1920’s
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Captain C.F. McLoughlin (1897-1967) of the Glenmore Volunteers, Part I
The Military Service Pension Act 1934 caused the former officers of the old IRA to be contacted in 1935 to obtain the names, ranks and dates of service on two designated dates, 11 July 1921 and 1 July 1922, of the men who served in their units. A list was duly made and submitted. See our list of members of the Glenmore Company of the old IRA.
C.F. McLoughlin applied for a pension noting that he was a Captain with the Glenmore Volunteers in 1915 on. However, McLoughlin does not appear on the Glenmore list submitted, and McLaughlin wasn’t a name generally associated with Glenmore.
It transpires that C.F. McLoughlin, was Cornelius Frederick McLoughlin born in Callan, Kilkenny in 1897 the eldest child of R.I.C. Sergeant, John McLoughlin (c. 1864-1944) and his wife Sarah Jane Heffernan (1866-1923) of Glenmore. The couple were married in Glenmore on 17 June 1896. Sarah Jane, of Cappagh, Glenmore, was a dressmaker and her father was Michael Heffernan (c. 1839 -1914) a retired R.I.C, sergeant. John MacLoughlin was a native of Roscommon. John and Sarah Jane McLoughlin had 9 known children; 5 boys and 4 girls.
Evidence Submitted in 1938
In 1938, C.F. McLoughlin was seeking recognition and a pension for his work as an Irish Volunteer from 1915-1923. His first application was rejected. The National Library of Ireland has digitalized four letters that were sent by Glenmore people to provide information concerning his work as a Volunteer. The letters include: [1] Michael Heffernan’s letter dated 1 February 1938; [2] James Power, Jr. of Jamestown letter dated 27 December 1937; [3] Peter Mernagh’s letter dated 27 December 1937; and [4] Widow Ellen Cassin’s letter dated 1 February 1938.
The First Glenmore Volunteers
Ellen Cassin née Malone (c.1879-1963) moved to Glenmore in 1899. She first heard of the Volunteer movement when men began drilling in Glenmore under Nick Curran, John Dunphy and Jim Fluskey about 1913 or 1914. George Jones, an ex-soldier of the British Army used to instruct them. The movement fell away for a time, but it began to revive again on a smaller scale at the end of 1915 when “Freddie McLoughlin began training men. (Cassin letter p.1).
Michael Heffernan (c. 1877-1951) in 1938, was the Peace Commissioner in Glenmore. He stated that C.F., or Fred, as he was known in the family was his nephew. “He spent a great part of his youth and usually all his holidays in Glenmore. After finishing at Blackrock College in the summer of 1915 he had some difference with his father and came to live with his aunts—my sisters—Mrs. J.K. Walsh [1884-1955] and Miss M. Heffernan [Mary “Minnie” Heffernan (c. 1872-1944)] in Glenmore. About that period, the autumn or winter of 1915, he began organising and training a company of Irish Volunteers. We knew some of the men who were with him, but we had not exact knowledge of all he was doing, and it was not his practice to talk much to anybody. Some things we could not help noticing. (Heffernan letter p. 1).
Peter Mernagh (1892-1990) stated that he joined the Irish Volunteers at Glenmore in October or November 1915. “C.F. McLoughlin, known to us then as Fred, and sometimes now as Conn, was the Captain at the time.” (Mernagh letter, p. 1)
The Glenmore Volunteers of 1915
- Neddy Purell (moved to America)
- Johnny Barron (died in America)
- Johnnie Power, Jr. of Jamestown
- Jimmy Roche, of Weatherstown
- Jim Mernagh (moved to Castlecomer)
- Batty Mernagh (deceased)
- Little Mick Power
- Tom Dunne (moved to Wexford)
- Needy (sic) Doolan, of Shanbogh
- Paddy Barron, of Carrickcloney (moved to England)
- Peter Mernagh, of Ballyverneen
- Captain C.F. McLoughlin
The men drilled regularly, about twice a week, at Cappagh Lane, in the lane at Graiguenakill, in Doyle’s big field opposite the schoolhouse, Robinstown, and at Haggard Line, Mullinahone. (Mernagh letter, p. 1).
Warnings & Threats
“On several occasions before the 1916 Rising an R.I.C. man in New Ross who was friendly disposed asked me [Michael Heffernan] to speak to my nephew and to advise him to be careful in what he was doing. The Parish Priest at the time, Fr. Phelan, also asked me to get him to stop this work; but my nephew was set on his purpose. As far as I recall he used only to smile when I mentioned these things, and to carry on as before. He was not a person to be easily altered once he was set on a thing.”
“On the second occasion that Fr. Phelan spoke to me, I remember he threatened something to the effect that if I was not able to influence young McLoughlin he would take steps to have him shifted as the activities he was engaged in might create disturbances in the parish. Anyhow, my nephew carried on in spite of these warnings and advices. He was drilling men over the Cappagh Road and in other places.”(Heffernan letter, p. 1)
A day or two before the actual Rising of 1916 Fred visited Michael Heffernan and his wife, to say goodbye. He did not expect to see them for some time. A few days later they heard of the Rising and they then realized that something serious was afoot.
Easter Week 1916
Before the Rising the Glenmore Volunteers had an idea that something was “to come off.” Peter Mernagh knew that at any time he could get a shotgun from John Dunphy, of Ballyverneen. Dunphy was sympathetic and allowed Peter Mernagh to sleep on his premises. (Mernagh letter, p. 1)
On the Tuesday after Easter, Peter’s brother Batt relayed orders from Captain McLoughlin to proceed to Buttersbridge, Rosbercon about dusk to meet others. Batty knew that the Rising had started in Dublin and they were hopeful that they would get rifles in New Ross and join up there. Captain McLaughlin returned from New Ross and told the men to quietly return to Glenmore. (Mernagh letter, p. 2)
For the rest of that week Peter Mernagh kept an eye on the “New Line” (main road from Waterford to New Ross). He worked in John Dunphy’s fields and had a view of the “New Line” from the Creamery Manager’s house to Ballyverneen. Peter Mernagh got very little sleep that week watching the road night and day. (Mernagh letter, p. 3)
Arrest in Glenmore
The week after Easter Week, on Tuesday the Glenmore Volunteers heard of the surrender in Dublin. “We were not disposed to believe it.” The volunteers were disappointed that they did not have an active part in the Rising. “The police began to come out again and to show some activity.” (Mernagh letter, p. 3)
Michael Heffernan heard of arrests in New Ross. “One day when I met the friendly policeman in New Ross he informed me that my nephew Fred was noted as one of the ringleaders in the district and was a marked man, and it was not advisable for him to remain in the area.” When Michael Heffernan told Fred he was not frightened by the news and determined to carry on as before. (Heffernan letter, p. 1)
Captain McLoughlin was arrested. John Dunphy broke the news of the arrest to Peter Mernagh. Peter thought that it was the 6th of May 1916, and he expected that he too would be arrested. However, he was not. (Mernagh letter, p. 4)
Ellen Cassin was working for Fred’s aunts and was milking a cow when the police arrived to arrest Fred. “There was great excitement in the Village that day over Freddie’s arrest. It was expected that others might be taken at any moment. Freddy’s aunts were very upset…” No other arrests were made and the excitement died down.” (Cassin letter, p. 1)
Michael Heffernan learned one morning that the police and military were arresting Fred at his sister’s house in Glenmore Village. He was not surprised. “I went to see what was happening and saw the R.I.C. and military with rifles standing about the house where Fred was sleeping. There was some little delay. I went to hunt fowl out of the new potatoes that were coming up in my garden on the hill. On clapping my hands loudly, I remember that two R.I.C. turned the corner at the bridge. They appeared to have some interest in the noise, but I explained that I was only frightening fowl away, and the incident ended. I saw Fred being taken off under escort a few minutes afterwards…” (Heffernan letter, p. 1).
John McLoughlin’s Letter of 18 May 1916
John McLoughlin wrote to Robert Chalmers, expressing his disappointment in his 18-year-old son Cornelius F. McLoughlin. Sir Robert Chalmers, was famous for being the rudest man in Whitehall whose “pomposity and cynicism concealed his many benefactions,” as Under Secretary. (G.C. Peden, “Chalmers, Robert, Baron Chalmers (1858-1938),” Oxford Dictionary of National Biography as cited by Martin Maguire (2008) in The Civil Service and the Revolution in Ireland, 1912-38, Manchester University Press, p. 39.)
Sir,
I have just heard that my son Cornelius F. McLoughlin, who is aged 18 years and 10 months, has been arrested in connection with this Sinn Fein insurrection, at the residence of his aunt (Miss Minnie Heffernan) at Glenmore, Waterford where he resided for the past five months, and has been deported to some part of England. If this boy has by Overt act or otherwise done anything to merit punishment I trust the authorities will deal with him in a firm manner. I spent a considerable sum of money in the bringing up and education of this boy, up to the summer examinations of last year, where he completed his Intermediate course. As he was young, able, active, clever and physically fit, and in my opinion eminently suitable for his Majesty’s forces, I did my utmost during the autumn of last year to induce him to join the O.T.C. or other branch of the regular forces but failed. As he had no taste for soldiering and as he expressed a wish to go seek his fortune in America and join friends who are out there, and so I had no employment for him here. I consented to his wish. It was just then that the stampede of young men took place which caused the Government to prevent the departure of passengers unless provided with passports. He filed papers with the view of getting one, and as he saw there were some obstacles put in the way, he allowed the matter drop and changed his mind. As he was not willing to join the army or go to America and so I had no business for him, he went to his aunt’s at Glenmore.
While under my charge he never mixed with any evil companions, what evil company he with since he left me, I do not know. How or when he became connected with this Sinn Finn business, if he has been so connected, I have no knowledge. I need hardly say I have no sympathy for him in his present miserable predicament, and that is m reason for saying that I trust he may be fittingly punished if there is any evidence of guilt brought home to him, as I do mot believe in making heroes of young fellows by arrest and discharge without adequate punishment, which would be a lesson to them in the future.
As I look upon this attempted insurrection as the greatest curse that could befall this unhappy land when everyone should be united in the midst of this awful war to combat and beat the enemy. I am compelled by a strong sense of duty to write this letter. I am a ex Sargeant of the R.I.C. and had the honour of serving my King and country for 30 years.
This is confidential and the contents are not to be shown or made known to the boy as it might cause him to have ill feeling toward me afterward.
I am, Sir
Your Obedient Servant
J. McLoughlin
(National Archives of Ireland; Chief Secretary’s Office Registered Papers, CSO RP/1916/5611/8501/1) To view a copy of the handwritten letter see the website, Ordinary Lives, Extraordinary Times: Letters 1916-1923.
Impact of His Father’s Letter
By January 1913 John McLoughlin had retired from the R.I.C. and was living at Maryville, Tullow, Co. Carlow with his wife and children. That month he was appointed Collector of Income Taxes for 26 districts in Carlow and parts of Kilkenny (Carlow Sentinel, Sat. 18 Jan. 1913, p. 2). His post as Tax Collector was omitted in his extraordinary 1916 letter regarding his son’s arrest and detention.
Given that Fred was detained about a month. It is unlikely that the letter had a negative impact on his case. It transpired that he was sent to Wakefield Prison in Western Yorkshire, England. After the 1916 Rising, Wakefield Prison was taken over by the military. In Part 2 we will outline Fred’s continued work as a Volunteer and information we found regarding his later life.
Please send any corrections, further information or photos to glenmore.history@gmail.com . Also we would like your thoughts concerning John Loughlin’s 1916 letter.
The featured photo is Wakefield Prison in 1916 courtesy of wikimedia commons [http://maggieblanck.com/Land/WakefieldPrison/WP5.jpg Maggie Blanck] |Date=1916 |Author={{author|unknown}}.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
The Boyle Family of Gaulstown, Glenmore
Last week we posted a post card of the Glenmore Post Office when it was in Fluskey’s shop. This generated an effort to identify people who worked in the second Glenmore post office. One employee I met in the Hanrahan Post office of Glenmore told me that she worked in Fluskey’s. I had the pleasure of meeting and speaking several times to Gaulstown native Eily Durney née Boyle (c. 1937-2011).
Eily worked in Fluskey’s as a postal worker and operated the Glenmore telephone exchange. Eily told me that her mother died when she was an infant and she loved to visit neighbour’s houses. One house she particularly liked to visit as a child was Walsh’s of Davidstown. Mrs. Walsh wore long skirts and Eily was always afraid that Mrs Walsh would fall down her circular iron staircase. Mrs. Walsh always seemed to have sweets waiting for Eily to visit. Today, we are going to feature Eily’s dedicated father, Jim Boyle of Gaulstown.
James Boyle (1888-1958) of Gaulstown, Glenmore
Eily’s father was James Boyle. He was born on 24 April 1888 at Gaulstown to Patrick Boyle (farm labourer) and his wife Ellen Hall. (Civil record records her maiden name as Hawe). His sponsors or godparents were Kyran Mullins and Bridget Mullins. A bizarre note on James’s baptismal record states that Patrick (sic) Boyle married Ellen Hall (Slieverue) on 19 February 1936. We believe the note should read that James Boyle married Ellen “Nellie” Phelan, of Ballinamona, Slieverue at Slieverue on 19 February 1936 (Munster Express, Fri. 21 Feb. 1936, p. 8).
James Boyle’s Parents & Sibling
Patrick Boyle (c. 1853-1927) and his wife Ellen née Hall/Hulle/ Hawe/Hanly (c. 1849-1937) were married on 17 October 1887 at Glenmore. The parish marriage record provides Ellen’s surname as Hanly. Both Patrick and Ellen were from Gaulstown. Both said they were 30. Patrick was employed as a laborer, and Ellen was employed as a servant. Per the civil record, Patrick’s father was James Boyle and Ellen’s father was James Hawl.
Given the name Hanly was used in the parish records where the parties were best known we believe that Patrick’s wife was Ellen Boyle née Hanly the daughter of James Hanly and his wife Catherine Walsh. If this is true Ellen was born in 1848 rather than 1857. Given that there were only two children from this union it seems likely that Ellen was older than 30 when she married.
In addition to their son James the couple had a daughter Mary Boyle (1890-1961). Mary Boyle was born 27 September 1890 at Gaulstown and her mother’s maiden name is listed as Halle. Her father, Patrick registered her birth on the 9th of December and told the authorities Mary was born 3 November 1890. He obviously wanted to avoid any fines for the late registration, however, her baptismal record reveals she was baptised on the 29th of September.
Very little could be found about Patrick Boyle in local newspapers except the editor of the Munster Express thought he had talent picking winners or perhaps it was a joke. “Paddy Boyle, anyone wanting a straight tip on a horserace cannot do better than have a chat with Mr. Paddy Boyle of Gaulstown, He will set you straight all right. Take my tip for it” (Munster Express, 15 Sept. 1900).
The 1911 census provides that Patrick Butler was 57 and employed as an agricultural labourer. He and his wife reported being married for 24 years. His wife, Ellen’s age was given as 66 they were residing in Gaulstown with their single, 21 year-old, daughter Mary. Their son James was 23, and he was living and working for their neighbour James Kirwan (farmer) aged 55 of Ballyrahan, Glenmore.
Patrick Boyle (c.1853-1927) died aged 74 in 1927. His niece Ellen Power, of Robinstown, was present when he died. Ellen Boyle née Hanly(? ) died 9 February 1937 at the age of 77. Her son James Boyle was present when she died.
James Boyle Member of the Old IRA
Although it is not mentioned in his obituary, nor on his headstone, James was an officer in Co. C the Glenmore Company of the 6th Battalion of the Kilkenny Brigade of the Irish Republican Army. James or Jim, as he was known, served as the Quarter Master from May 1919 to June 1922. During his years in the Old IRA Jim was observed at Kirwan’s threshing where the outline of a revolver was observed under his coat (Thomas Walsh (1908-1992) native of Davidstown, Glenmore). Jim was a well liked and respected person. For further information on Co. C see our list of officers and men.
After independence Jim joined the Irish Free State Army. It is not clear when he left the army, but per the Co. C. records in 1935 he was back in Gaulstown. From his obituary we know that James also worked for D.J. Gorey, T.D., of Burnchurch after leaving the National Army. Ultimately, he secured employment at Clover Meats where he stayed until his retirement (Munster Express, Fri. 13 June 1958, p. 8).
James’s son Paddy was interviewed in 1994 and stated that his father was one of three men selected by the manager of Clover Meats when it was being set up and sent the three to Wall’s bacon factory in London to be trained in bacon curing. After his training in London James returned to Clover Meats. In addition to his work at Clover Meats he also butchered pigs for local farmers. He was paid in meat which he often traded for other needed groceries. (Newark Advertiser, Fri. 4 Feb. 1994, p. 90).
Marriage & Tragedy
In 1936, after all his adventures, Jim got married at the age of 48. John Kirwan was his best man. He married Ellen “Nellie” Phelan (c. 1906 -1938) of Ballinamona at Slieverue.
An article in the Munster Express in addition to providing details of the wedding noted that “the bridegroom is a popular member of the staff of Waterford Meat Factory since its inception, and was the recipient of a valuable presentation from his colleagues on the auspicious occasion. He has been also frequently seen on the concert stage with the Slieverue Dramatic Class of which he is a popular member. Their numerous friends wish Jim and his bride many years of connubial bliss” (Fri. 21 Feb. 1936, p. 8).
The couple had Eileen or Eily in 1937 and Patrick or Paddy in 1938. A short time later tragedy struck. On 6 July 1938 Nellie died from influenza and a pulmonary embolism. Jim was in disbelief as he had believed that God would save his wife (Thomas Walsh (1908-1992) native of Davidstown, Glenmore).
Jim had two infants to care for on his own. His parents were both dead, and his sister Mary was in Waterford working. The neighbours helped, and Mary came back to live in Gaulstown and opened a small shop in their Gaulstown cottage. Somewhere along the line the Boyle cottage also became a polling place where locals cast their ballots. The Boyle cottage continued to be a polling place until at least 1977 (Peter Walsh of Rathinure, Glenmore).
Brushes With the Law
By all accounts Jim was a dedicated father and worked at the factory and after work on local farms. However, Jim had a couple of minor brushes with the law that ended up in the newspapers.
Jim Boyle was convicted in 1944 of cycling without due care and attention, at Rocklands, on the way from his work at Clover Meats Factory. Jim was fined 2/6. “The prosecution resulted from a collision between the defendant and a motor car driven by Dr. Myles Shelly, Waterford. Dr. Shelly said that although he pulled up the car, Boyle struck the headlamp which was smashed, and went spinning off his bicycle, turning practically a compete somersault on the green margin.”
Boyle was represented by Mr. F.H. Hutchinson, solr. In the course of the statement Garda Sergeant Dalton, said that just before the accident Jim was holding onto a companion’s shoulder, as Jim’s brakes were not good (Munster Express, Fri. 26 May 1944, p. 4.) Jim was 55 years of age when he went spinning off his faulty bicycle.
Five years’ later, Jim, was summoned for being in possession of a single barrelled shotgun and one 12 bore cartridge on 5 February1949, without having a firearms certificate. Jim admitted the charge, and explained there was a fox covert at the back of his place. A few times he hung up a lantern at night to frighten away the fox. This failed, so he got the gun from a man named Kirwan, for whom he had worked from the year 1904 until 1921, and for whom he used to do any kind of work in Spring or the Summer time.
“Supt. Slavin, Thomastown, who prosecuted, said the defendant was a most excellently well conducted man. The Judge said he would mark the case P.O.A. Supt. Slavin intimated that he did not want any order in respect of the gun” (Munster Express, Fri. 4 March 1949, p. 8).
The End of Boyle’s in Gaulstown, Glenmore
James Boyle (1888-1958) died on 5 June 1958, his son Paddy was with him when he died at home. Paddy was 20 when his father died and his sister Eily was 21. Three years later Jim’s sister Mary died on 10 November 1961, aged 71 years.
Patrick “Paddy” Boyle (1938-2014)
Jim’s son Paddy at the age of 16 signed up for the building construction course at the technical college in Slieverue. “They got the pupils to build an extension to the college—we cut out the roof timbers and did some of the bricklaying”. After successfully completing the four year course, Paddy found there were no building jobs. Through his father’s connections, Paddy got a job at Clover Meat (Newark Advertiser, Friday 4 Feb. 1994, p. 90).
After a few years Paddy took the boat from Rosslare on a cold January evening in 1961. He said he carried two empty suitcases. Later that year his Aunt Mary Boyle died. Paddy with the help of a friend of his father obtained a construction job. For 3 years he worked all over London and the South East of England. Then in 1965 he attended an Irish dance in London and met his future wife Breda also a native of Ireland. By 1994 the couple were running Boyle Construction for over 3 decades and had two raised married daughters. (Newark Advertiser, Friday 4 Feb. 1994, p. 90). We believe Paddy died in 2014.
Eileen “Eily” Durney née Boyle (c. 1937-2011)
Eily appears to have been the last of the Boyles to reside in Gaulstown. From the newspaper account of her wedding we know that Eily worked four years in the Glenmore post office and afterwards two years in the Graiguenamanagh post office. Eily married Tim Durney in September 1962 at Glenmore. She was given away by her brother Paddy. Tim Durney was a farmer from Jamestown, Piltown and that is where they lived and raised their family. (Kilkenny People, Fri. 21 Sept. 1962, p. 7).
Although in 1962 Eily had to give up work she later returned to the post office and in her later years filled in for people on holidays etc. Eily was involved in the Irish Countrywomen’s Association and held county and national offices.
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Please send any corrections or additional information to glenmore.history@gmail.com
The featured photo above is Clover Meats Factory in 1941. (Irish Independent, Fri. 24 Jan. 1941, p. 8)
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
From Danny’s Files: Glenmore Criminal Injuries Claims 1924
Danny Dowling (1927-2021) copied a large number of newspaper articles into small notebooks. Today we are going to feature an article Danny copied regarding property claims heard in December 1924 involving two Glenmore residents and a New Ross man who tracked his stolen automobile to Glenmore.
The Damage to Property (Compensation) Act 1923
The Damage to Property (Compensation) Act 1923 applied to “injuries” to property committed on or before the 11th day of July 1921. Section 8 excluded Railway companies from applying for compensation. This was probably due to the extensive damage inflicted on the railways during the War of Independence and subsequent Civil War.
Section 7 excluded losses for (i) watches, jewellery or articles of personal ornament kept by the owner otherwise than as part of his stock in trade; (ii) Coins, bank or Government notes or currency of any country; (iii) postage or other adhesive stamps and (iv) postal orders or post office money orders. In other words the things of value most often stolen were not covered.
Section 9 excluded applicants who “connived, assisted in or actively facilitated” the injury. Section 9 also excluded applicants who associated or “were in league” with the person(s) who committed the injury or the applicant was “a member or helper of or active sympathiser with any organisation engaged in armed opposition to the late Provisional Government of Ireland or the Government of Saorstát Eireann.
The Glenmore Related Claims
The Kilkenny People (6 Dec. 1924, p. 9) published a long list of claims heard in Kilkenny by Judge Scally or Sealy. (The name is spelled differently in each article.) The actual wording of the article is in italics.
Claim by Patrick Hanrahan of Robinstown, Glenmore
Patrick Hanrahan, Glenmore, claimed £36 5s for goods taken. Capt. W.A. Redmond, BL, T.D. (instructed by Mr. Kelly, solicitor, New Ross), for applicant. James Hanrahan, brother of the applicant, gave evidence as to the goods being taken by armed Irregulars. Judge Scally reported for £24 6s. Captain William Archer Redmond (1886-1932) was the only son of John Redmond (1856-1918). For information concerning Glenmore support for John Redmond see our post of 4 January 2020.
Claim by Thomas Mullins of Flemingstown, Glenmore
Thomas Mullins claimed £7 17s. 6d. for clothes taken. Same counsel was engaged. Applicant Mullins stated the clothes were taken by armed Irregulars. Judge Scaly said he would report for £5.
Claim by Charles Kavanagh of New Ross
Charles Kavanagh, New Ross, claimed £608 for a motor car. Mr. Matheson, BL (instructed by Mr. Kelly, solicitor) for the applicant. Applicant’s motor driver stated he drove the car with passengers to Kilkenny Feis in 1921. When he went to the yard where he left the car, it was gone and a note was left saying, “Taken by the I.R.A.” The Kilkenny Feis of 1921 was held on Sunday the 9th of October( New Ross Standard, Fri. 7 Oct. 1921, 4). We could not locate any newspaper article regarding the car being taken in Kilkenny in October 1921.
Witness got to know that the car was in Glenmore and he went there and saw the car with the I.R.A. He asked for the return of the car but this was refused.
Applicant stated that the motor car was used by the I.R.A. to drive around a commandant named McDonald, who afterwards became an Irregular. Witness had not got back the car. The Judge reported for £50 for the car; £5 for two overcoats; and £2 for a rug taken away with the car.
There was no McDonald listed in the volunteers of the Glenmore Old IRA see our list including ranks and dates of service.
Appeals
The Kilkenny People (Sat. 27 Dec. 1924, p. 5) reported that the state appealed two of Judge Sealy’s (sic) judgments at the recent special sitting of the criminal injury to property. The State was relying on Section 9 of the Act which barred people who gave active assistance to the enemies of the duly constituted Government from any right to compensation to which they would otherwise be entitled. None of the cases above were reported as appealed.
The newspaper concluded with “it is only fair to say that Mr. Justice Sealy patiently investigated the circumstances of the cases, and his judgments in both cases seemed to be models of fairness, common sense and judicial impartiality.”
The Glenmore Claimants
Patrick Hanrahan (1886-1957) was the eldest child of Michael Hanrahan (1848 -1898) (farmer) of Powerswood, Thomastown and his wife, Hanoria Mullins (1854-1902) of Gaulstown, Glenmore. Patrick was born in Gaulestown, Glenmore. The family moved to Waterford City where they ran a business. Tragedy struck when the parents both died leaving their young sons orphaned. For information on the orphaned Hanrahan Brothers see our post of 6 Dec. 2020.
Patrick Hanrahan (1886-1957) (shop keeper) of Robintown, Glenmore married Mary Duggan of Flemingtown, Glenmore on 12 February 1924. Thus the couple were married 10 months before his claim was heard. For further information on Pat Hanrahan during the War of Independence see our post of 20 June 2021.
Thomas Mullins (1873-1936) of Flemingstown was the son of John Mullins and Mary Mullins née McDonald. Thomas Mullins married Mary Mullins née Walsh (1873 -1948) of Davidstown on 2 March 1897. Mary was the daughter of Patrick Walsh and his wife Margaret “Peggy” Walsh née Kennedy. Thomas Mullin’s funeral in 1936 was the last horse drawn funeral in Glenmore according to Danny Dowling. An inquest was held on 22 August 1936 where his death from a gunshot was ruled an accident.
Charles Kavanagh (b. 1890) of New Ross
There were two men named Charles Kavanagh living in New Ross in 1924 per a newspaper search. One was a Civil Guard and the other was a publican/undertaker. We do not believe that the claimant was a Civil Guard.
On the 15th of September 1922, Charles J. Kavanagh of Cross Lane, New Ross, applied to have a liquor license transferred from Mary Anne Kavanagh to himself (New Ross Standard, Fri. 29 Sept. 1922, p. 1). The 1911 Census shows only one Charles Kavanagh in New Ross. He is 21 and a grocer’s assistant living with his 48 year old widowed mother, Mary Anne Kavanagh, publican and grocer. Interestingly, a boarder in the house is Austin A. Butler, aged 22, a newspaper reporter.
In 1913 Charles Kavanagh began an undertaking business at “Kelly’s (old posting establishment) Cross Lane, New Ross” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 27 June 1913, p. 7). In searching for a birth record we found a Charles Kavanagh, born 25 March 1890 at Balynamcont (?), Wexford to James Kavanagh (farmer) and his wife Marianne Butler.
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Please send any corrections, additional information or photos to glenmore.history@gmail.com .
The photo of Capt. W.A. Redmond (1886-1932) is courtesy of the Imperial War Museum, part of the First World War Portrait Collection, Catalogue number: HU 124788. The featured photo above is the Kilkenny Courthouse.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
E.V. Drea (1858-1929) Native of Hugginstown & Author of Carrickshock: A History of the Tithe War
Edmond V. Drea (1858-1929) was a retired school teacher and employed as a journalist for the Munster Express in 1924. He often used the name “E.V. Drea” or “Ned of the Hill.” He was also author of Carrickshock: A History of the Tithe War. The battle of Carrickshock took place on 14 December 1831. Ninety-three years later, the Carrickshock Memorial Committee, raised funds for a memorial for the scene of the battle and the foundation stone was set on 14 December 1924. The secretary of the Committee was Ed Walsh (1862-1946) the proprietor and editor of the Munster Express (20 Dec. 1924, p. 8). Today, we feature a short story that Drea recorded and published 100 years ago about a young lad who participated in the Carrickshock battle and some of Drea’s other work.
Young Fitzpatrick
One humorous incident connected with the Battle of Carrickshock related by friends to Drea concerned a Fitzpatrick boy from Ballinaraha, Mullinavat. The Fitzpatrick boy was a near relative of the late Mr. William Fitzpatrick, T.C., Blackfriars, Waterford. “This boy took part in the Battle, and was consequently on his keeping. Like all young men of the Mountains he was very fond of playing tricks and to his many other humorous accomplishments he added that of crowing like a cock. This feat, my informant tells me, he could perform to the ‘veins of nicety.’” [William Fitzpatrick (c. 1836-1919) was a grocer, wine and spirits merchant at 7 Blackfriars, Waterford.]
When finally arrested in connection with the Carrickshock affair the young Fitzpatrick was placed in the Waterford Jail. He was not long incarcerated when one night at the witching hour of 12 o’clock the jail authorities were “startled out of their seven senses” by the loud crowing of a cock which went echoing and re-echoing through the corridors and cells of the jail. The warders, when their surprise somewhat abated, proceeded to search for the rooster, whose clarion tones were still ringing through the jail.
On opening young Fitzpatrick’s cell they found the poor fellow on his knees trembling with fright. He made the most piteous appeals to them to remove him from the cell, or to have some of them remain with him. He said that the cell was haunted by a crowing cock. The jail authorities pooh-poohed the idea that the jail was haunted by a cock and “set it down to rank Popish superstition.” No one else could see the crowing cock except Fitzpatrick who was ready to swear on a stack of bibles that the demon of a cock was in the cell with him.
No matter which cell young Fitzpatrick was moved the cock accompanied him. Eventually the case became so serious “they laid the whole circumstances before Dublin Castle, who at once sent a special Commissioner to conduct a searching inquiry into the origin and genesis of this truculent ‘jail bird’ that was kicking up such an unseemly row in his Majesty’s Prison at Waterford.” The investigation was still going on when the news of the acquittal of the Carrickshock prisoners reached Waterford prison.
Fitzpatrick was released. The crowing cock was never heard after in Waterford prison although many people still living will tell you it was plainly and clearly heard for years afterwards around Acres and the Milltown hills [Mullinavat] (Munster Express, 13 Dec. 1924, p. 7).
Who Was Young Fitzpatrick?
Ballynaraha, Mullinavat, was divided into Ballynaraha north and south. It was located in the Barony of Knocktopher, Civil Parish of Killahy in the Waterford Poor Law Union. The 1850 Griffith’s Valuation lists several Fitzpatrick’s in Ballyknockbeg and Moneyhenry, but only James Fitzpatrick of Ballynaraha south was the only Fitzpatrick in either of the Ballynaraha townlands. Thomas Boyce was the landlord.
The only other clue that we have regarding the young Fitzpatrick from Drea was that Mr. William Fitzpatrick, T.C., Blackfriars, Waterford was an undisclosed near relative. William Fitzpatrick (c. 1836-1919) was a successful grocer, wine and spirit merchant at 7 Blackfriars (Waterford New & Star, Fri. 15 Aug. 1919, p. 5). He married Ellen Lee on 3 July 1901 at Carbally, Woodstown, Waterford. Her father was John Lee (farmer) and his father was James Fitzpatrick (famer). The 1911 Census revealed that Fitzpatrick was born in Kilkenny.
Was the young Fitzpatrick who participated in the Battle of Carrickshock and haunted the Waterford Jail William Fitzpatrick’s (c. 1836-1919) father James Fitzpatrick?
Obituary of Edmond V. Drea
The Munster Express published a lengthy obituary (Fri. 7 June 1929, p. 8) here are excerpts reflecting Drea’s work.
It is with feelings of deep and heartfelt regret we record the death of Mr. Edmond V. Drea, which took place on Sunday morning last at his residence, St. John’s Hill Waterford. Though deceased had been up and about the previous day, yet it had been noticed by his family and more intimate friends that he did not enjoy his usual robust health for some time past. Nevertheless, the news of his death came with a shock, and occasioned deep and widespread regret amongst his numerous friends in the city and far outside it. His passing has removed one who gave a long life to the service of his country in various ways.
The late Mr. Drea, who was aged over 70 years, was born near Hugginstown, Co Kilkenny, and came to Waterford as a young teacher some fifty year ago on his appointment to the workhouse male school, and following the death of Mr. Felix Moss, the Principal, he was appointed his successor. He retained that position up until the Amalgamation Act, under which he retired on a pension a few years ago.
Mr. Drea had not been long in Waterford when he began to take a prominent part in the politics of his day. Aiding the fight for Home Rule, he contributed to the Waterford and Dublin Press many stirring articles written with all the fire which characterised his deep love of country. To the Munster Express he was for many long years, under the pen name of Ned of the Hill, a prolific contributor. “Tales of the Walsh Mountains,” a serial from his pen, was followed by “Rambles Through the Walsh Mountains,” two remarkable pen pictures with a wealth of folklore and traditional incident.
He was also a lyrist of no mean order. His verses appeared regularly for years in The Shamrock, The Irish Emerald, and other publications. His verses were principally in the patriotic strain and full of genuine poetic feeling. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the GAA from its earliest foundation, and wrote many graphic descriptions of matches and article on the national games.
It was only natural a South Kilkenny man so gifted would commemorate Carrickshock, of which only a few years ago the deceased wrote a history descriptive of the gallant and bloody fight made during the Tithe War. The men who fell on Carrickshock still live in the pages of Mr. Drea’s history. It was only last week, as our readers will remember, a splendid tribute was paid to this work, published in our printing work, from a Walsh Mountaineer, at present in a prominent position in San Francisco. To the erection of the splendid monument now standing on the historic site of the decisive battle.
Mr. Drea gave a strong helping hand by tongue and pen and by none will his death be more lamented than by the surviving colleagues of the Carrickshock Memorial Committee. His interest in education led to the compilation of a School Reader which was accepted by the old National Board of Education and known in their schools as the Munster Reader.
In politics the deceased was foremost among the loyal supporters of Charles Stuart Parnell. Later his allegiance was given to his successor Mr John E. Redmond, and in recent years to his son, Captain W. A. Redmond. Years ago the late Mr. Drea was connected with many political societies in the city. He was a member of the Young Ireland Society and on the committee who made arrangements to receive the relics of Thomas Francis Meagher…
When the National Teachers’ Congress first met here over 23 years ago, Mr. Drea was instrumental in arranging the venue. He was the promoter last year, when at the Corporation, he got a resolution passed inviting the Congress to Waterford for 1929. On the former occasion he compiled a souvenir of Waterford, a guide to the city, which was much appreciated by the visitors. On the last occasion he was a constant attendant at the meeting of the reception committee where, despite increasing old age he was as enthusiastic as the youngest.
After his retirement from active teaching the deceased concerned himself with public affairs. He became a member of the Corporation and was unseated at the last election by only a few votes…It was the night of the teacher’s reception in Waterford for the Congress his health failed…He was prevented from attending the Congress having taken suddenly ill on the Mall, and was confined to bed for several weeks. He rallied and was out again, acting to the last. He worked in his garden up to Saturday evening. In the early hours of Sunday morning he summoned his daughter, whom he told the end had come. Within half an hour it did come peacefully. ..
The late Mr. Drea, who was twice married, leaves a large family…
Personal Life
Edmond Drea was born 28 July 1858 at Huggintown to John Drea and Nelly Voss. Interestingly, one of the defendants who stood trial and was acquitted for the murder of Edmund Butler at Carrickshock was William Voss. Sometime before 1885 Edmond Drea moved to Waterford. He married his first wife Margaret Caulfield on 3 February 1885 at St. John’s, Waterford. He was employed as a teacher and was 27. The bride was 22. His father, John Drea, was a carman and her father, James Caulfield, was a ship’s carpenter. The groom’s mother was listed as Ellen Bass (sic) and bride’s mother was listed as Mary Morrissey. In the Church notes the word Hugginstown is recorded.
Drea and his first wife had five children. Tragedy struck in 1901 when Margaret Drea died of TB. She was 36 years of age. Drea married his second wife on 18 February 1903. His second wife was a spinster named Eleanor O’Leary. She worked as a nurse and lived at the Waterford Union Workhouse Hospital. The bride’s father was James O’Leary, RUC. The groom was working as and living at the Waterford Union Workhouse as a teacher. His father, John Drea, was listed as a farmer. Drea and his second wife had 3 children. Eleanor Drea died the 14th of August 1912 at the age of 31. She died of a sarcomia of the neck.
E.V. Drea died on 2 June 1929 and was buried in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ballygunner, Waterford. Although his age at death was recorded as 61 he was actually 70. He died of heart disease, and his daughter Alice was present at his death at John’s Hill.
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For further information on Edward Walsh (1862-1946) Proprietor & Editor of the Munster Express see our post of 24 January 2022.
For further information on Carrickshock and the tithe war see, our post of 23 September 2020 (A Glenmore Version of the Ballad of Carrickshock) and our post of 6 March 2023 (Glenmore’s Secret Society of Whitefeet).
See generally, “The Brave Men of Carrickshock” (2020) Kilkenny Archaeological Society.
Please send any corrections or additional information to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
The above photo of E.V. Drea (1858-1929) was published in the Munster Express on 20 Dec. 1924, p. 8. The featured drawing above of the Battle of Carrickshock was by Rev. E.A. Foran, O.S. A., New Ross, published in the Munster Express (20 Dec. 1924, p. 8).
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Glenmore in the News: July 1924
Thorny unresolved issues continued to plague the new State. Although peace was restored the Free State Government was reluctant to release the Irregular prisoners. The infrastructure of the country had been damaged in the War of Independence and Civil War leaving little money to tackle other issues. The weather was described as wet and cold impacting on crops, tourism and morale. There were some positive reports in July 1924 including labourer cottages were built by the Thomastown Rural District Council, the Olympic Games were held in Paris and the evicted tenants’ association of the New Ross area had succeeded in getting 143 claims before the Land Commission.
GAA Support for Prisoners
As we highlighted previously the GAA players in 1924 were refusing to play championship games in protest over the continued detention of Irregular prisoners. Callan and Glenmore refused to play in the South Kilkenny Hurling Championship tie owing to the continued detention of the prisoners (Munster Express, Sat. 5 July 1924, p. 5).
The semi-final of the Leinster GAA football championship, fixed for Navan on Sunday the 13th, was “declared off” owing to Louth’s refusal to play, as a protest against the continued detention of the prisoners. The two All Ireland championships, both hurling and football were cancelled. The Erskine Childers SF Club, Denmark Street, Dublin, expressed appreciation of the Kerry team’s action in refusing to play Dublin (Kilkenny Moderator, Sat. 12 July 1924, p. 2).
Glenmore Man Released
In the middle of July the Kilkenny Moderator listed 14 men representing the latest releases from Hare Park. The men were from Carlow, Kilkenny and Waterford. Local men included: John Purcell, of Glenmore; James Roche, of Kilmacow; James Walsh, of Kilmacow; and Michael O’Sullivan, of Ferrybank (Kilkenny Moderator, Sat. 12 July 1924, p. 2).
Toward the end of July it was reported in Waterford that De Vallera was released on the 17th. A procession was quickly arranged to parade through the City. It was understood that De Valera planned to go to Ennis, on or about the 15th of August, to resume the meeting which was interrupted the previous August when he was arrented (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 18 July 1924, p. 5).
Death of James Nowlan (c. 1864-1924)
“Throughout all Gaeldom the death of Seumas Ua Nuallain, better known as Alderman Nolan, will be learned with profound regret. Up to the last few weeks, when his familiar figure was missed from Croke Park, he was never absent from an important game, and this was well known to the new generation of Gaels. At the vital crisis in the GAA about 1901 when no one wanted positions in a seemingly crumbling institution, he took the presidency and held it up to 1921, when Mr. Dan McCarthy, T.D., succeeded him. He was then made an hon. Vice-president of the GAA—a title which meant nothing, for he was long before recognised as one of its gathers. The late Mr. Nowlan was associated with the GAA movement from its earliest days in Kilkenny, where there was never a more honoured citizen. By his death one of the fine old fighting Gaels has disappeared and Gaelic Ireland is the loser” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 4 July 1924, p. 10). For further information see Historic Kilkenny website.
Evicted Tenants’ Association of the New Ross Area
A meeting of the Evicted Tenants’ Association of the New Ross area was held in the Tholsel, New Ross. The Association had been established in 1922 and had forwarded 143 claims. The secretary, Mr. Sean Cowman said that after years of hard fighting the Land Commission was taking up the claims of the evicted, and the preliminary investigation of the claims would commence on the 7th of July. It would relieve the Association of any further responsibility in future, as the claims would now be in the hands of the Land Commission. He explained that the Act applied to any case where the landlord caused the law to be moved for the eviction of a tenant. It would apply to any eviction from 1876 or earlier for a genuine case (New Ross Standard, Fri. 4 July 1924, p. 8).
Mr. James Holden, arrested and taken to Waterford prison about four months previously in connection with the Shanbogh farm, was released from prison (New Ross Standard, Fri. 4 July 1924, p. 5). See our post of 10 August 2023
Summer Weather
The poor weather of 2024 is eerily similar to that reported in 1924. In July 1924, it was reported that people were uneasy about the very unfavourable weather which continued for so long. Though more than half the summer season had passed they did not have summer weather. “The rains were a menace to farmers…The hay would be a very abundant crop if it could be saved” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 11 July 1924, p. 4).
The Munster Express noted, that “We have no summer visitors as yet, but neither have we the summer. People are living in hopes that warm weather will eventually come our way (Munster Express, Sat. 5 July 1924, p. 5).
Notwithstanding the Free State growing pains and the poor weather the Hanrahan Brothers opened new premises in New Ross in July 1924. The Hanrahan Brothers hailed from Glenmore. See our post of 19 December 2020 for other early Glenmore business adverts.
Olympic Games of 1924
At the Olympic Games in Paris, Peter O’Connor a Waterford solicitor watched as his world record in the long jump (24 ft. 11 3/4 inches) was broken by an American named Le Gendre with a jump of 25 ft. 5 1/2 inches. O’Connor held the record for 20 years (Munster Express, Sat. 12 July 1924, p. 5). The Munster Express was wrong about the name of the American who won the event. The long jump in 1924 was won by William Dehart Hubbard (1903-1976) of Ohio. Hubbard was the first black to win an Olympic gold medal in an individual event. For further information see Black Past website.
New Housing
Just like today housing was an issue in 1924. Thomastown (Co. Kilkenny) Rural District Council in 1924 erected ten “concrete houses” in Graiguenamanagh at a total cost of £3,950. The cottages were let at 3s a week. It was noted that all rents on the 50 labourers’ cottages in the Thomastown rural area were not in arrears (Munster Express, Sat. 26 July 1924, p. 5).
Police Blotter
At the Waterford City District Court, Thomas Byrne, a publican from Bigwood was found guilty for breaches of the licensing regulations on Sunday, July 13th and Saturday, July 19th. Byrne was fined £2 and costs for the 13th and £4 and costs for the 19th (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 25 July 1924, p. 5).
Death of James Kirwan (c.1855-1924) of Gaulstown, Glenmore
Death of Mr. James Kirwan, Gaulstown, Glenmore—We regret to record the death of Mr. James Kirwan, which took place on the 19th, at his residence, Gaulstown. Deceased, who was in his 69th year had been in more or less failing health for some time past. He was a popular and much esteemed resident of Glenmore parish, and was for many years a member of the Waterford Board of Guardians & No. 2 Rural District Council. He was also a shareholder of Glenmore Creamery. Both in public and private life his quiet and unobtrusive manner and uprightedness won for him the respect of all who knew him. The shareholders of the creamery on Monday night passed a resolution of sympathy, which was proposed by Mr. J. Ennett and seconded by Mr. H. Fitzgerald. The interment took place on Monday in Glenmore, after Office and High Mass. The funeral was of very large proportions. R.I.P. (Munster Express, Sat. 26 July 1924, p. 5).
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Please send any corrections or further information to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
The 1919 photo of the Eiffel Tower featured above is courtesy of The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Photography Collection, The New York Public Library. “The Opera; the Eiffel Tower” The New York Public Library Digital Collections. 1919. https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47dd-f2b7-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Glenmore in the News: June 1924
In June 1924 the weather improved. It was reported early in the month that a large number of people took advantage of the extremely fine weather and cycled or took an excursion train to Tramore “or other beauty spots” (Munster Express, Sat. 7 June 1924, p. 3). The focus of several of the local newspapers articles was on roads and road crashes. The main road between Waterford and New Ross, that ran through Glenmore, was being improved. One newspaper proclaimed that when the work was complete it would be the finest road in the South of Ireland. There was also a tragic crash involving the Mullinavat handball team that resulted in the driver being charged with murder.
All Ireland Senior Football Final Abandoned
The Kerry football team refused to play Dublin in the All Ireland football final as a protest against the continued detention of the political prisoners was “received with all Irish sportsmen with keen regret. It was hoped that sports would be kept free from politics.” It was thought that it would split the ranks of the GAA.” (New Ross Standard, 20 June 1924, p. 4). “The reason for the sensational refusal to play was the continued detention of Mr. Austin Stack, Chairman of the Kerry County Board and other members of the Kerry GAA,” (Munster Express, Sat. 14 June 1924, p. 5).
Additionally, the Leinster Council GAA reported that the Leinster Championship hurling fixture between Dublin and Leix arranged for Kilkenny was cancelled owing to the refusal of Leix to take part until the prisoners were released. Likewise, the junior hurling tie between Dublin and Kildare arranged for Kilkenny was also cancelled (Kilkenny People, Sat. 21 June 1924, p. 7).
Glenmore GAA Fixtures
Senior Hurling—Glenmore v. Callan, at Thomastown on the 29th of June, Mr. T Mullins, referee.
Senior Football—Cotterstown v. Glenmore, at Thomastown, date to be named (Kilkenny People, Sat. 7 June 1924, p. 11).
Junior Hurling—Glenmore v. Hugginstown, at Knocktopher on August 10th, Mr. Peter Walsh referee.
Junior Football—Courtnaboughla (Goresbridge) v. Glenmore, at the Rower, July 30th, Mr. Patrick Walsh, referee (Munster Express, Sat. 28 June 1924, p. 6).
Emigrants
With the end of hostilities emigrants came home to visit. The estate of an emigrant who was a native of South Kilkenny also featured in the New Ross Standard.
During the middle of June “some twenty returned Americans arrived in the New Ross districts on a visit to their relatives. One lady from near Campile had been away forty years” (New Ross Standard, 20 June 1924, p. 5).
Several claimants from New Ross were “interested in the property of a man named Walsh who is it stated, died intestate in America recently. It appears that he hailed from South Kilkenny, and it is thought he was worth about £30,000. Amongst the relatives who are making claims in respect of the assets are Messrs Martin and John Hand and Mrs. Kneightly, New Ross (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 June 1924, p. 10). Unfortunately, we were not able to locate further articles to determine where the deceased was from in South Kilkenny.
New Ross Market Prices
New Ross Market Prices best coal, 55s. per ton; second coal, 50s. per ton; eggs 11d. per dozen; chickens, 1s. 2d. per lb., young ducks, 7s. per pair; fish, 2s. 4d per lb. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 June 1924, p. 10).
Mullinavat Handball Team Crash
When I mentioned this crash to my husband, he was immediately able to identify the driver as the son of the Kilmacow Creamery Manager. He related that he heard his father, Thomas Walsh (1908-1992) speak about the crash with Danny Dowling (1927-2023). We were unable to locate any notes on the subject in any of Danny’s notebooks that have been transcribed. One person was killed outright, another died a few days later and at least eight others were seriously injured and hospitalized.
The Crash of 8 June 1924
On Sunday the 8th a party of handball players from Mullinavat were traveling to Owning, Kilkenny, to “engage local players in a series of friendly matches.” The lorry carrying the Mullinavat players lost control on a steep hill and turned onto its side. Rev. Father Foskin, of Mullinavat, was seated next to the driver and jumped from the lorry and escaped serious injury. The scene of the crash was a couple hundred yards from the village of Owning, and was at the foot of the hill known in the district as Rath Hill. Eighteen people were being transported in the lorry (Munster Express, Sat. 14 June 1924, p. 4).
One Mullinavat player, John Murphy (c. 1903-1924) the son of James Murphy, publican was killed at the scene. The following were seriously injured and hospitalized.
[1] Andrew McLoughlin, Mullinavat Village, sustained a depressed skull fracture and was operated on Tuesday evening. He died of his injuries at 7:30 on Thursday night the 12th of June.
[2] Andrew Foskin, Mullinavat, Village (brother of Father Foskin) suffered severe injuries to his head. He remained unconscious for some days.
[3] Philip Hoban, Mullinavat Village, suffered cuts to his head.
[4] John White, suffered injuries to his spine.
[5] Thomas Hoban, of Glendonnell, suffered injuries to his head, face and a broken collar bone. A brother of Thomas Hoban was shot by the British military about three years before in Mullinavat.
[6] Patrick Kelly, of Rahard, suffered injuries to his hip and shock.
[7] Patrick Mackey, aged 12, Mullinavat, suffered a broken hand.
[8] Sergt. Dalton, civic guards, Mullinavat, suffered three broken ribs, and severe head and facial injuries.
[9] Guard Leahy, Mullinavat, injured his shoulder and suffered bruises.
Murder Charge
Thomas Walsh, the driver of the lorry was charged with “feloniously, unlawfully, and of malice aforethought kill and murder John Murphy…” Thomas Walsh (18) was the son of Richard Walsh, the Kilmacow Creamery Manager (Munster Express, Sat. 14 June 1924, p. 4).
It is not clear from the newspaper accounts why the driver Thomas Walsh (b.c. 1907) was overcharged with murder. It is difficult to see how on the facts presented that it could have been murder.
The 1911 Census provides that Richard Walsh was 41 (b.c. 1870), and was married to Eliza Walsh, aged 28. Richard was employed as a creamery manager. The family lived in Aglish, Kilmacow. Six children were born to the union but only four were alive in 1911. The eldest child was Thomas Walsh, aged 4, followed by Edward Walsh, aged 3, Michael aged 1 and John Walsh, aged 8 months.
Death of John Murphy (c. 1903-1924)
A witness at a hearing held in Waterford on Wednesday the 11th testified that the lorry was sometimes used as a hackney car. The vehicle was a one ton Ford lorry. There were benches “on the platform” and there were sides around the lorry “platform.” As the lorry was slowly descending the hill the witness heard a loud crack. He assumed it was the brakes. At the bottom of the steep hill the road turned sharply to the right and straight in front was a stone wall. The lorry turned onto its left side when the driver attempted to make the sharp right turn. The witness was unable to state how fast the lorry was traveling as it was the first time he had travelled on a lorry (Munster Express, Sat. 14 June 1924, p. 4).
The judge noted that it would likely be proved that the crash was an accident, however, he wished to hear from other passengers that were sitting on the front bench with the driver. The driver was remanded for eight days and bail was fixed at £100 and one personal recognisance of £100 (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 20 June 1924, p. 2).
According to the 1911 Census James Murphy, aged 36, was a publican in Mullinavat. He was married, but his wife was not listed in the Census. His sister Ellen Murphy, aged 28 was present as were his three children: Patrick Murphy, aged 12; Bridget Murphy, aged 11 and John Murphy, aged 8.
Hearing of 18 June 1924
The defendant returned to court on the 18th and Father Foskin testified that the driver was sober and kept his head even after the brakes failed. Father Foskin was unable to state what the driver was doing trying to control the vehicle after the brakes failed because he knew nothing about motor cars. Richard Walsh testified that he was the owner of the lorry and bought it new. He said it was allowed to carry 14 passengers and it was also used for hauling goods. His son was trained to drive it and had a driver’s license. District Justice Mr. J. J. Molloy refused the information filed against the driver Thomas Walsh for the murder or manslaughter of John Murphy (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 20 June 1924, p. 2).
Inquest for Andrew McLoughlin (c. 1909-1924)
Although no inquest was held for the death of John Murphy an inquest was held for 15 year-old Andrew McLoughlin (c. 1909 -1924) a verdict of accidental death was returned. It was also revealed in testimony at this inquest that the driver doggedly tried to control the lorry and negotiated two turns after the brakes “cracked.” One witness said that the lorry would have made the sharp turn at the foot of the hill except the front left tyre blew (Munster Express, Sat. 21 June 1924, p. 3). The death register reveals that Andrew McLoughlin was a 15 year-old school boy from Mullinavat. He died in the Waterford Infirmary on the 12th of June of a fractured skull.
The Main Road Through Glenmore
The Waterford to New Ross main road was being prepared for steam rolling. Improvements were being carried out by the “efficient” County Surveyor of Kilkenny. “In addition to cutting away the banks at the road sides and levelling them with road material, an arrangement was made with Mr. Doherty to widen the road at Belmount which was so narrow that two cars scarcely had room to pass one another.” Workmen were also engaged in removing the sharp corners at the Milepost Cross and under Slieverue. Further on nearer to New Ross, “the famous Pink Rock—the grave of many a tin lizzy—is to be blasted away and the materials used for filling the sides of the road. When the work is completed it will be one of the finest roads in the South of Ireland.”
“The only obstacle remaining is the railway bridge at Ballyverneen, Glenmore. The approaches are a real death trap to the unwary. It was monstrous ever to allow the railway company to construct the bridge in such a manner over this important road which is the key from Dublin and Wexford to the South of Ireland for all traffic even before the advent of motors. Had the Irregulars blown up this trap during their operations in the district, there would not be many tears shed for it” (Munster Express, Sat. 14 June 1924, p. 6).
Advert: Everyman’s Embrocation
The local newspapers were filled with adverts for local businesses as well as adverts for “remedies.” One that was for Everyman’s Embrocation.
“Don’t say your rheumatism can’t be cured. Send to-day for a bottle of Everyman’s Embrocation. Everyman’s is sold everywhere at 1s. 6d. to everybody” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 27 June 1924, p. 8).
Please send any corrections or additional information to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh