THE HERALD A Ball ymote Heritage Group Production

ISSUE NO. 10 :: JULY EDITION 1987' :: PRICE: 40p

This extract, taken from Gloir Shligigh 1893 - 1943, relates to the efforts that were made in the The area to revive a promote the Irish Language in the early decades of the Century. Franciscan Friary and Graveyard The restoration of the Franciscan • Graveyard, undertaken by the Heritage group is now almost finished and plans are underwat to have the ruins of the Friary attended to. To have the destructive ivy growth removed and the masonry made safe while preserving as many as possible of the interesting features of the ruin. Ballymote Friary, though it hasn't been given the status of a National Monument is a valuable milestone in the history of the _COURTESY-OF LIAM McDONAGH area, and it's hallowed graveyard has provided a last resting place for poor and rich, as the simple we-market side by side with baile an móta impressive monument demonstrates. IN Ballymote town and surrounding districts the early fight for the Ianguage had many ardent supporters. In is the BY Una Preston proud boast.of this historic place that many of its people were first in the field to promote everything Irish. Years before the Gaelic League organisers came to the country districts. as. Museum for far back as 1902. Ballymote had its Irish class- This class was held in a room in a house near the Courthouse. The late Mr. Martin Quigley. N.T., was the teacher. and included in the the area attendance we find the following. names:—Miss Daly. N.T.. the Misses :Annie and Amy Tighe. Miss Oonagh Brady. Miss Kate A place where valuable Keenan, N.T.. Miss A. J. Queenan. and Miss Horan. N.T. records, pictures and equipment Amongst the men who attended we find the names of Mr. of a culture and age that is Bernard Mullen. N.T.. Mr. Jim Reynolds. Dr. Earnest slipping from us could be housed O'Sulli-van. and Mr. Batt Henry. N.T. and put on show for visitors and preserved for future generations. The first prize to be won for Irish singing at the Feis This has been a long felt want of Ceoil was won by a Ballymote lady. Miss Oonagh Brady, the the Heritage Group but no judges at the Feis being Signor. Esposito and Mr. Denis suitable place was available. Now O'Sullivan. Credit is due to Mr. Martin Quigley. for the teaching a site has been offered which of the Irish songs for the event. and to Mr. Jim Reynolds who would accomodate a buildng, played the accompaniments. which could in addition to Dr. Douglas Hyde was the honoured guest at a banquet Held housing a small museum, provide in Sligo town in connection with the Teachers' Congress of 1905. space for a meeting room and a The only Irish songs sung at this function were by Dr. McNeill s Tourist Information Centre. sister. and Miss Oonagh Brady. When the toast of "The King" was proposed, it was a young. Ballymote teacher who Fund raising has started and the objected—Mr. James Quigley. now residing at Castlebar. It was due to group is optimistic that a start his efforts that the toast was abolished and was never again could be made on construction in proposed at any succeeding Congress . Contd. on Page 2 the not too distant future. 2 BAILE AN MHÓTA Conti from Page 1 A FORGOTTEN A word of praise is due to the untiring zeal of the late Mr. Martin Quigley. N.T.. who. through all the uphill fight of-those early days kept the flag unfurled. When the late Mr J. J. Cooke the local ART TomasCreamery O'MaIley he took later a keen interest in the Gaelic League. Mr.

came to the town as organisers. As a result Sean O Ruadhain was sent as Gaelic teacher. He spent a few years here. and established a branch of the League with Irish classes which herc splendidly attended. From this time onwards Ballymote was foremost in every thing Gaelic throughout the County. attending Feisanna in Shgo and . and travelling even to the Oireachtas and Dublin Feis Ceoil. Amongst the prizewinners for Irish step-dancing in the childern's competitions of the time we find the names May Dockry, Kathleen Bohan and Christina McGovern of Ballymote. The late Mrs. Kelly. N.T.. and Mrs.Lipsett.N.T.. sent choirs to the' Feiseanna for Irish singing Mr. Seamus Morrison. the now famous American traditional violinist. was an active member of the Branch. At this period e find the same names supporting the movement with the addition of Miss O' Dowd N.T.. Miss Breslin. N.T.. Mr. John A. Barnes. B.A..N.T.. Mr. Seamus Morrison. and Mr. Paddy McGettrick. After the departure of Mr. Sean O Ruadhain. Mr. Quigley and Mr. Cooke continued the classes. During these years Cathal Brugha was visiting the town.and the League was forwarding the sale of Irish manufactured goods. Many shop-keepers bought in Pictured above the late Jack Milmoe, stocks to suit ihe requirements. one obtaining an agency for Treen, Keash. Foxford Woollen Mdls, The next Gaelic teacher to come to Ballymote was Mr. Sean Langan. Castlebar, who spent a few winters here. The teachers had special Irish classes taught by Sean O Ruadhain and it was at this period many of the Adult teachers obtained their bi-lingual certificates amongst them the late Miss Scanlon. N.T.. and Miss O'Dowd. N.T. In 1917 an order by the British Government was issued Education forbidding collections or flag days to be held for any purpose. except under permit from thc R.I.C. Ballymote Gaelic League As it is operated in this country held its usual collection in defiance of this order and also had a it only seems to cover manual most successful flag day at a Sports in Earlsfield. The sellers skills and cultural activities — of the flags on this occasion were Mrs. Alex. McCabe. the Misses This rapidly changing world of Sarah and Baby Bohan. and Miss Dilly McManus. Miss Baby ours today demands that we keep Bohan. a Ballymote lady. helped the Sligo Gaelic League during abreast of these changes, which all the troubled years by making collections without a permit means that education cannot stop in Sligo.. Manorhamilton. etc. During the years 1919-1923 the at school-leaving stage but must be an on-going thing while for Irish language kept alive by a strong active Branch in t those who have long left school it he town but unfortunately after 1923 a wave of apathy spread over must be a process of catching-up. the district and the Branch became dormant. until Alt. John A. And catching up on what? How Barnes. B.A.. N.T.. was appointed principal of the Boys we are being governed. How the ' National School. This great Gael took up the Gaelic League money extracted from us in revival and set to work with energy to re-establish the Branch. various ways (the fruits of our He interested the Technical Committee. got theta to start Irish labour) is being spent. Should we classes. and Mr.. Seamus Deignan w asappointed teacher. He not trust the people our votes was succeeded by his brother. Padraic. who was again succeeded have put in government? But how by Mr. Seamus Browne. Mr. Hugh Greene. Mr. Cafferkey. can we vote wisely if we do not M.A.. Mr. L. Jinks and Mr. T. Finan who is still active here understand what we are voting in the promotion of the language. For the past ten year's the for, the maching that is being used late Very Rev. Canon Quinn. P.P.. took a deep interest in the to govern us, and something of the progress.Gaelic movement and under his paternal care it made great reasoning behind it. With that knowledge we could An innovation. in connection with the Gaelic League. took vote wisely and with our elected place about five years ago when Coiste na bPaisdi was representatives play a useful part established. Each year ten pupils were scnt to the Ga in ensuring reasonable and edhealtacht from the parish of Ballymote. They were in charge of Mr. J. A. balanced government. Barnes who 1ooked after ;heir welfare while there. This There ar many other facets of adult education as it should be movement has giver: the children a real living interest in the language operated in the 80's and onward and at a meeting held recently it was suggested that if it were which will become more possible to make an arrangement whereby a number of children apparent as time goes on. could be sent to the Gaedhealtacht for six months in exchange Local communities must for a similar number of Gaedhealtacht children to be sent to themselves become the BaIlymote area. it would ensure that all children, would then educators in this changing world. have a chance of hearing and learning the language as it is spoken in its native home. All the teachers of the parish are giving of their hest in this movement. 3 BAILE AN MHÓTA Contd. from Page 2

"THE SIEGE OF PORT RIVERSTOWN" Historic Battles For The Language

(By B. B.) N honouring the pioneers who led the language movement in the past, mention must be made of many Gaelic-minded, I patriotic priests. None deserves remembrance better as a consistent, fearless Gael than an t-Athair Brian O Criochain, formerly of Riverstown, Sligo and Grange, and now Very Rev. Canon Crehan, P.P., Creggs, Co. Roscommon One find it difficult in a short article such as this to know where to begin to write about an t-Athair Brian, or what period or incident to pick out of the forty years' active service he has given the cause of Irish Ireland. Perhaps it mav he as well to turn first to the pages of the weekly Irish paper, "The Leader," of September, 1904. In it one finds an itcm with the strange heading The Siege of Port Riverstown." Here is what it says: "Port Arthur and Mukden are interesting places to all the world just now, but Irish-Ireland has a particular interest in the hamlet of Riverstown in the County of Sligo. There is a sort of siege or battle going on there ; some postal officials with brooms are attempting to stop the Irish- Ireland tide; the battle is raging as we write, and no one knows the fateful moment when the Riverstown defenders will throw' up their hands and let the tide swamp nhat great stronghold of English civilisation. When the Irish tide in the shape of an Irish-Irelind curate first encroached on the fortress of Port Rivcrstown. the gallant defenders treated the tide with even more than indifference. . . Long Tom was not mounted on the sorter's OLDEST BUSINESS desk. Letters addressed in Irish were not only harboured in the great British fortress, but the .contraband was delivered with fair When Andy McGann built and regularity to the foul enemy who was biting at the foundations of opened a licensed premises on English civilisation within the gates. The foul enemy then started a treasonous Irish class in Port Riverstown and preached nefarious. the Rock in Ballymote 4n 1847 Irish ideas. The gallant Sourface on the watch at thc Post Office when the famine was at its worst Fort looked to the powder and the guns; the tail of the British he hardly realised that in 1987 the lion had been twisted overmuch. The Post Office officials shook same business would be in their lions' manes. The servant of thc Irish enemy was told at operation under his great the Post Office Fort that his master was getting into a had habit grandson, the present proprietor, in having letters addressed in Irish through the post and that his Mr. Mark Henry. master ought not to get them." After Andy's death the So that was the battle ! Letters to the Catholic cuate, if business passed to his son Mark they were addressed in Irish, were withheld and delayed by a local McGann, who handed it on to his Postmaster ! The story. promise; to be interesting, so let us daughter Mary McGann. In 1928 continue to read from the files of "The Leader" :—"After. that, the Mary married Michael James open war commenced. All, or almost all, the Catholic curate's Henry of Greenaun, Keash Mrs. letters, etc., addressed in Irish were packed back to Dublin for Mary McGann-Henry is still hale translation. The curate has been at Riverstown for about 17 months, but he is still officially unknown at the Post Office Fort. and hearty and her son Mark and The British lion at Riverstown has taken the field against the Irish his wife Maureen are carrying on wolf-hound but the wolf-hound fortunately has tecth. Needless to the business which has remained say, the British lion at Port Riverstown is a Sourface. within the family for 140 years. 4 `The Siege of Port Riverstown' Kesh Corran's

Contd. from Page The Irish Stately Hill wolf-dog is not turning tail; he is showing more of his teeth and some of his claws. Hitherto his were the only Irish-addressed Once upon, this charming hill I climbed letters sent to Port Riverstown; now he proposes asking his class With light and bouyant air, to have. letters addressed to them in Irish in future. We trust all our readers who know anyone in the famous fortress will pour in To view its famed majestic mount, Likewise South Sligo fair contraband Irish letters there in bundles; it would be a pity not I paused beside its well-known caves, to give such a noble British authority plenty to do. Give them Where elfin hordes reside, Irish right, left and centre; we would have the eyes of Irish- Ireland .turned on Port Riverstown and its gallant Sourface And then again my course began, Horatius." All up its rugged side. The title given lo the Post Office upholder of the anti-Irish system appears to have stuek. In many subsequent issues "The Leader" reports the progress of the duel between Horatius and But when upon its apex high, an t-Athair Brian O Criochain. What sight there met my gaze, The issue of 24th September, 1904, has a lengthy account of Instead of beauteous scenery, the battle, including the news: "On the morning of the 17th, fifty All seemed a mystic has*. loaded carbines in the shape of fifty letters addressed in Irish to The well known scenes I loved to scan, the Catholic curate, arrived in Riverstown ..... We do not know By clouds were shadowed o'er, yet whether the gunners at the Fort succeeded in forcing the 50 I scarce could trace, beneath my feet, letters back to the R.L.O. at the Dublin General Post Office, or did The fair Lough Arrow's shore. they let them march through to the nefarious Irish Catholic curate. . . . . It was a happy thought that sent these fifty missles whizzing into Port Riverstown from the Irish encampment at Mount Bellew College.We would be glad to hear of any other ports such as But mid-day came with lustrous hue, that of Riverstown where the champions of pure English All clouds fast fled away, civilisation are holding back the onward march of Ireland. As did the shadows from the earth, Perhaps it might he possible to take them on their turn, and instead Like night before the day, of spreading our shot over too wide an area, focus it oo one fort, Then I beheld sweet Ballymote, such as that of Riverstown, and reduce it to submission. There is Last by the Owenmore, no reason he attack on the various British Postal Forts in Which wound its placid course along, Ireland should not be made as interesting as, at least, football To fair 's shore. matches. Next seasoo tourists may travel specially to Port Riverstown to see the sorters' counter where Long Tom so stubbornly defied the Irish torces; and perhaps Horatius might be engaged for a lecturiog; tour in England. The lake and woods of Templehouse, Now next attracted me, SHELLS IN IRISH, And further in the background shore, From subsequent issues of "The Leader.' we lcarn how the The hills of Knocknashee, battle progressed; unfortunately space does not allow the Then streamstown's verdant valleys, communiques to be quoted fully and it must suffice to quote such And the plains of Tullaghmore, extracts ;Is the following :—8th October, 1904—"The fort is now Outrivalled all that I've yet seen, cIosely invested by lhe Irish-Ireland forces, and several shells in Upon my native shore. the shape of correspondence addressed in Irish to the Catholic curate and other residents have been dropped into the citadel, harassing the garrison sadly. We have been sent a few samples of these missies. By the endorsement : 'For Translation, R.L.O.. The sight of Chaffpool's sylvan hills, Dublin,' we see that Horatius still holds the bridge...... As My dreaming heart did gladden many of our readers would, no doubt, like to lend a hand in the But not so much till 1 beheld, capture of this famous anti-Irish fort, we give in full the name and My dear old Bunninadden. address of the commander of the Irish-Ireland attacking force— Then on the whole I gave one last, .An t-Athair Brian O Criochain, "Tear na Sagart, Baile ldir Dha long loving fervent glance, Abhainn, Co. Shligigh." And down its slopes I quickly hied, A further barrage of Irish-addressed correspondence is To Join the nursery dance. reported in the issue of 22nd October. Many of the shells from the Irish side were fired from very long range. From a ??? in Italy a shell tired in Irish dropped into the fort. The following And other sports that graced the scene, English was on the shell, whoch was of the post-card pattern :- With rural mirth and joy, "Intellectual people all over the world admire your fight against ignorance, stupidity and boorishness. " Reference is also made in When every mind was bent on sport, this report to Irish-addressed shells to bother Horatius from Cork, And none on cares alloy, Dublin, Sligo, Ballymote, Athenry, Motherwell, London, and many No wonder in such merriment parts of England. That all indeed were gladdened, The name and address of the Irish commander is also given in For this dear reader is no less, Irish again for the benefit of those wishing to support him. Than a man from Bunninadden. The end of the historic battle is reported in "The Leader" of 19th November, 1904, under the heading of "The Fall of Port Riverstown." 'The introduction reads : "Port Riverstown has By LAURENCE J. MCHUGH, fallen : A wide breach has been male in the sorter's rampart. Horatius is reported to have fled. The Gaels have won the day, Doobeg, Bunninadeen. and Gaelic post-cards tramp victoriously up to time over the Above poem appeared in the weekly 'Freeman' 1882. courtyards of the surrendered stronghold. " 5 The Siege of Port Riverstown' Nevertheless the sporting It was indeed a victory for the Irish,—for the language as well interests of the young men who as for the people, and one need only quote another line or two - lived south of the town were from the- files of this memorable light against ihe anti-Irish system unwittingly being neglected Into of the time :—.''Port Riverstown has been conquered by the Irish this vacuum, in the spring of that army. Horatius has resigned, and shells addressed in Irish are year, stepped the lids of now. delivered without delay at Riverstown to the gallant soldier Emlaghfad and Emlagh. In their of Irish-Ireland, an t-Athair Brian O Criochain." respective townlands, two Many years later Father Crehan was to fight and win another seperate groups of aspiring battle for the recognition of ihe language,--this time with the footballers independently set out Board of Education Ministering then in Grange,, he found to solve their problems, each himself in a duel with the Board because. his Irish signature would group employing the same • not be accepted on documents in connection with his school returns method. and teachers• saIary. claims. Reporting the controversy, "The Leader" of 15th October, 1921., recalls the battle of Port In Emlaghfad, three teenagers, Riverstown and makes the appropriate comment :--The last man Tommy Coleman, P.J. Rogers and in Ireland that West British jack-in-offices would tackle if they John McSheera pooled their were wise is an t—Athair Brian O Criochain, and we feel safe in meagre resources to realise the saying-that the Board of Education is as good as beaten already." princely sum of 7s: 6d with which ."The Leader" was right, as it reports later, for afner a passage they daily purchased a genuine of arms that was short and sharp, the opposition collapsed and the leather football (size 4) from Irish signature of an t-Athair Brian was thereafter accepted Jimmy Flynn, O'Connell St., without question. Ballymote. Footballs were rare in AN HONOURED RECORD. those days and players were soon Born in the breach-Gaedhealtacht of Droichead Nua, Co. attracted from the neighbouring Galway, in 1874, Canon Crehan was educated at Sligo and townlands and from the town Maynooth, being ordained in 1900. Stationed at Gleann, Co. itself. Sligo, in 1903, he was afterwards in Riverstown from 1905 to 1911, At almost the same time the in Sligo for three years till 1914, and afterwards in Grange till youths of Emlagh, which is , 1923. He ministered again in Gleann before going to Greggs as situated one mile south of P.P. in 1927. Appointed a member of the Coisde Gnotha of the Emlaghfad, had the same idea. Gaelic League in 1905, he was one of the founders of Colaiste After a card game in Rathmullen Chonnacht at Tourmakeady in 1904, being Ard-Runaidhe there fur school Sean Connor, Jack more than twenty years. He was also connected with the founding Costelloe, Eddie Mullen and John of the Irish College at Spiddal and was mainly instrumental in Feehily organised a whiparound having branches of the College established in the Sligo Convents in 1932. In collaboration with Mr. B. J. Goff., solicitor (now to raise the price of a football District Justice) he wrote a valuable phrase book 'Mion-Chainnt,' which was also bought in in the early-day of the League, and also compiled an Irish prayer Ballymote by John Feehily. Before book. long they were practising football A life-long standard-bearer in the Gaelic advance, the friend of daily in Sonny- Connors' bottom Michael Breathnach. An Craoibhin and Pearse, Canon Crehan will field with the inevitable effect on always have his name honoured in the records of pioneers of the the lads ` of the adjacent new Ireland. townlands. G.A.A. TEAM It was no surprised when the two groups arranged a challenge match in, James Kerins' field in Emlaghfad. Sean Tighe of who Mullacor, who was a . Keash player, guested for Emlagh and , the Scanlon brothers, John Francis . and James, who were Knockalassa players, lined out for Emlaghfad 1938 Jack Foye of Keenaghan, was the 1947 referee but as the match developed into a brawl, he took the necessary precautions of blowing the final whistle prematurely and heading for home. At this stage, the members of both teams the wise decision of displayed a degree of spon- uniting their forces when they Although the Emlaghfad Gaelic taneity, initiative and indepen- founded the Emlaghfad club. Football Club was in existence for dence among the young men o Martin Davey, of Ardree was a mere nine years, it earned for fthe southern townlands of the elected Secretary-Treasurer. itself a lasting place in the hearts parish that endeared them to These were two respected men of and memories of the people of young and old alike. mature years who would ensure Ballymote parish. The people of In 1938 the Derroon club was that the energies of the young Ballymote parish. The establish- ably representing the parish of footballers would be properly ment and development of the club Ballymote in G.A.A. circles. directed. 6 Keash/Culfadda Volunteer Movement The following statement was On Easter A very recorded for posterity by Thady Sunday evening we were exhaustive search of the premises McGowan, Culfadda and Tom mobilised in a few places, one was carried out and a quantity Brehony, Carrowreagh, Keash. I being an outhouse belonging o arms, etc. obtained including one obtained this document from Cryan's, and another being near Martini rifle, one Leo Enfield riffle, Michael McGowan, Culfadda Keash Barracks. On this particular three revolvers, field-glasses, when doing a school project on night the Keash Company men three shotguns, and a large the history of our parish. I feel that that were mobilised were waiting amount of shotgun and other it will be of interest to many for Alec McCabe, who was in the assorted ammunition. This raid, people in South Sligo, as it deals town of Ballaghadereen. McCabe, we think, occured about February with the parts played by the however, found himself unable to 1920. people of this area in the shaping turn up as he had arranged and he of modern Ireland. sent a man named Berre who was Military Operations: My, sincere thanks to Michael a Centre of the I.R.B., to take his In June 1919, Judge Wakely was McGowan for giving me the place. When Berreen turned up, staying in Hannon's Hotel and document. his leadership was not accepted McGowan went o the Hotel, John Higgins. by the Keash Company men and, accompanied by a number of in the absence of McCabe, the Volunteers, including B.J. Keany, We joined the Irish Republican attack on the Barracks was called J.A. Farry and P.W. Coan.. When Brotherhood in Keash in 1914. off. At that time Keash Company we arrived at the hotel, we were Alec McCabe was the Head had one service riffle, six or seven not able o effect an entrance, as it Centre of the Keash I.R.B. and its .38 revolvers and about twenty was barricaded. We searched for membership was about twenty. shotguns. After the calling off of the policemen on guard, but failed The Ancient Order of Hibernians his attack on Keash Barracks, to find them outside the hotel. We was very strongly organised in nothing else was planned or were informed that the policemen this area in 1914 and they took the attempted in Easter Week. were in the hoterl. We then fired initiative in forming the From 1915 up to about on the hotel and broke some Volunteers in 1914. In the year September 1919, there was very windows. Judge Wakely put his 1915 the Redmondite supporters little activity in our locality. Alec head out of an upstairs window had control of the local Volunteer McCabe was trying o organise and enquired what was wrong organisation the Republican and and keep things going. In 1918 and what was the meaning of our I.R.B. Section who were members Thomas Brehony was appointed firing. One of our men informed of the Volunteers at the time O/C Keach Company. the Judge that we did no want him broke away from the organisation In September 1919 a re- or his English law here. We then controlled by Redmond's organisation of the whole called off the affair. supporters, and they formed a Battalion area of nine Companies On Easter Saturday night, 1920, Republican Company of the was carried out. M.J. Marren was in obeyance to a G.H.Q. order, we Volunteers, and in 1915 Henry appointed Batallion C/C, Thady burned an evacuated Barracks at Sheeran was C/C of the newly McGowan, Battalion Adjutant, and Keash and another at Temple organised Company. josie Bannon, Battalion Quarter- House. About a month later we Alec McCabe was the prime master. The following companies burned and Mullaghroe mover in organising Sinn Fain and were attached to the Battalion: Barracks. In the two last the I.R.B. in our district. In 1918 he Ballymote, Keash, Culfadda, mentioned areas, the local was, dismissed from school on Kilavil, Bunninadden, End ugh- volunteers failed to do their jobs. account of his Republican ton, Kilcreevan, Ballinafad and In July, 1920, we planned an activities. In November, 1915, he Derroon. At this stage the Irish attack on the R.I.C. Barracks at was arrested at Sligo Station. Republican Brotherhood took . The plan adopted When arrested he was carrying control of the Battalion and was to disarm some of the explosives on his person. He was Company staffs were also garrison who were in the habit of charged with the offence of being members of the I.R.B., this idea frequenting local publichouses at in possession of explosives being part of McCabe's plan for night time and, with the arms we without a permit, and for his the re-organisation of the would capture from the police, we defence he pleaded that he used Volunteers. were to rush o the Barracks and the stuff for fishing purposes. He One of the main activities in overpower the remainder of the was sentenced o a term of 1919 and early 1920 was our garrison. Thomas Brehony took imprisonment. Previous o 1916 effort to procure arms, by raiding part in this operation. Others who McCabe procured a number of for them or by purchasing them. took part were Patrick Ballantyne, .38 revolvers which were In December, 1919, was raided Bertie Hart, Seán Cryan, John distributed amongst prominent a large gentleman's residence in Henry, Harry Sheerin, J. Walsh, J. I.R.B. men. which two Batallions, Gorteen Neilan, Frank Trimble, Peter For Easter week, 1916, plans and Ballymote, took part. A raid O'Connor, M. Coghlan, Patrick were made o capture Keash was carried out on the residence Hannon, etc. We went into the R.I.C. Barracks, the garrison of of Charles Graham near pub and overpowered the police which comprised one Sergeant Bunninadden. M.J. Marren was in who were there but they were and four policemen. charge of this raid. unarmed.

Having overpow-ered the police, we went to the Barracks. Our only weapons were some shotguns „filled with buckshot and a few home-made bombs. We fired with the shotguns through the windows and we threw the bombs at the building. The police in the barracks replied to our fire, which lasted a considerable time. We were not able to create any impression on the garrison who refused to surrender. The I.R.A. suffered no casualities in this operation, but one of the R.I.C. received serious injury. The barracks were evacuated the next day.

These five stalwarts are members of the R.I.C. from early in In August, 1920, a party of I.R.A. the century. The picture is supposed to have a local under the command of the late connection and perhaps some reader might help with Frank Carty, proceeded to a recognition. Note the tight fitting uniforms buttoned up to ' position at Kevins. This party the neck, the pockets with chains for whistles, the sergeants numbered about twenty and they stripes, and the boots worn by each member. It looks as if waited in position for some time. they were well 'spruced up' for the picture. Four R.I.C. men came along on bicycles. The I.R.A. men pounced we found that there was a large on the policemen from their Sergeant Fallon's anti-I.R.A. activities had become notorious, party of armed military on board positions and overpowered them. We waited until the train move They disarmed the police and got orders were issued for his execution. On the 3rd November, out of the station, and it wa. three rifles with fifty rounds of gathering speed, we opened fire rifle ammunition, a shotgun and 1920, when Sergeant Fallon was on duty at the fair in Ballymote, on the carriages occupied by the cartridges, a Webley revolver, military. They returned our fire one bomb, four bicycles and four two I.R.A. men approached him police tunics. The party of I.R.A. and ordered him to put up his and we heard later that some of them wer wounded. included M.J. O'Hara, Charles hands and surrender. Fallon Gildea, Jack Walker, Joe Durkin, attempted to draw his gun and he Attack on Ballaghdereen Jim Halloran, Patrick Nicholson, was shot dead. Barracks: Patrick McCormack, Reverend In February 1921, the Sligo and Dr. Henry C.F., M.J. Marren, At the end of December 1920or East Mayo Brigades joined forces Thady McGowan, Pat Hunt, Frank early January, 1921 we formed to carry out an attack on Higgins and Patrick Coleman. part of an I.R.A. party under Ballaghdereen Barracks. We took Commandant Jim Hunt. We part in this operation with the Ratra Ambush: proceeded o Kilfree railway Sligo contingent. The plan We have read the account of junction, and there we awaited adopted for the capture of the this ambush written by Jim Lunt, the arrival of the Dublin-Sligo Barracks was the use of a large who wasin charge of it, and we afternoon train. Edward Doherty, mine which was o be conveyed have nothing o add to the very the Battalion I.O., had boarded in a cast to the vicinity of the accurate description he has this train at Boyle and travelled on Barracks and placed against the given. We would like to state that it to Kilfree junction. At that front entrance. The mine was amongst the attackers at Ratra the junction he gave the waiting I.R.A. constructed by the Engineering following men from Ballymote party the signal that there was Section of the Sligo Brigade and Battalion were present: M.J. enemy personnel on the train and contained a large explosive Marren, Thady McGowan, James pointed out the compartment charge. On the night of the attack Molloy, John McManmy, Tom occupied by them. We rushed o a large number of volunteers Connolly and Paddy Connor. this compartment where we entered the town of found the D.I. and two R.I.C. men, Ballagh-derreen and surrounded the The Shooting of Sergeant and we disarmed all three. barracks and the approach to the Fallon at Ballymote: In January 1921, we formed part barracks. The cart containing the Sergeant Fallon was a very of a party under the command of mine was waiting in an archway dangerous enemy of I.R.A. He had M.J. Marren (deceased). We convenient to the barracks, and gone out of his way from 1916 proceeded o Kilfree junction and the men were in charge of it. A onwards to harry men who were awaited the arrival of a train patrol of six R.I.C. men, who were active and on the run. This man's travelling from Sligo to Boyle. The out on duty at the time, apparently daughter was also actively I.R.A. party was small in number got o know of the presence of the engaged in doing Intelligence — about six or seven in all — and, I.R.A. party near the cart and work for the British. When when the train arrived at Kilfree, opened fire on them. pto 8 KEASH/CULFADDA VOLUNTEER MOVEMENT When they came near the Any carriage where the Auxiliaries volunteers in that vicinity Contd. from Page 7 were, the latter opened fire on returned the fire of the police. them and both men took up cover When this firing started the party was due to the effects of the between carriage . The of Volunteers close up to the explosion on the dry plaster on Volunteers on the railway ban k barracks opened fire, which the inside walls of the Barracks. then opened heavy fire on the lasted for about twenty minuites. The police then started to fire and carriages which were occupied As the possibility of getting the Pilkington and his men were by the Auxiliaries. The firing mine into position for use on the forced to retreat. The firing onb lasted approximately half an hour. barracks was prevented by the both sides lasted about fifteen and then 11 Auxiliaries with two outburst of fire, the operation was minutes when the I.R.A. decided R.I.C. men surrendered. The party called off and all withdrew. to withdraw us any prospect of were disarmed and the train was taking the barracks has then then allowed to proceed on its Attack on Ballymote Barracks passed. journey. There were no I.R.A- and Courthous, February 1921 In May 1921, Thomas Brehony, casualties in this operation. In February, 1921, we formed in charge of four others — Bertie Michael J. Marren, Battalion part of a party, with Alec McCabe Hart, J.J. Brehony, Harry Sheeran O/C, and Thady McGowan his in charge, that went into the town and Martin Coughlan — took up Adjutant, were both carpenters. of Ballymote for the purpose of an ambush position near the Hill of In May, 1920, the Battalion Staff attacking the R.I.C. Barracks and Keash and awaited there for made plans to ambush a patrol of Courthouse there. The Barracks enemy forces travelling on the police who regularly used a was a large building, garrisoned road nearby. A British lorry certain route when acting as an b 60 R.I.C. and Tans. The plan containing about fourteen armed escort for explosives used by the adopted for the attack was to men came along. The I.R.A. men County Engineer for blasting explode a mine at the Courthouse were in position about 40 yards work in quarries. Marren and in the hope that the explosion from the main Ballymote-Boyle McGowan worked the night would draw out a party of police road, at a road trench, and when making a coffin, so that it would or Tans from the Barracks. The the lorry arrived at the ambush be ready for the planned mine was placed at the position it was immediately operation against this police Courthouse and different engaged by them. The firing escort the next day. The plans positions around the Barracks lasted about an hour. Two of the made for this operation were as were occupied by the I.R.A. men. enemy party were wounded early follows: About 60 or 70 After the explosion of the mine the on in the exchange of fire and, at volunteers, having mobilised at a Volunteers waited for some time, the start of the engagement, a point on the road where the escort but as no police or Tans left the British machine gunner broke his was expected to come, would Barracks the main body of the leg when dismounting from thw take on the role of mourners at a Volunteers opened fire on the lorry. The engagement was funeral, the coffin to be carried on Barracks and this continued for terminated by the arrival of the shoulders of four volunteers, some time. There were no reinforcements and the I.R.A. and a part of the ambushing party casualities in this operation. being forced to retreat. were to take up a position at the In May, 1921, Michael J. Marren real sharp bend on the road, took charge of a group of I.R.A. facing in the direction the escort men numbering 43 or 44. Thady was coming. The armed portion of McGowan was second in the ambush party were to take up command. The party took up position about forty years in front Attack on R.I.C. positions along both sides of the of the band on the road. On the Barracks: railway line near Seefin. On one approach of the police, who Liam Pilkington, the Brigade side a bank about 35 feet high was usually travelle don bicycles, the 0/C, was in charge of this attack. occupied by some of the four men with the coffin on their We were members of the party of Volunteers. A Volunteer scout had shoulders and the Volunteers at about thirteen men that he been sent to a certain railway the rear of the bend were to come mobilised. We proceeded to the station where he was to board a across the bend as a funeral party. vicinity of Collooney Barracks train containing enemy forces It was expected that the police, without attracting the attention of travelling in Seefin direction. A who by then should be within a the garrison inside. The attacking train arrived in which Auxiliary short distance of the band, would party lay in convenient positions and police forces were traveling dismount from their bicycles to under cover, ready to rush to the in the direction of the ambush show their respect for the Barracks when the mine position. When the train was 'funeral' party. It was at this point exploded. The mine was then approaching the scout gave us the that their surrender would be exploded and the entrance to the signal that the train contained demanded by the Volunteers, and Barracks was blown away. The armed enemy forces. Som of our fire opened on them if they rushing party, led by Brigadier partners got out on the railway refused. The Volunteers waited a Pilkngton, got into the front part of line in front of the train with a red considerable time, but the enemy the Barracks before any fire was flag and signalled to the engine- escort did not appear. A car, opened by the police or Tans driver to stop. The train pulled up driven by the County Engineer, inside, and found that the air at to a halt, and a few Volunteers approached the ambush position entrance was completely took control of the engine. Marren and he was called on to halt, but saturated with dust, to such an and McGowan boarded the train he ignored the challenge. Shots extent that it was impossible to and went along to the different were fired in his direction and he breathe in it or see through it. This carriages to get the civilians out. eventually stopped. When the car The I.R.A.under McCabe and There were certain routine was searched a quantity of Martin await them on two activities were carried out explosives was found. The fact occasions, but the enemy did not as`a matter of policy such as that the County Engineer was turn up whilst the I.R.A. were in blocking roads, cutting conveying explosives in his car position. communications, and the holding confirmed our opinion that the up of post cars and the raiding for police escort was not coming in Capture of O/C Bedfordshire mails. Those activities were our direction that day. Regiment: general in the Brigade' area and On the 29th July, 1921, would not justify devoting space Commandant M.J. Marren and a recounting each of the individual In May, 1920, we got number of men held up the incidents. information that military hutswere Dublin-Sligo train at Pathmullen, being conveyed by goods train between Culfadda and Ballymote For a similar reason we have from the direction of Finner Camp In the search of the train by not mentioned a number of laid in Co. Donegal, and were Comdt. Marren and his men, the ambushes where we took up destined for Mullingar area. officer in charge of the positions and waited in some Orders were issued o an I.R.A. Bedfordshire Regiment was instances for a considerable time, officer named Lieut. Patrick identified as a passenger on the with hopes of getting a chance of McManmy o have the minitary train. attacking crown forces. On those huts destroyed McManmy took This officer travelled incognito. attacking crown forces. Those charge of this operation, and with He was removed from the train occasions where we waited in the help of 9 or 10 men of his and was detained for some time ambush positions without results Company section he proceeded before he was released. entailed much preparation and to Culfadda held up the train, care, selecting suitable places for removed the military huts from Disarming of a Spy at ambush with precautions we had the railway carriages and made a Clogher: always to take to prevent the pile of them in a bog alongside the An ex-British policemen named enemy getting information of our railway line and set fire to them. Harrington lived alone in Clogher, plans- All those laid ambushes McManmy and his men waited and it became known to the I.R.A. entailed both worry and danger to in the vicinity of the burning hut to that he was dong spy work for the the officers and men engaged. It ensure their complete destruct- British and that the information he often happened that we lay out , ion. Whilst they were waiting two gave to the British was a matter of awaiting the enemy in ambush motor tenders of military came on extreme danger to local I.R.A. positions as often as three or four the scene and opened fire on the officers who were on the run and tunes before we were lucky party of I.R.A. They, the I.R.A. active. Thady McGowan was one enough to have an action. party, replied to the fire from the of the party, under the command Before we finish we would like military and made their escape of Jim Hunt, that went to arrest to pay tribute to the numerous from the vicinity by using the Harrington. Harrington had friends all over the brigade area cover afforded by ditches. extensive preparations made to who looked after our comforts in Alec McCabe in May 1920, took defend himself in case of providing food, sleeping over an unoccupied house on emergency, but the Volunteers accomodation, change of clothes, Corrick mountain, better known gained admission to his house and etc., and also those who looked locally as Bridget Rocks, overpowered him before he had after our safety in guarding our overlooking the Curlew Pass. The time to use the arms he had on his billets, acting as our look-outs and house was used for keeping person. He was courtmartialled scouts when we moved from prisoners, and later some of the later on and was banished from place to place. We could not carry South Sligo Column did rest in it the country. on without the unselfish help of for the purpose of loading In February 1921, for the attack those people so generously given cartridges, etc. on Ballaghderreen Barracks, all to us. They gave us both their time The bomb which was captured roads in the vicinity of the town and their goods without thoughts at the attack on Ballaghederreen were trenched and blocked as a of payment or reward. R.I.C. barracks was made by A. safety measure. After the attack a McCabe, M.J. Marren and Thady military lorry ran into a trench Ballymote McGowan in Leondard's old mill placed on the Can owcrory, Keash, and also the Curry-Ballagh-derreen road. A party of Arts Group one which was used for attack on Volunteers, armed with guns and Surprised by the interest Collooney R.I.C. Barracks. revolvers, were in the vicinity at shown in last years Flower Show, the time and opened fire on the the group are planning another for Attempted disarmaments of British force that manned the line the coming Autumn. This one o military and R.I.C.: and numbered about sixteen, be better publicised. They plan to In May, 1920, Alec McCabe and visit some famous gardens during Comdt. M.J. Marren mobilised armed with rifles. The firering the summer months. Poetry about 60 men, who were put into from the British military was Reading, another of the groups concealed positions alongside heavy and the I.R.A. had to retreat. activities will be resumed in the roadway o await and disarm a There were no casualties in this September. These sessions are operation. light-hearted gatherings and are party of military and R.I.C., open to anyone with an interest in numbering 14 to 16, who had There are many other items of poetry. They are followed by being using a particular role as a service which we rendered from wide ranging discussions and the cycling patrol. This composite day to day during the years 1919, social Cup of tea. It is hoped they force travelled as a cycling patrol 1920 and 1921 which we have not will also touch on Drama in their in single file formation. mentioned in this statement. next season. 10 BALLYMOTE SHOW By Alison Healy To raise funds for the horse show a function is usually held around Horses, dogs and cats St. Patrick's Day and the Show descended by the dozen on the Dance also contributes to the fund town of Ballymote on Tune 14th as raising campaign. Show members once again the annual ho show receive very generous donations took place. It was the 9th show from the towns people and from since its revival and, as usual, was surrounding areas. Without this held in Ballymote Community the show could not possibly Park. Ballymote Junior Chamber continue. organised the first of the present Ballymote Horse Show is very shows in- 1979 and, as they say, lucky in that the weather is always the rest is history,The horse show beautiful on that day: Last year I has grown tremendously since heard a farmer comment that if then, with new classes being you ever needed good weather to introduced each year, such as the do something then do it on the day dog show, the cat show and this of the show. Of course, that year the newly born, 'Best doesn't mean to say that we Dressed Lady o' Show'. This should all rush off to the hay or idea was stolen from the Dublin bog on that day and desert the Horse Show when it was seen horse show! what a great success the feature It is indeeed a great family day was — the Ballymote version was and this year the show committee very successful. also introduced two special Some agricultural shows were attractions. As well as the 'Best held in Ballymote many years ago Dressed Lady' feathe, the Bonny where the Marren Park houses Baby show and 'Little Miss now stand but they were Ballymote took place. Any discontinued due to the troubled aspiring little Miss Worlds could times. Then, in 1947 a gymkana get their first taste of fame at and show was held in Ballymote Ballymote Show through the Town park which was newly 'Little Miss Ballymote' purchased at that time. This was Long may the show continue to indeed highly successful but, for bring rewards and enjoyment to some reason was not repeated. so many people from so many One Sligo judge, the late Mr. J. places. Rowlette described the standard as being 'exceptional', high praise from such a distinguished man. The routine Show Dance followed, with the paltry admission fee of 3/6 or 17½p: Of course, now or then, no committee would dream of holding a show without a show dance and thankfully the Ballymote Show Dance has already received great support from the town. At this show dance the hard-working committee get the chance to kick up their heels, let down their hair and dance the night away after the turmoil of the day. The committee of twenty five diligent workers start preparat-ions for the Horse Show in January under the leadership of the elected officers who beg, boss and cajole members so that the horse show will be ready for June. Schedules are sorted, rosettes received, judges secured and MS. MALEE age 3, jobs handed out at meetings. This Swinford, Co. band of workers do not get any Mayo, youngest form of payment for their work but competitor at they say that a successful show is Ballymote Show. reward enough. Such dedication!! 1 Development

Ballymote Tourist Development Association, originally initiated as a sub-committee of the District Council has now got Underway as an active body set to develop the considerable tourist potential of ,the area in the only way that can be done — by working from ground level. A small but experienced committee is already achieving results. A survey of the area has shown a high level of support for the venture and an appreciation of its job creating potential. At a recent meeting Sub- committees were appointed to deal with Finance, Development, and Promotion. Another meeting attended by Bord Fáilte experts dealt with . matters relating to Angling, an activity that has been flourishing in the area some time ago and only needed revival. Other ideas being considered deal with aspects of tourist potential in the area not previously touched on. Our rich heritage of Archaeological remains, mountains, forests and lakes, as well as our nearness o the sea and much publicised Yeats Country.

Ballymote Show's Best Dressed Lady, Mrs. Mary Middleton, with the judge, Mrs. Ryan's, Ryan's, Wine St., Sligo. 12 Emlaghfad G.A.A. Team visiting clubs objected to with the problems of a prolonged Ferguson's field on account of it ordination celebration. In spite of From Page 5 :: By Nial Farry tight dimensions so Sonny her strict instructions, the two Martin Davey provided Gilmartin's field, adjacent to stalwarts lined out for the rematch a link with an earlier Emlaghfad Ferguson's, was rented for the a fortnight later. ,team played against occasion. Another incident that has in the 1916 Junior Championship Mrs. Corcoran, of Keash Rd., endured in the memory of the and against Gurteen in the 1917 Ballymote, whose husband, John, Emlaghfad followers involved a Junior competition. The team was an Emlaghfad player, after a free kick that Paddy Pettipiece seems to have disbanded after period with Derroon, remembers took during a match in Gurteen. 1917. droves of people walking from the Just before he struck the ball, The new club secured town to the playing fiels. These Paddy threw his cap in the permission to use John Ferguson's were the war years and motor direction of the defenders on the field beside Emlaghfad church on transport was restricted so it Gurteen goal line, momentarily the following terms. A £1 fee was seemed that virtually every distracting them. The ruse was paid for the use of the fielfd for person in Ballymote was on hand successful and Paddy scored a every match and practice was to cheer on the team. Even the goal. allowed free of charge. Although infants in their prams had their In 1947 the Emlaghfad and Ferguson's field is situated places on the packed sidelines. Derroon clubs amalgamated and adjacent to the site of St. From its foundation in 1938the played therafter as Ballymote Colmcille's monastery of Emlaghfad team participated in Round Towers. The players from Emlaghfad, it is, in fact, located in the Co. Sligo Junior Champion both sides formed the nucleus of the townland of Tieveboy. ship. It was the burning ambition the Ballymote Senior team that An annual dance was held in the of all the players to win that won the Sligo Senior Champion- Loftus Hall, Ballymote, in aid of competition so as to attain Senior ship in 1948. The failure to win the t club funds. The club colours were status. During these years Sligo Junior Championship was a horizontal red and white stripes Emlaghfad's opponents were source of great disappointment to and each player was obliged to generally confined to the East the Emlaghfad players but when wash his own jersey after every Sligo area and these included one considers the immense match. Eddie Mullen, of Emlagh, Derroon, Keash, Gurteen, Killavil, Emlaghfad contribution to the recalls giving John Ferguson a Knockalassa, Sooey and victorious Ballymote Senior Team day's work on the bog as payment . The Emlaghfad club of 1948 it is reasonable to suggest in kind for the .rent of the football also fielded a minor team and in that county honours at Junior level field. For this service Eddie was 1943 the minors were runners-up would certainly have been won reimbursed by the Club. John to Collooney in the County final. by Emlaghfad had the club Feehily was in charge of gate Some of the 1943 Minor panellists remained a seperate and arrangements. When John were Tommy Coleman, Eddie independent entity. Emlaghfad Ferguson died in 1944, the Mullen, Matt Scanlon, Fachtua provided ten of the twenty strong members of Emlaghfad team Collins, Paddy Brennan Ballymote Senior panel in 1948. carried his coffin, in relays on the (Lissananny) and John Fox. These players were John F. mile-long journey from his home In 1946 the Emlaghfad Junior Scanlon, John Scanlon, Matt to Ballymote church. Team went close to realising its Scanlon, James Tighe, Eddie Ballymote businessman, John main ambition when it lost by one Mullen, Paddy McGuinness, Thomas Regan has been given point to the eventual winners Jackie Sheridan, Alden Tighe, John great credit for motivating the Tourlestrane, in the County semi- P. Kerins and Thomas Coleman. team members to practise and final which was played in Darroon provided thefollowing train themselves between games. Bunninadden. players for the panel: William Training was, of course, informed There was intense rivalry Scanlon, Thomas Miorrison, John in those days and P.J. Rogers between the two local teams, Joe Taheny, Vincent McGuinness, remembered Regan as the person Emlaghfad and Derroom. One of Patrick Scanlon and Edward who enthusiasticaHy organised their matches, which has now Scanlon, Joe Flannery and Fonso the sessions although he had no become part of local folklore, was Ferry were products of the interest in playing 'in matches. played on the day of Fr. Val Ballymote Minor and Junior teams. John Thomas was a well-known Rogers' ordination in June 1945. Christie Murray was a native of handballer who represented Unfortunately things got badly out Roscommon who had won an All- Ballymote and Sligo on many of hand during the game which Ireland Minor title with that occasions. Paddy Carey, a Dublin had to be abandoned in disorder. county. The remaining member of born barber, is also remembered John Corcoran, the store manager the panel was John Joe Lavin, a as a keen motivator and mentor of in Rogers of O'Connell St., was native of Killaraght and Captain of the players on match days. playing for Emlaghfad and he the Sligo Senior county and team. The admission fee to received a severe gash over the John Joe had previously played for Ferguson's field was usually 6d eye. His workmate, Andy Rogers, Gurteen and Derroon. but Is was charged on a few was a Derroon player and he also Training for the 1948 Senior occasions. It is estimated that a suffered a facial injury. Both men championship took place in thousand people attended some were living in the Rogers Ballymote fairgreen and the of Emlaghfad's home games. The household and they needed hedgerows of Emlaghfad and record gate receipts were £26. On medical attention. There was Tiereboy no longer resounded to one occasion the Emlaghfad club widespread sympathy in the town the shrieks of whistles, the was asked to host an important for Andy's mother, who had now thunder of the crowds and the match between Keash and to cope with two injured workers crunch of crashing athletic youths. Gurteen. The officials of the in her house as well as dealing 13 Apart from those players already mentioned the following players also represented Emlaghfad between 1938 and 1947; Jackie Mullen, Francie Kerins, John Pakie Kerins, Gerry Finn, Sean Connor, Frank Scanlon, Jack Costelloe, Michael James Scanlon, John McSheera, P.J. Rogers, Bernard Corcoran, Tommy Moran, Drumshanbo, Francie (Bantam) Connor, Jimmy Brady (Cloonlurg), Micky Brennan, Jim Kielty, Micky Connor, John Feehily and Pat Taheny. Emlaghfad players, Alden Tighe, Paddy McGuinness and Matt Scanlon represented Sligo, with distinction, at Senior level. To flashback almost a century is it is interesting to note that another unaffiliated Emlaghfad team played a local selection in Mullen's field, Freeheen, on Easter Sunday, 1893 when Paddy 'Tailor' Curley, of Rathmullen, was the man of the match. A row broke EMIGRATION out at the end of the match and The role of Paddy noting the number and Emigration is a long-standing truculence of the Carrigans part of Irish life and in the last five supporters, beat a hasty retreat the people years it has reached alarming towards Ballymote. When teased The centrally based planners who proportions. The combined about his disappearing act Paddy hold the National purse strings unemployment figures for the quipped that it was better to be a should be made to accept that North and South of Ireland are coward for five minutes than a local development needs are approaching 400,000 and the dead man all his life. important — that the Parish and figures continue to increase every country town are units of the month. . The Paddy Curley yarn is the nation and their healthy growth is This problem has become more first of a succession of Emlaghfad part of the national development, difficult by the fact that the stories that enlivened the fireside also the community workers at hitherto ready market for local level have their mandate emigrants, that is Great Britain can chats in the rambling houses and from the people and are well pubs of the parish since 1893. We aware of their needs. It is time that no longer cope with the situation. earnestly hope that Pat Dockry these people should be given a Added to this is the difficulty in and his current panel of assorted real say in the machinery of obtaining accommodation. In footballers from 'Emlaghfad, government, also that local Dáil London alone, 6,000 of our people Derroon, Ballymote, Mayo, and Council representatives are accomodated on a bed and Dublin, Tyrone, Donegal and should realise that only by fully breakfast system as there is great Wolverhampton will give the co-operating with community difficulty in obtaining housing. parish glories, memories and groups. Can they really fulfil their With regard to America, the yarns that will be recalled, God role in government. But do the emigrant problem has become community groups fully realise more difficult and as from next willing, in 2093 A.D. their responsibilities and the need o inform themselves fully. October new laws are being The tendancy has been to follow a implemented in respect of CORRAN traditional pattern of voting at immigrants to that country. election time. If a family has Where does the solution lie to HERALD supported one of the major this problem? I feel that greater political parties in the past, their co-operation between North and, A descendants felt obliged to do the South can work wonders as we same. Why this was done is hard are partners in the E.E.C. This Ballymote to say. One suspects laziness. But association may eventually lead times are ever changing and what to more friendly relations and Heritage was desirable when this state Group formed is completely out-dated peace. today. Our people are better Finally, I would like to inform Production educated now and are well able intending emigrants who are Editor: James Flanagan to study situations and form going abroad, that it is hoped to independent judgements. establish a bureau for the purpose Printed by: Candidates for election should of advising emigrants. Further FASTPRINT, SLIGO. realise that, and should consult details regarding this Bureau will with the electorate be announced later. 14 The Exile Far from his native land, he loves so dear, The mellowed stranger hath one great fear. His thoughts are full of a hillside vale Where a lonely mother Both fret and wail, For her dear fond son. The seasons, come and the seasons go, And her mellowed features That were once aglow, Are saddened by thoughts not known.

In his lonely room at the dead of night Standing L-R: Josie McHugh, Torn McGettrick, Mollie Martin, Paddy A kindly head in the glowing Coen, Bridle Scanlon. Seated Delorus Corr and Cannel Collins. light, Would have loved to see once This happy picture contains the cast of seven of Dark Brown more with which the Ballymote Dramatic Society won the All- The land he loves with it's Ireland Rural Award in Athlone in 1956. All are happily still songs and lore. with us except Mrs. Bridie Scanlon on the right of this With a gentle hand he blessed picture, Mrs. Scanlon gave dedicated service o amateur his brow drama during her young days in Emlaghnaghten and And his prayerful thoughts of throughout her life when she came to live in Ballymote. She a mother true. played leading parts in such plays as the Rugged Paths, The Summit, Professor Tim, Drama at Innish, The Whip Hand, I'm And so once more on Ireland's Righteous and Bold, etc. etc. and audiences at home and at shore, festivals throughout the North West came to know her and The aged figure gazed once acclaim her for her talents. The trophies displayed are a more. tribute to Bridie and each member of the cast. He hurried quickly to the silent glen That once was full of life and men. He entered the threshold of his early home But he found himself so sad alone. His fondest friend was not there today, She has passed the threshold of life's hardened way.

BY Stan Casey BALLINDOON ABBEY BY Tom McGettrick There is some doubt as o the exact date of the foundation of this Dominican Abbey of Ballindoon. Dr. O'Rorke, Co. Sligo's great historian quotes the Annals of Lough Cé that 'the Monastery of Ballindoon was begun by Thomas O'Ferghail in 1507'. There is little doubt that the monastery was founded under the patronage of the McDonaghs, Chieftains of Tirerrill, the basony in which the monastry was built on the shore of lovely Lough Arrow. A few hundred yards from it on the lake 15 shore is a substantial pile of stones and earth of somewhat regular shape which is all that The Linen Industry remains of Ballindoon Castle built in the previous century of Tiege, HERITAGE OF OTHER TIMES and one of the McDonagh clan. In the April issue, we introduced the story of the linen According to O'Rorke it is one industry in Ballymote as told by Arthur Young, who visited fo the five Dominicanhouses in the Ballymote in 1776, in his book 'A tour of Ireland'. In this issue Diocese of Elphin, its size and as promised we continue the story. It is a story of dedication importance being dwarfed by the to an ideal and deep interest in the welfare of a community. Great Abbey of Sligo, yet a visit to The Fitzmaurices who sadly saw much of their planning end it will assure one of what a in failure played an important past in the politics of. England valuable historical and Archae- up to modern times. Mr. Young continues: ological gen it is in its beautiful setting on the edge of the Cake. BY TOM McGETTRICK waste, which is spun here, and as a It's importance to the local people woman spins a bank a day (it is 3 goes deeper because within and hand yarn) it employs at 300 around its hallowed walls rest In the first year, 1774, not days to the year, 443 women. I many generations of the people of having a bleach-green, he only kept the looms going to sell the should be particular in remarking, that part of the Barom of Tierrill — linen green: 65 in that year that all the houses he built for the an area which was in our worked 1730 webs, each 50 yards weavers, have no more than half a legendary stories a battleground long and seven-eights broad, on rood of pototo-garden to them, for prehistoric colonists (The the average 10 hundred linen. In Mr. Fitzmaurice finding them a Battle of Moytura) and in later 1775, the number of looms was cow's grass, for which they pay times a rich harvest ground for St. 80, and they worked 2110 pieces 30s. He does this, because he Patrick's Evangelists. of the same linen. At present the would not wish to have them Many great limestone number is 90, and preparations farmers, which he thinks does not memorials to the dead of long past are made for there being 120 by at all agree with their business of centuries are side by side with this time twelve-month: and Mr. weaving. He has planned much polished marble stones of our Fitzmaurice has no doubt of greater works;has procured a time, indicating a continuity and a having 300 in two years' time. In patent for a market, which he tribute of a long established establishing and carrying on this designs to establish; to build a people to their dead. manufactory, the increase has large handsome market-house, at The Gaelic scholar and scribe been by weavers from the north, an expense of £1,000; to pull David O'Duigenan of Shanroe and for whom he builds houses as fast down all the old cabins in the Terence McDonagh of , as he can, and has many more town, end rebuild them in regular 'The Great Councillor' and soldier applying than he can supply by streets of good houses for in the Williamite Wars are both building. They come with nothing weavers and mechanics. To buried within the Abbey Walls. but their families and Mr. convert a large house, at present This McDonagh for a short period Fitzmaurice frxes them in houses, used in the manufactory, into a commanded a garrison at finds them a loan and everything handsome inn; a large house for a Ballymote Castle. necessary for their work, and master-weaver and lastly a The Abbey at Ballindoon is employs them upon their own mansion-house for himself in the fairly well preserved, but like account; their rent for their house stile of a castle, and suitable to the most buildings of its kind, needs and garden being proportioned to ancient ruins, situation and occasional attention. It is of course their idleness. The full rent he grounds. For these purposes he a roofless ruin. An 18th century fixes for a stone and slate cottage, has employed Mr. Paine, the sketch in Groses Antiquities of that costs him £50 is 40s. if the architect, to give designs and Ireland (in Sligo Library) gives a weaver is idle; but in proportion execute, the whole. These are good idea of what a fine building to the number of webs he weaves great works for the ornament and it was then. There are some loose his rent is lowered; besides which improvement of a country, and stones, one loose stone brings encouragement, he gives united with the flourishing down another, the small repair premiums for the best weaving progress of the manufactory, done today would secure what and spinning throughout the promise to make Ballymote a might be difficult to repair later. manufactory. In order to show considerable place. Too much On a Friday evening a few how far this system of praise cannot be given to a aman, years ago, there was a great employment is of importance to who in the prime of life, when occasion at the Abbey after a the neighbourhood, I may pleasure alone usually takes the lapse of two hundred years, Mass observe that the 80 looms lead, should turn his attention and was again celebrated there. The besides the 80 weavers, expense to objects of such celebrants of this Mass were Most employed 80 persons more, national utility and importance Rev. Dr. Conway, Bishop of which are usually women; which have for their aim the Elphin, Rev. A.J. Ryan, OP, Sligo, quilling, warping and winding; well-being,happiness, and support of a and Rev. Fr. M. Brown, CC, the quilling by children and half as whole neighbourhood. In many Highwood. There was a large many children for quilling, in all places throughout the country congregation giving an indication 80 men, 80 women and 40 there are fields or gardens still of a high place Ballindoon holds in children. The 2110 pieces called `bleach-green' and the Irish the hearts of people. Were it to be worked last year consumed word 'Tuar' which is a common allowed to deteriorate in any way 132,930 hanks of yarn at 63 each, place name has the same it would hurt many a heart. allowing for accident and meaning.