December, 2021
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Looking Forward and Looking Back
As 2021 draws to a close we would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year. We will continue in 2022 to present weekly articles (usually on Saturday or Sunday) on the blog and will re-post older articles weekly on the facebook page (usually on Wednesday or Thursday). If anyone has any ideas for a Glenmore related article please contact us at glenmore.history@gmail.com.
The Munster Express back in the 1950’s challenged readers concerning their knowledge of Waterford by printing random photos of locations in the city. Can anyone identify the location of the old Glenmore farmhouse above and the location of the old pump below?
A couple of readers recently expressed delight at some of the links on the blog’s useful links page because they are homebound, and asked for recommendations for other links. Below are two history related you tube channels with links to selected videos on each channel.
If you enjoy other history related sites or channels, please share them in the comment section below or email glenmore.history@gmail.com and we will add them to the list.
Videos of Irish Farming Life—is a you tube channel. Don’t let the title of the channel put you off. In addition to videos depicting farming with horses and early tractors etc. there are a range of videos of traditional butter making, thatching, linen weaving and Irish whiskey.
The introductory video
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSFqlESVVicKoLvyGTTwo5g
Bygone Ireland part 1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQwAiE_IlVs
Bygone Ireland part 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5vj1pfAu2Q
Making Irish Whiskey at Old Bushmills Distillery
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcCHQ3yDdBU
Separating Cream in a Traditional Irish Farmhouse
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaIlE79R9Xg
Traditional Irish Cooking: Making Champ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iKllHSC978&list=PLyuEvg_1vYJKbGnZrdXXvKUlghk4gHBsq
The History Guy—is another you tube channel which provides a large backlog of short videos (5 to 15 minutes) on a range of history topics. Below is a selection of some Irish interest videos that are available on this channel.
Dynamite Luke Dillon and the Welland Canal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mho3LleTshg
Ireland in the Second World War
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYBCP1HaaU8
The Fairy Trial of Bridget Cleary
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VdT1blYwNE
Arthur MacMurrough Kavanagh: A Remarkable Man
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqGlZdS_joU
Firefights and a Funeral Procession: The Boston Riot of 1837
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giVPgPE9fjk
Thank you to all who helped this past year in supporting glenmore-history.com. Hopefully 2022 will mark the end of the COVID scourge.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
One Hundred Years Ago: The Peace Christmas 1921
In December 1921, most of the local newspapers referred to the impending Christmas as the Peace Christmas. The War of Independence had ended, the fragile truce was holding and the Civil War although smouldering did not commence until June of 1922. Below are a selection of events, advertisements, prices and wages reaped from local newspapers in December 1921 prior to Christmas. In 1921 these local newspapers could be purchased for 2d (2 pence).
Royal Proclamation Regarding Internees
At the beginning of December 1921, it was reported that a Royal Proclamation was issued ordering the immediate release of interned prisoners. On Thursday the 15th of December 5,000 men, who were never charged, were to be released. It was further reported that an English Press Agency had provided that the question of amnesty for all Irish political prisoners are discussed at the Conferences, but it was decided to leave the matter to be adjusted after the ratification of the terms of the Agreement by the British and Irish Parliaments (New Ross Standard, Fri. 9 Dec. 1921, p. 4).
On Thursday the 8th a large number of prisoners and internees, including two belonging to Waterford, arrived in Waterford by the 8 o’clock train from Maryborough. They were met at the station by a huge crowd carrying Sinn Fein flags. As the train steamed in many fog signals were exploded and bonfires blazed on the rock overhanging the station. On the same date two prisoners were released from the Waterford jail, Miss Cullanane, of Kilmacthomas and Miss Lilian Hawe, of Cobh (Munster Express, Sat. 10 Dec.1921, p. 5)
Across the river in County Kilkenny the entire population of the Walsh Mountains went to Mullinvat on the 16th to welcome home the released prisoners. The street of Mullinavat was decorated and the windows of the houses illuminated. In the centre of the village an enormous bonfire blazed that burned for several days. The surrounding hills were also ablaze with bonfires. The released men were R. Foskin; J. Foskin, P. MacDonald; P. Raftis; J. Durney; and M. McGrath (Munster Express, Sat. 17 Dec. 1921, p. 5).
1921 Local Christmas Shopping & Business Advertisements
In reviewing local newspapers from December 1921 there are a couple of surprising items. The abbreviation “Xmas” is used in most local business advertisements. The second surprise was the fact that many local businesses advertised a wide range of Christmas gifts for sale which were well outside the type of items or goods usually sold by the business. For example, Murphy’s Bakery, on John Street in New Ross informed shoppers that “now is the time to make your selection of Christmas Presents—Great Variety of Toys, games and fancy goods and proclaimed that it was the house for china and delph (New Ross Standard, Fri. 9 December 1921, p. 4).
Christmas Turkey
It was reported in the New Ross Standard that nearly 15,000 turkeys were “despatched” from New Ross by local buyers with nearly £10,000 being paid for the turkeys Amongst the turkeys brought into Ross during the past few weeks were a few cocks that weighed 27 lbs. each. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 23 Dec. 1921, p. 4).
The Wexford Poultry Society placed the following verse in the New Ross Standard to promote their product (New Ross Standard, Fri. 16 Dec. 1921, p. 2).
Turkeys. Turkeys. Turkeys. What is home without a mother? Or what is Christmas Day without a turkey? We tell the truth, we don’t tell lies, We have the finest turkeys every size. Come early and avoid the rush, If you are satisfied tell others, if not tell us.
Other Foods for the Festive Season
James Fleming of New Ross advertised for Xmas 1921… a choice selection of goods suitable for the festive season including: meats of every kind; finest young beef and mutton; bacon of every description; hams; sausages; rashers; and heads etc. Also, Fleming claimed the best selected teas, new fruits and new season’s jams and every variety of Jacob’s biscuits and cakes—Plum, Cherry, Ginger, etc. Only the best brands stocked. SOLD AT LOWEST FIGURES. However, no prices were provided to test if the prices were the lowest (New Ross Standard, Fri. 23 Dec. 1921, p. 1).
The London & Newcastle Tea Co. at 3 Charles St., New Ross provided some prices for “Xmas Groceries” but sent out a slightly garbled message to customers. “Shop early in the week and early in the day if possible, but if not come any time. Best Value in the Trade. Raisins from 1/-per lb. Currants from 7 ½ d per lb.” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 9 Dec. 1921, p. 6).
C. Sheehan & Sons, Bridge St., New Ross appealed to potential customers by advertising “All our goods are plainly marked in our windows. Shop with the firm that displays prices and stocks only the best.” Their advertised special included fancy boxed fruit from 1/-; South African oranges from 1/- per dozen; and tinned meats, potted meats; brawn from 10d. per lb.; onions, 4s per stone and Irish cheddar cheese, 1 /4 per lbs. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 16 Dec. 1921, p. 5).
The most straightforward advertisements came from Murray’s Victuallers, of South St., New Ross and William Aylward Family Grocer of O’Connell Street and Thomas St., Waterford. Murray’s “Ye Olde Butchers’ Shop (established over 50 years)” had prime beef and mutton for Christmas “specially fed on my own lands” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 16 Dec. 1921, p. 5). William Aylward was a native of Parkstown, Glenmore and in addition to groceries sold tea, wine and spirits. In December 1921 the word Christmas or Xmas does not appear in his advertisements. However, he offered “stabling accommodation free to customers” (Munster Express, Sat. 10 Dec. 1921, p. 3).
Christmas Presents
Moran Brothers Printers and Stationers of New Ross advertised a number of items including: Christmas and New Year cards, religious cards and markers, children’s gift books and annuals, prayer books, writing cases, wallets, pocket books, fountain pens, photo frames and stationary cabinets (New Ross Standard, Fri. 9 Dec. 1921, p. 1).
Doyle and Dillon Jewellers, of 76 Quay, Waterford stated “gifts that last are the gifts to give.” They noted that they had Christmas presents of silver or plate ranging from 2/6 to £50. They advertised silver candlestick from 25 per pair; silver mounted salad bowl and servers from £6 6s; and a cut glass butter dish with lid and stand from 10/- (Munster Express, Sat. 17 Dec. 1921 p. 1). Zimber Brothers Jewellers, of 7 Charles St., New Ross advertised alarm clocks for 7s 6d (New Ross Standard, Fri. 16 dec. 1921, p. 6). Next door, R.G. Vickers, watchmakers, jewellers, and opticians (late Fegan) of 5 Charles St. offered gold expanding bracelet watches from £3.18s.6d; ladies’ wrist watches from 15s; and alarm clocks from 3 s. 11d. Vickers also noted that it had “a choice selection of spider jewellery” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 16 dec. 1921, p. 8).
Clothing
Very few businesses advertised in a newspaper in another town or city. One exception was the Phelan Brothers, of George St., Waterford who advertised in the New Ross Standard as well as the Munster Express. Phelan Brothers, was also unique because it had the largest ads taking up a fourth of the newspaper page. In an effort to avoid the continued boycotting of non-Irish goods the Phelan Brothers noted that they were the “Cheapest Drapery and Boot Stores in Ireland,” and 75 per cent of their goods were Irish made. Within the long list of items on sale several of the items were army surplus such as socks and blankets. Phelan Brothers stated, “We pay carriage on all orders over £1. All enquiries when accompanied with remittance to cover cost of postage will be attended to as quickly as possible…” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 9 Dec. 1921, p. 5).
French and Hayden, The Cloth Hall, New Ross were selling men’s heavy tweed overcoats at 33s that cost £3 to make; men’s Irish-made trousers at 20s; boys’ suits, 16s, 11d; men’s shirts 3 s, 11d; inside cotton pants and vest, 2s, 6d [long underwear]…all wool socks 1s 2d; ladies’ all wool tweed coats, 19s 6d; tweed costumes, 45s; raincoats 24s; tweed skirts 3s 11d; and heavy ribbed stockings 1s, 2d (New Ross Standard, Fri. 16 Dec. 1921, p. 4).
Edward Deevy and Co. of 1 & 2 Michael St. and 54-55-56-57-58 & 59 Patrick St., Waterford, in addition to having unusual addresses advertised gents overcoats 35s. up; suits from 35 s. up..caps from 1s each…soft hats from 8s. 6d; ladies’ handkerchiefs neatly boxed from 1s. 3d. per box (of half dozen) to 15s.; scarves from 2s 6d to 45 s. “Dressmaking department—have our expert cutter make you a costume. Now taking orders…navy serge costume to order £3 10s.; tweed costume to order, in ten colours £2 19s 6d. Orders executed strictly in rotation (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 9 Dec. 1921, p. 1).
Santa & Toys
The vast majority of 1921 Christmas advertisements in local newspapers do not mention toys or Santa Claus. Santa Claus only appears on the pages of the Waterford News & Star in December 1921. Edward Deevy & Co. with the unusual address in Waterford stated that they were the “store of Christmas spirit,” and their advertisement had a drawing of the head of Santa. “Santa Claus has arrived with his trunks full of toys for the children…it will be a treat don’t let them miss it” (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 9 Dec. 1921, p. 1). Thanks to the Deevy ads we have a list of some of the toys available in 1921 for those who could afford them. Deevey shamelessly advertised “Toys in great variety for the kiddies—do not deny the little ones the treat of inspecting our huge collection of toys. Santa Claus has made our shop his headquarters, and has brought with him a present for everyone including: coloured lead soldiers; bugles; tops; musical boxes; dolls’ sets of kitchen and table utensils; teddy bears; mechanical trains; xmas stockings; dressed and undressed dolls; etc. etc. Come along and see them—it does not matter whether you buy or not” (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 2 Dec. 1921, p. 11).
John Carroll & Co., 47 Quay, Waterford utilized a full drawing of Santa Claus in their advertisement in the Waterford News & Star (Fri. 9 Dec. 1921, p. 4). Although Robertson, Ledlie, Ferguson & Co., the Quay, Waterford (now Shaw’s Dept. Store) made no reference to Santa Claus, it did declare itself Waterford’s greatest store for Christmas gifts. “Our great xmas bazaar and toy fair is in full swing. Immense variety of toys; dolls; games; motor cars; scooters; engines and hundreds of other choice gifts suitable for xmas presents” (Munster Express, Sat. 10 Dec. 1921, p. 2).
Charity
The New Ross Standard carried several articles in December advertising the Annual Pound Day which was to take place on 2 January 1922 to raise funds for the County Wexford Infirmary. Readers were asked to bring or send a pound of anything, money, Foodstuffs etc. to the Institution or to Mrs. G.H. Fitzgerald, Johnstown Castle, Wexford. “FUNDS MORE URGENTLY NEEDED THAN EVER” (Fri. 23 Dec. 1921, p. 9). It was widely reported that by the end of January the workhouse system would end and institutions caring for the poor were scrambling seeking funding.
Wages
The New Ross Market, held in mid-December 1921 had the following reported prices paid to farmers for their produce: turkeys, 10d to 1s per lb; geese, 7d to 9d per lb; ducks, 6d per lb.; chickens, 1s per lb; hens, 6d per lb; eggs, 2s 6d per dozen; butter, 1s.3d per lb; and potatoes, 6d. per stone, wholesale (New Ross Standard, Fri. 16 Dec. 1921, p. 8).
On Christmas Eve it was reported in the Munster Express that the County Council of Kilkenny had announced and endorsed a plan to reduce the wages of its road workers by 7 shillings per week representing a reduction of a quarter of the wages of a road worker. This proposal to cut the wages of road workers was made to tackle high unemployyment. It was thought that if wages were reduced more men could be hired. It was noted that agricultural labourers were earning 30 shillings per week and were better off than the road workers because the agricultural labourers were in constant employment while the roadmen only worked part of the year. After objections and discussion, it was agreed that for employees earning £2 or more would have their wage reduced by 7 shillings per week, and employees on lower wages would have their wages reduced by 5 shillings per week (Munster Express, Sat. 24 Dec. 1921, p. 5).
Glenmore in the News
The only article concerning Glenmore just prior to Christmas 1921 noted that a branch of the Gaelic League was started in Glenmore Parish, where a “most successful” meeting in furtherance of the League’s objects was held. “The special schoolroom in which the inaugural meeting was held was not equal to accommodating the large numbers present.” Nicholas O’Currin (sic), the teacher in the old Glenmore Boys’ School directed the meeting. (Munster Express, Sat. 10 Dec.1921 p. 6).
Please send any errors or omissions to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
The photo to the right is St. James Catholic Church, of Glenmore, with a Christmas tree in front. The photo was taken Christmas Eve 2021.
The featured photo above is a photo of the Glenmore Village Christmas tree and light display 2021.
We wish all our readers a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year!
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
From Danny’s Files: Master and Mrs. Murphy, of Glenmore National School
Today, we are going to highlight two National School Teachers who with their service combined taught for 90 years in local schools educating and influencing hundreds of students. Danny Dowling in his vast Glenmore files, had a copy of the newspaper article covering their joint retirement from Glenmore National School in 1964 (New Ross Standard, Fri. 24 July 1964, p. 5). Michael Murphy retired after 45 years of teaching (New Ross Standard, Fri. 24 July 1964, p. 5) as did his wife Ellen Murphy (New Ross Standard, Sat. 19 June 1971, p. 3).
Master Michael Murphy (c. 1896-1988)
Michael Murphy was a native of the Co. Cork Gaeltacht area of Inchigeela. According to his obituary he was a native Irish speaker and was active in the Cork/Kerry region during the War of Independence and later took the Republican side with de Valera in the Irish Civil War. He qualified as a national teacher in his mid-twenties (Munster Express, Fri. 12 Aug. 1988, p. 16).
Master Murphy was first appointed to teach at Listerlin, Tullogher, in 1919. After being appointed to Listerlin National School, Michael married Ellen Kavanagh of Glenpipe, Tullogher. For 28 years Michael remained at Listerlin then taught for 7 years at Ballyfacey National School. Among other activities Michael was involved with the Tullogher Athletic Club and was the Chairman in 1938 when his father died (New Ross Standard, Fri. 9 Dec. 1938, p. 8). Unfortunately his father’s name is not recorded in the article and efforts to locate Master Murphy’s birth records were not successful.
In 1954, Master Murphy was appointed principal of Glenmore National School (New Ross Standard, Fri. 24 July 1964, p. 5). In 1958, under Master Murphy the new Glenmore National School was opened. A remarkable feature of Michael Murphy’s career was that during his 45 years’ service he never missed one day of work through illness (New Ross Standard, Fri. 24 July 1964, p. 5).
Mrs. Ellen Murphy née Kavanagh (1896 -1971)
Ellen Murphy née Kavanagh was born on 10 October 1896 in Glenpipe to Patrick Kavanagh (farmer) and his wife Mary Quinn. Ellen’s parents were married on 2 May 1879 at Rosbercon. Patrick Kavanagh was from Tinnicarry, Borris, and Mary Quinn was from Glenpipe. Information recorded on the marriage record reveals that the bride’s father was James Quinn (deceased farmer) and the father of the groom was Arthur Kavanagh (farmer).
The known children born to Patrick Kavanagh and Mary Kavanagh née Quinn included:
[1] Arthur Kavanagh (b. 20 May 1882); [2] Anne Kavanagh (b. 10 July 1884); [3] Catherine Kavanagh (b. 1 May 1886); [4] Bridget Kavanagh (b. 1 Jan. 1889); [5] James Kavanagh (27 Nov. 1890); [6] Johanna Kavanagh (b. 1 Aug. 1893) and [7] Ellen Kavanagh (b.10 Oct. 1896). According to Ellen’s obituary she was the last surviving member of her family. Her brother James became the “Very Rev. James Kavanagh, P.P. Leeds, who helped in Eamonn de Valera’s release from Lincoln prison by sending messages in Latin” (New Ross Standard, Sat. 19 June 1971, p. 3).
Ellen Murphy née Kavanagh began her teaching career in Listerlin and Tullogher. She was appointed to Glenmore National School in 1947. “During her association with Glenmore her pupils won the Ossory Plain Chant Cup on two occasions, and also took a prominent part in the Feile na Scoil annual programme in Waterford city. She also conducted the local parish choir in an outstanding manner, which earned for her the appreciation of the priests and people of the parish” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 24 July 1964, p. 5).
When the couple retired, gifts were presented, and “Very Rev. William Brennan, P.P. manager of the school paid a glowing tribute to Master and Mrs. Murphy for their excellent work in education and social spheres in the parish, and wished them many happy years to enjoy their well-earned retirement. Mr Murphy thanked Father Brennan for his kind remarks regarding the couple’s long association with Glenmore, of which they had many happy memories. They had always the happiest relations between the reverend manager, teachers and pupils of the parish, and thanked all concerned for their generous gesture to make their retirement” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 24 July 1964, p. 5).
In the retirement article it was recorded that the couple had five children who all became professionals. Two of their sons, Michael and Timothy were doctors, a third son, Patrick was a vet and both their daughters, Maureen and Peggy became National Teachers. At the time of their retirement in 1964, Dr. Michael Murphy, was in Northern Rhodesia; Patrick Murphy, was a VS in New Ross; Timothy Murphy, was at University College Dublin; Mrs. Peggy O’Dwyer, N.T. at Carlow and Mrs. Maureen Kervick, N.T. at Enniscorthy (New Ross Standard, Fri. 24 July 1964, p. 5).
Top or Fifth Row (left to right): Kathleen Roche, May Cashin, Alice Aylward, Betty Walsh, Kitty Kirwin, Jimmy Kirwin, Willie Green, Peter Doran, Neddie O Keefe, Mikey Power, John McDonald, John Ennett.
Fourth Row: Kathleen Ryan, Mary O Connor, Mary O Keefe, Mary Ryan, Nellie Dowling, Eily Doolin, Eily Ready, Mary Kirwin (Robinstown), Marguerite Ennett, Mary Kirwin (Gaulestown), Kathleen Linegar, Anna Kirwin, Kathleen Kirwin, Master Murphy.
Third Row: Bridget Hoynes, Breda Hartley, Eily Kirwin, Peter O Connor, John Murphy, Micheal Hoynes, Tom Dunphy, Michael Green, Willie Walsh, Tom Kirwin, Mary O Hanlon, Pat Walsh, Willie Ennett, Teachers- Mrs. Murphy, Miss Eileen Kearney.
Second Row: Johnny Halligan, James Ennett, Mary Hoynes, Alice Kirwin, Michael Ryan, Michael McDonald, Neddie Long, Noel Kehoe, John Walsh, Neddie Roche, Billy Boland, Eamon Walsh.
Front Row: Ann Linegar & Pat McDonald. (10 year old Billy Boland (bottom row) caught a wild hare on his way to school)
After Retirement
In 1971 while Dr. Michael Murphy and Dr. Tim Murphy were home on holiday from Zambia they were with their parents visiting Inchigeela, County Cork when Ellen became ill and suddenly died. She was noted as a talented musician and many of her former pupils had found their places in key positions in church and lay professions and trades in Ireland and abroad. She was survived by her husband and five children and interment took place in Mullinarrigle cemetery after Requiem Mass in the adjoining church (New Ross Standard, Sat. 19 June 1971, p. 3).
Michael Murphy survived his wife by 17 years. He died at the age of 92 on 19 July 1988. His retirement interests included history and his obituary noted that he weekly met with friends in Mullinavat to play cards. One former student now in his late 60’s recalled that Master Murphy wasn’t excitable and spent a lot of time trying to explain vowels to his young students. Mrs. Murphy could make the old piano sing and the children loved it when she sat down to play.
In addition to the years of service Master Murphy and Mrs. Murphy provided in educating local children they reared a distinguished and accomplished family. [1] Dr. Michael Murphy at that time of his father’s death was living in Saudi Arabia; [2] Dr. Tim Murphy (c. 1939-1999) died in London at the age of 60 (New Ross Standard, Wed. 2 June 1999, p. 90); [3] Patrick Murphy died in late 1989. He attended St. Kieran’s College, Kilkenny and qualified as a veterinary surgeon from U.C.D. He practiced with Tony Murphy, New Ross then went on to work for the Dept. of Agriculture. He was the veterinary inspector at Callan Bacon Factory, Clover Meats, Waterford and later at Dawn Pork and Bacon complex at Granagh, Kilmacow (Munster Express, Fri. 5 January 1990, p. 14). [4] Maureen Murphy N.T. in 1961, married William Kervick (c. 1920-1976) of Enniscorthy, Wexford (New Ross Standard, Fri 11 Aug 1961, p. 2). William died suddenly at the age of 56 in 1976 (Munster Express, Fri. 23 April 1976, p. 7) and Maureen died just last year on the 29th of April 2020. [5] Peggy Murphy N.T. married Jack O’Dwyer of Drumdowney, Slieverue and for many years they lived in Derry.
__________
The featured photo above is the old Glenmore Boys’ National School. The photo was taken in 2019.
Special thanks to Jackie Walsh for sharing the photos of the 1952 Glenmore Plain Chant Group. The photo of Master Murphy was cropped from a larger photo taken at Glenmore in 1954 or 1955.
Please send any corrections or further information, photos you would like to share to glenmore.history@gmail. com.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
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The Killing of James Freany at Christmastime 1884
On the 15th of December 1884, a farmer named James Freany, was returning home from Waterford when he was attacked a half a mile from the Newrath police station and died at the Waterford Workhouse Hospital from the injuries he sustained in the attack. According to the newspaper accounts of the murder trial James Freany was about 50 years of age, living at Fahy, Mullinavat and left a widow and four children. His killer was a young farm labourer named James Walsh. James Freney’s death certificate records his death as the 27th of December at the workhouse. His death cert gives his address as Bigwood, he was married, 37 years of age, a farmer and died of inflammation of the brain caused by “strike of whip inflicted by James Walsh at Newrath.” The death cert was received from Edmond Power, Coroner from Waterford after an inquest held on the 28th of December 1884.
The Attack
According to the testimony of James Freany’s employee, Michael Bolger, and Freany’s neighbor, Mrs. Margaret Doyle, the three went to Grannagh on the morning of the 15th of December to sell poultry. They were not paid at Grannagh and had to travel into Waterford City to collect their money. They were heading home in a horse drawn cart at 12:30 in the afternoon when they passed Phelan’s coal yard, at Newrath, where Bolger and Doyle saw the defendant James Walsh. Although Bolger denied that anything was said to the defendant, James Walsh, Mrs. Doyle stated that both Bolger and Freany shouted, but she couldn’t make out what was said (Waterford Mirror and Tramore Visitor, Thur. 12 March 1885, p. 3).
About a quarter to half a mile further up the road the defendant James Walsh jumped over the road side ditch and ran behind the horse drawn cart with a stone in one hand and a hunting whip in the other. Mrs. Doyle upon seeing the defendant rushing toward the cart said to the defendant, “If you leave a hand on these men I’ll prosecute you.” Walsh threw a stone and hit Freany just above his left eyebrow. Freany staggered, fell to the ground, and the defendant, James Walsh, struck him twice in the head with the handle end of the hunting whip. Bolger jumped down, went to Freany and called for Margaret Doyle to run for the police. She refused and said that she would stay with the badly injured Freany. As Bolger set off running for Newrath the defendant threw stones at him (Waterford Mirror and Tramore Visitor, Thur. 12 March 1885, p. 3).
The Newrath constables were soon on the scene and placed James Freany on a car and escorted him to the Workhouse Hospital in Waterford. When James Freany arrived at the Workplace Hospital he was examined by a number of doctors because of his precarious condition. They found the skull completely fractured, and brain and blood protruding from the wound. “No hope of recovery was entertained” (Munster Express, Sat. 20 Dec. 1884, p. 4). In the meantime, Constable Reynolds at the scene of the attack began to give pursuit and saw a man and woman some distance off. The man went into a field and Reynold’s overtook Miss Mary Duggan, James Walsh’s employer. Miss Duggan, resided at Farnogue, Mullinavat. Reynold’s took possession of the hunting whip that James Walsh had given to Miss Duggan after the attack (Waterford Mirror and Tramore Visitor, Thur. 12 March 1885, p. 3).
Attempted to Avoid Arrest
Reynolds and another constable continued to pursue James Walsh, they traced him to Bishop’s Hall and from there to Tory Hill, where he took to the fox covers, and they lost him. Sergeant Twiss, of Newrath, and one of his men disguised themselves, and proceeded to Farnogue to the [Denis] Duggan house. When they knocked at the door they were mistaken for tramps and told that they could not get any relief. They insisted on entering, and when the Sergeant “made known his business” he was told Walsh had not been there that day, and he was not expected that night. The Sergeant insisted on Duggan accompanying him to the Delahunty public house. Twiss told Duggan that he thought Walsh might be there and he needed Duggan to identify Walsh. Duggan accompanied the sergeant, and they reached Delahunty’s where they had a drink; but Walsh was not there. When Duggan got into an argument with others Sergeant Twiss slipped out and went back to Duggan’s house. When he entered through the kitchen door he found Walsh sitting at the fire. Walsh had just arrived. Walsh was handcuffed, arrested and at 10 o’clock lodged in the Newrath lockup (Munster Express, Sat. 20 Dec. 1884, p. 4).
The Trial
The Munster Express published that an Inquest was held into James Freany’s death on the 19th (sic) of December. The newspaper reported that the inquest jury were of the opinion that James Walsh received great provocation (Munster Express, Sat. 3 Jan. 1885, p. 4). In addition to the statements made by Michael Bolger and Mrs. Margaret Doyle other statements were reported in the newspaper from an inquiry held by Resident Magistrate Welch shortly after Walsh’s arrest. William O’Neill, a lad, deposed that after Freany passed Manning’s public house at Newrath, he saw Walsh get in over the wall and run along inside it up the road. The alleged provocation was based on the statements made by Miss Mary Duggan the defendant’s employer. She deposed that she saw “Walsh at Phelan’s store at Newrath, when Freany, Bolger, and the woman Doyle, passed in a cart; heard them shout, as they passed, the words perjurer and land-grabber” which were directed toward James Walsh ((Munster Express, Sat. 20 Dec. 1884, p. 4). It is not clear how James Walsh could be labelled a land grabber as he had no interest in any land.
In March 1885, James Walsh stood trial in what the press dubbed the Newrath Murder Case. Walsh pled not guilty to the charge of murder. He was defended by a Barrister named Lover who was instructed by Solicitor T.F. Strange (1812-1897) (Waterford Mirror and Tramore Visitor, Thur. 12 March 1885, p. 3). [Thomas F. Strange’s family owned the Aylwardstown House and Estate in Glenmore for a couple generations. Thomas F. Strange is buried in Killivory Graveyard, Glenmore.]
The first witness called at the murder trial was County Surveyor, W. L’Estrange Duffin, who produced a map showing the distance from Phelan’s coal yard to where Freany was attacked. It was 414 yards. The Crown also called Michael Bolger and Mrs. Margaret Doyle. They gave evidence consistent with previous statements. Barrister Lover with apparently little to work with attempted to show that the victim Freany was of bad character. Mr. Lover asked Michael Bolger if the deceased was a sober man…the witness replied that he was not. The witness was asked if there was ill feeling between the Freany’s and the Duggan’s (the defendant’s employer and cousin). Mr. Lover asked if the bad blood between the families was in consequence of the Duggan’s having got Freany’s brother bound over to the peace for calling them landgrabbers and other names. The witness denied that the deceased called the defendant an informer and perjurer that day and said he did not know about any bad blood. In cross examining Mrs. Margaret Doyle, Barrister Lover asked if she saw Miss Duggan that day. The witness said that she saw Miss Duggan when Freany was on the ground. He then asked what Miss Duggan said and the witness replied that Miss Duggan said, “he was long looking for that.” Mr. Lover objected to the answer and the judge overruled the objection and responded, “You opened it yourself, but it should not have been asked.” This was apparently the end of the first day of the Newrath murder trial and the Waterford Mirror concluded that the jury convicted James Walsh of the manslaughter of James Freany (Waterford Mirror and Tramore Visitor, Thur. 12 March 1885, p. 3.)
However, further information concerning the trial was found in The Clonmel Chronicle (Wed. 18 March 1885, p. 4). An independent witness, Michael Whelan testified for the Crown. He testified that he was working on the road and stated that he saw the attack. He helped place the deceased in a sitting position against the ditch until Constable Reynolds arrived, and Reynolds placed a handkerchief around the head of the deceased. He said that Bolger was shouting and cursing trying to leave the cart when Walsh ran up, and Freany tried to keep Bolger on the cart. Freaney never said a word to Walsh and never “got in holts with him when he [Walsh] got up to the cart.”
William Neill a boy living at Newrath, testified that he saw the defendant pass over a field on the day of the attack and run along a hedge skirting the main road. He did not see Miss Duggan, Mrs. Walsh or her daughter with James Walsh. Another boy named White gave similar evidence.
Dr. Connolly testified that the deceased had a depressed fracture of the skull. He found a contusion over the deceased left eye that this not cause his death. The wound causing his death could have been caused by the pointed end of a whip handle such as the one in court.
The defendant’s defence rested on his employer cousin, his mother and sister. Miss Mary Duggan testified that James Walsh, his mother and sister went with her into Waterford. They were outside of Phelan’s coal yard when Freaney and Bolger drove past and called Walsh an “informer, perjurer, and landgrabber.” At no time prior to the trial had she alleged that the alleged name calling included “informer.” She testified that the others took a shortcut, but she followed the road. Later the defendant gave her a whip which she gave to the police. Walsh did not return home with her, but came there the same night and was arrested at ten o’clock. She stated that the defendant was a third cousin of hers.
Margaret Walsh, the mother of the defendant, gave an extraordinary account alleging that her son was acting in self-defence when he killed Freany. She stated that he was with her and his sister and Freany and Bolger stopped and waited to attack her son. She testified that Freany grabbed her son by the throat and said “now is our time, there is nobody near him.” Her testimony is contrary to the testimony of all the other witnesses at the scene including the independent witnesses.
The jury was out for a few minutes and returned with a verdict of manslaughter. The judge before sentencing noted that he was glad that the jury took the merciful view of the case, but “in point of law if a verdict of murder had been returned there was ample grounds on the evidence” for a murder verdict. He took into consideration the good character the defendant had prior to the killing and sentenced James Walsh to five years penal servitude. If James Walsh had been convicted of the murder of James Freany he would have hanged. It is difficult to believe that there were no independent witnesses to the alleged name calling, allegedly giving rise to the killing, given that it was at mid-day outside a busy business.
The Victim
Given the contradictions in the records and newspaper accounts James Freany was either 37 or “about 50.” The names of his wife and children were not provided, however, we did find a James Freany and Alice Freany née Ryan having children at Fahee, Mullinavat in the 1880’s. Three children were located: James Freany (bapt. 15 Feb. 1882); Margaret Freany (bapt. 18 April 1883) and Michael Freany (b. 16 Nov. 1884). A marriage record was located for James Freeney (sic) of Bawleloge, Mullinvat and Alice Ryan, of Ballykillaboy, on 10 Feb. 1880 at Kilmacow. The father of the groom is listed as James Freeney (sic) and the father of the bride was Michael Ryan. The only James Freany, who was the son of James Freany, born in Kilkenny was baptized at Glenmore on 31 January 1830. He was the son of James Freny (sic) and Margaret Power, of Ballyvolera, (Mourlerstown) Glenmore. If this is the correct James Freany he would have been 54 when he was killed.
Update 13 Dec. 2021–Patty Brown located the fourth child of the family, Mary Freaney (sic) (b. 1 Dec. 1880). Patty also identified another potential James Freany (b. 1841) that is currently being reviewed. Special thanks to Patty for her help.
The featured drawing above appeared on the front page of the Weekly Irish Times on Saturday the 20th of December 1884.
If anyone has any corrections or additional information please send it to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Glenmore Mummers: Supporting Irish Independence
According to Danny Dowling, mumming troupes performed regularly in Wexford and the tradition was imported into Glenmore. In 1957 Danny interviewed Nicholas “Nicky the Miller” Forristal (1888-1979) who was able to name various members of the first known Glenmore mummers group. Nicky indicated that this group formed about 1886.
Today, outside of historians and persons researching folklore etc. there is often confusion regarding mummers because at various times in various locations across Ireland different people used the term in different ways. For example, in the past festivals and celebrations were marked with the making and wearing of straw costumes. There is evidence that the wearing of straw clothing occurred in bad weather particular by the bacach, or beggars. The straw not only provided warmth, but the rain would run off like a thatched roof. A plentiful supply of straw was generally present in most farmyards for the making of a straw overcoat as the bacach travelled the countryside with news and gossip to entertain his hosts (Anne O’Dowd, “Plaited Rush and Straw Work,” in Traditional Crafts of Ireland (2003) p. 128). Later, in some parts of Ireland men would disguise themselves in straw outfits and headgear to crash a wedding feast they had not been invited to attend. Sometime these party crashers performing their disguised antics were called mummers or strawmen (Séamas ó Catháin, “Mummers & Mumming,” in Traditional Crafts of Ireland (2003) p. 130.
Interestingly some rural parts of the country there was an old custom after harvest of saving the last sheaf of corn which was ceremonially brought home from the field and presented to the woman of the house. Keeping the last sheaf in the house brought general good luck and was a safeguard against witches. The straw from the harvest provided for the making of ordinary household items from plaited ropes (súgán) to hens’ nesting baskets (séideog).. (Anne O’Dowd, “Plaited Rush and Straw Work,” in Traditional Crafts of Ireland (2003) p. 128).
The tradition of mumming apparently goes back to the Middle Ages. It is thought to have developed in England and spread. Although mummers can be traced back in Ireland to at least the 1780’s the first systematic attempt to analyse the Irish mummers plays was published in 1946 by E.R.R. Green (“Christmas Rhymers and Mummers,” Ulster Journal of Archaeology (1946) p. 3-21).
In the west of Ireland mumming apparently evolved into people in disguise visiting homes and entertaining with songs and rhymes usually at Christmas time. In Wexford, mummers performed plays generally following chapbooks. A chapbook was a small pamphlet containing ballads, rhymes, or tales sold by peddlers. This “street literature” was cheaply made and often contained crude woodcut illustrations. Often at the end of the play there was a dance fight with the dancers swinging wooden swords or sticks. This battle dance has led to mummers sometimes being confused with another old custom of Morris dancers. Morris dancers are English male folk dancers who generally wear bells on their calves and carry handkerchiefs or fans as they perform their elaborate sets. In 1974, Alan Gailey published an article “Chapbook Influence on Irish Mummer’s Plays” (85(1) Folklore 1 (1974)). Gaily described the usual characters in the known “chapbook” publications including Prince David, St. Patrick, the Grand Signor and the doctor in a comical “cure scene.” By the turn of the 20th century the rhymes and characters of the Wexford mummers’ plays were re-written to “accord with nationalist sentiments” (Gailey, p. 6).
In the 1957 interview Nicky the Miller noted that a dance platform was built at the Ballygurrim cross roads in about 1885. The following year a group of men from Glenmore formed a mummers’ group. They were “trained by coach” from Wexford. In addition to providing the names of the group Nicky stated that the group travelled to Mullinavat where they “gave a big display of their talents” and they had a “keg of beer between them to quench their thirst.”
Nicky the Miller identified ten men as Glenmore Mummers. Information not provided by Nicky the Miller has been placed in brackets [ ]. The captain of the Glenmore Mummers team was Martin Cahill [b. 1854] of Ballycroney, Glenmore. His three brothers were also members, Phil [b. 1865 never married], Dick and Mick Cahill [b. 1863] married and lived in Waterford and worked at Strangman’s brewery.
Other members of the team included:
Jack Merrigan, of Milltown, Glenmore–He was uncle of the present (1957) Dinny Murphy of Milltown. He later emigrated to the USA and died in New York;
Ned Purcell, of Forristaltown and later lived in Weatherstown, Glenmore;
Neddy Walsh, of Milltown, never married and worked at Jack Doherty’ of Milltown;
Dick Walsh, of Bushertsown and Ballalog, was a brother of Neddy Walsh. Dick worked for Dinny Merrigan and married Dinny’s sister. The married couple moved to Waterford. [The Glenmore Parish records reveal that Richard Walsh married Ellen Merrigan in 1895.];
Dan Dowling, [1862-1945] of Jamestown, Glenmore [Danny Dowling’s paternal grandfather] and
Ned Doolan, of Shanbogh.
In attempting to locate more information on the Glenmore mummers a newspaper search revealed that in 1892 the Glenmore Mummers performed and the names of the group are not provided in the newspaper article. However, the article does confirm that the group was performing in the Wexford tradition with a nationalist sentiment including the word “independence” placed on the play’s scenery. The following article is from the front page of the Munster Express of 6 February 1892.
ENTERTAINMENT AT GLENMORE—On Sunday evening last a most successful and highly conducted soiree came off at Glenmore, Co. Kilkenny. The proceedings commenced about 7:30 p.m., and under the able management of the local young men, who are formed into a society called “Mummers,” have composed a part representing twelve powers of Europe, an exhibition of which they gave on the night in question, and which proved high satisfactory and afforded pleasure to the many spectators present. The different parts met with loud applause, and for the first time they gave an exhibition and played their different parts publicly, they deserve all credit for the painstaking manner through which they went through their work. The apartment, which was kindly given for the purpose, was beautifully decorated with evergreens and other ornamental designs, and here and there on the walls could be observed in letters, worked with ivy leaves, the words, “independence,” “welcome” etc. Many songs and dances were gone through until about 8:30, when the “Mummies” entered, dressed beautifully with different coloured dresses and bearing emblems representative of the Nationality which each acts the part of. The representative of the first high personage was the captain of the club, who marched forward and related his exploits in a strong manner. He is met on the way by Prince George, and then St. Patrick enters on the scene and speaks independently to the Prince. Next appears the representatives of Napoleon, Lord Wellington, and Emperor of Russia. The latter meets the Grand Seignior (sic), and both fight in single combat, resulting in the fall of the Grand Seignior. A doctor then enters, and offers to cure the Grand Seignior (sic), but claims high compensation for his medical skill, which seemed rather limited. His prescription for the wounded warrior provoked merriment, but however, he succeeded in restoring to health the Grand Seignour (sic) who, when fully recovered, relates his exploits in the other world, as his imagination led him to believe he saw a glimpse of it. Lord Nelson represented, as also the Poles’ King, and Julius Caesar. Daniel O’Connell, and the representatives of the above great men having fully expressed the ideas and the exploits gone through in by gone days by those heroes, they formed in a circle and to a beautiful selection of music on violins, danced in a semi-circular motion, one rank meeting the other, and both parties slashing swords. The above ended with the rendering of the National Anthem, “God Save Ireland,” in capital style. The party composed of these young people and the part they have selected appears critical; yet with perseverance they reached the standard of perfection, and whenever they next give an exhibition, they should be highly appreciated for their exertions. The rendering of some songs and recitations, speeches and dialogues, brought the proceedings, which were creditably gone through, to a close.
Although we have a general description of the Glenmore play from the newspaper account, thanks to the efforts of N.A. Hudelston the probable lines are available. Hudelston collected a written copy in 1958 of a play containing 290 lines from John Pierce, of Rosslare Harbour. Fifty more lines were obtained in oral interviews of five more men. It was noted that this play was performed until the First World War, but the language and events in the play revealed that the the original play dates back to 1820-1850. (Hudleston, “The Wexford Mummers’ Play,” The Past: The Organ of the Uí Cinsealaight Historical Society (1964) p. 152). The cast of characters in the play includes: The Captain; Prince George; St. Patrick; Dan O’Connell; Napoleon Bonaparte; Lord Wellington; The Czar; The Grand Signor; The Doctor; Lord Nelson; The Polish King; and Julius Caesar. The excerpt below is from the lines of Daniel O’Connell toward the end of the play.
Excerpt
Here I am, the great O’Connell, from a knightly race I came, My royal habitation lies in ancient Derrynane. I am the man they call brave Dan, your friend on each occasion, And the first M.P. that ever sat of the Catholic persuasion. For my country’s wrongs I deeply felt, they tilled me with vexation, And our cruel foes for to oppose, I formed an Association. ‘Tis certain sure, the Church most pure, should persecution bear, But the Penal yoke was lately broke by electing me in Clare; To Parliament straightway I went, in hopes to free our nation, Wellington and Peel, I made them yield and grant Emancipation. That still-born pact, the Stanley Act, supplants the Church’s ambition, Those vexatious tithes I have laid aside, by a total abolition. The Catholic rent I underwent to break and wreck in twain…
By St. Patrick’s sons you have laurels won, and been raised to dignity; Our brothers’ cries you did despise, and our country’s misery. So now your cause, and Penal Laws, I’ll expel by exhortation, Those notorious tithes I’ll lay aside or in blood I’ll steep the nation. Your tyranny won’t frighten me, nor your hellish emigration, Your infernal ends, they stood your friends—if I live, I’ll free the nation. Now, gentles all, I must conclude, I have no more to say…
It isn’t known whether the Glenmore men identified by Nicky the Miller were the same group that performed in 1892. If the Glenmore Mummers followed this play with similar nationalist speeches, scenery advocating independence etc. it may go some way to explaining why the Munster Express did not publish their names.
Please send any corrections or additional information etc. to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
The Hudleston article is available on Justor, Stable URL: https://www.jstor.org/stable/25519869 . The featured drawing above was drawn by Dudley Terrant at Christmas time 1919 of a performane of an old Christmas mummers’ play of St. George and the Dragon and published in The Sphere (3 January 1920, p. 13). The photo from January 1950 above is of the Andover, Hampshire mummer’s play. For over 300 years the men of New Street in Andover, Hampshire performed this traditional mummers play without script. The words were passed down from father to son.