanor Connor interview transcript’). The records/details/13f7070023444, accessed 12 Avril Hogan representing Carlow second was a tape recording she made at her Nov. 2015. Methodist Church — a granddaughter of home, on the occasion of her 100th birthday in xiv Rental of the Clogrennane landed estate, Carloviana 2017 James Connors_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:21 Page 17

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1888 (Irish land Commission Records xxviii W.P. O’Brien, Royal Commission on lvi National Archives, Petty sessions order Branch, Rochfort papers, Record No. EC Labour: the agricultural labourer. Reports books, CSPS 1/2267, Co. Kilkenny, July 6957, box No. 6105). upon certain districts in counties Carlow, 1913. xv Connor family papers. On the early Cork... (London, 1893), vol. iv (Ireland), part lvii Ibid, CSPS 1/1261, Co. Carlow, October Methodist church in Carlow, see Dudley Lev- ii, p. 130. 1914. istone Cooney, Asses’ Colts and Loving Peo- xxix Carlow Sentinel, 18 Jan. 1908. lviii Carlow Sentinel, 18 Oct. 1913. See also, ple: the story of the people called Methodists xxx Ibid. Nationalist & Leinster Times, 1 Feb. 1913. on the Carlow circuit (Carlow, 1998), pp 39- xxxi Carlow Sentinel, 8 Feb. 1913. lix All details of this case taken from Carlow 57. See also the notes on the Methodist xxxii ‘Disentailing deed of the Clogrennane es- Sentinel, 17 Jul. 1915. church in Alice Tracey, ‘Story of Athy Road’ tate’, 10 Aug. 1908 (Irish Land Commission lx Surrey Mirror and County Post, 31 Aug. in Carloviana (1953), p. 37. Records Branch, Rochfort papers, Record No. 1915. xvi For details of this incident, see Nationalist EC 6957, Box No. 6105). Thompson retained lxi Unidentified newspaper cutting from 1916, and Leinster Times, 7 Aug. 1897 and Leinster the lease until at least 1908, according to this describing a memorial service for Lt. William Express, 12 Jun. 1897. document. J.S. Connor in Toronto. Connor family pa- xvii On Michael Webster’s heroics, see the re- xxxiii Irish Independent, 18 Apr. 1918. pers. ports on Carlow IGG at xxxiv Eleanor Connor interview transcript. lxii Nicola K. Morris, ‘A rara avis’: Jeremiah http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~irlcar2/ xxxv Advertisment for Clogrennane Lime Kilns Jordan, Methodist and Nationalist MP’ in Cia- Michael_Webster_1.htm, accessed 12 May in Directory of the County Carlow. Dated ran O’Neill (ed.), Irish elites in the nineteenth 2016. ‘1911’ a photocopy of this publication is century (Dublin, 2013), pp 248-58. xviii A photograph of Michael Webster, a scan available in the local history section of Car- lxiii David Fitzpatrick, ‘Methodism and the Or- of his Royal Humane Society award and a low County Library. ange Order in Ireland’ in Bulletin of the scan of the list of subscribers to his testimo- xxxvi 1911 census, at http://www.census.nation- Methodist Historical Society of Ireland nial in Carlow are available to view on John alarchives.ie/reels/nai001667086/, accessed (2012), vol. 17, no. 33, pp 5-38. Farrell’s ‘Carlow long ago in photographs’ 12 May 2015. lxiv Details of William Connor’s policing and website at http://resources.teachnet.ie/jfar- xxxvii Ibid. military career are taken from Carlow Sen- rell/2007/carlow/Oldphotographspurcell/grai xxxviii Details of Connor’s assets at the lime tinel, 26 Sep. 1914, quoting from the Toronto gcul.htm accessed 12 May 2016. works are taken from the auction notice in the Sentinel of earlier that month; also, Toronto’s xix Taken from the text of a death notice for Irish Independent, 18 Apr. 1918. Evening Telegram, 7 Jul. 1916. Connor’s mil- James Connor, written by Abner and pub- xxxix Ibid. itary service record (1914-16) is also avail- lished in a Toronto newspaper in 1916. xl Kinsella, The limeburners, pp 83, 143-5. able to view and download at the ‘Library and Unidentified newspaper clipping, Connor xli Leinster Express, 10 Aug. 1912. Archives Canada’ website at http://www.bac- family papers. xlii Undated advertisement pamphlet in Con- lac.gc.ca/eng/discover/military-heritage/first- xx See the Connor family on the 1901 census nor family papers, courtesy of Mr Alan Win- world-war/first-world-war-1914-1918-cef/Pa a t ter. ges/item.aspx?IdNumber=1129, accessed 29 http://www.census.nationalarchives.ie/reels/n xliii Leinster Express, 10 Aug. 1912. Mar. 2016. ai000573377/, accessed 13 Mar. 2015. xliv Ibid, 21 Sep. 1912. lxv Unidentified newspaper cutting describing xxi See xlv Carlow Sentinel, 8 Feb. 1913. memorial service for Lt. Connor in 1916, http://www.census.nationalarchives.ie/pages/ xlvi Ibid. Connor family papers. 1901/Carlow/Carlow/Barrin_Street/1040623/ xlvii Details of the fire are from Carlow Sen- lxvi Unidentified newspaper clipping on Lt. , accessed 13 Mar. 2015. tinel, 8 Feb. 1913, Freeman’s Journal, 7 Feb. William Connor, c. April 1916, Connor fam- xxii On Douglas’s role in the local Methodist 1913, Nationalist and Leinster Times, 15 Feb. ily papers. circuit, see Asses’ Colts and Loving People: 1913. lxvii William J. Smyth, Toronto, the Belfast of the story of the people called Methodists on xlviii Freeman’s Journal, 7 Feb. 1913. Canada: the Orange Order and the shaping the Carlow circuit, pp 46-8, and Tracey, xlix Details of the Connor home are taken from of municipal culture (Toronto, 2015). ‘Story of Athy Road’ in Carloviana (1953), p. the 1911 census documents. According to lxviii Carlow Sentinel, 26 Sep. 1914. 37. He wrote widely on Carlow’s history and that census, there was only one other lxix Ibid. held a considerable personal collection of Methodist family resident on the street, the lxx Toronto Evening Telegram, 7 Jul. 1916. Carlow-related artefacts and memorabilia, in- Young family. lxxi Unidentified newspaper clipping on Lt. cluding uniforms of the Leighlinbridge yeo- l On the architecture of some of the houses on William Connor, c. April 1916, Connor fam- manry and a portion of a dress worn by Queen Montgomery Street Including the former ily papers. Elizabeth I. See Nationalist and Leinster Connor home, listed as ‘R. No. 2’, see lxxii Ibid. Times, 19 Jul. 1913. William Garner, Carlow- architectural her- lxxiii Supplement to the London Gazette, 8 Apr. xxiii Irish Times, 16 Sep. 1905. itage (Dublin, 1980), p. 63. 1916, p. 3772; Unidentified newspaper clip- xxiv Ibid. li Eleanor Connor 1983 tape recording. ping on Lt. William Connor, c. April 1916, xxv Connor family papers. lii Carlow Sentinel, 17 Jul, 1915. See also a Connor family papers. xxvi On Thomas Thompson & Co. and Clo- photo advertisement of the Khan premises in lxxiv For the subscription, see Nationalist & Le- grennane lime works, see Shay Kinsella, The Nationalist and Leinster Times, 23 May 1914. inster Times, 29 Aug. 1914. limeburners; a history of Clogrennane lime liii Nationalist & Leinster Times, 22 Apr. 1916. lxxv Unless otherwise stated, details are taken works, 1816-2016 (Carlow, 2016), pp 72-7. liv Ibid. from Eleanor Connor interview transcript and xxvii Carlow Sentinel, 8 Feb. 1913. lv Nationalist & Leinster Times, 4 May 1912. 1983 tape recording.

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lxxvi Eleanor Connor 1983 tape transcript. Hospital operations register (1914-18). cxiii Ibid, 27 May 1916. lxxvii On the Battle of St. Stephen’s Green on xcviii See for example, Irish Times, 4 May cxiv The parliamentary debates (London, Easter Monday, see Brian Hughes, Michael 1916. 1916), fifth series, vol. lxxxiii, p. 338. Mallin (Dublin, 2012) ch. 8, pp 121-62; Paul xcix On the Tuesday of Easter Week, Dr Lane cxv The parliamentary debates (London, O’Brien, Shootout: the battle for St. Stephen’s Joynt attempted surgery on Lieutenant J.H. 1917), fifth series, vol. xcvii, p. 599. Green 1916 (Dublin, 2013), pp 13-42. Calvert of the Royal Irish Rifles who had suf- cxvi See outline details of Connor’s will at lxxviii Michael T. Foy & Brian Barton, The fered a gunshot wound, but he died 30 min- http://www.willcalendars.nationalarchives.ie/ Easter Rising (Gloucestershire, 1999), p. 79. utes after admission. search/cwa/details.jsp?id=1639434756, ac- lxxix Ibid, pp 80-1. c National Archives/ PRIV 1271/3/3 Meath cessed 4 Jul. 2016. lxxx Fearghal McGarry, The Rising: Ireland, Hospital operations register (1914-18), entry cxvii Nationalist and Leinster Times, 30 Sep. Easter 1916 (Oxford, 2011), p. 138. for 26 Apr. 1916. 1916. lxxxi Foy & Barton, The Easter Rising, p. 84. ci Nationalist & Leinster Times, 6 May 1916. cxviii Details of the fund taken from subscrip- lxxxii Ibid, p. 83. cii Eleanor Connor 1983 tape transcript. tion lists printed in the Nationalist and Lein- lxxxiii Bureau of Military History WS 733 ciii National Archives /PLIC/1/1147, files of ster Times, 30 Sep., 21 and 28 Oct. 1916. James O’Shea, p. 45. the Property Losses (Ireland) Committee re- With sincere thanks to Elaine Callinan for lxxxiv Foy & Barton, The Easter Rising, pp 83- lating to ‘James O’Connor’ [sic] of Carlow, pointing out the existence of the fund. 4. available at http://centenaries.nation- cxix Nationalist and Leinster Times, 30 Sep. lxxxv Quoted by Charles Townshend, Easter alarchives.ie/reels/plic/PLIC_1_1147.pdf, ac- 1916. 1916: the Irish Rebellion (London, 2006), pp cessed 23 Apr. 2016. cxx Freeman’s Journal, 3 Aug. 1917. 165-6. civ Toronto Evening Telegram, 7 Jul. 1916. cxxi Ibid. lxxxvi Carlow Sentinel, 17 Jun. 1916. cv Carlow Sentinel, 17 Jun. 1916. cxxii Kinsella, The limeburners, pp 99-102. lxxxvii Hughes, Michael Mallin, p. 133. cvi Toronto Evening Telegram, 7 Jul. 1916. cxxiii E-mail to author from John G. Hearne, lxxxviii McGarry, The Rising, p. 139. The social cvii Details of William’s death are taken from March 2016. divide is also commented on in Foy & Barton, a letter to A. E. Connor from M.B. Dix, cxxiv Ibid. The Easter Rising, p. 83. Colonel in charge of records, Canadian Expe- cxxv E-mail correspondence with Alan Winter, lxxxix Quoted by McGarry, The Rising, p. 138. ditionary Force, 18 Sep. 1916; Connor family 21 Jan. 2016. xc Liam Ó Briain, ‘Saint Stephen’s Green papers. See also William’s record in Tom cxxvi See Whitfield Connor’s obituary in the Area’ in The Capuchin annual (1966), pp Burnell, The Carlow war dead (Dublin, New York Times, 19 Jul. 1988 at 219-36 at p. 220. 2011), pp 47-8. http://www.nytimes.com/1988/07/19/obituar- xci Foy and Barton, Easter Rising, p. 83. cviii Unidentified Canadian newspaper clipping ies/whitfield-connor-theatrical-proudcer- xcii Carlow Sentinel, 17 Jun. 1916. entitled ‘Memorial Service for Lieut. W.J.S. and-ex-actor-71.html, accessed 1 Apr. 2016. xciii Eleanor Connor interview transcript. Connor’, c. Aug. 1916 in Connor family pa- cxxvii Eleanor Connor 1983 tape recording. xciv BMH WS 585, Frank Robbins, p. 64. pers. cxxviii Ibid. xcv Thoms’s directory (Dublin, 1915), pp 1591- cix Ibid. 2. cx Irish Times, 24 Jun. 1916. xcvi Obituary of Lane Joynt in The British cxi Carlow Sentinel, 24 Jun. 1916. Medical Journal, 21 Apr. 1928, pp 693-4. cxii Nationalist and Leinster Times, 1 Apr. xcvii National Archives/ PRIV 1271/3/3 Meath 1966.

Clearys of Bagenalstown with over twenty of staff posing outside the building.

The Credit Union now stands on the site’.

Courtesy: Tommy Lawler

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Captain Myles Keogh, the 7th Cavalry and the battle of the Little Big Horn, 140 years ago Dr Fergus Mulligan

On the morning of 25 June 1876, 140 years ago, Lt Col George Armstrong Custer led the US 7th Cavalry across the Montana plains in pursuit of a group of native Americans, Crow, Sioux and Cheyenne.1 His orders were to engage them in battle and force them back onto the reservation. Custer decided to split the regiment into three battalions, his own of about 215 men, a second under Major Marcus Reno of roughly 131 men and a third under Captain Frederick Ben- The regimental song teen of around 113 men. A brash and im- of the pulsive leader, Custer’s plan was to 7th cavalry swoop down on the Indian camp and by highest ranking NCOs were First Ser- seizing the old people, women and chil- geants Michael Kenney from Galway dren, force the Indians to surrender, a who was killed and Michael Martin from strategy that had worked well at the battle Dublin who survived. Sgt Thomas Mur- of the Washita in 1868. This time things ray from Monaghan and Pte Thomas were different. Custer hugely underesti- Callan from Louth were awarded the mated the number of Indians facing him The repercussions from the battle were Medal of Honor. Other names included and further weakened his position by severe. Major Reno and Captain Benteen Rooney, Ryan, Hanley, McVeigh, splitting his own battalion into two were blamed for not coming to Custer’s O’Neill, O’Hara and Flanagan and the wings, the right wind being commanded aid, probably unfairly. If they had, the lilting regimental song was “Garry- by 36 year old Captain Myles Walter Indians would likely have slaughtered the owen”, as it is today. A year before Irish Keogh from Orchard House, Leighlin- entire regiment. Everything was against reporter James O’Kelly who had a mili- bridge, Co. Carlow. the cavalry. The peacetime army was tary background commented the army largely a frontier peacekeeping force and sent out untrained troopers on young, un- By the end of that day all 215 men of almost none of the troopers had been in broken horses to face certain death from Custer’s battalion, including Keogh, 2 battle. They were poorly trained and the best horsemen in the world. were dead, their bodies stripped and equipped, the pay was dreadful and ra- spread out across the battlefield in the hot tions comprised Civil War leftovers, like Keogh’s family background Montana sun. The troopers who came on hardtack, a kind of ship’s biscuit; only the scene a day or two later encountered the virtually destitute would enlist and How did a young man from Carlow come scenes of unspeakable horror. The body desertions were common. There was a to meet a grisly fate on the Montana of almost every trooper had been muti- 3 strong Irish component in the 7th Cav- plains 140 years ago? Myles Keogh was lated, except for Keogh. It was said the alry, at least one in 7 was born in Ireland, born on 25 March 1840 in Orchard Indians found his Agnus Dei medal (or possibly as many as one in 4. Men like House, a solid Carlow farmhouse dating possibly a scapular) under his tunic and Pte Thomas O’Neill from Dublin who from 1820, surrounded by good farm- left his body untouched. The Indians mu- narrowly escaped death and whose brav- land. His was a well off family, one of tilated the dead to impede their passage ery was highly praised by Lt Charles De 12 children of whom 9 survived into into the next life. Rudio and Major Marcus Reno. The two Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 2

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adulthood. His father was John Keogh the two visitors was then over and his mother Margaret Blanchfield 80, present with his son, from Rathgarvan/Clifden, Co. Kilkenny Miles. From family papers it and he was baptised Myles Tomás appears Myles entered Leigh- Keogh, the story being the priest refused linbridge National School to consider such a pagan name as “Wal- under John Conwill on 1 May ter”, insisting on a saint’s name; not un- 1848 when he was 8 years old common well into the 20th century. until March 1853 when he was Myles was said to be very fond of his said to be “At Classics”, possi- uncle, J. P. Blanchfield who acted in loco bly being tutored at home. The parentis after his father died. Details of conversation raised the intrigu- his education are sparse but it is known ing question whether at the age growing up Myles did not have good of 16 Myles Keogh had served health growing up as a bout of typhus in Algeria with the French For- very nearly killed him, his beloved sister eign Legion, as he apparently Carlow railway station from where Myles Keogh set Margaret nursing him back to health. He mentioned in his application to off on his crusade to defend the Pope. was also very close to his brother Tom join the Union army. Far from Photo: Fergus Mulligan and wrote many letters to him from the rejecting the idea, Miley US. Myles was a sociable, handsome Keogh said it was quite possi- save them from Italian reunification and young man who not surprisingly liked ble as 2 years of his life are unaccounted forced them to endure a siege from 12-28 meeting girls and it appears Bagenal- for: 1858-60.6 If this is true, this military September 1860. Serving with Keogh stown was one of his favourite haunts, experience would explain how Keogh was Captain John Coppinger from Cork particularly three girls he recalls with was commissioned in the papal army. who like Keogh went on to fight on the great affection there, Elizabeth, . Union side in the Civil War and rose to Fighting for the Pope become a general.

Around the time Keogh The Piedmontese bombarded Ancona, was 20, in 1860, Pope Pius completely outnumbering and outgun- IX issued an appeal to the ning the papal troops. The war to defend Catholic world for soldiers the Pope’s territories was a series of to come to Italy to defend minor engagements as Keogh describes the papal states, a large sec- an anticipated battle in a letter to his tion of central Italy then mother of September 1861: “Do not fear ruled by the Catholic for me dearest Mother. I am prepared.”7 church and in danger of Within 3 weeks Ancona surrendered and being over-run by the it was over. Many of the officers, includ- Risorgimento movement ing Keogh, made their way to Rome fighting for Italian reunifi- where a small group formed the Com- cation. Along with 1,400 pany of St Patrick, a tiny papal army. other Irishmen Myles re- Their duties were ceremonial and sponded to this call. The brought Keogh to the ancient hill town of UK Foreign Enlistment Act Anagni, south of the city.8 He soon be- banned anyone from join- came disillusioned and was bitterly criti- Myles Keogh during his time with the papal army, standing a foreign army so he cal of the papal administrators he met: ing 3rd from the left and the other Irish volun- “ignorant, narrow minded Italian teers had to take an indirect Churchmen” whom he believed were Alice Kehoe who later married Tom his route to Italy. He arrived in Ancona on 5 bigoted, venal, corrupt and debauched. brother and Bessie Nolan, possibly a re- July 1860 where he was commissioned Keogh was no religious zealot, describ- lation of Myles’ good friend, Maj. Henry as a Second Lieutenant on 7 August in ing himself in 1867 as a lapsed Catholic, Nowlan whose family were from the Battalion of St Patrick under Louth saying a man should be judged on his Tullow.4 man, Major Myles O’Reilly. own merits not his religion, much of this stance based on his experiences in the One interesting source of information on Fighting for the Pope was not an uplifting papal army.9 Keogh’s early life is a monograph written experience for Keogh. Pay and training by Robert Doyle and Elisabeth Kimber were derisory, there were sharp divisions Fighting for the Union: “that this nation describing a visit to Orchard House on 25 and rivalry in the international papal . . . shall have a new birth of freedom” March 2008, at the invitation of two of army and it appears the Italians were the Keogh’s relatives, Blanch Cummins and least inclined to fight for the papal em- Keogh was kicking his heels in Rome Arthur Kennedy.5 Miley Kehoe, a grand- pire. The citizens of Ancona were par- when the US Civil War broke out in nephew of Myles Keogh who entertained ticularly hostile to those who came to 1861. Bizarrely, two Catholic Archbish- Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 3

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ops, John Purcell and John Hughes trav- Richard Kehoe, arrived in elled to Ireland and Italy to seek recruits Washington with dreams of for the Union army; most Irish recruits military glory, he applied for joined the Union side. With their graces leave to meet them but some- was William Seward, New York Gover- how the three did not manage nor who spotted the military talent and to link up. A second request bravery of Keogh along with his com- for leave soon after was panions Daniel Keily from Waterford and firmly rejected, understand- Joseph O’Keeffe from Cork. Keogh and ably, given the critical stage Keily resigned from the papal service of the war. early in 1862 (or possibly Pius IX dismissed them, albeit kindly) and travelled Helping his cousins secure a to the US via Liverpool with his papal commission in the army was medal, Pro Petri Sede - for the See of In this 1860s photo Captain Myles Keogh on the left the subject of a letter from 10 Peter. There they took part in the St (with cigar) stands next to Gen. John Buford, seated, Myles to his brother Tom Patrick’s Day celebrations being feted for with other staff officers: Lt Peter Penn-Gaskell,Cap- Keogh in Carlow, on 21 17 their service to the Pope by local priest, tain Craig Wadsworth and Lt. Albert Morrow. October 1863. In it he Fr Nugent while Keogh addressed the deeply regrets being unable to crowd, telling them of his last audience Photo: Library of Congress secure this, adding somewhat with the Pope.11 Keogh and Keily sailed plaintively: “I have too few two days later on the SS Kangaroo for Buford who had in turn replaced General real friends in this world to sacrifice any New York, travelling first class and call- Shields. Buford became a long standing to a perhaps mistaken conception of the ing into Cobh on the way.12 Keogh cele- advocate of the young Lt Keogh. The two facts as they really are.”18 An undated let- brated his 22nd birthday during the friends once more engaged the Confed- ter around this time indicates Tom Keogh crossing. erate cavalry at the second battle of Bull was in financial difficulty and planned to Run in August 1862, after which Buford emigrate to the US, with some anger di- Arriving in New York on 1 April 1862 praised their conduct highly. Keogh and rected at Myles who responded: “I cried the two men headed for Washington O’Keeffe were “young, spirited and ac- and cried bitterly when I . . . saw only one complished gentlemen who took part in where William Seward gave each man 15 little scrap [of a letter] for me and what a his commission as an army Captain. every engagement”. With Washington scrap full of bitterness.”19 Within two weeks the two young soldiers facing an attack and commanders coming were sent to war, posted to the staff of and going, the Union was in serious dan- “We did not like the style of Captain General James Shields from Tyrone, con- ger, not helped when General Philip Keogh” Kearney was killed after blundering into ducting a campaign in the Shenandoah 16 Valley of Virginia where Keogh and Confederate lines. The Confederates As the war dragged on Keogh was as- Keily saw action at the battle of Port returned his body under a truce and signed to General Stoneman’s staff and Republic. This was a defeat for the Keogh was a member of the party that re- travelled with him to Ohio, being pro- Union and in the course of it Keily suf- ceived it. Soon after this that Keogh met moted to Major. The crusty midwestern- fered a terrible facial wound that took two officers who played a large part in ers were sartorially challenged and did him out of the war. 13 his future life: Captain Andrew Alexan- not have much time for dandies of the der who became a close friend and Cap- Army of the Potomac, like Keogh. Cap- In this 1860s photo Captain Myles tain George Armstrong Custer. tain Theodore Allen penned a witty Keogh on the far left (with cigar) stands description of the good looking, dashing next to Gen. John Buford, seated, with Keogh’s next major military engagement cavalryman that says a lot about other staff officers: Lt Peter Penn- was at the cavalry battle of Brandy Sta- his personality. Gaskell, Captain Craig Wadsworth and tion, another Confederate victory, but Lt Albert Morrow. Photo: Library once again he drew praise from General We did not like the style of Captain Miles of Congress. Buford. This led to one of the bloodiest [sic] Keogh; there was altogether too and most crucial battles of the Civil War: much style. He was as handsome a young Many Union generals delivered less than Gettysburg. General Robert E. Lee, the man as I ever saw. . . . He rode a horse stellar performances and Lincoln briliant Confederate commander, like a Centaur. He had a fresh Irish com- replaced them often, based on their suc- launched his second invasion of the plexion like the pink side of a ripe peach cess in battle, or lack of it. Among them North and on 1 June 1863 the two armies - more like the complexion of a sixteen was General George McClellan “Little met at Gettysburg for a confrontation that year old girl than of a cavalry soldier. Mac” who chose Keogh for his staff, de- lasted 3 days. Gettysburg is north of scribing him in September 1862 as “a Washington and a mere 100 kms from it His uniform was spotless, and fitted him most gentlemanly man, of soldierly ap- indicating the depth of the Southern in- like the skin of a sausage; if there had pearance . . . I was exceedingly glad to cursion. In fact Keogh missed part of this been any more of the man, or any less of have him as my aide”.14 Keogh and O’- battle for family reasons. When two the uniform, it would have been a misfit. Keeffe were reassigned to General John young cousins, Daniel O’Sullivan and . . . at all events we did not care much Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 4

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for Captain Keogh, and particularly did Tom his brother was well adding that vate about matters amatory but some not like his style. General Sheridan was making every ef- clues emerge in his letters to his brother, fort to secure his release as he wanted Tom Keogh.28 On 24 December 1865 he We gave him the ‘cold shoulder’ and as Keogh on his staff.23 Keogh described to wrote: “My dear Tom, my great weak- he passed us snide remarks were passed, Ellen, his sister, the ghastly conditions in ness is the love I have for the fair sex & such as ‘I wonder if his mother cuts his Charleston jail where he and General pretty much all my troubles come or can hair?’ ‘What laundry do you think he pa- Stoneman were transferred: food and be traced to that charming source.” In the tronizes?’ etc., and nobody permitted him water were scarce, it was unbearably hot, same letter Keogh talks about marriage, to drink from their canteen.20A dapper there was little shelter and they were saying it was not for him. under constant danger from Union artillery bombarding the city.24 Myles was indeed in love, it appears his sweetheart was Abby Grace Clary, the 28 year old widow of Captain Robert Em- mett Clary jnr whose military career was troubled, much of it caused by drink. He died on 10 December 1864, aged just 28.29 Abby lived with her father-in-law in Memphis until her death after an illness just 18 months later. Keogh wrote Keogh’s cavalry stirrups with spurs. from Washington to Tom of his grief fol- Photo: Autry Museum, Los Angeles, lowing her death: “Now that my hopes USA, 89.218.6 are dead for my future earthly happiness & the dear creature I dreamt of being happy with lies yonder in Oak Hill Keogh survived because he had cash hid- Cemetery [Georgetown] where I have den in his uniform which he used to buy just visited her cold vault.”30 Her death food for himself and Stoneman. Two added to the shadows that betimes af- months after being captured both were fected Keogh. An additional sadness was released as part of a prisoner exchange, the death from wounds on 30 May 1865 A dapper Captain Keogh, wearing his celebrated at dinner in General Sher- of his good friend, Joseph O’Keeffe; the papal medal man’s headquarters in Atlanta, just taken two had served in Italy and travelled to- and destroyed. Keogh’s time as a POW gether to the US. Keogh was at his Wash- Before long, Keogh’s gallantry was evi- took a toll on his health, never the best ington bedside. A few years later on 9 dent to all when he led a charge against and while he was recovering he decided May 1869 Keogh mentioned having an Confederate positions as part of General to stay with Stoneman rather than trans- Indian squaw as a servant, it being com- Philip Sherman’s massive offensive.21 fer to General Philip Sheridan’s staff. mon practice for officers on active serv- Afterwards, Allen noted, Keogh was wel- By early 1865 the war had finally turned ice on the frontier, saying about 90 were come at any campfire and could drink in favour of the Union, Lee surrendered “spared”, i.e. seized, after a recent en- from any canteen he chose. on 9 April and the following year Keogh gagement. received his commission as a Brevet Lt- Keogh next took part in a failed assault Colonel.25 Every army shrinks after a on the town of Macon, Georgia where war as most participants are happy to re- Happier by the campfire than the 30,000 Union POWs were held in ap- sume their normal lives but Keogh lob- hearthfire palling conditions, similar to those en- bied hard to stay in the regular army, dured at the infamous Andersonville seeking recommendations from various The other great love of Keogh’s life was stockade, virtually an extermination commanders. General Stoneman said said to be Cornelia Eliza (Nelly) Martin, camp.22 Once again Keogh excelled in Keogh was noted for “uniform gallantry” one of a large family based at Willow- action although this was yet another and was “one of the most superior young brook House, Auburn, New York where Union defeat and his favourite horse, officers in the army and a universal he spent many happy days. Nelly was a Tom, was a casualty. In the course of the favourite” while General Schofield thoroughly capable woman, in particular engagement Keogh’s life took a strange wrote: “He is one of the most gallant and handling the management of the Willow- turn when he was captured. General efficient young cavalry officers I have brook household. Her sister, Evalina Stoneman was surrounded by rebels but ever known.”26 Martin had married Keogh’s great friend rather than make good his escape Keogh and army colleague Captain Andrew chose to surrender with him. On 3 August Affairs of the heart Alexander and it was thus that Keogh 1864 Joseph O’Keeffe wrote to Tom met the influential Martin family and be- Keogh the unwelcome news that Myles Keogh was a fine looking man, flirta- came a regular visitor to Willowbrook was a prisoner of the Confederates in tious, with oodles of charm, even from late 1866 while he was still grieving Macon, in the same prison he set out to Custer’s steely wife Libby was said to be for Abby Grace Clary.31 These visits liberate. A month later O’Keeffe assured enchanted by him.27 He was usually pri- were marked by picnics, fishing trips, Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 5

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story-telling round the fire and the com- sion on 4 May 1866, first to the 4th Cav- Wayne films. The job of the peacetime pany of high ranking visitors. When alry but was then ordered to report to the army was to protect the tidal wave of set- Emily Martin married General Emory 7th Cavalry at Fort Wallace, a Kansas tlers, pioneers and chancers who pushed Upton in February 1868 Keogh agreed to frontier outpost where he held the rank of further and further west into Indian terri- be groomsman and to join the couple on Captain.34 Three months later he was tory. The Indians relied on free-roaming their honeymoon to Europe. But almost very low when he wrote an emotional let- herds of buffalo for food, clothes and farcically, for someone who had survived ter from Nashville to Tom Keogh, ex- shelter, the white man slaughtered the an- some of the bloodiest battles of the war pressing concern that his sisters might imals in their thousands for their hide, without a scratch, he slipped on ice in have to leave their home and how de- leaving the carcasses to rot in the sun. Boston, broke his leg and was immobile lighted he was to hear from “my dearest Conflict between natives and settlers was for months. Leonora Snedeker offers an brother” as “I am very very lonely”. It is inevitable.36 insightful view into Keogh’s relation- clear Myles is pining for his family, ships with women, describing him as the speaking of the “deep, deep love for each The reputation of the peacetime army adopted twelfth Martin and analysing his or any of my darling family. . . since I was rock bottom: “The Regular Army is involvement with Nelly. have now no one else to care for . . . even composed of bummers, loafers and for- if I was a hound I could not forget the ties eign paupers”, one New York newspaper The key to their relationship lies in the that bound me to you all.” Myles hoped commented. Living conditions were psyche of Myles Keogh, the Irish cava- to be able to help them in a practical way: harsh with severe discipline and troopers lier. Keogh was the ultimate romantic, a “You are dearer to me than life”, men- ran the risk of disease, injury or death in posture that often makes great warriors tioning he had been sick.35Commission the field. But the colours were an un- but terrible lovers. Like most romantics, Conditions were harsh that winter with avoidable choice for the poorest. In the Myles was enamoured with the idea of 10 years after the civil war, 1865-1875, being in love, but there is a huge gap be- 183,659 men enlisted of whom 38,649 tween the ideal and the reality. He could were Irish, more than one in five. Ger- bury his heart in the grave with Abby mans were next with 23,127 and English Grace Clary, or joke of running away with 9,037. with a married nurse, or write poetry to a shallow woman, but he seemed to avoid The 7th Cavalry consisted of 12 compa- relationships where a real commitment nies of around 830 officers and enlisted would be required. men. Troopers carried clunky, awkward Springfield single shot carbines with a vi- Being flirtations and charming was part cious kick, were difficult to reload and of his make-up; however he knew intu- whose copper cartridge cases often itively that he always would be happier jammed in the breech. Ironically Major by the campfire than by the hearthfire. A Marcus Reno had served on the muni- woman as intelligent and sensible as tions board that chose this third-rate Nelly Martin would have been aware that weapon as standard issue for the cavalry. Myles’ sojourns to civilisation were only Many of the Indians had Winchester ri- temporary. Eventually the cameraderie fles capable of firing 16 shots rapidly be- of the army post drew him back to the fore reloading. Poorly trained, company of his fellow officers. A pro- wretchedly equipped and paid little, an longed, conventional lifestyle would Commission certificate confirming army private earned just $13 a month, a have destroyed his soul.32 Keogh’s rank as Captain in the 7th first sergeant $22. As a Captain Keogh’s Cavalry, 26 July 1866. Photo: Autry pay was about $115.50 a month. Few There appears more than a grain of truth Museum, Los Angeles, USA, 89.218.12 troopers had seen combat, their rations in this pen portrait of the enigma that is left over from the civil war were so bad Myles Keogh. One later romantic interest many suffered from malnutrition, bone of Keogh’s, unreciprocated sadly, was a buildings incomplete and the only fire- deformities and even scurvy. Writing a Miss Hf whom he met in New York and wood sources many miles away. There few weeks after the Little Big Horn, Irish to whom he sent poetry and pleas, all of was no winter campaigning and the reporter, James O’Kelly of the New York which went unrequited. His total dedica- troopers were kept busy erecting the bar- Herald said the army sent out raw re- tion to the military life is confirmed in a rack buildings. Keogh minded the men cruits on unbroken horses to face the best letter to Tom in June 1869 where Myles of his I company with an almost paternal- horsemen in the world. Only men on the expresses fears that number reductions in istic interest, except for deserters for verge of destitution joined the army. the infantry might soon affect the cavalry whom he had limitless contempt. He and if that happened he would enlist as also enjoyed the occasional hunting trip. Keogh’s first year in Kansas was spent a private.33 building the fort and leading scouting ex- Life in a frontier fort was crude, primitive peditions against Indian bands that were Joining the 7th Cavalry and isolated, far removed from the good attacking the stations or posts between Keogh received his permanent commis- natured, high jinks suggested by John the various army forts. In October 1867 Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 6

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he outlined his monotonous daily routine able to return to this post. While inca- to Tom Keogh but added: “I am very pacitated, his desire to visit his homeland happy”. He had just received two brevets grew stronger and he made urgent ap- for gallantry in the war but learned about peals for leave while applying for US cit- this time of another friend’s death from izenship, granted on 25 August 1869, yellow fever or cholera, Dan Keily. Writ- then writing to the Secretary of State for ing to Tom on 30 November 1867 Myles a US passport and permission to visit Eu- sounded very down: “You remember per- rope. The safe conduct pass he received, haps as vividly as I do, our parting at the the equivalent of a passport, is dated 26 R.R. Station in Carlow. Well I am no hap- August 1869 and contains a physical de- pier today that I was then and I feel that scription of the 29 year old cavalryman: the strife is very much all the happiness”. he was 6 feet and ½ inch tall, with a high What he needed was a visit home to Ire- forehead, blue eyes, “ordinary” nose, land to raise his spirits. This was the small mouth, chin do., brown hair, florid aforementioned doomed trip with the complexion and full face. He also feared newly married Uptons which he had to army cutbacks which had hit the infantry cancel when he broke his leg in Boston. and might soon affect the cavalry.37 His He was bitterly disappointed and spent leave was granted and he sailed on the part of his convalescence at Willowbrook City of Paris from New York on 28 Au- with the Martins, not rejoining his regi- gust 1869, arriving in Cobh on 6 Septem- ment at Fort Wallace until May 1868 ber.38 He wrote several letters from Tom where he acquired his famous horse, Co- Keogh’s home, Park House near Carlow Keogh’s safe conduct pass of August manche. It appears he was not fully re- town, where it is believed he stayed, re- 1869, issued days before he sailed for covered and his duties were light, being questing an extension of his leave on Ireland. Photo: Autry Museum, Los ordered to inspect a network of forts and medical grounds, a request that was ulti- Angeles, USA, 89.218.11 outposts over a wide area even as the 7th mately granted. Myles Keogh was in no Cavalry was ordered to move against hurry to return to the colours. What else bands of skirmishing Indians in a he did while at home is unknown but he the base and Keogh had dinner on many winter campaign. was with his family for five months, a occasions with George and Libbie Custer. During a garrison hurdle race Keogh suffered concussion when his horse mis- judged a fence and threw him to the ground. He was not badly hurt but admitted himself to the hospital and was still there when I Company left for Fort Hays, Kansas. Health issues were clearly significant for Myles Keogh and he took several extended periods of leave, including a month in early 1871 when he visited New York, absences which later caused irritation among his superiors. Keogh found life on the frontier lonely and he consoled himself with visits to various urban centres, as most soldiers did.

SS City of Paris of the Inman Line which brought A further bout of illness, throat ulcers this Myles Keogh home to Ireland in 1869 time, produced another extended leave from his base at Shelbyville, Kentucky Home to Ireland long period of R&R needed as much for where the 7th Cavalry’s main tasks were his mental health as recovery from his the unmilitary ones of apprehending Early in the new year of 1869 Keogh in- knee injury. moonshiners and Ku Klux Klan mem- jured his knee, making him once again bers. Depression, hypochondria and psy- unfit for normal duty. When he finally Health issues chosomatic illness often go hand in hand, took command of company I, it was for could it be that Keogh was a hypochon- less than a fortnight, being assigned to Keogh sailed for New York on 11 Febru- driac or did he just suffer from poor court martial duty at Fort Harker, where ary 1870 and went to Washington first be- health? It was around this time that he Lt David Wallingford faced charges of fore travelling to Fort Leavenworth where took out an insurance policy on his life, “conduct unbecoming an officer and a he said he felt like a new man after his for $10,000, a vast sum then. gentleman”. The knee injury played up long stay in Ireland. There was a good and by late summer Keogh was still un- deal of socialising among the officers on Myles Keogh’s second trip home to Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 7

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Carlow followed four years later in April 1874, to see the ruined Clifden Castle es- Custer was a heavy drinker at one time tate at Clara, Kilkenny which his aunt, but gave it up as was Major Marcus Mary Blanchfield had left him. Once Reno, his second in command, who did again little is known of Keogh’s adven- not. Custer had a gambling problem and tures while on his 3 month trip to Ireland, a shocking business sense that impover- although he did hand over his inheritance ished him and his wife, Libbie, although to his beloved sister, Margaret who was he nursed an ambition to be a journalist.41 apparently unmarried and lived there While he openly had many relationships with another sister.39 He sailed from with other women, she too was known to Cobh back to New York on 27 Septem- be attracted to several officers, among ber 1874. them Lt Thomas Weir, Lt William Cooke and Captain Myles Keogh, widely ac- Back on duty at Fort Totten in November, knowledged as the handsomest man in Keogh’s health remained poor with fre- the regiment who was taller than Custer quent hospital visits and extended leaves. and looked even better on a horse than he Custer wanted to reject his latest request did. To Custer’s dismay, Libbie corre- for sick leave but he received 30 days, sponded with Keogh and Cooke, unfor- Myles Keogh looking resplendent in spent largely at the home of his Swedish tunately the letters have not survived. A the Cavalry officers’ uniform intro- friend, Dr John Ouchterlony at picnic photo taken in 1875 shows Keogh duced in 1872: double-breasted dark Louisville, Kentucky.40 Whether real or standing closely behind Libbie with his blue coat with plumed helmet. imaginary, Keogh’s frequent illnesses are arm resting almost possessively on her another part of his enigmatic character. chair while next to him Custer looks into Such regular absences might have under- the distance, arms crossed in the classic mined the loyalty of his fellow officers defensive stance. She too remarked on Right: Myles Keogh’s helmet with yel- and enlisted men but this does not seem Keogh’s heavy drinking, as did several low plume, and eagle bearing a shield to be the case. It is also curious in that troopers although always spoke of him with a 7, shoulder knots embroidered Keogh himself was enraged with desert- with respect and affection. with 7s and 2 bars indicating his rank as ers, many of whom stole army property Captain of the 7th Cavalry in their departure. He went to extraordi- hinged brass clip. Photo: nary lengths to retrieve them and their Autry Museum, Los An- stolen goods. After rejoining the 7th geles, USA, 89.218.7 Cavalry at Fort Lincoln, Keogh would enjoy no further leaves, not that he did Slouching towards the not apply for them. Little Big Horn

The demon drink His latest leave application turned down, Keogh There is no question that Myles Keogh prepared to lead I Com- was a drinker, most soldiers were and are, pany. Their mission from whether to relieve the tedium of long pa- General Alfred Terry was trols on the vast plains of the midwest, to engage hostiles, i.e. In- getting drunk was a common pastime dians, who were threaten- among the soldiery. The key questions ing the expansion of the are: Did Keogh drink to such excess that Northern Pacific Railroad A picnic in 1875, Myles Keogh standing centre wearing it caused or aggravated some of his many into Montana. The depar- a dark hat with Libbie seated in front and Custer stand- illnesses? And did it impair his ability to ture of the troops from ing to right do his job as a cavalry officer? The an- Fort Lincoln on 17 May swer to the first will probably never be 1876, never a happy occa- known although alcohol may well have sion for their families, been factor in the depressions that appear The truth is that the harshness and depri- was almost funereal. It had been raining to have plagued him throughout his mil- vations of garrison life on the plains put for days, the ground was like mud and an itary career. But the answer to the second huge pressures on any man, married or air of palpable dejection and premonition is clear: his record of bravery and single. Possibly related to this is the ques- gripped the fort. Custer ordered a rousing courage throughout the Civil War and the tion of money. Myles Keogh never rendition of “Garryowen” in an unsuc- Indian wars right up to and including the seemed to have the knack of making it cessful effort to raise morale. Libbie final battle make plain that whiskey did and holding on to it and it is believed his Custer joined her husband at the head of not stop him being a first rate soldier and batman, Private Finnigan, handled his fi- the column on the first day’s march as an inspiring leader, despite his many ab- nances and dealt with his bank, Riggs & she often did, camping overnight before sences and sick leaves. Co. Washington. returning to Fort Lincoln. She described Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 8

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the ominous departure, the wives of the thwarted him at every turn: “I had no south while Custer and Keogh would at- Indian scouts squatting on the ground, confidence in his ability as a soldier”, he tack from the northeast. Knowing the wailing, as the long column passed by. said. Indian scouts called Reno “the man numbers he faced, splitting the regiment When it reached the quarters of the en- with the dark face”. He was the subject was an extraordinary decision. When listed men, weeping wives held up small of an inquiry into his actions on the day Benteen questioned this tactic, politely, children for a last sight of the departing which neither condemned nor exonerated Custer snapped at him: “You have troopers and by the time it reached the of- him.44 No. 3 in command was Captain your orders.” ficers’ quarters the wives could no longer Frederick Benteen who hated Custer maintain a brave face but slipped even more than Reno, he blamed Custer Custer instructed his adjutant to order back inside.42 for abandoning his friend Major Joel El- Benteen to bring to bring up extra ammu- liott to a grisly fate at the hands of the In- nition without delay. The hastily scrib- Rain and hail made conditions horrible dians during the battle of the Washita. bled note in Lt Cooke’s handwriting has for men and horses as they looked in vain Philbrick describes his cherubic good survived: “Benteen. Come on, Big vil- for Indians to engage. A few weeks into looks and striking white hair but remarks: lage. Be quick. Bring packs. W.W. Cooke that fateful campaign, Keogh made his “lurking beneath Benteen’s chubby- PS Bring packs”. For reasons best will on 22 June 1876, helped by Lt John cheeked cordiality was a brooding, ut- known to himself Benteen chose to ig- Carland, a trained attorney. His instruc- terly cynical intelligence. His icy blue nore this order and we can only speculate tions were that if was killed, he wanted eyes saw at a glance a person’s darkest what might have happened if 113 men to be buried in Auburn, New York and insecurities and inevitably found him or had joined Custer on Last Stand Hill and anything remaining after his debts were her wanting.”45 He was not keen on Lib- vital ammunition reached the embattled paid plus his personal effects were to go bie Custer either: “about as cold-blooded troopers. Given Custer’s flawed tactics to his sister Margaret in Carlow, even a woman as I ever knew, in which respect and the numbers involved, the likelihood though at this time it appears he had a the pair were admirably mated”.46 His is that the battle would have lasted longer brother and a sister living in the US. Mrs deep contempt for Custer was not but the end result would have been the Eliza Porter, wife of Lt James Porter, sec- unique: he thought the same about every same: all would have died. ond in command of Company I, agreed officer under whom he served.47 How- to take a valise containing Keogh’s pa- ever he was by no means hostile to Indi- When Custer realised the Sioux were ad- pers.43 Keogh gave his will to his good ans, like Custer, writing: “I’m rather fond vancing on the troopers, he presumed this friend Lt Henry Nowlan with instructions of Indians than otherwise”. was a feint to give the rest of the Indians to decide which of his papers should be a chance to escape. Reno’s charge down destroyed and which sent to Margaret. Fourth in command was Captain Myles on the village over rough ground was the An ominous start to the expedition Keogh who had his own issues with first combat experience for nearly all the for Keogh. Custer although overall the two got on troopers but when he saw the size of the reasonably well. Such divisions and ri- village he wisely aborted the attack. Im- Custer pushed his men hard with forced valries did not augur well for harmony, mediately 500 Sioux attacked Reno’s marches that exhausted troopers and discipline or communication as the battalion of 130 men. About 80 of them horses alike. After a long march on the troops rode out to engage the Indians. survived, Reno being one of the first to night of 24 June Custer believed they make his escape. The Sioux fell on the were getting close to the Indian camp and The battle wounded, killed them, stripped them and planning a dawn assault, ordered the reg- mutilated their bodies in revenge for the iment to mount up, not with the bugle Writers and historians often remark we earlier attack on their village. call of “Boots and Saddles” but with will never know exactly what happened whispered orders. In his haste Custer left that day on the Montana plains because By now Custer realised his mistake but behind the mule train laden with ammu- everyone was killed. But of course there saw a way to win the day by reuniting his nition and other vital supplies. Keogh were several thousand witnesses: the In- command and making a concerted attack was in charge, a tedious, slow job that indians. For them, this was a great victory on the enormous village, seizing hostages volved constant repacking of the equip- against the invading white men and they to force the braves to end hostilities. But ment in the dark. As a result he was later recorded it in drawings and stories. it was already too late for that. Being in joining the bivouac that the rest of the the open there was nowhere to tether men set up. Meanwhile two skirmishes Custer’s Indian scouts warned him this horses so when troopers dismounted took place with the Indians, removing the was no small village they were about to Cavalry practice was for 1 man to hold possibility of a surprise attack by attack but a vast encampment of up to his own horse and that of three other the cavalry. 3,000 Indians. Gradually the commander troopers. This meant one man in four came round to believing them and was effectively a non-combatant. Mean- Custer’s officers: a divided command planned an immediate attack. Hiss plan, while using hunting skills acquired over devised with his adjutant, the Canadian centuries, the Indians crawled steadily up Custer’s relations with all his officers officer, Lt W.W. Cooke, was for Captain the hill heading for Custer’s Left Wing were difficult. His no.2 Major Marcus Benteen’s group to head left, attacking and Keogh’s Right Wing. The terrain Reno, a heavy drinker, was a stormy the village from the southwest. Major even today appears smooth and flat but character who loathed Custer and Reno was ordered to sweep up from the is in fact riddled with gulches, dips and Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 9

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ravines, the long grass offering almost troopers gathered round their stricken bodies of the two brothers were found total invisibility to the advancing Indians commander, firing against the tsunami of within 5 metres of each other. while the troopers stood exposed, firing advancing Indians. They were unstop- One famous survivor of the battle was their clunky carbines at anything that pable and soon almost everyone, includ- Keogh’s horse, Comanche, a 14 year old moved. The Indians with their Winches- ing Myles Keogh, was dead. bay gelding. He had been struck by bul- ter repeater rifles could pop up, take a lets and arrows and was found sitting on shot and disappear in the long grass, Two days later General Terry came upon his haunches near Battle Ridge. Troopers while all the time moving forward. In the Little Big Horn battlefield, a “scene helped him to stand and the next day he addition the Indians fired hail storms of of sickening, ghastly horror” with 200 joined the column on its slow retreat, arrows that took a terrible toll of men and naked, white bodies, most hacked to laden down with wounded troopers as horses. Unlike a rifle which produced pieces and putrifying in the summer sun. they headed for the Far West steamer smoke, an arrow could be fired from the The army at first buried the dead of the moored where the Big Horn and Little long grass without revealing the Indian’s in shallow graves where they fell, mak- Big Horn rivers met, waiting to bring position. Philbrick calculated that if half ing it a little easier to analyse the events them back to base camp. Comanche of the 2,000 Indians fired 10 arrows each of that day. Eighteen marble headstones, became a much loved and universally that day, that made a total of 10,000 ar- including one dedicated to Keogh, hud- pampered mascot of the regiment.49 rows, 40 arrows per soldier, roughly. dle close together in a hollow on the east side of Battle Ridge. Keogh’s body, as Battle Ridge is a narrow strip of raised noted, was one of the very few not muti- ground that linked Keogh’s Right Wing lated that day, because he wore an Agnus with Custer’s Left Wing and with Cal- Dei medal that the Indians respected.48 houn Hill to the east until the latter was overwhelmed. The survivors fled towards Keogh’s position on Battle Ridge and tried to regroup. At this point a fearless Indian warrior, Crazy Horse, rode through a small gap in Keogh’s Right Wing effectively splitting it in two while at the same time Lame

Myles Keogh’s forage cap, acquired from his family by the Autry Museum of the American Wes Gold shoulder knots with embroidered Photo: Autry Museum, Los Angeles, 7s and 2 bars on either side, Captain; USA, 89.218.8 dress helmet

Only about 20 survivors of Keogh’s bat- Keogh’s burial talion, some on horseback, some on foot, made it to Custer’s position to the north News of the defeat spread rapidly, even of Battle Ridge, what became known as across the Atlantic. Keogh’s friend, Cap- Last Stand Hill. As the battle moved into tain Henry Nowlan, in camp on the Yel- Stone marking the spot in the battlefield its final phases Custer realised he was lowstone River, wrote to Margaret Keogh where Myles Keogh was killed without his able fourth in command. in Carlow, offering his deep sympathies, Around them was an ever growing mass as did another military colleague who of Indians, described by one, Two said: “your brother was very precious and White Man, wearing the blue jacket of a Moons, as “swirling like water round a very dear to me”.50 dead trooper, led a group of Cheyenne in stone”. Forty troopers made a desperate an attack on the western edge of Battle dash down the ridge towards the Little Having hurriedly buried the dead troop- Ridge. Keogh would have realised how Big Horn River but the Indians were ers and officers on the battlefield, wild serious the position was and that there ready and killed them all. Meanwhile on animals added to the tragedy by digging would be few survivors of this disastrous Last Stand Hill, Custer was seriously up the remains of many and spreading day. He rode Comanche up and down the wounded by a bullet just below his heart. them across the plains. Having asked to line, encouraging his men to hold the line The bullet that killed him was through be buried in Auburn, the Martin family and keep firing. At this critical moment a the head and may have been adminis- approached the military to ask if they gunshot shattered Keogh’s left leg and he tered by his brother, Captain Tom Custer, could re-inter was forced to dismount as the remaining so he would not be tortured to death. The Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 10

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Telegram to the Throop Martin family confirming Myles Keogh’s death, a fortnight after the battle. Autry Museum, Los Angeles, USA, 89.218.11 Myles Keogh’s grave in Auburn, New York War Department letter of 21 March 1877 summarising Myles Keogh’s mili- Keogh’s body near their home, writing tary career. Autry Museum, Los also to Margaret in Ireland to let the Angeles, USA, 89.218.1 Keogh family know of their plans for “this precious boy” as Nelly Martin nored his warning and called him. Keogh’s body was disin- looted everything they terred from the battlefield in July 1877 could including cavalry and arrived at Auburn by train on 15 Au- uniforms. Several times gust but for some reason the burial did after the battle, troopers not take place until 25 October. It was a saw what appeared to be military funeral and the town’s flags fellow soldiers approach- hung at half-mast. General Sheridan ing their positions who was unable to attend, being ordered to then opened fire, indicating West Point with Custer’s body but wrote these were Indians wearing to the Martins saying: “I shall be with cavalry blue. The govern- you in spirit. . . and my prayers [are ] ment pursued and harassed with you for his everlasting peace”.51 Al- the Indians finally breaking though Keogh was a Catholic the service their “rebellion” at at the graveside was Episcopalian. A Memorial to Myles Keogh in Wounded Knee, a Final So- year later the Martins put up the monu- Leighlinbridge town park lution of sorts to the Native ment over the grave, a column with a American problem. They sword and military regalia, the pediment The legacy of the Little Big Horn were condemned, as Philbrick describes stone bearing laurel leaves and 5 stars. it, to wretched lives of poverty, malnutri- The inscription near the base reads: Before the battle, the great Sioux leader, tion and disease on the reservations. But Sitting Bull, performed a sun dance, a even if they heeded Sitting Bull’s warn- Bvt. Lt. Col. Myles Keogh lengthy ritual over a day and a night in- ing, the outcome would have been Capt. 7th Cavalry, U.S.A. volving ritual wounding. The dance sent the same. Born at him into a trance, invoking the Great Orchard, County Carlow, Ireland Spirit to reveal future events and he saw The battle of the Little Big Horn is sur- March 15 1840 a vision of many, many soldiers falling rounded by myths, legends and half truths Killed in action with Sioux Indians down. He knew then that the Indians and there are 100 different versions of June 25 1876 would win a great victory, which they did what happened that day. The myth of Sleep Soldier! at the Little Big Horn. However a voice Custer’s heroic last stand helped sugar the Still in honoured rest told him the victors must not touch the bitter pill of being defeated by tribes of Your truth and valor wearing bodies of the dead troopers, nor take any “savages”. Benteen said it was a total rout The bravest are the tenderest of their possessions; if they did, disaster and there was no proper defensive line The loving are the daring would follow. The victorious Indians ig- while the Cheyenne grandmother of Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 11

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Sylvester Knows Gun said Custer was records are not accessible. killed at the very start of the battle and it 7 Myles Keogh letter to his mother, 7 was all over in 20 minutes. But forensic September 1861, National Library, evidence and excavations of the site sug- Myles Keogh papers, microfilm POS gest neither view is correct. There must 8988 have come a point of shivering terror 8 Anagni has always had strong papal when the troopers realised they were links, four popes came from the town. It going to die that day. It is to the credit of had its own papal palace and for many men like Myles Keogh that as the Indians years was the preferred retreat of succes- acknowledged, only a few gave up and sive popes wanting to escape the heat of begged for mercy. They were killed with- the Roman summer. out remorse, some of them horribly.52 9 Myles Keogh letter to Tom Keogh, 23 February 1867, National Library, Myles Libbie Custer spent the rest of her life de- Keogh papers, microfilm POS 8988 fending her husband’s reputation and 10 Ross Kehoe, Kilkenny, at one time held challenging anyone who suggested his Kehoes’ green papal hat with crossed impetuous and vianglorious conduct keys and harp badge. Scrapbook containing many of 11 caused the defeat. This was the opinion Keogh’s papers, cover inscribed Undated press cutting cited in Langel- of senior commanders like General Al- lier et al. 1998, p.62 “Colonel M.W. Keogh”. Autry Mu- 12 fred Terry, General John Gibbon, Col seum, Los Angeles, USA, 89.218.11 It is believed Keily was at one time be- Samuel Sturgis and President Grant as sotted with Myles’ sister, Fanny: Hayes- well as Reno and Benteen but better to McCoy, 1965, p.9. SS Kangaroo, 1,773 1 have the myth of Custer as the brave Custer was not Irish, though his mother tons was built by Laurence Hill & Co. on commander who fought against over- had Irish roots. The family name, Küster, the Clyde in 1854 for the Australian whelming odds and died with his boots was German, later anglicised to Custer. Steam Packet Co. as the name suggests 2 on than to recognise what was strategi- O’Kelly had served in the French army, before being sold to the Inman Line. An cally and militarily a major defeat. the Foreign Legion, in Mexico and in Irish Quaker family, the Richardsons, Cuba and got to know the 7th Cavalry founded the Line with William Inman, Myles Keogh is not forgotten in Carlow men around their campfires on the Yel- being one of the first lines to provide hot and happily there are still Keoghs living lowstone river in the weeks after the Lit- meals to steerage passengers. The in Orchard House, Leighlinbridge and in tle Big Horn. Richardsons withdrew from the company 3 Clifden, Kilkenny (are there?). There is The two main secondary sources for when it became involved in chartering also a memorial in Tinryland parish this article are the excellent and compre- ships for the Crimean War. church to Thomas Keogh who died on 4 hensive John P. Langellier, Kurt Hamil- 13 It is estimated 150,000 of the 2 million August 1897 and his wife Alice who pre- ton Cox and Brian C. Pohanka (eds), Union soldiers were Irish: John Keegan, deceased him on 21 April 1875 with a Myles Keogh: The Life and Legend of an The American Civil War, London: mention of Myles Keogh, “Captain, 7th “Irish Dragoon” in the Seventh Cavalry, Hutchinson, 2009, p.21; another readable Cavalry U.S.A, killed in action 25 June, El Segundo, California: Upton and Sons, source is Damian Shiels, The Irish in the 1876”. When the army opened a new fort 1998 and the equally detailed and in- American Civil War, Dublin, History in Montana they called it Fort Keogh, it formative Nathaniel Philbrick, The Last Press, 2013, unfortunately it has no is now an agricultural research station but Stand: Custer, Sitting Bull and the Battle index. still bears the same name. In an After- of the Little Big Horn, London: The Bod- 14 Quoted in Hayes-McCoy, 1965, p.13. word to the Langellier book, Gary Keogh ley Head, 2010. Sincere thanks also to Two months later Lincoln fired the ever wrote from Blackrock, Co. Dublin about Marilyn Van Winkle and the Autry Mu- cautious McClellan for failing to attack travelling to a symposium on his great- seum of the American West, Los Angeles Lee as ordered. McClellan stood against granduncle at the Gene Autry Western for suppling many of the photos in this Lincoln for the presidency in 1864 and Heritage Museum in 1990. He also re- article. lost. 4 lates that his father and uncles had great Myles Keogh letters to Tom Keogh, 25 15 Brig.-Gen. Buford letter to Brig. Gen. fun as children in Orchard House playing December 1865, 29 March 1868 and 5 Thomas, Adjutant General, 3 October with the Indian headdresses, lances, bows May 1869, National Library, Myles 1862. Photo: Autry Museum, Los Ange- and arrows which Myles Keogh brought Keogh papers, microfilm POS 8988 les, USA, 89.218.11 5 home from the US. Monograph 16 Many battles were fought close to http://www.littlebighorn.info/Articles/A Washington. The wealthy of the capital May he and all the men of the 7th Cav- -Visit-to-Orchard.pdf turned up with picnics to watch the first 6 alry, and the Indians who opposed them, The Foreign Legion took part in the Ital- battle of Bull Run on 21 July 1861, only rest in peace. ian war in 1859 suffering heavy casual- to flee in terror in their carriages when it ties before being deployed to Corsica in turned into a rout for the Union. June 1859 and Morocco in September 17 Myles Keogh letter to Tom Keogh, 21 1859: http://foreignlegion.info/history/. October 1863, National Library, Myles Unsurprisingly the Legion’s enlistment Keogh papers, microfilm POS 8988 Carloviana 2017 Myles Keogh_Layout 1 17/10/2016 21:42 Page 12

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18 The cousins’ issue caused a temporary ing had a long term concubine, Monah- ten under the dark shadow of hindsight, rift between the brothers. Myles said he setah, a beautiful Cheyenne squaw he it seems to have been a particularly sad did everything he could for them, giving had captured. He also slept often with an departure. them money, clothes, horses and arms. African-American servant girl. 43 Lt Porter died with Keogh at the Little Daniel O’Sullivan became a Benedictine 28 Myles Keogh letters to Tom Keogh, Big Horn. monk and died in 1904: Hayes-McCoy, National Library, Myles Keogh papers, 44 He was later dismissed from the army 1965, pp.19-20. 24 December 1865, 6 August and 27 Oc- after two sleazy, drunken incidents in- 19 Myles Keogh letter to Tom Keogh, un- tober 1866, microfilm POS 8988 volving another officer’s wife and Col. dated, National Library, Myles Keogh 29 The story of Keogh’s doomed love af- Sturgis’ daughter. The military was papers, microfilm POS 8988 fair is related by Brian Pohanka in Lan- coarse and savage in many ways yet cu- 20 Quoted in Theodore Allen, “Myles gellier et al., 1998, pp. 85-6. riously delicate in others. Keogh, Yesterday”, Jnl of the US Cavalry 30 Brian Pohanka, “Myles Keogh”, Mili- 45 Philbrick, 2010, p.15 Association, no.11, March 1898 tary Images 8, Sept-Oct 1986, pp.15-24, 46 Ibid., p.16 21 One of the ablest Union generals Sheri- quoted in Langellier et al. 1998, p.94 47 Like Reno (and indeed Custer and dan stood head and shoulders above 31 Keogh’s introduction to the Martins is Keogh), Benteen’s military career ended many mediocre commanders. He said he narrated by Lenora Snedeker in Langel- abruptly. He leaked a negative story was born in Albany, New York but may lier et al., 1998, pp.87-99. about General Crook to the press, as he well have been born in Co. Cavan, from 32 Leonora Snedeker in Langellier et al., had done with Custer, but Crook did not whence his parents emigrated. With 1998, pp.87-99 take it lying down and Benteen was presidential ambitions, he needed to play 33 Myles Keogh letter to Tom Keogh, 1 forced to leave the army. down his Irish origins. A West Point June 1869, National Library, Myles 48 The mutilations were in part revenge graduate, he was responsible for the Keogh papers, microfilm POS 4033 for an army atrocity when Col. John Union’s scorched earth policy imposed 34 If Keogh had stayed with the 4th, he Chivington attacked a Cheyenne and ruthlessly in the Shenandoah Valley dur- might have died in his bed, such being Arapaho village and the troopers muti- ing the Civil War. President Jefferson the arbitrary nature of events. lated the women and children, displaying Davis called him the “Attila of the Amer- 35 Myles Keogh letter to Tom Keogh, 6 their gory trophies at a war parade in ican Continent”. August 1866, National Library, MS Denver. Troopers on the frontier had a 22 Of the 45,000 Union POWs at Ander- 49,401 chilling expression: “Indian women rape sonville, 13,000 died from scurvy, dysen- 36 Another point of intense conflict in- easy.” tery and starvation. One inmate, Robert volved Custer. A government treaty 49 Comanche was the subject of much Kellogg describes arriving and seeing promised protection in perpetuity for the writing including Edward Luce, Keogh, “walking skeletons, covered in filth and Indians’ sacred ancestral lands in the Comanche and Custer, St Louis: John S. vermin”. The camp commandant, Cap- Black Hills of Dakota. The discovery of Swift, 1959 and Elizabeth Atwood tain Henry Wirz, was hanged for war gold put paid to the treaty and Custer was Lawrence, His Very Silence Speaks: Co- crimes in 1865. The site is now a Na- involved in forcibly relocating the Na- manche, Detroit: Wayne State University tional Historic Site with part of the stock- tives. Press, 1989. He lived to the ripe old age ade reconstructed. Conditions for many 37 Myles Keogh letter to Secretary of of 29 and is preserved in the University Confederate POWs held in the North State, 20 August 1869; US Citizenship of Kansas. were hardly any better with the death Certificate, 25 August 1869, National Li- 50 Henry Nowlan letters to Margaret rates at Elmira Prison in New York state brary, Myles Keogh papers, microfilm Keogh, 15 July, 17 September 1876, and Camp Douglas, Chicago almost as POS 4033. National Library, Myles Keogh papers, bad as Andersonville. 38 It is possible Keogh took the train from microfilm POS 4033 23 Captain Joseph O’Keeffe letters to Tom Cobh to Cork and then Waterford before 51 Gen. Sheridan letter to Miss Martin, Keogh, 3 August, 17 September 1864, changing for the train to Bagenalstown, 20 July 1877, National Library, Myles National Library, Myles Keogh papers, the closest station to Orchard House. Kogh papers, microfilm POS 4033 microfilm POS 8988 39 His brother, P. R Keogh, was at this 52 For a list of all the dead at the Little 24 Myles Keogh letter to Ellen Keogh, 2 time Carlow County Coroner. Big Horn see “Lest we forget” on this October 1864, National Library, Myles 40 On an earlier visit to the town he stayed website dedicated to Keogh: Keogh papers, microfilm POS 8988 at the Galt House Hotel. A fire broke out www.myleskeogh.org. 25 Adjutant-General’s Office letter to on the night of 10 January 1865 during Myles Keogh, 2 April 1866, National Li- which Keogh lost his papal medals and brary, Myles Keogh papers, microfilm some private papers. He later ordered re- POS 4033 placement medals. 26 Maj-General Stoneman letter to Adju- 41 The Custers had no children, possibly tant-General’s Office, 19 June 1865; because Custer was sterile after contract- General Schofield letter to General ing gonorrhoea while at West Point. Grant, 2 November 1865, National Li- 42 Libbie Custer’s description of the de- brary, Myles Keogh papers, microfilm parture from Fort Lincoln is narrated in POS 4033 Philbrick, 2010, pp.18-9. Even if some 27 Custer himself was hardly celibate hav- of her account of the leave-taking is writ- Carloviana 2017 Volunteers in Carlow_Layout 1 17/10/2016 23:56 Page 1

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The remainder of this project will focus on the activities of the First, Third and Fourth battalions of the Carlow Brigade from late 1919 through to 1921. The area Volunteer Activities in County encompassed by these battalions would be rather comparable to the actual geographical county of Carlow. The Carlow Brigade also comprised of the Second, Fifth Carlow during and Sixth battalions which included large parts of Kildare and western Wicklow. the War of Independence

Joint winner of the CHAS Third Level History Prize 2016

Jamie O’Neill

arlow, like almost everywhere else little by way of anything other than con- throughout the country, aside from fusion happened during the rising- CDublin, was quiet during the actual 1916 “although only one County Carlow rising. Carlow’s most notable connec- resident, Dr. Dundon of Borris, had been tions with the rebellion were the killing arrested, (in Listowel, Co. Kerry) com- of Nurse Margaret Kehoe and the execu- promising correspondence had allegedly tion of Michael O Hanrahan. Margaret been found in his home”ii. Kehoe was a nurse in south Dublin Fig. 1 shows a detailed map of the Union Hospital, now St. James’s Hospi- Patrick Burke was a native of Waterford Carlow Brigade along with the battal- tal, when it was occupied during the who was briefly employed in Bagenal- ion and brigade officers circa 1921, rising by the Fourth Battalion under the stown, as a coachmaker during this depicted in Patrick Kane’s witness command of Eamonn Ceannt and Cathal period. Burke’s witness statement is one statement.v Brugha. During a lull in the fighting be- of the earliest to mention republican ac- tween both sides Nurse Keogh rushed tivity in this area. From the information outside to help a wounded rebel by the he provides we can deduce that there was General Operations in Southern Carlow name of Dan McCarthy, who would a battalion of forty men operating in the Brigade during the War of Independence. subsequently become president of the Bagenalstown area before and during the G.A.A.; when the fighting resumed she 1916 rising; they were affiliated with the Burning of Barracks. was killed by a bullet reportedly fired Kilkenny Brigade as there was no head- from the British side quarters in Carlow. On Easter week 1916 It appears that a large part of the volun- they were given an order to take the teers’ early activities was burning R.I.C. Michael O Hanrahan however was a Royal Irish Constabulary (R.I.C.) bar- barracks. The burning of Ballon barracks, different proposition for he was a lifelong racks in Borris. On Easter Sunday morn- which was part of the Ballykealey estate nationalist and second in command to ing the men set off for their target along in 1919 seems to be the earliest activity Thomas MacDonagh at Jacobs’ biscuit a towline by the River Barrow, now in the region during the War of Independ- factory during the rising. O Hanrahan known as the Barrow Track. However, on ence. The barracks sat in the heart of the was executed in Kilmainham Gaol for his the way to take their objective, the bat- Third battalion’s area of operations. The part in the rising along with other promi- talion encountered volunteers who had witness statements of both Nan Nolan nent leaders.i Carlow town still has a driven from Dublin with a message from and Michael Fitzpatrick mention the deep association with the man today. O Eoin MacNeill following his discovery event. Nan Nolan was captain of Cumann Hanrahans G.A.A. club in the town is of the forged Castle document.iii This na mBan Ballon Company during this named after him and the Workman’s order countermanding previous orders was is- period and her brother John was a promi- Club which he founded is still opera- sued all over the country and led to widespread nent Volunteer. Ms. Nolan describes the tional and thriving just off College Street. confusion over the planned rebellion.iv event as follows. “The R.I.C. evacuated Within Carlow itself it appears that very the barracks and went into Tullow; a few

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mornings later the village awoke to find small with maybe only three to four the barracks in flames”. Nan names the occupants in each one and certainly arsonists responsible for the attack, in- would have been deep within hostile cluding Mick Fitzpatrick.vi Mick Fitz- territory on the edge of the Blackstairs patrick was a member of the Ballon Mountains, Carlow’s bandit country. Company in the Third Battalion at this In September 1920 Hynes tells us that time; he would later become intelligence men of the Fourth battalion burnt Bor- officer for the entire Third Battalion. Mr. ris R.I.C. barracks after it had been Fitzpatrick’s description is a little more evacuatedx. These actions are backed detailed. Mick describes how five men up by Thomas Ryan, intelligence set out to burn the barracks after the officer with the Fourth Battalion, who R.I.C. had left. It was their company’s describes them in his witness state- Fig 3. shows Borris Garda Station which xi was originally the R.I.C. barracks from first operation and it almost ended in ment as “pre truce major activities”. xii disaster when Richard Barry got caught 1850 until its burning in September 1920. in the flames when they attempted to Arms Raids. weapons in their respective districts. The burn the barracks. Mick states that he Volunteers could not allow that to happen was burned all over and that the volun- Arms raids were also a very common and chose to act first, and Hynes teers learned a valuable lesson that activity carried out by the First, Third and vii describes how all houses known to con- night. Fourth Battalions throughout this time tain weapons in Fourth Battalion’s period. It appears that the vol- district were raided. Hynes goes on to unteers were very poorly describe how three farmers who refused armed. John McGill, Vice to hand up their weapons were dealt with. Commandant of the Third The first farmer, a Mr. James Kavanagh, Battalion, describes the had his house searched and when the Rathvilly Company as having Volunteers only found one of his two no arms whatsoever and say- guns he was arrested but subsequently ing they were forced to drill xiii released. The second farmer was a Mr. Fig. 2 shows Ballon R.I.C. barracks as it stands with wooden guns. Patrick Paddy Doyle. Hynes and his Volunteers today. It is now a Garda station. Burke describes the Bagenal- searched Paddy’s home and turned up stown Company on the eve of nothing. Then they became involved in a 1916 as “having a few Schneider rifles, a scuffle with Mr. Doyle before threatening Michael Doorley, Captain of E Company few shotguns and two or three xiv to take his son, whether this meant to in the First Battalion Carlow Brigade and revolvers”. Michael Doorley describes arrest him or to kill him is unclear. Either later commanding officer of the First how early in 1920 Bagenalstown Com- way the threat proved effective and the Battalion, mentions the burning of pany raided the houses of loyalists in the gun was handed over. The third farmer, Fenagh barracks in his witness statement. area for arms. The company again Mr. Stephen Kavanagh, also refused to He infers that the incident happened mounted raids in August or September hand over his gun. The local Volunteers around April 1920 and that the barracks 1920. However it appears these raids then threatened to set his house on fire. was evacuated by the R.I.C., rather than were more organized. Doorley describes They immediately were given the gun. being taken by Volunteers. It is worth how he broke the company into sections Hynes also describes returning to the noting that this is a recurrent theme. The and allotted an area for each section in house of Mr. James Kavanagh to take his barracks was burned a few nights after which to carry out raids. The raid was viii brother’s gun. When he refused they being evacuated. The remains of extremely successful with the Volunteers “took his bicycle and arrested the man”xvi Fenagh R.I.C. barracks were later demol- seizing about forty shotguns. Interest- in question, Denis Kavanagh; when he ished and a pile of rubble in a field at the ingly it appears that the volunteers were still refused the local Volunteers forced northern end of the village opposite not afraid to use intimidation upon the the man to kneel and say an act of Kearneys’ pub are all that remains. local people. Doorley describes an contrition, a rather brutal action, but still incident where a man refused to hand his he refused so they locked him in an aban- Similarly, John Hynes, a member of B weapon over to the volunteers. The doned house and upon being released the Company, Fourth Battalion and later Vice volunteers threatened to burn the man’s next day he handed his gun to the Volun- Commanding Officer of the Fourth Bat- home in order to seize the shotgun xvii xv teers. Further raids were carried out in talion, mentions in his witness statement he owned. June, July, August and September that in April 1920 the R.I.C. barracks in throughout the district. A report in the Glynn was evacuated and a couple of John Hynes in his witness statement Nationalist and Leinster times from nights later his company destroyed it by provides a reason for the arms raids September 11th 1920 describes wide- setting it on fire. In June 1920 a similar throughout the district in early 1920. spread arms raids in the Carlow Brigade fate occurred to the R.I.C. barracks in According to Hynes, General Headquar- area.xviii Another report carried in the Killedmond, another area within the ters (G.H.Q.) in Dublin received word ix Nationalist and Leinster Times on April Fourth Battalion’s sphere of operations. that all R.I.C. forces throughout the coun- 24th, 1920 describes an injury to a farmer These two barracks would have been very try were going to be ordered to seize all Carloviana 2017 Volunteers in Carlow_Layout 1 17/10/2016 23:56 Page 3

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during an arms raid and subsequent court Fitzpatrick however divulges a little against the Volunteers since the threat of case. This further highlights the extensive use more information about the deadly conscription had been mentioned by the of violence by the Volunteers in these arms attack. He names Michael Keating and British Government. Conscription had raids.xix Liam O Dea as the two battalion officers been “the threat that moved Foley and who led the attack. Their men were as other moderate Irish bishops into a much Seizure of Mail. follows: James Roche, Michael Walsh, more forceful stance on Irish affairs”.xxix James Nolan, Daniel Byrne, Michael O A large article was carried by The Na- Another main activity carried out by the Neill and Peter Quinn. Following the at- tionalist and Leinster Times on Septem- Volunteers of the First, Third and Fourth tack all these men had to go into hiding ber 19th 1920 describing the attack at Battalions was the seizure of mail. In or ‘on the run’ as it was known then. Fitz- Tullow and the immediate reaction after Michael Doorley’s witness statement it is patrick also mentions that the attack led it by R.I.C. forces. This edition of the stated that mail was seized on regular to severe reprisals in the area with two paper also carried a description of a ser- occasions and censored, with any infor- shops being burned in Tullow town cen- mon delivered by the Bishop of Kildare mation being passed on to the brigade tre. It is stated that after the attack so and Leighlin condemning the attacks by the headquarters.xx Thomas Ryan speaks of a many men had to go into hiding that it volunteers and the retaliation by the R.I.C.xxx raid on a mail train in January 1921.The effectively broke up the battalion for a period raid happened at Borris and was carried of time; however it is not specified how long.xxv ‘Domestic Enemy’ Kennedy. out by members of the Fourth Battalion. Police codes were found during the raid John McGill describes the retaliations in William P. Kennedy was a chemist in the and also information leading to a raid on detail. The morning after the attack the town of Borris who attracted the Volun- the offices of a solicitor in Enniscorthy. R.I.C. burned two of the biggest shops in teers’ attention due to his collusion with Ryan mentions a further mail train raid in the district and carried out extensive the local R.I.C. and his clear unionist March of 1921 but does not go into raids. During the raids and arrests sus- sentiments. These tendencies would cost specific details.xxi John Hynes also a pected Volunteers were stripped to see if him his life at the age of 37 when he was member of the Fourth Battalion mentions they had any wounds. The R.I.C. also shot dead by Fourth Battalion Volunteers that another raid was made on a mail made threats as to what would happen to on Tuesday March 15th 1921. Thomas train in Borris in September 1921 but he Michael Keating or Daniel Byrne if they Ryan describes Kennedy as a domestic too does not divulge specific informa- were found.xxvi Patrick Kane in his enemy who used to bring R.I.C. men to tion.xxii An article from The Nation- witness statement describes 1920 as a suspected volunteers’ homes for raids. alist and Leinster Times on the 4th difficult year and mentions the burning Both Kennedy and his solicitor Mr. of September 1920 describes in of the two shops in Tullow but also that Dempsey, who was earmarked as a sym- particularly vivid detail a mail train of the property of a Volunteer in Clon- pathizer of English rule following one of raid in part of Carlow Brigade’s area more in retaliation for the ambush.xxvii the mail train raids mentioned earlier, of operation; the raiders held the train were recognized during these searches. up for a short few minutes and also left The two shops which were burned be- The searches were principally carried out with only official correspondence. xxiii longed to the Murphy family of Tullow, on Dr. Dundon’s house.xxxi who were an affluent family in the area The Tullow Ambush at the time. Indeed one of the family, Dr. Dundon was at one point commander September 1920. William or Bill as he was more com- of the entire Fourth Battalion and as was monly known was a Captain with the illustrated earlier he was the only man in An escalation of violence occurred in the Royal Dublin Fusiliers during World War Carlow arrested in the round up of areas of the First, Third and Fourth Bat- One. Captain Murphy had led the Ninth suspected rebels following the 1916 talions’ area of operations from Septem- Battalion of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers at rising. James Lalor an I.R.B. man and ber 1920 until roughly March 1921. The Ginchy in what would become a famous Vice Commanding Officer of the First ambush of an R.I.C. patrol near Tullow victory during the Somme offensive. Battalion in the Kilkenny Brigade at the on September 8th 1920 by the Third Bat- Captain Murphy died during the battle time of the 1916 rising describes in his talion seemed to spark off this turbulent along with so many of the other Irish witness statement how he and another period in the area. Constable Delaney troops who spearheaded the offensive. man travelled to Borris on Easter Mon- and Constable Gaughan were killed in However “the business was dealt a seri- day morning 1916 to collect arms from the skirmish, with at least one other ous blow in September of 1920 when Dr. Dundon. They received fourteen R.I.C. man, Constable Halloran, being Crown forces torched the premises in a shotguns and ammunition.xxxii Edward O wounded. In Nan Nolan’s witness state- mindless wanton act of retaliation”.xxviii It Neill another I.R.B. man and prominent ment, she mentions that Constable appears that the attack upset more than republican who had been involved in the Delaney and another R.I.C. man had just the Crown forces in the area. Bishop Howth gunrunning describes being sent been enquiring for information around Patrick Foley of Kildare and Leighlin to Carlow to assist Dr. Dundon to help the Ballon area a mere four days before denounced the attack although he did properly organize the Bagenalstown they met their deaths. Indeed, she claims concede that there were atrocious crimes Volunteers.xxxiii Thus it appears that Dr. that she herself had a run in with them at being committed by both sides in the Dundon was a rather prominent nation- Kilbride Cross. However how true this is conflict. This was the first time that the alist in this area. would be impossible to prove.xxiv Michael Church in the general area had gone Carloviana 2017 Volunteers in Carlow_Layout 1 17/10/2016 23:56 Page 4

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Thomas Ryan goes on to describe how describes how a plan was formed appears that the planned attack would Kennedy would drive past the doctor’s whereby three groups of men were to set have been one of the largest engagements in house with R.I.C. men in his company up to ambush the party. The first group the entire region had it gone ahead. and that shots were often fired into the of four men would set up to the south, the house. Dr. Dundon had no choice but to second in the north and the third would Support for the attack had come from leave and only occasionally returned come east via the same lane on which places all over the region. Garrett Bren- under cover of darkness; however Kennedy had previously fired at Volun- nan, future Deputy Commissioner of An Kennedy would have some of his young teers. The plan was to let him come to the Garda Síochána, brought twenty men servants keeping watch for the doctor. group at the lane, who had set up in the from ‘C’ and ‘D’ companies of the The local Volunteers decided to occupy a church grounds. If they succeeded the Kilkenny Brigade down off the Castle- house opposite Dundon’s in order to other groups would move in, disarm him comer ridge to hold roads around the provide some protection. As they were and label him. When Kennedy and Royal Oak side of the town. However as doing this Kennedy happened upon them Dempsey emerged from the house one of he and his men made their approach they and shot at them. As Kennedy rushed into his the groups moved in prematurely and spotted military approaching along the house two bullets hit his door frame.xxxiv Kennedy managed to get six shots off at Carlow road toward Bagenalstown. After his assailants. However Kennedy was waiting for their rendezvous for three John Hynes’s account of Kennedy’s deal- shot dead and Dempsey was mortally hours the men retreated. Brennan further ings with the local Volunteers goes into a wounded. He died on Wednesday March says that the Sunday papers carried an lot more detail. Hynes states that the first 16th.xxxvii Patrick Kane describes official statement which claimed the run in with Kennedy came when he Kennedy in his witness statement as a British authorities had received word of refused to close his shop following the man alleged to be consorting with the an imminent attack and had sent call of a national strike in support of the enemy and Dempsey as an innocent reinforcements to the area.xliii hunger strikers in Mountjoy prison. man.xxxviii This certainly leaves the According to Hynes, Kennedy was reasons for their deaths open to John Walsh approached Bagenalstown always sneering at the Catholic faith as interpretation. from Slyguff along the Barrow track with well. Following these grievances, the the Kilkenny Flying Column and Volun- local Volunteers put in place a boycott of The Bagenalstown R.I.C. teers from ‘A’ company of the Kilkenny his chemist’s shop. However, this was barracks ambush. Brigade. When he and his commanding resolved through mediation by his solic- officer, George O Dwyer, climbed the itor, Mr. Dempsey. Kennedy later Following the formation of the Carlow Royal Oak Bridge they were encountered reneged on the settlement and attempted flying column or Active Service Unit by an enemy patrol. The two men then to take legal action against some of the (A.S.U.) it was decided that an initiation established contact with scouts from Volunteers for loss of business during the attack would be carried out on a stretch Third Battalion who reported that the boycott. Thus the boycott was resumed. of road known as the ‘long mile’ which streets within the town were awash with Later on after the murder of the Lord is around 4 kilometers outside Bagenal- enemy forces. O Dwyer decided to leave Mayor of Cork, Terence MacSwiney all stown on the old Carlow-Bagenalstown and the men from Graiguenamanagh shops were ordered to close. However road. Patrick Kane tells us this attack was made a hasty retreat.xliv Kennedy refused and from this point on badly planned and poorly coordinated Hynes indicates that things became much and that it had to be called off.xxxix Brigid John Hynes describes how he and Volun- more radical. He describes how Kennedy Ryan, commanding officer of Carlow teers of Fourth Battalion Carlow Brigade would go out at night and shoot at anyone Brigade Cumann na mBan at the time, approached the town along with he thought was a Volunteer. Kennedy tells us that she brought arms and ammu- Carlow’s flying column. Soon after they also set up a gang to beat, maim or kill nition to the Volunteers who were going arrived at their assembly point they anyone he suspected of being a national- to take part in the attempted ambush at received word that fifteen lorries of ist. However he did not realize that one the long mile.xl military had arrived in Bagenalstown and of his shop assistants and gang members, taken up positions throughout the area Frank Kelly, was also a Volunteer. Hynes Following the disappointment of this and as a result the attack was cancelled. also describes the lucky escape that failed ambush a decision was taken to at- John tells us he later heard that a Volun- Kennedy had in pretty much the tack the R.I.C. barracks on the Station teer had told his girlfriend of the impend- same format.xxxv Road in Bagenalstown on April 16th ing attack and she told an R.I.C. man whom 1921. The barracks had been moved at she was also seeing at the time.xlv The order for Kennedy’s shooting came some point in the previous four to five through the Friday before his death. years due to its vulnerability.xli Bagenal- Michael Doorley, Commanding Officer Hynes describes how information was stown R.I.C. barracks at the time was the of First Battalion Carlow Brigade at the received that Kennedy was going to leave district headquarters of the R.I.C. and time of the planned attack, provides us his home in the southern end of Borris to according to John Walsh, Commanding with a detailed account of the plan for the go to a party in a house at the northern Officer of the Fifth Battalion Kilkenny attack. The attack was to be carried out end of town. With Kennedy were Brigade there would have been at least by the Brigade’s A.S.U. with assistance Dempsey and two other men named O thirty R.I.C. men, Auxiliaries and Black by units from the surrounding battalions Brien and Coburn.xxxvi Thomas Ryan and Tans stationed there.xlii It certainly and brigades. All byroads were blocked Carloviana 2017 Volunteers in Carlow_Layout 1 17/10/2016 23:56 Page 5

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before the attack with the main roads not for training. The column had rather fool- Ryan, on the other hand, describes how a being blocked until the time the attack ishly failed to post any sentries to watch force of R.I.C. and military from Bage- was to commence, 10 p.m. Having for approaching enemy soldiers. The col- nalstown and Carlow picked up a spy blocked his assigned roads Doorley and umn was surrounded and only a handful named Finn near Graiguenamanagh, He a unit of men proceeded to their allotted of the eleven men were able to fight any was supposedly in the Crown forces’ position which was Kilcarrig Bridge, kind of battle.xlviii Michael Fay was killed; lorry while the battle raged. Finn was some 250 yards from the barracks on the Michael Ryan and Laurence O’Neill later captured, tried and executed. Ryan Station Road. As they progressed they were wounded. Six more men were cap- states that he was found with a large saw the lights of enemy vehicles tured. These included Patrick Gaffney, 3 amount of money on him.liv A large piece approaching from Carlow. Doorley sent brothers James Behan, Thomas Behan was carried in The Nationalist and word to the brigade’s vice commanding and Michael Behan, Patrick Fitzpatrick Leinster Times on Saturday July 9th officer, Tommy O Connell, who quickly and William McKenna. These names all describing the events surrounding the advised Doorley and his men to with- appeared in the Nationalist and Leinster capture of eight volunteers and the tragic draw as quickly and as quietly as they Times report of the incident from Satur- loss of three lives. The piece also could due to a large enemy presence in day April 23rd 1921 which describes a describes in vivid detail the subsequent the area. According to Doorley it was particularly ‘gruesome battle and depres- court case of the eight detainees, the later concluded that the enemy received sive scenes’.xlix charges which they faced and the information due to loose talk by evidence against them.lv a Volunteer.xlvi Thomas Ryan, Intelligence Officer with the Fourth Battalion and Ballymurphy Conclusion Patrick Kane states that the day of the native, describes the incident similarly to attack he received a police wire through Patrick Kane. However he is able to shed The massacre at Mullinagown and the one of his wire taps, that explained the light on the three civilians who were coming of the Truce seemed to have authorities had reliable information an killed. John Ryan, a farmer aged 62, was effectively ended a turbulent period in attack was due to take place. Kane sent shot dead while getting a bucket of water county Carlow. During the civil war dispatches to all officers who were to be in his yard; his son found the body and Carlow was relatively quiet compared to involved in the attack but they didn’t went to get a priest despite being fired other areas of the country. It appears that arrive in time and it was only good luck upon. James and Peter Farrell who were the Mullinagown massacre had taken the that the planned attack didn’t end in dis- Volunteers but not members of the fight out of Volunteers in this area. aster. Kane also describes a high level A.S.U. were shot and bayoneted while Michael Fitzpatrick describes a meeting inquiry into how the information was sowing corn. Ryan adds that it appears after the Mullinagown fight where a list leaked and concludes that a man was the two men attempted to reach the of all men, arms and ammunition was later shot in the district. He does not column to tell them of the impending taken in his battalion.lvi It seems that the know whether he was court martialed or attack. Ryan also adds that Fay, a column Carlow Brigade was now under pressure whether he was innocent or guilty.xlvii member, who was lying wounded, was for arms particularly rifles. This is Interestingly after that final statement by brutally shot and bayoneted until dead.l confirmed by Patrick Kane who says that Kane there are some documents censored Patrick Doyle, Quartermaster with the the Brigade commander, Eamon Malone, from his witness statement. North Wexford Brigade, describes how commented to him that the Mullinagown the Wexford A.S.U. and officers were incident was ‘nearly the end, all the rifles The Mullinagown Massacre. training on the opposite side of the we had have gone too’.lvii From this Blackstairs Mountains when they heard project it is plain to see that the The Carlow A.S.U. was set up in order to heavy gunfire on the Carlow side of the offensives undertaken by the First, Third take the fight to the enemy in the Carlow mountain. That evening they received and Fourth Battalions in the Carlow Brigade area. After training in the hills word of the massacre. Michael Ryan, one Brigade during the age of revolution were around Killeshin under the protection of of the wounded men involved in the ineffective, poorly organized and ill the First Battalion and attempting to fight, was Patrick Doyle’s uncle.li James equipped; thus they were doomed to fail. stage two attacks on the R.I.C. in Bage- O Toole, Lieutenant of Third Battalion While there can be no doubt that the men nalstown the Carlow A.S.U. moved south North Wexford Brigade, who was also at were steadfast in trying to complete their into Fourth Battalion’s area of operations. the camp describes how after hearing of duties, the attention of the local R.I.C., The date was April 19th 1921. A mere the battle in Carlow a decision was taken coupled with spies and informers, served two days after doing so the Carlow to keep the column at the training camp to act to help the crown forces maintain control A.S.U. would be non-existent with eight as camp guards while the officers trained.lii of the region. However, the Volunteers in men captured, two escaped and one dead. the area had some successes in harboring Three further men were also killed in the battle; Patrick Kane describes how a spy dressed men on the run, gaining information from however these were civilians. as a tramp or vagabond led the R.I.C. to raids on mail trains and also keeping lines the area where the men of the A.S.U. of communication open to men in the Patrick Kane says in his witness state- were billeted. Kane also mentions that southern part of the island. There can be ment that the A.S.U. was camped clean- this supposed tramp was later captured no doubt that the men of First, Third and ing their rifles while waiting for a with a sum of one hundred pounds found Fourth Battalions played their part in the member of G.H.Q. to arrive from Dublin on him. He was shot dead.liii Thomas heroic struggle for Irish independence. Carloviana 2017 Volunteers in Carlow_Layout 1 17/10/2016 23:56 Page 6

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Conor Kostick, 16 Lives: Michael O xxi Thomas Ryan, Witness Statement no. no. 1601, Bureau of Military History Hanrahan. (Dublin: The O Brien Press, 1442, Bureau of Military History 1913- 1913-21. 2015). 21. xliv John Walsh, Witness Statement no. ii Thomas McGrath, “Politics, Education xxii John Hynes, Witness Statement no. 966, Bureau of Military History 1913-21. and Religion in the age of 1496, Bureau of Military History 1913- xlv John Hynes, Witness Statement no. Revolution:Bishop Patrick Foley of Kil- 21. 1496, Bureau of Military History 1913- dare and Leighlin 1896-1926” in Thomas xxiii The Nationalist and Leinster Times, 21. McGrath, ed. Carlow History and Soci- September 4th 1920. xlvi Michael Doorley, Witness Statement ety, Dublin: Irish Academic Press, 2008), xxiv Nan Nolan, Witness Statement no. no. 1508, Bureau of Military History p. 840. 1441, Bureau of Military History, 1913- 1913-21. iii Patrick Burke, Witness Statement no. 21. xlvii Patrick Kane, Witness Statement no. 1131, Bureau of Military History, 1913- xxv Michael Fitzpatrick, Witness State- 1572, Bureau of Military History 1913- 21. ment no. 1443, Bureau of Military His- 21. iv Richard Killeen, A Short History of The tory 1913-21. xlviii Patrick Kane, Witness Statement no. 1916 Rising. (Dublin: Gill and MacMil- xxvi John McGill, Witness Statement no. 1572, Bureau of Military History 1913- lan, 2009). 1616, Bureau of Military History 1913- 21. v Patrick Kane, Witness Statement no. 21. xlix The Nationalist and Leinster Times, 1572, Bureau of Military History 1913- xxvii Patrick Kane, Witness Statement no. April 23rd 1921. 21. 1572, Bureau of Military History 1913- l Thomas Ryan, Witness Statement no. vi Nan Nolan, Witness Statement no. 21. 1442, Bureau of Military History 1913- 1441, Bureau of Military History, 1913- xxviii John O Donovan, “Unsung Hero of 21. 21. the Somme,” Carloviana, , 2016. p.42. li Patrick Doyle, Witness Statement no. vii Michael Fitzpatrick, Witness Statement xxix McGrath, p. 842. 1298, Bureau of Military History 1913- no. 1443, Bureau of Military History xxx The Nationalist and Leinster Times, 21. 1913-21. September 19th 1920. lii James O Toole, Witness Statement no. viii Michael Doorley, Witness Statement xxxi Thomas Ryan, Witness Statement no. 1084, Bureau of Military History 1913- no. 1508, Bureau of Military History 1442, Bureau of Military History 1913- 21. 1913-21. 21. liii Patrick Kane, Witness Statement no. ix John Hynes, Witness Statement no. xxxii James Lalor, Witness Statement no. 1572, Bureau of Military History 1913- 1496, Bureau of Military History 1913- 1032, Bureau of Military History 1913- 21. 21. 21. liv Thomas Ryan, Witness Statement no. x John Hynes, Witness Statement no. xxxiii Edward O Neill, Witness Statement 1442, Bureau of Military History 1913- 1496, Bureau of Military History 1913- no. 203, Bureau of Military History 21. 21. 1913-21. lv The Nationalist and Leinster Times, xi Thomas Ryan, Witness Statement no. xxxiv Thomas Ryan, Witness Statement no. July 9th 1921. 1442, Bureau of Military History 1913- 1442, Bureau of Military History 1913- lvi Michael Fitzpatrick, Witness Statement 21. 21. no. 1443, Bureau of Military History xii xxxv John Hynes, Witness Statement no. 1913-21. xiii John McGill, Witness Statement no. 1496, Bureau of Military History 1913- lvii Patrick Kane, Witness Statement no. 1616, Bureau of Military History 1913- 21. 1572, Bureau of Military History 1913- 21. xxxvi John Hynes, Witness Statement no. 21. xiv Patrick Burke, Witness Statement no. 1496, Bureau of Military History 1913- 1131, Bureau of Military History, 1913- 21. 21. xxxvii Thomas Ryan, Witness Statement xv Michael Doorley, Witness Statement no. 1442, Bureau of Military History no. 1508, Bureau of Military History 1913-21. 1913-21. xxxviii Patrick Kane, Witness Statement no. xvi John Hynes, Witness Statement no. 1572, Bureau of Military History 1913- 1496, Bureau of Military History 1913- 21. 21. xxxix Patrick Kane, Witness Statement no. xvii John Hynes, Witness Statement no. 1572, Bureau of Military History 1913- 1496, Bureau of Military History 1913- 21. 21. xl Brigid Ryan, Witness Statement no. xviii The Nationalist and Leinster Times, 1573, Bureau of Military History 1913- September 11th 1920. 21. xix The Nationalist and Leinster Times, xli Myles Kavanagh, “Bagenalstown April 24th 1920. 1913-21”, Carloviana, 2015, p.43. xx Michael Doorley, Witness Statement xlii John Walsh, Witness Statement no. no. 1508, Bureau of Military History 966, Bureau of Military History 1913-21. 1913-21. xliii Garrett Brennan, Witness Statement Carloviana 2017 Book review_Layout 1 21/10/2016 00:03 Page 1

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Book reviews

The Rabbit Industry in Ireland

Since his retirement from Oak Park Carlow Michael Conry has established a significant reputation as a social historian of rural Ireland.

In the six books he published between 2000 and 2011 he recorded the physical aspects of rural life which are no longer extant — culm and culm crushers, granite structures, corn stacks, the Carlow fence and animal powered churning machines.

He then turned to the livelihoods earned in rural areas in his next book — “Picking Bilberries, Fraochains and Whorls in Ireland” and in this new book, his latest, - The Rabbit Industry in Ireland — he chronicles the animal itself, the food it supplied, the people who hunted it, both full time and part time, and the significant export businesses who thrived in the market. From this narrative he illustrates clearly the importance of the rabbit in rural Ireland in the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century. However he also describes the damage inflicted on the agricultural economy by the sheer numbers of rabbits in the country — estimated at some 40 million in the early 1950s.

Along the way he debunks some myths — the Normans did not introduce the rabbit to Ireland — they were here from at least the 9th century. He also clarifies the exact circumstances surrounding the introduction of myxomatosis to Ireland in 1954.

Research is the hallmark of Michael’s work and over a period of twenty five years he interviewed over nine hundred people throughout the island. Through these interviews he describes an Ireland that has disappeared and one which only the most senior of us now remember.

Michel has created the record of this time and for this he deserves our thanks.

The Limeburners: A History of Clogrennane Limeworks 1816 - 2016

Commissioned by Clogrennane Lime Ltd. to celebrate two hundred years of continuous operation this book tells the story of a place and its people where in the words of the author “ it’s history is in the rock”.

In this his first book, Milford native,Shay Kinsella, goes farther back in history and demonstrates that a lime burning operation was located at Raheendoran from as early as the last decades of the nineteenth century.

Writing with the feeling and familiarity of the native Shay describes the development of the lime burning kilns by the Rochfort family who were involved with the business as owners if not as operator until the early 1920s. He describes the various operators and, owners right up to the acquisition of the business by CRH plc in 1965.During this research he unearthed the tragic story of James Connor operator of the kilns in 1916 and who, in an unfortunate accident, became one of the non combatant casualties in St. Stephen’s Green on Easter Monday 1916.

People are at the centre of this story, the owners, the operators and the workers and in this handsomely illustrated book their stories come through.

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Of the thirty two counties on this island Carlow ranks 31st in terms of size and 30th in terms of population. The strategic importance of the Barrow Valley was however recognised by our Norman invaders as a corridor to the south east and consequently to our Gaelic ancestry we have added Viking, Welsh, Norman and English.

Carlow people are the quiet ones – the county whose name does not resonate among the high achievements in Irish public life. Yet we have Carlow natives and descendants of our county of whose achievements we may be justly proud and this book celebrates those lives. Charlie Keegan, Martin Nevin and Jimmy O’Toole have spent their adult lives absorbing the history of their county and in this book they describe the lives and achievements of over three hundred of their county men.

Those recognised are both ordinary people and extraordinary people, young and old both in County Carlow and in the Carlow diaspora around the world. The categories into which the entries are grouped emerged from the lives of the individuals concerned and the influences they had on the societies they lived in. With upwards of three hundred words on each entrant this book will become the standard reference work on Carlow people past and present. For this the authors are to be congratulated. Museum_Layout 1 20/10/2016 23:48 Page 1

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2017 Officers of the Carlow Historical and Archaeological Society

Secretary Patron Padraig Dooley Professor Donal McCartney Treasurer President Pat O’Neill Bertie Watchorn Editor Vice President Jim Shannon Joe Brennan

Committee Joe Brennan, Msgr Brendan Byrne, Dan Carbery, Richard Codd, Padraig Dooley, Gary Hughes, John Kelly, Martin Nevin, Dermot O’Boyle, Seamus O’Murchu, Pat O’Neill, Jim Shannon, Bertie Watchorn, Lynne Whelan, Noreen Whelan

Honorary Life Members Michael Conry, Kevin Kennedy, Edward McDonald, Rose Murphy, Margaret Minchin, Martin Nevin.

Carlow Historical and Archaeological Society committee Front: Martin Nevin, noreen Whelan, President, Berti Watchorn, Msgr Brendan Byrne, Pat O’Neill, Back; Lynne Whelan, Padraig Dooley, Jim Shannon Gary Hughes, Joe Brennan, John Kelly. Dermot O’Boyle

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Members Noel Alcock, 42 Staunton Ave., Graiguecullen, Carlow Anthony & Phil Dooley, Barrowside , Carlow Thomas Alcock, Oisin, Derrymoyle, Carlow David Dooley, 7 Lerr View, Abbeylands, Castledermot Bernie Atkinson, 56 The downs, Pollerton Big, Carlow Padraig Dooley, 23 Dolmen Gardens, Carlow Robert Aughney, Lumcloone Cross, Fenagh, Co. Carlow Michael Doran, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow Margaret Baragry, “Maryville”,Larkfield, Rathnapish, Carlow Leslie Dowley, Oak Park,Carlow Michael Boyce, “Mulroy”, 14 Braganza, Carlow Anne E. Dowling, Kellistown, Carlow Ivor Bowe, Bowe Consulting, Strawhall, Carlow Mrs Lil Doyle, Ballycullane, Hacketstown, Co.Carlow Dr. Geoffrey Bremble, Chapel Hse., 11 Cothill, Ox136Jn, UK Thomas & Patricia Doyle, Browneshill Ave., Carlow Joseph & Mary Brennan, 63 Green Road, Carlow Percy Drea, Wells, Bagenalstown , Co.Carlow Phyllis Brennan, 32 College Gardens, Granby Row, Carlow Elizabeth Dunne, Ballinabranagh, Carlow Sheila Brennan, 32 College Gardens, Granby Row, Carlow Dr Colmain Etchingham, Ballinguilky, Hacketstown Edward Brophy, 1 Sycamore Road, Rathnapish, Carlow Jan Evans, Killeen, Inistioge, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny Gregory Brophy, Castlemore, Tullow, Co. Carlow James Farrell, Grosvenor, Kilkenny Road, Carlow Mrs. Brigid Brophy, Slievereagh, Rathdangan, Co. Wicklow Leslie Farrer, Crossneen, Carlow John Burke, “Aghaboe”, Knocknagee, Carlow Joseph Feeley, Moytura, Dunleckney, Bagenalstown Fergal Browne, “Churchview”, Rutland, Carlow George & Nuala Fitzgerald, 25 Riverside, Carlow James Browne, Killinane, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow William Fitzgerald, 50 Sycamore Road, Rathnapish, Carlow Maurice Bursey, 101Longwood Pl.,Chapel Hill, NC, USA Dr Tom Foley, Leighlinbridge, Co.Carlow Msgr Brendan Byrne, The Shroughawn, Tullow, Co.Carlow Desmond & Jean Foot, Pound Lane, Borris, Co. Carlow Rev. Gerald Byrne P.P., Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny Thomas & Marian Geoghegan, Ballincarrig, Carlow John Byrne, 10 The Paddocks, Gowran, Co. Kilkenny Mrs. Kathleen Goodwin,7 Aylesbury, Dublin Road, Carlow Margaret Byrne, 16 Sutton Grove, Sutton, Dublin 13 Robert & Betty Graham, Crossneen, Carlow Joseph Callinan, The Field, Pollerton Little, Carlow Margaret Grant, Clonegal, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford Elaine Callinan, Coolnariska, Killeshin, Carlow Patrick Healy, Pollerton Castle, Carlow Dan & Attracta Carbery, Glencarrig, Green Road, Carlow Rory Healy, Pollerton Castle, Carlow Kay Carbery, 58 Monacurragh, Carlow Noel Heffernan, 7 Bullock Park, Carlow Eugene & Patricia Carbery, Mortarstown, Carlow Mrs. Anna Hennessy, Ballytiglea, Borris, Co. Carlow Michael Carbery, 1 Pembroke, Carlow John & Avril Hogan, 8 Highfield, Carlow Sr. Mary Carmody, 4 Pinewood Avenue, Carlow Seamus & Mary Hogan, Rathrush, Rathoe, Co.Carlow Anthony Clarkson, St. Catherine’s, Regent St., Bagenalstown Gillian Holden, Castleroe West, Maganey, Athy, Co. Kildare Matthew Cleary, Erindale Lodge, Kilkenny Road, Carlow Paddy Holohan, Ballycarney, Blackbog Road, Carlow Richard Codd, Munny, Coolkenno, Tullow, Co. Carlow Michael & Pauline Hosey, The Boulders, Tinryland Mrs. Frances Cole, “Ballybar, “ Carlow Robert Gerald Howson, Carlow Road, Leighlinbridge Sr Eileen Comerford, Apt.7, Poachers Lock, Leighlinbridge Gary Hughes, 5 Ashfield, Carlow Mrs. Edwina Comerford, Hollybrook Heights, Clogrennane Robin & Nora James, “The Dormer”, Brownshill Rd.,Carlow Kathy & Kevin Connelly, 88 The Paddocks, Brownshill Rd. Mrs Pauline Jordan, Church Road, Bagenalstown,Co.Carlow James & Brenda Conway, Coppenagh, Tullow, Co. Carlow Thomas Joyce, Rathgorvan, Ballymurphy, Borris L.V. & Rita Conway, Straboe, Tullow, Co.Carlow Myles Kavanagh, Royal Oak Rd., Bagenalstown John Conway, Rathvinden, Leighlinbridge, Co.Carlow Larry Kavanagh, 17 Shillelagh Grove, Tullow, Co.Carlow John & Dawn Coogan, Castlemore, Tullow, Co. Carlow Deirdre Kearney, “Ardmore”, Brownshill Road, Carlow Thomas Corrigan, Knockfield, Castledermot, Co. Kildare Anne Keating, 95 Beechwood Park, Carlow Thomas & Kathleen Cox, Ballyknockan, Fenagh, Co.Carlow Sean Kehoe, 17 Ilex Hse., Mespil Estate, Sussex Rd., D 14 Eunice Cross, 2 Clarendon Rd., Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire Thomas Kehoe, 57 Dublin Street, Carlow Kathleen Cullen, Killamoat, Rathdangan, Co. Wicklow Patrick Keogh, 1Foxrock Green, Foxrock, Dublin 18 Peadar Cullen, Killamoat, Rathdangan, Co. Wicklow Edward Kelly, 118 St. Clare’s Road, Graiguecullen, Carlow Barry Dalby, Clonegal, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford John Kelly, Raheenkillane, Ballon, Co. Carlow Michael Daly, Caherea, Browneshill, Carlow Sarah Kenny, 208 O’Hanrahan Avenue, Carlow Pat Darcy, Crossneen, Carlow Dermot Kennedy, Glebe Hse., Clonmore, Hacketstown James & Marlene Davis, 2 Borlum Wood, Green Rd., Carlow William & BrigidKeppel, Rathrush, Rathoe, Co. Carlow James Deane, The Shop, Tinryland, Co.Carlow John Kinsella, Rathrush, Rathoe, Co. Carlow Cynthia Deane, Kilkenny- Carlow ETB, Athy Road, Carlow Shay Kinsella, Ballybannon, Milford, Co. Carlow Eamon & Cathleen Delaney, Tobacco Meadows, Carlow Rita Lacey, Closh, Ballylinan, Athy, Co. Kildare Hugh Dolan, 35 Oakley Park, Tullow Road, Carlow Michael & Margaret Lawlor, 20 New Oak Estate, Carlow John & Mary Dollard, 10 Barrowville, Kilkenny Rd., Carlow John Lohan, 33 Pairc Mhuire, Muinebheag, Co. Carlow James Donegan, St. Killian’s Crescent, Carlow Martin J Lynch, 118 Beechwood Park, Pollerton, Carlow Eddie Donohue, Rathvarrin, Ardattin, Co.Carlow Brian & Mary Lyons, Crossneen, Carlow Martin & Bernadette Doogue, Hillcrest, Baltinglass Paul Lyons, Oakpark Road, Carlow Thomas & Mairead Doolan, Ballinacarrig, Carlow Tony Lyons, Boherbee, Paulstown, Co. Kilkenny

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Mary Mackey, 35 Priory Court, St. Michael’s Rd., Gorey Seamus Ó Murchú, Friary Lane, Pollerton Little, Carlow Louise Maher, Clonegal, Co. Carlow Liam & Sheila O’Neill, Baile Eamoinn, Spiddal, Co. Galway Brendan May, Gardenfield, Tuam, Co. Galway Maurice O’Neill, Kilmurry, Ballon, Co. Carlow Kathleen McCarthy, Clonburrin House, Fenagh Nial O’Neill, 43 Connolly Villas, Ennis, Co.Clare Michael McCarthy, Clonburrin House, Fenagh,Muine Bheag Patrick O’Neill, 21 Bullock Park, Carlow Joseph McDonald, 4 Heatherfield Court, Carlow Paul O’Neill, Everton, Springhill, Carlow James McDonnell, 17 Mirfield Rd., Solihull, West Midlands Eileen O’Rourke, 35 Quinagh Green, Carlow Tony McEvoy, Cheshire Home, Tullow, Co. Carlow Hugh & Denise O’Rourke, St. Anthony’s, Ballyhide, Carlow Rev. John McEvoy P.P., Rathvilly, Co. Carlow Bernard O’Shea, 34 Bullock Park, Carlow Mrs Catherine McGuill, Blackbog Road, Carlow Fr PhilipO’Shea P.E., Ballinakill, Garryhill, Co. Carlow Norman McMillan, White Bulls, Portlaoise Rd., James&Carmel O’Toole,Borlum House, Kilkenny Rd,Carlow Graiguecullen, Carlow Séamus & Máire Parkes, “Dun Eoghain,” Chapelstown, Christopher McQuinn, 18 Shillelagh Grove, Tullow Co. Carlow Fonsie Mealey, Georgian Mews, The Square, Castlecomer Mrs. Helen Pender, Russellstown, Palatine, Carlow Anne T Meaney,3 Kilcarrig Street,Bagenalstown,Co. Carlow Terry Platt, Clonmore, Killeshin, Carlow Patrick & Gillian Minchin, Newtown, Bagenalstown Amanda Pitcairn, Corries, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow Peter Minchin, Coolnacuppogue , Bagenalstown Mrs.Ann Power, 42 Kilcarrig St, Bagenalstown, Michael & Mary Monahan, Johnsduffwood, Old Leighlin Co. Carlow Anne T. Mooney, 42 Bourlum Wood, Green Road, Carlow Mrs Marie Quirke, Newtown, Bagenalstown , Co.Carlow Charles & Ann L Moore, Tullow Lodge, Tullow, Co. Carlow T.J.G. Redmond, Heywood, Oakpark, Carlow Margaret Moran, 109 Beechwood Park, Pollerton, Carlow Mrs Eithne Reddy, 28 Borlum Wood, Green Rd., Carlow Rudi & Sheila Moss, “The Grove”, Ballyeden, Davidstown, Mrs Mena Rice, Main Street, Borris, Co. Carlow Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford Brid De Roiste, 15 Clarence Gate, Kilkenny Road, Carlow James Mulhall, Castlemore, Tullow, Co. Carlow Peter Rose, Spahill House, Borris, Co.Carlow Dermot Mulligan, 19 Marble Court, Paulstown,Co. Kilkenny Des & Rose Scully, 8 Burrindale, Pollerton, Carlow Frank Mulvey, 44 Feltham Hall, Blackbog Road, Carlow Denis Shannon, Crannach, Tinryland, Co.Carlow Anne Murphy, Pollerton Little, Carlow James Shannon, “Lorien”, Scotland,Hacketstown,Co. Carlow Eileen Murphy, Drumphea, Garryhill, Co. Carlow Jack Sheehan, Dunleckney, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow Ger & Kathyrn Murphy, “Duncar”, Browneshill, Carlow Richard Sheehan, Dunleckney, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow Patricia Murphy, Killinure, Tullow, Co. Carlow Rory Sheerin, The Ridge, Old Leighlin, Carlow Patrick E.Murphy, Ratheadon, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow Kae Slattery,“Windover”15 Sycamore Rd,Rathnapish,Carlow Patrick Murphy, 2 Oak Park Drive, Carlow Fr. Martin Smith, 1 Green Road, Carlow John Murphy, Killinure, Tullow, Co.Carlow Bernie Smyth, 12 Villarea Park, Glenageary, Co. Dublin Cllr. Charles Murphy, Knockbrack, Myshall, Co. Carlow John Smyth, Conaberry, Ballon, Co. Carlow Fr. Alphy Murphy, Carbery, Co. Kildare Seamus & Bridget Somers, Killinane, Bagenalstown Matthew & Kathleen Murray, Ballyhide, Carlow Derek Stacey, Brannockstown, Naas, Co. Kildare Thomas & Anne Neville, Oak Park, Carlow Jack Stratton, “Rockdale”, Kilmeaney, Carlow Mrs. Rosaleen Nevin, Carlow Road, Leighlinbridge Valerie Stratton, “Rockdale”, Kilmeaney, Carlow Ann Nolan, Wayside, Station Rd, Bagenalstown,Co. Carlow Rev. Peter Tarleton, The Rectory, Maidenhead, Ballickmoyler Breda Nolan, Station Road, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow Derek & Joan Treacy, 57 Highfield, Dublin Road, Carlow Katie Nolan, 6 Bagnal Court, Court Place, Carlow Robert & Irene Watchorn, Ballinakill, Ballickmoyler, Carlow Frank Nolan, “Sunnydale”, Oak Park Road, Carlow Seosamh Watson, Glenview, Nurney, Co. Carlow Liam & Sheila Nolan, Newtown, Bagenalstown,Co. Carlow Oliver & Mary Whelan, 152 Seapark, Malahide, Co. Dublin Eamonn A. Nolan, 90 Green Road, Carlow Mrs Noreen Whelan, 17 Sycamore Road, Rathnapish,Carlow Patrick M. Nolan, “Crescentia”, College Road, Kilkenny Fr Edward Whelan P.E., Ballon, Co.Carlow Joanne Nolan, 7 Brookfield court, Palatine, Co. Carlow James Whelan, Rathdangan, Kiltegan, Co. Wicklow Bishop Denis Nulty, Bishop’s House, Dublin Rd., Carlow Lynne Whelan, 66 Oakley Crescent, Graiguecullen, Carlow Dermot O’Boyle, 6 Castle Lawns, Carlow Paul White, Oakpark, Carlow Kennedy & Bernie O’Brien, Tinryland, Carlow Arthur Willis, Rathrush, Rathoe, Co.Carlow Mrs Eileen O’Connor, Rosemount, Borris, Co.Carlow Tony Wynne, 92 Jennings Lane, Atherton, California John O’Donovan, Kilnock, Ballon, Co. Carlow Peter O’Dowd, Shankhill, Paulstown, Co. Kilkenny Carmel O’Dwyer, 14 Sharon Avenue, Brownshill, Carlow John O’Gorman, Solicitors, Athy Road, Carlow Mrs. Betty O’Gorman, 59 Dublin Street, Carlow Una O’Gorman, Cullenagh, Ballylinan, co. Laois Anne O’Hara, 13 Frederick Avenue , Carlow P J O’Hare, Glenamoy, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow Des & Breda O’Mahony, “The Kerries”,22 Braganza, Carlow Gerry O’Malley, 64 Green Road, Carlow

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Contributors

Contributors Jamie O’Neill is a graduate of St. Patrick’s College, Carlow and the joint winner of our 2016 Third Level History Prize. Judy Bolger is a student at St. Patrick’s College Carlow and joint winner of the society’s inaugural Third Level History Prize Margaret O’Rourke is a member of Carlow Writers Cooper- ative and retired journalist. Patrick M. Byrne is a native of Hacketstown, where he has lived all his life. Now retired he has a great interest in the his- Sean O’Shea is a retired local government official and since tory and folklore of the area and he frequently writes about 1998 has contributed many articles to Carloviana, mainly dealing with the early to late medieval periods. these topics for “Carloviana”. is a native of Drumphea, Co. Carlow now resi- Dan Carbery is a native of Carlow town, a long standing com- Liam O’Neill mittee member and a past president of the society. dent in Spiddal Co. Galway. He has earned a reputation as a creative artist, a unique sculptor, and a master craftsman. Mrs Frankie Cole is a member of the society, now retired from farming. She has had a lifelong interest in racing. Pat O’Neill is a former president of the society and a former editor as well as being this society’s current treasurer. Eoin Cummins is a student at Ballinkillen National School and our history prize winner for 2015 & 2016. Mary Stratton-Ryan is a native of Carlow now living in Wex- ford. She is an artist and art historian. Catherine Flavelle is a history teacher in south – west England where she lives with her husband, Levi Roach. In her spare time Jim Shannon, retired teacher, past president of the society and she enjoys genealogy and local history and she has always been current editor has contributed many articles to Carloviana on interested in Carlow, as her maternal grandmother hailed from his native Hacketstown area. the Pollerton Road.

Myles Kavanagh is a retired teacher and society member. Since 1989 he has been a frequent contributor to Carloviana.

John Kelly is a society and committee member. One of our newest contributors this is his second article for Carloviana.

Samuel Kinirons is a gradute of Trinity College Dublin and Masters student in Medieval Archaeology at the University of York.

Shay Kinsella is a teacher and member of the society. He has contributed several articles to Carloviana and History Ireland. Obituaries His first book – The Limeburners – a history of Clogrennane Lime was published in 2016. Since our last issue the following long serving members of our society have John McDarby is staff officer at Carlow County Museum and passed away: also one of our more recent contributors. • Barry McHugh • Andreas Frohlich Christy McQuinn is a member of the society and retired prin- • Seamus Murphy cipal of Tullow Community School and a frequent contributor on the history of his native Tullow.

Phil Meaney is an Old Leighlin native and retired manager of Stone Developments Ltd. He is chairman of Bord na gCon.

Fergus Mulligan is a publisher and the author of numerous books, mainly in the areas of history and transport including the definitive biography of William Dargan.

Niall O’Brien is a farmer and amateur historian with an interest in medieval history. He writes on medieval history at celtic2realms-medieval news.blogspot.ie

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Seamus Murphy

1923 - 2016

One of the longest serving members of the society, who was an honorary life member, a member of our management committee for over forty years, and a former chairman passed away on September 14th this year.

Seamus Murphy of Pollerton Little, Carlow joined the society in the mid 1960s, joined the committee of management in 1972 and served as chairman between 1981 and 1983.

While Seamus was an active member of many organisations during his life, the GAA, Macra na Feirme, NFA, and Leinster Coop Marts it is his contribution to local history and heritage that we remember here.

From 1978 he contributed many articles to Carloviana but it was working with colleagues from the Old Carlow Society that he made his most significant contribution to local history and heritage. Pat Purcell, Bill Kelly, Jimmy Moran, Kevin Kennedy, Michael Dooley, Alec Burns and Seamus were the driving force behind the establishment of the Carlow Museum in the 1970s. Between the 1970s and the 1990s this group assembled the collection of artefacts which was the basis of the modern museum we now see in College Street. Seamus was also an avid collector of historical memorabilia and local songs and ballads.

His commitment to the preservation of the heritage of his native place was acknowledged in 2010 when he was awarded the Heritage Award in the Carlow Person of the Year Awards.