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Glenmore POW: Thomas Kieran Walsh (1917-1977) of Ballinlammy
Today, we are going to feature the early life and family of a native of Ballinlammy, Glenmore, Thomas Kieran Walsh (1917-1977). His nephew, Leo Walsh wrote a book called “Rough Justice” (Dec. 2023) “which is an account of how a simple mistake led to a near death sentence for Uncle Tom on the Burma-Siam railway.” (p. 7.) Thomas Kieran Walsh (1917-1977) was a WWII prisoner of war held by the Japanese. In our next post we will highlight his military service, internment and life after the war. Ironically, another man with Glenmore connections, also named Thomas Walsh (1911-1945) was a Japanese POW in Burma. See our post of 25 July 2020. Both men survived their internments.
Thomas Kieran Walsh, Tom, as he was called, was born 11 July 1917. He was the eldest child of William Walsh (1892-1971) and his wife, Bridget Dooley (1884-1958). Walsh is a common name in Glenmore and this family was nick-named the “Game Keeper Walsh’s” because William worked part time as a game keeper (Walsh, p. 14) around Davidstown, Ballinlammy, and Ballinclare. The farmers in the area clubbed together to create “a preserve” to stop people from hunting, and they hired William Walsh (1892-1971) as their gamekeeper.
Parents
William Walsh (1892-1971) of Jamestown, Glenmore married Bridget Dooley (1884-1958) of Ballylammy (sic) on 9 October 1916 at Glenmore. William was the son of Thomas Walsh (labourer) and Bridget was the daughter of John Dooley (labourer). According to the civil records William Walsh was born 1 September 1892 at Jamestown to Thomas Walsh (c. 1856-1893) (labourer) and his wife Mary Roche. According to the Glenmore baptismal records he was born 23 August 1892 and baptized the following day.
Bridget Walsh née Dooley (1884-1958) was born 11 October 1884 at Ballinlammy the daughter of John Dooley (labourer) and his wife Anne Kennedy. Per the death register Brigid Walsh née Dooley died in 1958 of a cerebral thrombosis, her husband, William Walsh, was present when she died at home in Ballinlammy.
Siblings of Thomas Kieran Walsh
In his book, Leo Walsh noted there were five brothers and two unnamed siblings who died in infancy. The five brothers were Tom, Jack, Patrick, Bill and Joe (p. 13). From the Dooley Glenmore headstone were found the names of the children who died in infancy, Mary and Edward Walsh.
Mary Walsh (9 Nov. 1919-4 March 1924) died on 4 March 1924 at the age of 4. Her death cert noted that she was delicate from birth. Her father William Walsh was present at her death in Ballylammy (sic). Edward Walsh (c. 1924-22 July 1928) died on 22 July 1928 aged 4, of suspected sunstroke. His father William Walsh was present at his death in Ballinlammy.
Glenmore Ancestors: Walsh, Dooley, Roche and Kennedy
Paternal Grandparents
Thomas Kieran Walsh’s paternal grandparents were Thomas Walsh (c. 1856-1893) and his wife Mary Roche (b. 1856 ). Thomas Walsh, aged 26, of Haggard and Mary Roche, of Jamestown, were married at Glenmore on 21 January 1886. Thomas was a labourer and son of Edmund Walsh. Mary Roche was a 29 year old servant and the daughter of William Roche (labourer). Known children born to this union include: [1] Mary Walsh (b. 2 Nov. 1886); [2] Ellen Walsh (b. 19 Feb. 1888); [3] Hannah Walsh (b. 9 March 1889); [4] Edward Walsh (29 Dec. 1890); and [5] William Walsh (b. 23 August 1892). The father, Thomas Walsh (c. 1856-1893) died a year after William’s birth leaving his wife of 7 years with five young children.
A newer headstone in Glenmore recites that Thomas Walsh died in 1894 at the age of 38. According to the death register a Thomas Walsh died on 22 October 1893 of bronchitis at Haggard, Glenmore. He was 32 years of age and his father Edmond Walsh was present at his death.
Mary Walsh née Roche (1856- ?) was baptized at Forristalstown on 9 July 1856 the daughter of William Roche and his wife Mary Murphy. Two years later her brother Patrick Roche was born at Jamestown. Today, there are still Roches in Jamestown.
Maternal Grandparents
Thomas Kieran Walsh’s maternal grandparents were John Dooley (c.1839 -1889) and his wife Anne Kennedy (c. 1843-1913). The couple were married at Glenmore on 7 February 1881. John was the son of Michael Dooley (labourer) and Anne was the daughter of William Kennedy (mason). At the time of the wedding both fathers were deceased, and John’s profession was “pensioner.” The couple were only married 8 years before his death.
Anne Dooley née Kennedy died, widowed, aged 70, on 2 January 1913 at Ballinlammy. Her son Michael Moore (?) was present at her death. John Dooley died on the 28th of December 1889 at Ballinlammy. He was 50 years of age, and his profession was listed as “Army Pensioner.” It was noted he died of natural causes “probably heart disease.” His widow, Anne Dooley was present at his death.
From the Dooley Glenmore Headstone in addition to Bridget Walsh née Dooley (1884 -1958) there were at least two other children of John Dooley and his wife Anne Dooley née Kennedy: Patrick Dooley (c. 1882- 1956) died 9 October 1956, aged 74; William Dooley (?-1963) died 10 March 1963, aged 63?, in Santa Barbara California.
In the 1911 Census Anne Dooley was aged 68 and farming in Ballinlammy. Her son William was aged 24 and working as an agricultural labourer and her daughter Bridget was 26. We believe that William Walsh married into the Dooley holding in Ballinlammy.
Tough Times in Ballinlammy
Leo Walsh described the cottage where Thomas Kieran Walsh was raised in Ballinlammy as isolated with no running water, no electricity and no sanitation. The cottage had a thatched roof that was leaky and it was upgraded to a slate roof. There were no ceilings, just the rafters and at night stars could be seen. The floors were concrete with no luxuries such as carpeting or a rug. There were no windows just window openings fitted with removeable wooden panels to help keep the cold out. The front door was called a half door. The bottom could be closed to keep out animals while the top half could be opened to let in light and air (Walsh, p. 14-15).
As was the custom of the time the family kept a cow, some goats, chickens and a pig. The cows and goats provided milk and cream and a pig was slaughtered every year with some meat being kept back for the family to consume. Although they produced eggs they were not usually consumed. Only at Easter they would each be given a boiled egg (Walsh, p. 15). It appears that most of what was produced on the small holding was sold.
Their father William Walsh (1892-1971) worked elsewhere as a farm labourer and thought his sons would also become farm labourers. Their mother Bridget Walsh née Dooley (1884-1958) recognised her children’s intellectual potential and encouraged them to do well in school. The school they attended was a good few miles away. After doing their chores they would walk to school in bare feet in warm weather.
“The Walsh boys were a humble bunch without an aggressive bone in their bodies, but their frugal and challenging up-bringing may have given Tom the fortitude and skills necessary to walk away alive from the jungles of Thailand, after three and a half years of imprisonment as a POW. He was born to survive” (Walsh, p. 16).
The Sugar Beet Factory Opportunity & Disappointment
Early in the 1930’s Tom went to a vocational school and earned a trade certificate. He applied for 1 of 3 apprenticeships offered by the newly nationalised sugar beet factories. The whole world was impacted by the Great Depression and jobs were scarce. Tom was awarded one of the five-year apprenticeships to train to become an electrician. Tom was assigned to the Tuam factory. He worked 9 hour days and earned a quarter of what electricians made. In his second year, in 1935, he bought a bicycle for 5 shillings.
Unfortunately, the bicycle had been stolen, and Tom’s protests of innocence were ignored by the arresting officer and the judge who found him guilty. The verdict was published in the local newspaper and Tom’s apprenticeship was terminated. Mortified he decided to go to London rather than return home (Walsh, p. 20-21). In 1936, at the age of 19 Tom said goodbye to his apprehensive family and sailed from Rosslare to Fishguard (Walsh, p. 21).
Please send any corrections, additional information or photos to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Special thanks to Leo Walsh for writing “Rough Justice” and to Martin Gahan for sharing his copy of the excellent book. The photos are from the book. The featured photo of Thomas Kieran Walsh in uniform is from the front cover. The photo of his mother Bridget Walsh née Dooley is from page 18.
From Danny’s Files: Glenmore Parish Death Records 1975
In a blue binder Danny Dowling (1927-2021) kept a copy of the Glenmore parish burial records from 1927-2013. While it was initially thought that the records would provide information as to when most deaths occurred in a given year, unfortunately, the records are not as complete as the parish records for baptisms and marriages. Today, we publish the parish burial records for 1975. See our previous post of 23 September 2024 for information regarding available on-line records and 1974 parish death records.
Glenmore Deaths 1975
Sixteen deaths are recorded in the 1975 parish records. For the most part the only information recorded is the deceased’s name, age, and date of death as well as the date of burial. All other information below was been found in newspaper obituaries, census records, Danny’s notes or from asking local residents. If an obituary of a deceased was already on our Glenmore surname pages an abridged obituary is provided below with a link to the surname page.
Average Age at Death
Of the sixteen deaths recorded two were young boys tragically killed in a farmhouse fire. Excluding the two boys 9 men died and 5 women. The average age for the 9 men was 66.6, while the average age for the 5 women was 65.4. In most developed countries 50 years ago the life expectancy for women was greater than that for men. However, this is one year in isolation. This list also contains another set of brothers who died within a few months of each other.
Married Glenmore People Lived Longer
The other interesting fact concerns the marital status of the deceased. Excluding the children, information was found for 8 of the men. Five had been married and 3 never married. The average age of death for the married men was 72.8 and for the never married men 62.3. Information was found for all 5 women. The average age of death for the 2 married women was 69. The average age of death for the three women who never married was 53.
The Glenmore List
[1] Thomas Walsh, aged 47, died 1 March 1975.
Munster Express, Fri. 14 March 1975, p. 20. The death occurred in Ardkeen Hospital, Waterford of Mr. Thomas Walsh (c. 1928-1975) of Davidstown, Glenmore at the comparatively early age of 46. A well-known figure in farming circles, he was the husband of Mrs. Maureen Walsh, who is a member of the Hartley family Half-way House, Co. Waterford; father of Eleanore, Edmund and Marie. The full obituary can be found on our W Surname page.
[2] Michael Tobin, aged 49, died 12 March 1975, Mullinaharigle [no further information could be located]
[3] Rev. M. Brennan, aged 80, died 23 March 1975.
Rev. Michael Brennan was the Parish Priest of Glenmore in 1975. He lived in the Parochial House on Priest Lane, Robinstown, Glenmore and kept greyhounds. He also hunted pheasants. A nice, humble, gentleman. He was only in Glenmore for a short time, but was missed when he died. Shortly before his death he was asked to say a few words at a Creamery Dance. He said that the creameries were set up in hard times by people who did not have much and were stretched. He hoped that they now were getting the benefit of the business they created.
[4] Patrick Jones, aged 78, died 9 April 1975.
Patrick Jones (1897-1975) was born 29 January 1897 at Moulerstown the son of George Jones (c. 1866-1945) and his wife Bridget Murphy (c. 1869-1945). Patrick Jones married Alice Dunne (c.1890-1967) and was the father of Seamus (c. 1932-2016) and Pakie (c. 1932-1006) Jones. The family lived in Glenmore Village near Eily Heffernan’s shop and in 1961 Patrick’s profession was listed as a road worker in Danny Dowling’s list of residents. See our post of 25 April 2021 regarding the “Gallant Glenmore Brothers.”
[5] Ellen Purcell, aged 54, died 6 June 1975.
Kilkenny People, Fri. 20 June 1975, p. 10. Miss E. Purcell—the death took place in the Auxiliary Hospital, Kilkenny, of Miss Ellen Purcell (53) [c. 1921-1975] Moulerstown, Glenmore. A well-known and respected inhabitant of the district, she had been unwell for some time past. She was sister of Mrs. Margaret Greene (c. 1918 -2013) Moulerstown, and the late Mrs. M. Maher, Derrylackey, Ballyhale. Interment took place at Glenmore after Mass celebrated by Rev. P. Madigan, C.C., do.
Luckily her older sister Margaret was born on 22 December 1919, and we were able to obtain information from Margaret’s birth registration. Their father was Peter Purcell (farmer) of Moulerstown, Glenmore. Their mother was Anne Purcell née Long.
[6] Mrs. Mary Dunphy, aged 92, died 18 June 1975
Munster Express, Fri. 27 June 1975, 6. Mrs. Mary Dunphy (c. 1883-1975), Ballyfacey Upper Glenmore, died at her residence at the age of 92 one of the oldest inhabitants of the parish. She was the last surviving member of the Gorey family, Ballyconnacht, Tullogher, and had been residing in Ballyfacey since her marriage over sixty years ago. Her husband, the late Michael Dunphy (c. 1881-1941) died in 1941, and she was the mother of Richard Dunphy, Miss Nora Dunphy, Ballyfacey; the late Eily Dunpphy, do: mother-in-law of Mrs. Eileen Dunphy, and grandmother of Mary, Noreen, Michael, Seamus, Richard, Billy, and twin boys, John and Patrick Dunphy. She was also sister of the late Ellie and Annie Gorey, Ballyconnacht, and the late Mrs. Bridie Walsh, do, and aunt of Denis Walsh, do. and Mrs. Stasia Ryan, do. The remains were removed to Glenmore Parish Church on Thursday evening, and interment took place in the adjoining cemetery on Friday morning after Requiem Mass. Celebrant was Rev. William Dalton, Chaplain, Holy Faith Convent, Killester, Dublin (a native of Ballinaraha, Mullinavat) relative of deceased, who also officiated at the graveside, assisted by Very Rev. J. O’Shea, P.P., Glenmore.
[7] Mary Forristal, aged 52, died 19 July 1975.
Munster Express, Fri. 18 July 1975, p. 5. Death of Miss M. Forristal (c. 1923-175) The death took place in St. Canice’s Hospital, Kilkenny, on Thursday last of Miss Mary Forristal, Robinstown, Glenmore, at the age of 52. Deceased, who had been out of her health for some time past, was in her youth, a shop assistant at McKeon’s, South Street, New Ross, for some years.
She was sister of Messrs. Michael, John and Martin Forristal, Robinstown; Sister M. Bernadette, Sacred Heart of Mary Convent, Montebello, California; Sr. Paschal of the same order Tarrytown, New York; Mrs. Nancy O’Brien, Robinstown; Mrs. Catherine Phelan, Ballyveria, Glenmore; and aunt of Francis O’Brien, Robinstown. The remains were removed to St.. James Parish Church, Glenmore, on Friday evening, and burial took place in the adjoining cemetery on Saturday morning after Requiem Mass. Celebrant was Rev. Madigan, C.C., Glenmore, and the final prayers at the graveside were recited by Very Rev. J. O’Shea, P.P. do. See our post of 13 May 2020 regarding the tragic death of her father Martin Forristal (1879-1931) when she was about eight years old.
[8] Richard Cody, aged 55, died 7 Sept. 1975.
Munster Express, Fri. 19 Sept. 1975, p. 20. Richard Cody (c. 1921-1975) of Ballycroney, Glenmore died at Ardkeen Hospital, Waterford, following a brief illness, at the age of 54. Deceased, who well known in farming circles in the district, was unmarried, and brother of Messrs. John, Walter, and Michael Cody of Ballycroney. The remains were removed to Glenmore Parish Church, and burial took place in the adjoining cemetery following Requiem Mass celebrated by Rev.. Thomas Heneberry, C.C., Glenmore, who also officiated at the graveside.
Their father was Michael Cody (c. 1878-1947) who married their mother Bridget Aylward of Ballyfacey at Glenmore on 4 February 1920. Michael was a farmer and the son of Otho Cody (farmer) of Ballycroney. Bridget was the daughter of John Aylward (farmer) of Ballyfacey. The witnesses to the wedding were James Cody of Ballycroney and Maggie Aylward of Ballyfacey.
[9] Andrew Heffernan, aged 82, died 7 Sept. 1975
Munster Express, Fri. 19 Spt. 1975, p. 20. Death of Mr. A. Heffernan—Mr. Andrew (Andy) Heffernan (1893 -1975) who died suddenly at his daughter’s residence, Rochestown, Glenmore, was a native of Aylwardstown, Glenmore, and a well known figure in farming and sporting circles in the parish. He was captain for some years of the Glenmore team which won a record of nine county senior championships between 1915 and 1924, all in succession with the exception of 1920, when Coolagh were awarded the title as Glenmore took the field after the appointed time.
He also played with Kilkenny in the Leinster Senior Championships in 1915, 1920 and 1922, with a number of colleagues of the Glenmore team. When he was married in 1919, to the former Miss Bridget Roche, of Rathinure Glenmore, he was presented with a Testimonial by the local football club in appreciation for his services and leadership which were an inspiration to the players and club members.
Aged 82, he was husband of Mrs. Bridget Heffernan, and father of Messrs. Mick Hefernan, Maypark, Waterford; Jimmy Heffernan, Ballyneale, Tullogher (former Kilkenny All-Ireland hurlers); Paddy Heffernan, Rockenham, Ferryban; John Hefernan, Aylwardstown; William Heffernan, Newcastle Road, Galway; Peter Heffernan, London; Mrs. Mary Aylward, Rochestown; Mrs. Nellie Doherty, Ballinlammy; and Mrs. Biddy Myles, London.
He was brother of Mr. Nicholas Heffernan, London; Mr. Stephen Heffernan, Chicaggo, and is also survived by over 50 grandchildren. Interment took place at Glenmore on Tuesday of last week after Requiem Mass celebrated by Rev. T. Heneberry, C.C., Glenmore, who also officiated at the graveside, assisted by Very Rev. Delaney, Adm. Tullogher; Rev. Richard Phelan, Castletown, Laois, and Rev. Paul Fitzgerald, Director of Social Services, Kilkenny, and Rev. P. Dalton, C.C. Ferrybank.
The large attendance, both at the removal of the remains and burial, included representatives f Kilkenny County Board GAA, Kilkenny Souther Board, Glenmore Hurling and Football Club, Mount Sion and Tullogher GAA Clubs, Clover Meats Ltd., Ferrybank, a number o surviving members o the old Glenmore and Kilkenny Football teams, as well as many relatives, friends, and sympathisers from Countiies Kilkenny, Waterford and Wexford. His six sons acted as pall bearers. Funeral arrangements were by T. Power and Sons Ferrybank.
Andy was the son of Michael Heffernan (c. 1847-1924) of Aylwardstown and his wife Bridget Kennedy (c. 1854-1947) of Rathinure. Interestingly Andy married his sister Alice Roche’s (née Heffernan) sister-in-law Bridget Roche.
[10] Gerard Kehoe, aged 11, died 1 Oct. 1975 and
[11] Richard Kehoe, aged 7 ½, died 1 Oct. 1975
Munster Express, Fri. 3 Oct. 1975, p. 1—Two young brothers, Gerard and Richard Kehoe lost their lives when fire swept through their home shortly before midnight. They got trapped on a landing in the two-storey old mansion type farmhouse [Mount Ida] at Rochestown, and their badly charred bodies were later found on the ground floor by firemen, both having been thrown down when part of the ceiling collapsed.
Gerard and Richard were the sons of John Kehoe (c. 1916-1991) and Peggy Kehoe née Aylward (c. 1935-2023) of Rochestown. Peggy was Paddy “the Barrister” Walsh’s granddaughter. Peggy’s photo and obituary is available on RIP.ie.
[12] Michael Cody, aged 79, died 29 Oct. 1975.
Munster Express, Fri. 7 Nov. 1975, p. 6 of Weatherstown. Michael Cody’s (c. 1896-1975) full obituary is on our C Glenmore family page.
A former well-known footballer, with his brothers Martin and Paddy won a number of senior County championships with his parish during the period from 1915 to 1924, when with the one exception in 1920, Glenmore took all the titles. He was married to Anne Cody (c. 1909-1989 née Woods) who was a native of Ballymartin, Tullogher and father of Messrs Paddy and Donal Cody, Weatherstown; Michael Cody, Athlone, Co. Westmeath; Nicholas Cody, Ballyveria, Glennmore; and Mrs. Mary Dowling, Tara, Co. Meath.
Michael Cody (1896-1975) was born on 1 April 1896 at Weatherstown to Patrick Cody and his wife Mary Knox. One elderly Glenmore resident today stated that Michael Cody sang in the Glenmore Choir for years until he was an old man.
[13] Catherine Murphy, aged 76, died 2 Nov. 1975
Catherine “Kate” Murphy née Irish (1891-1975) of Davidstown, Glenmore died at Rosario Nursing Home. Her obituary lists her age as 84. She was widow of William Murphy of Davidstown who died in 1954 and mother of Edward Murphy of Davidstown.
Catherine was born 14 August 1891 at Ballinlammy, Glenmore, the daughter of James Irish and his wife Mary Heneberry. It is believed (from Danny Dowling (1927-2021) that James Irish bought the farm where Michael Walsh poisoned two bailiffs. See our post of 6 October 2024. Catherine’s complete obituary can be read on our M Glenmore surname page.
[14] John Cody, aged 52, died 12 Nov. 1975.
Munster Express, Fri. 21 Nov. 1975, p. 19. Death of Mr. J. Cody—Mr. John Cody (c. 1923-1975) Ballycroney, Glenmore, who has died in St. Canice’s Hospital Kilkenny, was a member of a well-known farming Families. Deceased, who has been out of his health for some time past, was brother of Messrs Walter and Michael of Ballycroney, and the late Richard Cody, do, who died last September. The remains were removed to Glenmore Parish Church on Thursday evening last, and burial took place in the adjoining cemetery on Friday morning after Requiem Mass. Celebrant was Rev. T. Heneberry, C.C. Glenmore, who also officiated at the graveside.
[15] Mary Moran, aged 53, died 7 Dec. 1975
Mary Moran proved impossible to locate in newspaper searches etc. The Moran headstone in cemetery attached to St. James provides that Mary may have been called Bridget Moran (4 Nov. 1916—6 Dec. 1975).
Mary/Bridget was the daughter of Hubert Moran (25 April 1886-10 May 1951) and his wife Mary Kate Moran née Irish (15 Aug. 1888-12 Dec. 1935). It is believed that Mary/Bridget resided and worked on a farm in Co. Waterford.
[16] Nicholas Mernagh, aged 78, died 9 Dec. 1975.
Munster Express, Fri.19 Dec. 1975, p. 19—Death of Mr. N. Mernagh—the death occurred at Arkeen Hospital, Waterford, of Mr Nicholas Mernagh (c. 1897-1975), Jamestown, Glenmore. Deceased, who was a well-known and esteemed personality in the district and was husband of Mrs. Margaret Mernagh, do., and father of Mrs. Johanna Doyle and Mrs. Bridie Murphy. He is also survived by a number of grandchildren and other relatives. The remains were removed to St. James’s Parish Church, Glenmore on Wednesday evening of last week an interment took place in the adjoining cemetery on Thursday morning after Requiem Mass. Celebrant was Rev. T. Heneberry, C.C., Glenmore who also recited the prayers at the graveside.
Nicholas Mernagh was born in Wexford. His father, John (Jack) Mernagh (c. 1855-1911) worked for the railway and moved his family to Ballyverneen, Glenmore circa 1906. The 1911 Census reveals that Jack was 53 years of age and had been married to Mary (aged 42) for 26 years. They were both born in Wexford and were the parents of 16 children, but only 12 of the children were alive in 1911. The ten children living with them in 1911 included: Patrick, aged 23; John, aged 21; James, aged 19; Stephen, aged 17; Bartholomew, aged 13; Thomas, aged 10; Adain, aged 8; Nicholas, aged 6; Mary, aged 5 and Lizzie, aged 3. All the children except Mary and Lizzie were born in Wexford. The 1911 census records that there were 12 members of this family living in a three room house owned by the Dublin and South East Railway.
Nicholas married Margaret Mackey (c. 1905-1978) of Weatherstown, Glenmore.
Please send any corrections, additional information or photos to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
From Danny’s Files: 1977 Glenmore Clippings
During the 7 decades that Danny Dowling (1927-2021) collected information on Glenmore he often tore or cut newspapers articles out of local newspapers. Some of these articles were placed in files that were then deposited in one of his several filing cabinets. The file marked Parochial House contained articles regarding the sale of the property in 1977, but there were several articles in the file that were not related including a newspaper photo of the Glenmore Under 12 School Hurling Team.
Sale of the Glenmore Parochial House
In September 1977 the work was almost complete on the new priest’s house next to St. James’s Church. Prior to this time the parish priests lived in a two-storey house on Priest’s Lane in Robinstown, Glenmore. Below is an advertisement for the sale of this four bedroom house on Priest’s Lane. The featured photo above was from the sales advertisement.
P.N. O’Gorman Ltd. of New Ross announced the “important sale” of the “Glenmore Parochial House with out-offices and approximately 2 acres. The property which is situated midway between Waterford and New Ross, and convenient to the main road, held in Fee Simple. P.L.V. £11.50. Consists of: attractive two-storey residence, containing porch, pantry and scullery, two bedrooms (16’ x 14’), bedroom (12’ x 10’ 6”), small bedroom (10’ 6”x 6’9”), bathroom and toilet, oil fired central heating, ESB lighting.”
“The out-offices, comprise of two stables, cow house, fuel house, garage, small hay shed, etc. The above holding is one of the most attractive properties to come on the market in this area for a number of years, ideally situated, and convenient to Church and schools. Viewing: only by appointment with Auctioneers” (New Ross Standard, Friday 30 September 1977, p. 20).
Eight Acres Sold to Glenmore GAA
It was reported in the Kilkenny People in 1977 that Glenmore GAA purchased eight acres of parochial land for £8,000 which they hoped to develop into hurling and football pitches (Kilkenny People, Fri. 28 Oct. 1977, p. 21). The land purchased was part of the Priest Lane holding. No pitches were built on this land. This land was traded to Neddy O’Connor, of Graiguenakill for lands in Graiguenakill where a pitch was built.
Completion of New Glenmore Parochial House
The new Parochial House at Glenmore, which is adjacent to the Parish Church, was i late October 1977, now nearing completion. It was reported that it would be ready for occupation in the near future. The contactor was Mr. John Kennedy, Slieverue, who deserved to be complimented on the excellent job he did on the new building, “which replaces the old Parochial House at Robinstown, recently sold” (Munster Express, Fri. 28 Oct. 1977, p. 22).
Sale Details
The Parochial House at Glenmore together with 2 acres of land, was sold by public auction to Mr. Pat Walsh, Jamestown, Glenmore, for £19,000. Bidding opened at £15,000, and continued between Mr. Walsh and Mr. Kelly, Solicitor, New Ross, acting for a client, until a figure of £19,000 was reached, at which it was knocked down to the former, who is a haulage contractor with the firm of Bellferry, Waterford. The sale was conducted by Messrs. P. N. O’Gorman Ltd. auctioneers, New Ross (Munster Express, Fri. 28 Oct. 1977, p. 22).
Glenmore Priest Applied for Public Dance Hall License
In addition to the parish being in the news over the building of a new Parochial House, and the sale of the old one, Glenmore’s Parish Priest,
“the Very Rev. Joseph O’Shea, … made application under the Public Dance Halls Act 1936 to the New Ross District Court for a public Dancing License for premises known as the Parochial Hall, situated in Glenmore” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 26 August 1977, p. 16). This Parochial Hall was the old National School which closed in 1958. It too was sold and is currently in a terrible state with the partial collapse of its roof.
Glenmore Karate Club
In the summer of 1977, the New Ross Standard, stated that “Glenmore is an unlikely place for a Karate Club, but one does exist there, has 24 members who have already made their mark in competition and are now preparing for the All Ireland championships which will be held at the Mansion House, Dublin, in September. The club is affiliated to the Shotakan Karate Club of Ireland.” The only person named in the article from Glenmore was Monica Walsh (the daughter of Bill Walsh (1912-1985). See our post of 27 Feb. 2022.) (New Ross Standard, Fri. 1 July 1977, p. 23).
Were you a member of the Glenmore Karate Club? Do you have any photos of members?
Glenmore Blood Donor Honoured
Danny’s sister-in-law, Mrs. Mary Dowling (née Grace) (1919-2010), of Forritalstown, Glenmore received a “Silver Pelican” for donating blood (New Ross Standard, Fri. 22 April 1977, p. 1).
The Glenmore Police Blotter
Dismissed on the merits were summons against John Foran, Aylwardstown, Glenmore, who had no insurance and no driving license when stopped at Shanbogh on 14th May 1977. He was also summoned for failing to produce the documents and these summonses were also dismissed. Defendant said he called four times to the Garda Station in Glenmore to produce the documents and no one was present (New Ross Standard, Fri. 1 July 1977, p. 10).
Other Glenmore residents were not as fortunate. Margaret Walsh, Ballybrahee, Glenmore was fine £5 in each case for not having tax or insurance on a tractor driven by a juvenile Fines totalling £15 were imposed on Michael Green, Jamestown, Glenmore, who had no tax, no tax displayed and no front or rear marks on a tractor.. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 16 Dec. 1977, p. 17).
Denis Cotterell, Alwardstown, Glenmore was fined £5 and Kathleen Dolan, Glenmore was fined £10 for parking offences (New Ross Standard, Fri. 1 July 1977, p. 10). (See our post of 28 Nov. 2021 regarding Kathleen’s husband silversmith Pat Dolan.)
Glenmore Photos
Glenmore Under 12 School Team
“Glenmore under 12 Schools Team, Co. League and Championship winners. The team was managed and trained by Mr. Michael “Mick” Lynch, N.T. [Mick Lynch (c. 1938-2021].
Front Row (l to r) Dick Murphy; David Power; Jimmy Hartley; Paschal Hennessy; John Boyle, Sean Fitzgerald and Vincent O’Connor.
Centre Row (l to r) Declan Cass; Michael Freyne; Martin Freyne, (Captain of Championship team); Michael Phelan, Pat Barron (Captain of League Team); Willy O’Connor; Richard O’Connor.
Back Row (l to r) Raymond Cass; Eamon Walsh; Thomas Mullins; Francis Kirwan; Michae Duggan; Pat Dowling and Gerard Cass. (Photo by Joe McGrath).” (Munster Express, Fri. 12 Aug. 1977, p. 18).
Dancer Mary Hennessy, of Glenmore
Mary Hennessy, Glenmore and Mary McDonald who took part in the Mulcahy-Bible dancing competitions in the Ardree during the August Bank holiday (Munster Express, Fri. 12 August 1977, p. 15).
Please send any corrections or further information or photos to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
From Danny’s Files: Glenmore Parish Burial Records
Anyone attempting to trace family members in Irish records knows that there are difficulties. The only two publicly available on-line census are from 1901 and 1911 as provided by the National Archives.
The General Register Office is responsible for maintaining birth, marriage and death records. Publicly available birth, marriage and death records are found on the IrishGenealogy.ie free website. This website is the work of the National Archives and IrishGeneology.ie. Currently the historic records of births, marriages and deaths on the website cover: births 1864 to 1923; marriages 1845 to 1948 and deaths 1871 to 1973. The website continues to add to the records it indexes and makes freely available.
Prior to this website people tracing their families before the internet had to visit the area libraries, visit National Archives or write letters requesting information. When online resources became available there was often a fee attached and not very helpful if you did not know which townland your ancestory came from. Many people hunted out Village Historians like Danny Dowling (1927-2021). Danny collected information from Glenmore residents for over 7 decades, recorded his own list of residents in 1961 and obtained copies of the Glenmore Parish records. In fact, when work began to digitalize the Glenmore records Danny was asked to help correct transcription mistakes because he was so familiar with the families of Glenmore.
In a blue binder Danny kept the Glenmore parish burial records from 1927-2013. While it was initially thought that the records would provide information as to when most deaths occurred in a given year, unfortunately, the records are not as complete as the parish records for baptisms and marriages. Today, we are going to publish the parish burial records for 1934 and 1974 and in square brackets provide additional information obtained from other sources.
1934 Glenmore Burial Records
In 1934, 10 Glenmore burials are recorded.
[1] Michael Rigby, died 10 January 1934, aged 93. [The death register lists his age as 82, he was a farmer, in Ballyveria, Glenmore, a widower and died of “senile decay.” His son Daniel Rigby was present when he died.]
[2] John Walsh, died 2 March 1934, aged 68. [The death register reveals that he was a widower of Busherstown, Glenmore, and worked as a labourer. He died of broncho pneumonia and his sister Johanna Walsh was present when he died.]
[3] Margaret Doherty, died 26 March 1934, aged 69 (buried Shambo). [Per the death register Margaret Doherty, of Milltown, Glenmore was 67 when she died of asphyxiation from a toxic goitre.]
[4] William Walsh, died 17 April 1934, aged 82. [ Wm. Walsh, of Busherstown, Glenmore, was listed in the death register as an 81 year old, married, farmer when he died of “senile decay” in 1934. His daughter Hannah Walsh was present at his death.]
[5] Thomas Reid, died 19 April 1934, aged 56 (buried Mullinavat). [Thomas Reid was listed as 53 years of age in the death register. He was living in Busherstown, Glenmore, working as a labourer. Thomas was a bachelor. He died of septicaemia (blood poisoning) in the New Ross hospital after 2 days.]
[6] John Fitzgerald, died 25 April 1934, aged 95. [John Fitzgerald died at Knockbrack, Glenmore. He was a widower, farmer. He died of “senile decay” and his nephew John Fitzgerald was present at his death.]
[7] Stone? Roche, died 26 April, 1934 aged 68.
[8] Mrs. Neill, died 30 April 1934, aged 75. [Julia Neill, widow of Weatherstown, Glenmore died of broncho pneumonia. Her nephew Thomas Connolly was present when she died].
[9] Ellie Brennan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Brennan died 1 December 1934, aged 15. [The child died of acute eczema that covered her entire body. The secondary cause of death was nephritis. She was ill 12 days.]
[10] Mrs. Power died at the age of 85. Her date of death is blank. [We could find no woman named Power who died locally in 1934 and was 85 years of age.]
While searching for a Roche who died in April 1934 we came across Richard Roche, of Scartnamore, Glenmore, who died the 17th of November 1934. He was a bachelor, aged 68, farmer. He died “probably of heat stroke.” John Connolly was present at his death in Scartnamore.
While searching Glenmore headstones we found that James Walsh of Ballybrahee, Glenmore died 5 October 1934, aged 43. [James J.K. Walsh (1891-1934) was married to Lizzie J.K. née Heffernan (1884-1955). The couple operated a shop and dance hall in the Village. See our post of 22 December 2020 for further details of the family. ]
1974 Glenmore Burial Records
In 1974, 14 Glenmore burials are recorded.
[1] Catherine Forristal died 25 March 1974, aged 82. [Per Glenmore headstones Catherine Forristal was the widow of Patrick Forristal (c. 1897-1969) of Ballyverneen, Glenmore. Catherine’s maiden name was Phelan of Coolnaleen, Glenmore. Their daughter Peggy married Denis O’Dwyer (c.1929- 2000).]
[2] Michael Delahunty died 30th April 1974, aged 70. [It is believed that this was Mick Delahunty was a native of Rochestown and worked for May Roche of Scarte, Glenmore. Mick was a jolly, bachelor.]
[3] Patrick Walsh, died 2 April, 1974, aged 52. [According to his obit in the Kilkenny People he was from Ballybrahee, Glenmore, married to Peggy Fitzgerald and the couple had five children: Martin, Bernard, Teresa, Breda and Imelda (Fri. 19 April 1974, p. 10).]
[4] James Walsh, died 23 April 1974, aged 79.
[5] Catherine Barry, died 28 May 1974, aged 78. [Per the Glenmore headstone Catherine née Culleton was married to Thomas Barry (c. 1895-1981) of Carrigcloney, Glenmore.]
[6] John Forristal, died 11 August 1974, aged 87. [Per the Glenmore headstones John was a bachelor. He was the son of Laurence & Bridget née Kirwan Forristal.]
[7] Elizabeth Fitzgerald, died 25 August 1974, aged 74. [Per the Glenmore headstones Elizabth was the widow of James Fitzgerald (c. 1889 -1963) of Flemingstown, Glenmore. Elizabeth’s maiden name was Burke].
[8] Brigid Doherty, died 4 September 1974, aged 84. [Per the Glenmore headstones Bridget née Freyne was 78 when she died. She was the widow of William Doherty (c. 1891-1968) of Ballinlammy, Glenmore.]
[9] Michael Murphy, died 4th September 1974, aged 45. [Michael Joseph Murphy was a native of Rochestown, Glenmore and started Murphy’s Motor. He was a husband and father of a young family when he was tragically killed in a car crash. See our post of 27 June 2020 regarding Michael’s runaway tractor in Glenmore Village.]
[10] John Fitzgerald, died 26 September 1974, aged 78. [Per the Glenmore headstones John was from Busherstown, Glenmore the son of John Fitzgerald (c. 1852-1922) and his wife Ellen Sullivan (c.1861-1937). John’s (c. 1896 -1974) wife was Hanna Stasia Cody (c. 1909 -1943).]
[11] Mrs. Bridget Kirwan, died 24 November 1974, aged 56. [Per the Glenmore headstones Bridget’s maiden name was O’Connor and she was a native of Ballyfacey, Glenmore. She married John Kirwan (c. 1902-1993) of Gaulstown, Glenmore. Bridget died of breast cancer.]
[12] John Doherty, died 28 November 1974, aged 81. [Per his obit in the Munster Express, John was a native of Davidstown and a prominant footballer as a young man. He married Bridget Wall, of Davidstown , and the couple had 10 children. Jack, as he was known, was the Director of Clover Meats for 36 years until he retired (Fri. 6 Dec. 1974, p. 6).]
[13] Richard Kehoe, died 15December 1974, aged 61. [Dick Kehoe, of Rathinure, Glenmore, was married to Mary Doherty, of Ballinlammy, Glenmore.]
While searching the Glenmore headstones we located three others that were not listed in the parish burial records.
Edward Fitzgerald, a native of Rathinure, Glenmore, who died in Southport, England, on 19 January 1974, aged 86.
Bridget Power née Mackey died on 4 March 1974 in Southport, England. She was the widow of John Power (c. 1884-1965) of Ballycroney, Glenmore.
Darragh Shine, of Glenmore Village, was just 3 years of age when he was struck and tragically killed by a car on 3 July 1974.
Alice Power née Curran died 20 July 1974 aged 93. Prior to her marriage to Walter Power (c.1888-1961) of Jamestown, Alice was a National School teacher in Glenmore.
Darren James Phelan, of Ballyfacey, Glenmore died in infancy on 18 December 1974.
Please send any corrections or additional information to glenmore.history@gmail.com. Some information and obituaries may be found on our Glenmore Family Surname pages or the obituary page.
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
Monsignor Patrick O’Connor Culleton (1877-1960) of Kilbride, Glenmore
Today, we are going to feature the Right Reverand Monsignor Patrick O’C Culleton (1877-1960) a native of Kilbride, Glenmore. After being ordained in Waterford he left for the American mission. Msgr. Culleton spent his entire ministry in the Peoria Diocese of Illinois. Thanks to Sr. Lea Stefancova, SFJB, of the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Foundation, of the Peoria (Illinois) Diocese for providing us with photos and newspaper clippings from the Diocese archive. This post is dedicated to Msgr. Culleton’s niece, Ciss Roche née Culleton of Rathinure who will be 95 in December 2024.
Culleton Family of Kilbride, Glenmore
Monsignor Culleton was the eldest child of James Culleton (1845-1912) and his wife Margaret Connors (sic) or O’Connor (1839-1918). His mother Margaret O’Connor was from Ballyfacey, Glenmore. Even today the O’Connors are often referred to as the Connors. Msgr. Culleton’s parents were married 3 February 1876 at Glenmore and he had three known siblings.
His brother Michael Culleton (18 Oct. 1878-21 Feb. 1968) remained on the family farm in Kilbride and married Alice Hartley of Weatherstown, Glenmore on the 26th of November 1914. Alice’s father was Edward Hartley (farmer), and Michael’s father was Michael Culleton (farmer). Michael Culleton (1878-1968) and Alice Culleton had one son and four daughters. [1] James Culleton (c. 1917-2012); [2] Anastatia Culleton (c. 1919-1927); [3] Margaret Culleton (c. 1916-1932); [4] Nellie Walsh née Culleton (c. 1920 -2016) and [5] Ciss Roche née Culleton of Rathinure, Glenmore.
Msgr. Culleton’s brother, George Culleton (b. 6 Nov. 1881) married Mary Walsh at Carrick-on-Suir on the 29th of October 1919, and they farmed and raised their family in Ashtown. Their son James became a priest also serving in Illinois.
Msgr. Culleton also had a sister Ellen Culleton (b. 4 Oct. 1883).
Education
We believe that Msgr. Culleton attended the old Ballyfacey National School. He attended Waterford Christian Brothers and went on to St. John’s College, Waterford where he was ordained on the 14th of June 1900 at the age of 23. Msgr. Culleton was appointed to the Peoria Diocese on the American Mission. He arrived in the United States in September 1900.
Assigned Ministries
After arriving in the Peoria Diocese, he was appointed assistant pastor of St. Patrick’s church of Danville, Illinois. Danville is approximately 120 miles from Peoria located near the Indiana border.
On 2 October 1903, he was commissioned by the late Bishop Spalding to found a new parish in Westville, six miles north of Danville. Six years later he was transferred by the Bishop to Peru, Illinois on 10 March 1909, as pastor of St. Mary’s church. Msgr. Culleton remained in Peru until January 1923 when he was assigned to Peoria’s, St. Patrick’s parish.
While Msgr. Culleton was working in Peru he had to register for the draft. In his World War I draft registration of 12 September 1918, Msgr. Culleton gave his name as “Patrick O’Connor Culleton.” He resided at 1319 Van Bureau St., Peru, Illinois. He recorded that he was employed as a Catholic Priest, 41 years of age and a naturalized citizen. He listed his mother Mrs. Margaret Culleton as his next of kin with an address of Kilbride, Glenmore, Waterford, Ireland. He was physically described as tall and stout with gray eyes and brown hair.
It was also in Peru that his first cousin Miss Mary Anne Harte (1891-1976) emigrated from Co. Kilkenny, Ireland in September 1922 to work as his housekeeper. When she applied for naturalisation in January 1923 she gave her address as 1315 6th St., Peru, Illinois.
On the recommendation of Bishop Joseph H. Schlarman, Father Culleton was raised to the status of a domestic prelate by Pope Pius XII on 23 November 1939, to which rank was attached the title Right Reverend Monsignor. He was later appointed by Bishop Schlarman as building commissioner of the diocese, which position he continued to hold in 1950. “He was keenly interested in education and in addition to a church, he also built schools in Peoria [Diocese] and in the city of Peoria” (Kilkenny People, Sat. 2 April 1960, p. 1).
Golden Jubilee: 14 June 1950
Msgr. Culleton celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood by celebrating Mass. He was assisted by the Rev. J.M. Fitzgerald. The Rev. James P. Culleton, his nephew, served as deacon; the Rev. J.J. Gaule as subdeacon; and the Rev. R.E. Gates as master of ceremonies. The sermon was delivered by the Rev. J.P. Christopher, professor at the Catholic University of America, Washington D.C.
Following the Jubilee Mass, Msgr. hosted a luncheon at St. Mary’s school hall for visiting priests and relatives. At the time of his Golden Jubilee Msgr. Culleton had served at St. Patrick’s in Peoria City for 27 years. Serving as chairman of the luncheon was the Rev. James M. Fitzgerald, pastor of St. Mark’s who introduced the Rev. TP Kelly of Clinton to serve as toastmaster.
Luncheon Tributes
“Referring to Monsignor Culleton as one of the great men of the Peoria Diocese the Rt. Rev. P. H. Durkin of Rock Island, Vicar-General of the Diocese said his name will be held in reverence at St. Patrick’s for many years to come.” (Newspaper clipping dated 15 June 1950).
Msgr. Culleton’s knowledge of architecture and work in building churches at Peru former parishes were praised by several speakers. Other speakers paying tribute to Msgr. Culleton included the Rt. Rev. Msgr. J. R. Reidy chancellor of the diocese; and the Rt. Rev. Msgr. Thomas Barden of the Lincoln, Nebraska, diocese who was a schoolmate of Msgr. Culleton in Ireland as well as four other priests.
Wires of congratulations were read from the Most. Rev. Joseph H. Schlarman, Bishop of Peoria, who was not present as he had sailed “Tuesday for Europe” and Msgr. Fulton J. Sheen who once served as an assistant at St. Patrick’s. [For more information on Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen see his Foundation webpage.]
Public Reception
Approximately 500 persons filled Roosevelt auditorium for the public reception. On the program were four priests representatives of parish groups and students, Mayor Joseph O. Malone, the school and adult choruses, and several solo musicians.
Speakers included the Rev. E.J. Bratowski, pastor of St. Dominick’s church in Wyoming. and Msgr. Culleton’s first assistant at St. Patrick’s, the Rev. William Bouchers of St. Joseph’s in Rock Island, Msgr. Culleton’s former assistant at St. Patrick’s and the Rev. William Gray, present assistant there. The Rev. James M. Fitzgerald, pastor of St. Mark’s church, was master of ceremonies.
Speaking on behalf of the parish trustees were Thomas Whalen and Richard Madigan, who presented Msgr. Culleton with cash gift from the parishioners. After 1950 Msgr. Culleton remained at St. Patrick’s for more than 8 years.
Death
Five days after having suffered a stroke, Msgr. Culleton died on 1 March 1960 in St. Francis’ Hospital in Miami Beach, Florida. Funeral services were held 5 March 1960 in Peoria. Bishop John B. Franz officiated at the Pontifical Requiem Mass in St. Patrick’s Church and also at the Office of the Dead the previous evening. The obituary received from Sr. Lea provides that Msgr. Culleton was survived by a nephew, Fr. James Culleton, pastor of St. Louis’ Parish, Princeton; and a cousin, Miss Mary Harte, who was his housekeeper for many years. He is buried in St. Mary’s Cemetery of West Peoria, Illinois. To view Msgr. Culleton’s headstone, see Find a Grave.
The Kilkenny People Obituary
Monsignor Dies—The death has occurred unexpectedly in Florida, United States of the Right Rev. Monsignor Patrick Culleton, native of Glenmore, Co. Kilkenny. He was brother of Mr. Michael Culleton, Kilbride, Glenmore and Mr. George Culleton, Ashtown, do., and uncle of Very Rev. James P. Culleton, P.P., Princeton, Illinois, United States. He is also survived by nephews and nieces in South Kilkenny.
The late Monsignor Culleton was born in Glenmore parish in 1877 and was educated in Waterford Christian Brothers schools and at St. John’s College, Waterford where he was ordained on June 14, 1900 at the age of 23. He went on the American mission the same year and his appointment was in the Diocese of Peoria. He served in Waterville, Danville and finally in the city of Peoria. He was made a Domestic Prelate by the late Pope Pius XII.
A kindly priest and untiring worker for the temporal and spiritual welfare of his people Mons. Culleton won a warm place in the hearts of his parishioners where he ministered. He was keenly interested in education and in addition to a church, he also built schools in Peoria and in the city of Peoria where he ministered before his death.
Monsignor Culleton belonged to an old and respected Glenmore family. There was an extremely large attendance of clergy and laity at the obsequies in Peoria where interment took place after Solemn Requiem Office and High Mass. Requiem Office and High Mass were also celebrated in Glenmore Church (Kilkenny People, Sat. 2 April 1960, p. 1).
The Demise of St. Patrick’s of Peoria
In attempting to find a photo of the church where Msgr. Culleton worked for over 37 years, we discovered that St. Patrick’s of Peoria was a red brick building located at the corner of Saratoga and McBean. It was dedicated in 1881. Due to falling numbers St. Patrick’s closed as a Roman Catholic Church in 1976. The parishes of St. Patrick’s combined with St. Joseph’s and used the existing St. Joseph’s building. St. Patrick’s church was advertised as seating 700 was placed on the market for $49,500.
Since 1976 different churches bought the premises and held services in the building until 2023 when the roof collapsed and the building had to be demolished (Tim Shelley, WCBU Local News, 29 July 2023). A sad end for a historic church.
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Please send any additional information or corrections to glenmore.history@gmail.com. The feature photo above is from Msgr. Culleton’s Requiem Mass in St. Patrick’s church of Peoria. Special thanks to Sr. Lia for providing this photo and the photos of Monsr. Culleton. The photo of St. Patrick’s of Danville, Illinois is from an old postcard.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
See generally, Dean Muellerleile, “Historic Collapsed Church in Peoria, IL Tied to Sainthood,” Peoria Journal Star (7 Aug. 2023).
For a brief history of the Diocese of Peoria, Illinois click here.
For other cousins of Msgr. Culleton see our post of 5 Aug. 2024.