19th Century
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Tragedy and Perseverance on Both Sides of the Atlantic
A recent query from a young reader caused further research into Laurence “Larry” Duggan (1832-1905) born and raised in Ballinaraha, Glenmore. In the U.S. most of the records are in the name “Lawrence or Larry Dugan” and in Ireland most of the records record his name as “Laurence Duggan.” According to the 1900 New York Census, “Lawrence Dugan” of Babcock Hill, Bridgewater, Oneida County, New York was a farmer, 68 years of age and a widower. He reported that he was born in Ireland in February 1832, immigrated to the US in 1853, and was a naturalised U.S. citizen. What makes Laurence Duggan unusual is the fact that at the age of 72 he returned to Glenmore to visit his family and drowned in St. John’s River in Waterford City in early 1905.
The Inquest
On Tuesday the 24th of January 1905, the body of what was described as a middle-aged man was pulled out of St. Catherine’s Pill in Waterford City near the bridge at the courthouse grounds. The Waterford Chronical newspaper of 25th of January 1905, wrongly identified the remains of those of Martin Duggan, a returned American. “The circumstances concerning his death are involved in mystery, but the Constabulary entertain no suspicion of foul play.” The alleged mystery is never explained, but it is reported that some letters were found on the body which showed that the deceased was attempting to have his return ticket to New York extended. His return ticket was due to expire in February and he sought the assistance of Messrs. Ward Bros., the general Emigration and Shipping Agents, of 2 Barronstrand Street, Waterford. A review of the Waterford City Directory of 1900 indicates that the Ward Bros. also conducted a saddlery business at those premises.
Although the name of Lawrence Duggan’s brother is not provided in the newspapers account of the inquest, based on the 1901 census, it is believed he was staying at his brother Peter Duggan’s home in Ballinaraha, Glenmore. Peter and Larry’s sister, Margaret Duggan was the second wife of Martin Murphy, of Ballinlammy, Glenmore. Martin Murphy and Margaret Duggan Murphy were the parents of Michael Murphy. Based on the 1901 Census, Martin Murphy was dead and his widow, Margaret was 75 years of age in 1901. Michael Murphy was 45 and his wife Mary was 28. According to the Diary of James Aylward, of Ballyhobuck, Glenmore, Michael Murphy and his wife Mary were married in February 1901.
During the course of the inquest into the death of Lawrence Duggan it was noted that money was found on the deceased when he was pulled from the water. The police were directed to give the money to Michael Murphy to bury his uncle. A witness, James J. McKenna, of 38 Johnstown Road, Waterford testified that he was coming home through the Park on Monday night about 6.30 o’clock and entered the park at the gate lodge. He saw a man who walked past him and when he glanced at the man he was standing at a tree near the bank of the river near the lavatory. When the witness got to the park fountain he heard a splash and cries of “Help, help!.” The witness raised the alarm and sought help from another man because witness could not swim. He saw the man in the water give a couple of “kicks” but was pulled out by the tide and disappeared.
Dr. J. H. Kelleher testified that he viewed the body in the morgue, and with the exception of a few scratches on the face, which were possibly caused at the time of death, there were no marks of violence. In his opinion death was due suffocation through drowning. The third witness at the inquest was Owen Long, of Miller’s Marsh, who testified that he found the body at John’s Bridge at 11: 30 o’clock on Tuesday morning. A verdict of death by accidental drowning was returned, but a rider was added calling on the ” responsible authorities” to provide more protection along this portion of the river.
Life in the US
A search revealed that a Laurence Duggan sailed on a ship called the Laurence Forristal from Waterford and arrived in New York on the 20th of May 1853. The records provide that he was 25 years of age. Laurence Duggan married his wife Anna, another Irish immigrant, and their first child, Richard Dugan was born in Albany, New York in 1856. By 1860 the family was in Schoharie County, New York and a second son, John, was born in 1858. In 1863 Laurence registered for the draft. He reported that he was 32 years of age, married, and worked as a labourer. A James Dugan, age 34, is also on the list. It appears that Laurence did not serve in the Union Army during the Civil War. By 1870 the family was resident in Bridgewater, Oneida County, New York. Laurence had purchased a farm and he and Anna had 7 children: Richard Dugan, 13; John Dugan, age 12; Mary Dugan, age 9; James Dugan, age 7; Thomas Dugan, age 5; Maggie Dugan, age 3 and Annie Duggan, age 1. At least one more child was born to the couple, Ellen “Nellie” Dugan was born in April 1878. Unfortunately, the 1890 Federal Census was destroyed by fire.
There are several farm related documents in state records submitted by “Larry Dugan” of Babcock Hill, Bridgewater, Oneida County, New York. By 1900 Anna had died as well as their eldest son, Richard Dugan (1856-1890); and it appears that Mary Dugan may have died of TB on the 8th of July 1874. In the 1900 Census Laurence is 68 and living on his farm with his daughter, Margaret who is 26, his son Thomas who is 35 and his married daughter Nellie Kelly who married in 1898 to James Kelly. Nellie is 23 and James is 33. In October 1904 Laurence Dugan set off, apparently on his own, to Glenmore, Co. Kilkenny, Ireland. He never returned to his home or children in New York state. Laurence Duggan left an estate in New York and his Will was duly probated in Oneida County.
In an attempt to discover how or if the news of his tragic drowning was reported in New York a different tragedy was discovered in the Boston Globe edition of the 19th of March 1906. At the Dugan Farm on Babcock Hill, Bridgewater, Oneida County, New York, Thomas Dugan awoke to find the farmhouse on fire shortly before midnight. He raised the alarm and the newspaper account reports that he perished while saving the others in the house. His sister Maggie, after escaping the smoke filled house, dressed only in a nightdress ran barefooted in the snow half a mile to a neighbour seeking help. His sister Nellie and her husband James gathered their two small children and also escaped the burning house. A 14 year old farm worker who was sleeping upstairs escaped by knocking out the window and jumping. The Dugan family lost their brother, home and possessions, but the 1940 Census reveals that Margaret Dugan was still operating the dairy farm. Ellen “Nellie” Duggan Kelly died on 1 May 1936. Nellie’s children in 1940 were residing on the Dugan Farm with Margaret. Margaret Dugan lived to the age of 86 and died on the 12th of December 1961.
Shortly after Laurence Dugan’s drowning death in January 1905 his sister Margaret Duggan Murphy died in May 1905. His brother Peter Duggan died in 1911. (DD Notebook 2, Interview of Hannah Murphy Dowling). Tragically his nephew, Michael Murphy, of Ballinlammy, Glenmore died suddenly on the 11th of November 1909 leaving his widow, Mary with 6 young children after eight years of marriage. In the 1911 Census Maggie Murphy was 9, Hannah Murphy was 8, Mai Murphy was 6, Martin Murphy was 5, Bridget Murphy was 3 and Michael Murphy was 1. Young Hannah Murphy above was Danny Dowling’s mother.
The featured portion of a modern map of the City of Waterford is included to illustrate the area of the park and St. John’s River which empties into the tidal River Suir.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
“They Are Too Clever In Glenmore”
Last week we highlighted the case of Mrs. Connolly who was charged and acquitted in 1906 of operating a shebeen from her home in Graiguenakill, Glenmore. Other Glenmore residents were not so lucky when charged. In addition to the cases themselves, the newspaper articles that Danny Dowling researched, concerning Glenmore inhabitants charged with operating or frequenting a “shebeen” provide details regarding life in Glenmore over a hundred years ago.
Bridget Whelan, alias Biddy “the Flies” Whelan
The Waterford Standard of the 21st of August 1880 reported that on the 17th of August two sub-constables were on patrol in Rochestown and while walking toward Ballyhobuck they observed a “suspicious looking woman” driving a donkey and cart. She was observed to make repeated trips to the ditch and communicate with three men who were working in a field. They followed the woman, who was identified as Bridget Whelan, alias Biddy “the Flies” Whelan, of Ballyhobuck. While one of the constables went to Glenmore Village the other remained observing Biddy’s abode referred to as a “hut.” Constable Heffernan, [editor’s note—Heffernan was locally referred to as Micky the Rat] procured the warrant and armed with it they searched Biddy’s house and found 76 porter bottles empties, and tumblers. Undaunted Biddy carried on selling beer and was observed on the 19th of August walking in front of a cart which held a load of grain and a sack on top of the grain. The Glenmore constables followed her into the yard of William Roche, of Scartnamore, where they searched the sack and found 36 large bottles of stout. (Waterford Standard, 25 August 1880).
On the 4th of September 1880 it was reported in the Waterford Standard that Biddy plead guilty to four offences. In total 139 bottles were seized from Biddy. It was reported that she had been shebeening for about five months, but the police stated that it “was next to impossible to catch her” because she hid her stock in fields. At a funeral it was reported that she sold seven dozen bottles of porter. Biddy told the magistrate that she was a poor widow and asked if she could be let off. This was denied and she was fined £2 and costs, or one month’s imprisonment in the first case with the same penalty to apply in the other cases or £8 in all, or in default four month’s imprisonment.
The Second Offence in Weatherstown
In 1893 another Glenmore inhabitant was charged for operating a shebeen in his home in Weatherstown. This was the defendant’s second offence. The Kilkenny Moderator of 12 April 1893 reported that Sergeant John Bergin, RIC Glenmore summoned a feeble old man for an offence under the Shebeening Act and also charged him for having been convicted previously for a similar offence a year earlier on the 9th of January 1892. Surprisingly the name of the defendant is never stated in the article. Sergeant Bergin testified that on the 25th of March 1893 he went to the defendant’s home in Weatherstown Village and found a quarter cask of Strangman’s beer with a keeler under the tap and a quart measuring jug. Present in the house were Luke Roche, of Ballycurran and Maurice Cody, of Ballycroney. A glass of beer was near Maurice Cody’s leg. The defendant plead guilty to the charges and told the magistrate that a friend sent it to him because he was going into hospital. He decided to sell some of the beer to earn a few pennies.
Sergeant Bergin testified that the police received several complaints about this house. The defendant was a shoemaker but had not worked in 14 years. [Editor’s note—the first old age pension did not commence until 1909.] The defendant was described by Sergeant Bergin as being delicate. However, because this was his second offence the Magistrate said he did not have any discretion and imposed a fine of £5 and costs or three months imprisonment. The defendant on hearing the fine exclaimed, “God save us! I will never find it.” Upon hearing the alternative was three months imprisonment he stated, “Begorra if I go to gaol sir, I won’t come out.” The Magistrate informed the defendant that he could “memorialise” the Lord Lieutenant, and he might reduce it. Maurice Cody was fined 5s. and costs for being on the premises drinking.
Mrs. Mary Power and her neighbour William Purcell, of Kilmakevogue
Just two years after Mrs. Connolly, of Graiguenakill, was acquitted of operating a shebeen from her home, Mrs. Mary Power, of Kilmakevogue was charged with the same offence and with the same solicitor attempted to successfully use the same defence. The Magistrate was again Mr. Brehon. The newspaper article covering the trial may be found in the Wexford People (19 Feb. 1908) as well as the New Ross Standard (21 Feb. 1908). It was noted during Mrs. Power’s trial that “the clergy of Glenmore were denouncing these shebeens Sunday after Sunday off the altar,” however the police were getting very little assistance from the people.
Sergeant Power, of the Glenmore RIC testified that on Saturday the 8th of February with a warrant he went to search Mrs. Mary Power’s house in Kilmakevogue. When he arrived he watched the house for some time and observed the defendant and another woman in the lane next to the house. It appeared that the other woman was drunk. When he served the warrant he found Mrs. Power in the house with her son, John Barry along with James Gaul, of Carrigcloney; Edward Hogan, of Carrigcloney, and John Power, of Robinstown.
While Sergeant Power was asking Mrs. Power how much drink she had in the house the man who lived in the same building, William Purcell came into Mrs. Power’s house. Although William Purcell was told not to leave he left. The Sergeant followed him and found him rattling bottles under an old bed. A search of Mrs. Power’s house only revealed six bottles of stout. She said that they were all for her son John Barry who called each night. When she was told that she was being charged she began to “roar and bawl and said, ‘I will not go to the court. Forgive me this time, and I will never bring a bottle into the house again.’” She said the men came to her house to get shaved.
During the trial Sergeant Power stated that he had been watching the house on ten occasions and on the 21st of January, a young woman named McDonald went to the door and asked the defendant if all the porter was gone. When this occurred Sergeant Power could see four or five men in the house talking loudly. He did not have a warrant, so he continued to observe. Eventually James Gaul, of Carrigcloney and another man he did not know left the house and when they passed his hiding place he stated that they had been drinking.
Solicitor Langrishe again queried if six bottles of stout is a proper stock for a shebeen. However, this time when it was mentioned that the stock was being delivered by a bread van Sergeant Power pointed out that the van belonged to Breen’s of Waterford who also had a public house. When asked why the police did not have any evidence such as glasses the officer that accompanied Sergeant Power exclaimed, “They are too clever in Glenmore.” Apparently if the officer is to be believed evidence was hidden or removed while the two officers were present.
During the testimony of Mrs. Power’s son, John Barry, it was revealed that he worked as a labourer for Mr. Barron and lived at his place of work. He earned 5s. per week and he gave his wages to his mother for the upkeep of herself and his brother. With his wages she purchased beer for him. He visited her home every evening. He said that while Mr. Barron provided food and shelter he did not provide “refreshments.” When it was pointed out that his wages wouldn’t cover his mother, brother and the beer purchased he replied that his mother’s husband was away in England working and sent her money also.
Edward Hogan, testified that he was a labourer working for Mr. Cody. He often rambled up to Mrs. Power’s house with John Barry and had never been given drink at Mrs. Power’s house. John Power, of Robinstown testified that he habitually purchased a cask of beer in Ross and had no need to visit a shebeen. He was present on the 8th of February to cut John Barry’s hair. James Gaul it was reported worked for the Widow Cody. During cross examination he stated that he was not present at Mrs. Power’s on the 21st of January when he was present. The Chairman expressed anger and stated that Gaul’s testimony should be brought to the attention of the authorities for a perjury charge.
Mrs. Power was found guilty and fined £2 and costs of 3s. Alternatively two months imprisonment with hard labour.
The second defendant was William Purcell, who was described as a very old man. A review of the 1901 Census reveals that William Purcell was 60 in 1901 or 67 in 1908. He too was prosecuted for shebeening. Mr. Langrish defended. Sergeant Power stated that on the night he was searching Mrs. Murphy’s (sic) house he had a warrant for Mr. Purcell’s house and found eight large full bottles of stout under an old bed. Mr. Purcell tried to cover them with an old sack. In the article the houses are said to be in the same building. Sergeant Power asked Purcell to account for the stout, and Purcell said he had them to take to warm him going to bed at night.
Mr. Langrishe said the old man’s statement to him was that his granddaughter paid for the stout to have them for his son-in-law, who was coming on a visit from Kilmoganny. Sergeant Power said he believed the case was part parcel of the other, and that Purcell was keeping the stout for Mrs. Murphy.(sic) If Purcell had the stout for legal purposes, why hide it? Purcell had no previous conviction. Mr. Langrishe pleaded that Purcell was a very poor man, and on outdoor relief. The Chairman said they would take a lenient view of this case, as they believed it was part and parcel of the other case, and that the porter was sold at Murphy’s house. Mr. Purcell was fined £1 and 3s. costs. Defendant denied that he sold a bottle of stout in his life.
Lastly, John Power, of Robinstown, Edward Hogan, of Carrigcloney, and James Gaul, of Carrigcloney were all convicted for being on shebeen premises. Power and Gaul were each fined the full penalty of 40s. each or 1 month’s imprisonment with hard labour and Edward Hogan was fined 10s, 6d or fourteen days imprisonment.
[Note added 5 April 2020: Both newspapers referred to Mrs. Murphy in the prosecution of Purcell rather than Mrs. Power. Believing that this error may have been caused by another case, a newspaper search for a Glenmore resident named Murphy charged with shebeening revealed an article in the New Ross Standard of 25 August 1905. Patrick Murphy, of Kilmakevoge, Glenmore was a labouer and tradesman and was charged with shebeening when 9 bottles were found in his home. The case was dismissed when it was revealed that he worked in Ferrybank, earned 18s. per week, only his wife and 9 year old son were in the house when the warrant was served and he could afford the drink found in his home.]
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Glenmore Land League Splits
In the previous post we highlighted the first article that appeared in the Wexford People on the 7th of February 1891. After the meeting called by Father Dunphy concluded, a second meeting took place and the excerpts from the newspaper article below details the political division within the parish. Subsequently, for quite some time, the newspapers covered the meetings of the two Glenmore Nationalist Land League groups that emerged from the 7th of February meetings. One group was led by the parish priest and supported McCarthy and the other group continued to support Parnell. The names of 42 attendees at the pro-Parnell second meeting, their respective townlands and professions are listed in the article.
“On Sunday last a meeting of the Glenmore Branch of the Irish National League was to have been held in the League rooms, Glenmore. When the hour of meeting arrived a large concourse of the members from all parts of the parish were present in and around the place of meeting. The Rev. James Dunphy, Adm., took the chair at three o’clock. The room in which the meeting was held was filled, as was also the other portions of the house, while many members were compelled to remain outside for want of room inside. Father Brennan, C.C., Glenmore, was amongst those present. Several members of the old committee, who were supporters of Mr. Parnell, were absent, who were not noticed by the priests to attend.
It is well that the public should fully understand the circumstances connected with the present dispute in Glenmore, and in order that they may do so, it is desirable that the view of those who hold Parnellite ideas should be made public. About a month ago Father Dunphy stated that he would never attend the League room again unless some members of the committee (who gave a report of a meeting to the reporter of the New Ross Standard) signed a document for him stating that what they told the reporter were lies, and apologise to him (the priest) for doing to. This they refused to do, because what they told him was that at a meeting called by Father Dunphy of the Nationalists of the parish the people refused to a resolution of “no confidence” in Mr. Parnell ‘they would not go back of what they told the reporter, and they could not, if they were inclined to do so, after what took place to-day.‘
For some days before this meeting a canvass of the parish was made by the priests, and persons were noticed to attend who were known to have anti-Parnellite feelings, while, even so, with this canvass the vast majority of the people are in favour of Mr. Parnell, as will be shown by to-day’s proceedings.
When the chair was taken it was mentioned that the first business of the meeting was to re-organise the branch, which had been in a disorganised state since last November. It was mentioned that the committee was no longer a committee, and that the officers were no longer officers until the committee and officers were elected constitutionally by ballot. Father Dunphy and the M’Carthyite section of the committee objected to this, and said that the business would be proceeded with, and he then requested Mr. William Forrestal, P.L.G., and others, who were not members of the committee, to retire from the League room, as he said no one but the committee should interfere, in the business to be transacted.
Mr. Forrestal then said that if he retired, Father Brennan, who was never a member of the League at all, not to speak of the committee, should also retire. Mr. Forrestal said he could not have confidence in Father Brennan, because he got the money for the Tenant’s Defence Fund collected in the parish, and instead of sending it where the committee and he agreed to–viz to the joint treasurers, Dr. Kenny and Mr. Webb —he gave it to Father Dunphy, who kept it in his hands alone, and had not even yet sent it on to the proper quarter.
After some pressure from the Parnellites, Mr. Forrestal and others withdrew. A resolution was then proposed by Father Brennan (although he was not a member of the League at all), of “No confidence” in Mr. Parnell. The Nationalists outside groaned on hearing the portion of the resolution which had reference to Mr. Parnell. The excitement and noise increased, the people pushed their way into the League-room, cheering for Mr. Parnell and “the hillside men.” Father Dunphy, Father Brennon., and the following men left the room —Wm. Irish, James Dunne, James Irish, Edmund Haberlin, Wm. Hartley, Walter Grant, John Fitzgerald, and Patrick Kehoe. While these men, with two priests, were leaving there were cheers for Parnell and cries of ” Free election by ballot,” and “We’ll hunt the M’Carthyites,” “Down with Pope Hennessy and his backers,” were given also.
(c) L.C. Dillon 1881
When the priests and the seven or eight M’Carthyites (the full strength of their backers) left, the Parnellites proceeded to hold a meeting, to which all members of the committee present and ordinary members of the branch were invited. Mr. John Hanrahan was called to the chair, which he took amid the cheers of the crowd, which were heard at the police barracks, and it brought down a couple of policemen.
There were more than 100 members of the branch present, amongst whom were the following :—Mesers. Wm. Forrestal, P.L.C.; James Reddy (farmer), Kilbride; Patrick Irish (farmer), Carrigcloney; Patrick Forrestal, Graiguenakill (farmer and miller); Thomas Forrestal, Ballyverneen (farmer); Thomas Aylward , (farmer), Ballinclair ; Micheal Murphy (farmer), Ballinlammy; Richard Mullins (farmer), Gaulstown ; Laurence Mullins (farmer), Gaulstown ; Martin Kennedy (farmer), Ballinclair ; James Mulally (farmer), Davidstown ; Patrick Raftice (farmer), Davidstown ; Patrick Whelan (farmer), Ballinrow; John Verriker (farmer), Davidstown ; Richard Whelan (farmer), Mullinahone ; Patrick McDonald (farmer), Ballinlammy ; Thomas Roche, Coolnaleen (farmer) ; Martin Murphy (farmer), Ballinlammy; John Doherty (farmer), Ballinlammy; Thomas Power, Glenmore (tradesman) ; David Walsh, Graiguenakill (tradesman), Philip Malone, Glenmore (tradesman) ; John Power, Carrigcloney (tradesman); Walter Ryan (tradesman and farmer), Cappagh; John Grace, Forrestalstown (farmer); John Raftice (cattle-dealer), Davidstown ; Thomas Roche, Coolnaleen (farmer) ; Patrick Byrne (laborer), Ballinclair ; Patrick Doherty (labourer), Busherstown ; Thos. Forrestal (farmer and fisherman) Ballyverneen; Thom. Murphy (labourer), Ballyverneen ; John Fleming (labourer), do. ; James Grant, do ; Richard Breen, do. Glenmore; Wm. Young, do, Ballyverneen ; James Walsh, do ; Thomas Haberlin (fisherman), Forrestalstown; Wm. Kirwan (fisherman), Ballyhobuck; Patr. Murphy, Newtown (labourer); William Purcell, do.; Thomas Foran, Mullinahone (laborer). Owing to the crush and excitement it was impossible to get even half the names of those present, and the secretaries beg to offer an apology to any of the Nationalists who were present, and who are not in the above list.
The Chairman briefly addressed the meeting, …the M’Carthyites failed to smash up [the Branch], by refusing to acknowledge the branch on the old lines and under the guidance of the Central Branch of O’Connell-street (hear, hear). Mr. Wm. Forrestal then addressed the meeting, and said that the M’Carthyites had left the League room, and the small following they had showed the way the Nationalists of Glenmore stand with regard to the leadership of Mr. Parnell. He desired to state that he would not be a member of any branch which would not be duly organised and constituted under the rules which always guided the branches of the National League throughout the country. The M’Carthyites , to-day ware afraid to face the election by ballot, because they knew that if they did the Nationalists of Glenmore would not leave a man of them on the committee (hear, bear). Instead of doing that they ordered the members of the branch out, and with a few of their own followers, like a packed jury, they condemned Mr. Parnell. But the Nationalists would blot out that stain, twenty to one (applause), and he defied the few followers of poor old Justin M’Carthy in the parish to go to the ballot-box and they’d see what the members of the League would do. Outside the M’Carthyites, who are on the committee, the people who are opposed to Mr. Parnell in this parish are the people who were always “opposed to him,”… But the cause of the Parnellites was the old cause, their leader was the old leader—the leader of 100 battles (cheers), and not an old fogie after tea-parties like McCarthy, a man who, in the novels he wrote for the English people, sneered at the Fenians of Ireland and the hillside men, because he knew it would please the Saxons who were buying his books (groans).
(National Library of Ireland)
Mr. Patrick Irish proposed the following resolution” That at this meeting of the representatives of the Nationalists of Glenmore we hereby declare our unabated confidence in Charles Stewart Parnell, as the incomparable and incorruptible loader of the Irish Parliamentary Party and of the Irish race all over the world, and we further proclaim it to be our earnest and unalterable conviction that now more than ever the manhood of Ireland are bound by a patriotic duty to stand unswervingly by the principle of independent action in things political, and should not submit to any dictation, no matter from what source proceeding. That we hereby pledge ourselves to support and assist any movement for the relief of the wounded soldiers in the battle against landlordism, viz.—the evicted tenants of Ireland. That we call upon all Nationalists of this pariah to enrol their names as members of this branch of the Irish Nationalist League.” Mr. Reddy seconded this, which was passed unanimously, with loud mad prolonged cheers for Mr. Parnell. …
It was ordered that reports of this meeting be sent to The New Ross Standard, United Ireland, and the Freeman’s Journal. Messr. Patrick Irish and William Forrestal ware appointed secretaries pro tem to this meeting. The next meeting of this branch will be held at 3 o’clock on the first Sunday in March, with the election of a committee will be proceeded with, and steps taken to work the branch as usual. The meeting dispersed with cheers for Parnell.
[Editorial note: Danny Dowling on 7 March 2020 explained that the League met in his house. At the time John Hanrahan occupied the house. Danny’s great-aunt Mary Hanrahan née Murphy left the house and fields to Danny’s mother Hannah Dowling née Murphy. Danny was born in his present house, and the family moved to Jamestown when he was “a chap.”]
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Glenmore and Mr. Parnell
Danny Dowling in notebook 23 listed a large number of articles referencing Glenmore including the above entitled article that was published in the Wexford People newspaper on Saturday the 7th of February 1891. Today, we will feature the first article in that edition and Sunday we will feature the second article. These articles provide a glimpse into how politics in that era divided the people of the parish of Glenmore.
The Division of the Glenmore National Land League
For our international readers—Charles Stewart Parnell (1846-1891) was an Irish politician, who was elected to Parliament, became leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party, and the President of the Irish National Land League. As discussed in a recent post the Glenmore Branch of the National Land League was established in 1880 when the local parish priest called the parishioners together to form a local branch. The division in the National as well as the local Branch occurred after William O’Shea, a former Parnell supporter, filed in December 1889, for divorce from his wife Katherine on the grounds of her adultery with Parnell. The divorce was granted in 1890 after Parnell did not dispute the charge. The scandal caused the Catholic clergy of Ireland to speak out against Parnell and split the National Land League.
The newspaper articles, of the 7th of February 1891, reveal details concerning the division of the Glenmore Branch over Parnell and lists a large number of local Land League supporters. The meeting took place about 9 months prior to Parnell’s death at the age of 45.
“Glenmore League met on Sunday. The Rev. J. Dunphy, Adm., occupied the chair. A discussion took place about the sending of money collected for the evicted tenants, and it was finally agreed to send it to the joint treasurers in Dublin, on the understanding that no official of the Central League should have anything to do or say to it.
The question of affiliating the Branch was then introduced, and a warm discussion took place. The majority of those present were not disposed to have anything to do with the central office, managed by Mr. Harrington and Co., at least until the rules of the constitution were carried out by having its officers elected, and not self-constituted, as they are at present. It soon became evident that the Parnellites, Parnell-likers, were not disposed to be ruled by the majority, and that they were bent even upon starting an opposition branch.
The new chairman strongly condemned this on two grounds. First, because he believed that there was no assembly in the world wherein the rule did not prevail that the minimum would be bound by the majority. Secondly, because he considered that the existence of two leagues in a parish would be prejudicial to the interests of religion and country alike, and as for as he was concerned he would never countenance the idea. If, then, the minority persist in the idea of establishing a branch, why let them, but the public would know at what door to lay the charge of creating disorder and disunion in the National Ranks. Not until every effort failed in cementing the dissentients together was there any resolution put forward to test the real feelings of the committee.
Father Brenan C.C., then proposed, and Mr. J. Fitzgerald, seconded, the subjoined resolution –that we consider the pretentions of Mr. Parnell to the further leadership in the Irish Parliamentary Party highly prejudicial to the best interests of the country, that we call upon the whole body of our representatives to adjust their difference, and under a new leader press forward the final settlement of the land question and the labour question, as the Irish farmers will never rest satisfied until the old cry “the land for the people” is realised. Amidst some disorder and confusion the resolution was put from the chair with the following result: For the resolution the following persons voted: Father Brennan, Messrs. John Fitzgerald, Vice-Chairman; James Irish, P.L.G.; Walter Grant; James Aylward; W. Irish; E. Cody; Wm. Hartley; James Dunne; E. Haberlin; P. Kehoe; and the chairman—12. Against—Messrs, T. Forrestal; P. Forrestal; J. Hanrahan; P. Irish; J. Doherty; and J. Reddy—6. The chairman then declared the resolution carried by a majority of two to one.”
Glenmore and the Evicted Tenants Fund
The 49 persons who contributed to the Evicted Tenants Fund as well as the amounts contributed were published in the newspaper as follows: Rev. J. Dunphy, Adm £1; Rev. H. Brennan, C.C. £1; Messrs. J. Fitzgerald, vice chairman, £1, 10s; P. Fitzgerald, £1,5s; Thomas Forrestal, £1, 3s, 6d; Mrs. Mary Grant, 15 s, 9d; Mrs. Roche, 14s, 6d; M. Barron, 14s; Wm. Irish, 12s, 6d; Mrs. Mary Fitzgerald, 12s, 6d; James Aylward, T. Kennedy, R. Raftice, 11s each; R. Grant, J. Wall, E. Cody, M. Maher, P. Fitzgerald, M. Kennedy, W. Forrestal, 10s each; R. Dunphy, 9s, 9d; J. Mullally 9s; 6d; J. Morrissey, 9s, 3d; E. Aylward, R. Roche, 3s each; J. Irish, M. Gorman 7s, 5d; W. Grant, 7s, 3d; Mrs. Aylward, 6s, 8d; Widow Kennedy, N. Murphy, 6s, 6d each; John Kennedy, R. Vereker, T. Aylward, 6s each; John Murphy, Mrs. Mackey, 5s each; Richard Kennedy, 4s, 6d; Richard Prendergast, 4s; T. Fitzgerald 3s, 10d; P. Walsh 3s; Mrs. Roche, 2s; E. Haberlin, 1s, 6d; W. Neill, M. Cahill, Michael Walsh, P. Forrestal 1s each; P. Byrne, R. Wall, P. Quinn; J. Forrestal, 6d each.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
After the Ballyfacey Evictions: The End of the Father Neary Story
As contained in a previous post Father Patrick Neary (1828-1887), the parish priest of Mullinavat, played a prominent role in the formation of local Land Leagues branches and more importantly in the failed Ballyfacey, Glenmore evictions in August 1885. The local people remained on alert until a settlement was reached. The terms of this settlement can be found in the 11th of September 1885 edition of the Waterford News. “It appears that in those cases the evictions will not be carried out, an amicable arrangement having been made through the exertions of the respected pastor, Father Neary, which will enable the tenants under sentence of death to hold their homes, by the payment of a year’s rent, wiping away all arrears and legal costs.”
Local contemporary newspapers reveal that Father Neary continued to speak at rallies and other Land League events. For example, it was reported in the 18th September 1885 edition of the Waterford News, that Father Neary, during the National League Meeting in Portlaw, publicly stated that land agent Major Hamilton had lied and produced copies of correspondence to that effect. Father Neary continued working and supporting the Land League until his sudden death on the 20th of February 1887 a few weeks before his 59th birthday.
The following obituary was published in the Freeman’s Journal on Thursday the 24th of February 1887. The obituary contains the names of 65 clergy from across County Kilkenny and the southeast.
DEATH OF THE REV. P. NEARY, P.P., of MULLINAVAT
The death of the above reverend gentleman, which took place at Galmoy, in the north of the county Killkenny, on Sunday last, was startling news all over the diocese of Ossory, and indeed all over the south of Ireland. As an archaeologist the rev gentleman’s ability was most distinguished, which was often evidenced by the numerous papers which he contributed from time to time upon archaeological subjects. The funeral passed through Kilkenny on Monday at 3 o’clock. All the business houses were closed as a mark of respect for the deceased gentleman. As a patriot the gallant stand which Father Neary made upon a recent occasion against the cruel evictions in Mullinavat was generally believed to be one of the pluckiest and most successful which has been made during the whole land struggle. The remains were conveyed from Kilkenny to Mullinavat on Monday, and on Tuesday after the Office and High Mass the interment took place. At the Requiem Mass and Office solemnised in the parish church, there were His Lordship Most Rev. Dr Brownrigg, Bishop of Ossory, presiding; Rev. John Carroll, P.P., Kilmacow, celebrant; Rev. John Roe, C.C., deacon; Rev. R. Knaresborouglh, C. C., sub-deacon ; Rev. James Shortall, C.C., Templeorum, master of ceremonies. In the chair were: Very Rev. Edward M’Donald, P.P. V.G. ; Very Rev. Canon Kelly, P.P. Castlecomer; Rev. Walter Keoghan, Adm., St John’s, Kilkenny; Rev. M. O’Connor, C.C., Tallogher; Very Rev. M. Barry, President St. Kieran’s College, Kilkenny; Rev. D. O’Halloran, C.C., Callan; Rev. Walter Walsh, C. C., Slieverue; Rev. James Dunphy, C.C., Glenmore; Rev. Patrick Tracey, C.C., Rathdowney; Rev. P. Meany, C.C., Mullinavat; Rev. John Ryan, C.C., Tullaron; Rev. J. Lynagh, C.C., Inistioge; Rev. Edward Delahunty, P.P. Thomastown; Rev. Thomas Feehan, C.C., Thomastown; Rev. Peter Doyle, C.C. Callan; Rev. J. Dillon, C.C. Ferrybank; Rev. Maurice Hawe, C.C. Mooncoin; Rev. Edward Walsh, P.P. Clara; Rev. Patrick Sheehan, Admn. Cathedral, Waterford, Rev. James Henneberry, Chaplain, Kilkenny Union; Rev. P. Aylward, C.C. St Patrick’s; Rev. Martin Keoghan, P.P. Lisdowney; Rev. Michael Murphy, Professor, St Kieran’s College; Rev. Michael Cody, P.P. Castletown; Rev. P. Hoyne, C.C., Aghavillar; Rev. J. Purcell, P.P. Temploreum; Rev. John M’Grath, Adm, St Patrick’s, Kilkenny; Rev. M. Rowe, C.C., Bennett’s Bridge; Rev. Patrick Walsh, C.C., Ballyfoyle; Rev. Edward Murphy, C.C., Temploreum, Rev. T. Grant, C.C., St. Canices; Rev. Bowe, C.C., Rosbercon; Rev. Philip Power, C.C., St John’s, Waterford; Rev. E. Walsh, C.C.; Rev. James Cosgrave, Principal, the College, Kilmacow; Rev. Peter Nowlan, C.C., Conahy; Rev. Joseph Tiothy, Professor, St Kieran’s College; Rev. T.R. Walsh. Admin., St Mary’s; Rev. John Bow, C.C., Gowran ; Rev. John Prendergast, C.C., Urlingford; Rev. John Grace, C.C., Castlecomer: Rev. J Downey, C.C, Ballyuskill; Rev. James Holohan, P P. Tullaherin; Rev. W. Egan, C. C, Waterford; Rev. M. Dalton, C.C, St Canice’s, Kilkenny; Rev. Wm. Connelly, C.C, Ballycallan; Rev Wm. Cassin, C.C, St. Mary’s, Kilkenny; Rev. P. O’Keeffe, C.C. Galmay; Rev. P. Phelan, C.C., Cullohill: Rev. Edward Butler, C.C., St. John’s, Kilkenny; Rev. John Shortal, P.P. Durrow; Rev. John Walsh, P.P., Slieverue, Rev. James Purcell, C.C., Slieverue; Rev. James Shortall, C.C., Templeorum; Rev. James Doyle, Adm.,Baflyhale; Rev. Father Bannan, 0 P, Black Abbey, Kilkenny; Rev. M. M’Grath, C.C., St. John’s, Kilkenny; Rev. Joseph Canon Dunphy, P.P. Mooncoin, Rev. Thomas Kennedy, C.C., Kilmacow; Very Rev Father Matthew, O S F C; Very Rev. Father Bernard, O S F C, The Friary. The chief mourners following the coffin were- Rev. P. O’Keeffe, C.C. Galmoy; Mr. J B. Hogan and Mr. M.A. Hogan, Ormonde House, Kilkenny; and the Right Worshipful P.M. Egan, Mayor Kilkenny.
The Wexford People of Saturday the 26th of February 1887 reported the following was on the breastplate of the coffin:Rev. P. Neary
Mullinavat
Died
20th February 1887
R.I.P.
Soon after Father Neary’s death an appeal went out internationally for funds to place a fitting memorial on his grave. A large, impressive, granite Celtic cross was acquired from William Collins and Sons, Waterford and the following inscriptions are on the granite marker:
(Side 1)
Rev. Patrick Neary
Born 2nd March 1828
Died 20th February 1887
R.I.P.
(Side 2)
Erected to the memory of a devoted priest and patriotic Irishman
By his numerous admirers at home and abroad.
Although chief mourners are generally family members there is no obvious family link between Father Neary and Rev. P. O’Keeffe, C.C. Galmoy; Mr. J B. Hogan and Mr. M.A. Hogan, Ormonde House, Kilkenny; and the Right Worshipful P.M. Egan, Mayor Kilkenny.
The Hogans were auctioneers and also dealt in painting and decorating per the advertisement found in P.M. Egan’s 1884 book listed below with a link. It appears that most of the listed chief mourners shared Father Neary’s interest in history and archaeology.
John Hogan (1884) Kilkenny: The Ancient City of Ossory, published and printed by P.M. Egan. http://www.askaboutireland.ie/reading-room/digital-book-collection/digital-books-by-county/kilkenny/hogan-kilkenny/ John Hogan was elected Mayor of Kilkenny in 1883.
P.M. Egan (Patrick McEgan Egan) (1884) The Illustrated Guide to the City and County of Kilkenny, http://www.askaboutireland.ie/aai-files/assets/ebooks/82-Egan-Kilkenny/82-Kilkenny.pdf was written, published and printed by P.M. Egan. P.M. Egan was twice elected Mayor of Kilkenny in 1887 and 1888. P.M. Egan died in 1903 at the age of 60 and his obituary provides that he was a National School Teacher and gave that up to go into the printing business in Kilkenny. He also had a book and stationary shop in Waterford.
Father Neary is referenced in both of the books above.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Glenmore and the Great Famine
Danny Dowling interviewed older Glenmore residents in the 1950’s concerning the stories passed down to them by their parents and grandparents regarding the Great Famine that occurred over a hundred years earlier from 1845 to 1849. Although the parish of Glenmore had the benefit of being along a river, which was fished, there were still deaths in the parish from starvation and disease. In 1957, Nicholas Forristal, of the Mill, Graiguenakill, Glenmore, explained during his interview that potatoes were the main source of food for most families. Turnips during the Famine period were rarely grown and during that period there was a field of them in Stokestown, Wexford belonging to Deane Drake. So great was the scarcity of anything to eat that people at night from the Glenmore area rowed across the river in order to get a few turnips in order to have something to eat. Eventually guards were employed to protect crops growing in the area.
Nettles were a source of wild food that was widely consumed during the Famine in the Glenmore area. Nettles were boiled and mixed through porridge in order to make the porridge plentiful. A soft thistle knows as sharaván as well as green clover were also eaten as food during the Famine. A family in Ballyverneen called Malone sowed potatoes during this period and shortly after sowing them they had to dig them up and eat them in order to have something to eat. This Malone family were nicknamed Spur, and Jim “Spur” Malone was the last of this family. Even when work could be found it did not relieve the plight of many people because the cost of the food was still beyond the meagre wages. For example, the late Bridget Henneberry’s grandfather, old Martin Henneberry, was working in the Ballyverneen Brick Marches during the Famine and on one occasion he had to work for nine whole days with nothing to eat but green cabbage. James Culleton, Sr., of Kilbride, Glenmore reported that a Stirabout Distribution Centre was established at Gaffney’s Mill in Glenmore Village.
The only known Famine work relief scheme in Glenmore was the building of the Haggard Line. This was a road to Mullinavat that was never completed owing to the fact that the funds ran out. It started at the Bridges in Ballybrahee and went on through Tom Mullin’s land. A lot of it is now levelled off. Another section came out at Sean Jim’s Cottage on the fringe of Bishopsmountain. Nicolas Forristal told Danny that it was either Paddy “the Weaver” Walsh of Glenmore Village, or Paddy’s father worked on the building of the Haggard Line. He was paid 10d. per day wages with “no grub.” A man with a horse and cart got 2/4 per day. A stone of yellow meal then cost 2/6.
Fever, too, was rampant during the Famine. In a field situated in the townland of Ballyverneen, an isolation fever hospital was built to segregate those stricken locally with disease. It accommodated only a few patients. The field was known as Bawnneyzh, until the Ross-Waterford railway line was being built fifty years later. It then became known as the “the magazine field,” on account of it being where the powder and blasting supplies were stored.
The hunger and disease took its toll as one potato crop after another was blighted. According to Nicholas Forristal, a lot of old men and women in the Parish of Glenmore died in the ditches during the Famine. James Culleton, Sr. noted that three girls died of the hunger in Ballyveria and two people by the name of Power died in Jamestown. Andy O’Geena of Kilbride, had trouble over rent with his landlord. He had to walk to Kilkenny and back again. Although it is stated that turnips were not widely raised it was also stated that he took a turnip from a field while walking back to Glenmore from Kilkenny. He sat down and ate it at Connor’s gate in Ballyfacey. That same night he died. As Danny remarked none die as completely as the poor. There are very few headstones in local graveyards reflecting the people who died during the Famine.
As the Famine dragged on emigration became a common feature. Watty Power, of Jamestown, informed Danny that his grand-uncle Jack Power lived down the Ling Lane in the little house. Jack Power was married to Mary Barron, of Carrigcloney, Glenmore. Their two sons died during the Famine of hunger. After their deaths he and his wife emigrated to America. His brother Walter, (Danny’s interviewee’s grandfather) then got the farm which included the present holding plus the three fields now belonging to Greene’s. One morning 100 men left Jamestown for the Waterford Quay. The Landlord had evicted them and paid their passage. Danny stated that if they sailed from Waterford they probably had their passage paid to Liverpool. Danny also stated that he doubted that it was 100 men who left, but rather 100 men, women and children. In 1974 Danny interviewed Jonie Bolton, of Ramsbottom, Lancashire concerning the Brooksbottom Cotton Mill which was expanding during the Famine. The mill owner sent horses and carts to meet the emigrant ships in Liverpool in order to recruit labour for his mill. He built houses for his workers around the mill.
Due to the fact that the parish of Glenmore lies midway between New Ross and Waterford the provisions for the poor via workhouses were split between Ross and Waterford. In 1977 Danny interviewd James Bookle, of Grenan, Thomastown who was 83 years of age along with James’s daughter Evelyn Bookle. Evelyn’s noted that her grandmother Anne Hanrahan Mullins, died in 1956 aged 91 1/2 years. She was born in in 1864 in the Townland of Coolroebeg. Anne Hanrahan Mullins told Evelyn that Anne’s mother, Mary Dalton, was born in 1835 in Coolroebeg. Only two girls survived in that Dalton family. Their father Richard Dalton would take them with him in his horse and cart when he took meal to donate for distribution to the poor in Thomastown during the Famine. The meal depot was situated on the corner of the Mall and Mill street. The front door was on the Mall, but it is now closed up. James Bookle related that in 1907 he was told by an elderly man named Jim Mulrooney that Jim’s parents and five of his brothers and sisters died of fever during the Famine in a corn store on the Quay in Thomastown. The workhouse was not able to accommodate the influx of sick and dying so additional space was provided in corn stores on the Quay. The patients there were bedded on straw that was strewn on the floors.
The Famine had a lasting impact on survivors. For at least one generation special prayers and traditions were practised by the Famine survivors. See, the Christmas blog entry where the “Driving Out the Hunger” is published.
The featured drawing is “The Emigrant’s Farewell,” by Henry Doyle in Cusack’s (1868) Illustrated History of Ireland (Library of Congress).
Update—for our international readers last Thursday all the schools and universities in Ireland closed to try to stop the spread of the Coronavirus. A couple of readers have asked if we would post additional articles during this time of isolation for the elderly. Luckily Danny gave me five more notebooks to transcribe last Saturday, so we shall try to post short, hopefully interesting information regarding Glenmore and its environs. If you have information or a story, memory, photo etc. you would like to share please email glenmore.history@gmail.com.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh