20th Century
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The Aylward Siblings of Arundel Square
In our post of 9 October 2022 we featured John Aylward (1870-1929) who left Rochestown, Glenmore and became a successful businessman in Waterford. In researching John’s business, Aylward’s on the Square (located at 1 Arundal Square, Waterford) we came across some interesting articles after his death regarding his business and orphaned children. We also had the pleasure of speaking with John’s grandson and namesake, John Aylward, who graciously shared information concerning his family and family photos. Today, we are going to feature the early business trials and tribulations overcome by James Aylward (1907-1990) after taking over his father’s business and provide brief biographies of his siblings. This generation of siblings and their spouses reflect some of the most prominant business people in Waterford in the 20th century. This generation of siblings also reflects the harsh reality of early 20th century childhood diseases and epidemics such as TB that swept the country. Thanks to recent interest in the 1916 Rising we know that almost 10,000 people died in Ireland of TB in that year (See, RTE Century Ireland, “Almost 10,000 People Died from TB in Ireland in 1916”).
The Children of John and Margaret Aylward of Arundel Square
John Aylward (1870-1929) and his wife Margaret Aylward née Raftice (1877-1922) had 14 children (Munster Express, 28 Dec. 1990, p.8).
(1) James Joseph Aylward (1902-1904) Died of scarlatina (scarlet fever) at the age of 17 months. Scarlet fever generally develops from strep throat and before antibiotics were available often led to death or serious complications of the heart or other vital organs.
(2) Nicholas Aylward (1904-1964) was born at 2 Peter St., Waterford City. After Nicholas completed his education at Waterpark College, he went to Dublin where he qualified as an electrical engineer. After his mother’s death he emigrated to Australia in 1922 where he took up an engineering appointment with the Kalgolie Gold Mines. In 1930 Nicholas married Rose McArthur (c. 1909-1981) and the couple had two children. At the outbreak of World War II he joined the Australian Army. At the time of his death in Australia in 1964 he was survived by 6 of his siblings (Munster Express, Fri. 17 March 1964, p. 13).
(3) Mary Josephine “Mai” Aylward (1905-1978) was the first child of the family born at 1 Arundel Square. Mai was a bookkeeper and in September 1930 married William “Billy” Kervick (1910-1988). Billy and Mai had one daughter, Mrs. Ita Shipsey. The Munster Express article regarding the wedding provides some interesting details regarding the bride’s family connections in South Kilkenny.
“On Tuesday morning Mai Aylward, eldest daughter of the late Mr. And Mrs. John Aylward, Arundel Square, Waterford and Wm. Kervick, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Kervick, Gracedieu, Waterford. The bride was given away by her brother, James Aylward. Her sister Kathleen Aylward was one of the bridesmaids. A reception was held at her brother James’ residence at Arundel Square. The bride is well connected in South Kilkenny being granddaughter of the late James Aylward, Rochestown, Glenmore, and niece of Rev. Bro. Aylward, superior, Christian Brothers, Sydney, who it will be remembered, spent many months here on holidays last year. She is also on the maternal side, grandniece of the late William Fitzpatrick, T.C., formerly of Acres, Mullinavat. The groom belonged to one of the oldest Ballybricken families, well known in the livestock trade for generations” (Munster Express, Fri. 19 Sept. 1930, p. 5).
Billy founded “one of the country’s best known and successful bookies, with a chain of 26 branches around the country” (Munster Express, Fri. 25 March 1988, p. 2). Mai was active in voluntary social services. She was a founding member of the Ladies Voluntary Aid Committee that raised funds for the County and City Infirmary and was one of the early volunteers in the provision of services for handicapped children. In the early 1960’s she worked to inaugurate Meals on Wheels for the elderly. Her favourite pastime was Bridge and she was a founding member of the 68 Bridge Club as well as the Tramore Bridge Club. She loved to travel and with her husband Billy visited five continents (Munster Express, Fri. 8 Dec. 1978, p. 14).
(4) Johanna “Josephine” Aylward (1906-1940) also emigrated to Australia and lived in Melbourne. She married George W. Hamm (motor mechanic) who was born on 1 July 1906 on Barrack Street, Waterford. George was the son of “Richard” Hamm (butcher) and Mary Shaw. The couple had two children George Hamm and Patricia Hamm. Josephine came home to Waterford to visit in 1936 and tragically died in Australia in June 1940 of TB. Her family in Waterford were told of “Josie’s” demise via cable on 18 June 1940 four days after her death (Munster Express, Fri. 21 June 1940, p. 1). George’s father Richard Hamm died in Dec. 1952. Richard was a native of Germany and he had a thriving business in processing casings for the sausage making industry. His daughter was married to James Molloy, victualler, of Michael Street (Munster Express, 12 Dec. 1952, p. 10).
(5) James Joseph “Jimmy” Aylward (1907-1990) married Johanna “Hanna” Walsh (1914-1996) at Mullinavat on 11 September 1940. Hanna was the daughter of Thomas Walsh (farmer) and Mary Ann Dermody. Jimmy and Hanna had two children. Jimmy took over his father’s business which is discussed below. In July 1945 while Jimmy and his family were enjoying a holiday at Dunmore East he heard a woman’s cries for help and rescued Miss Goodchild, of Waterford from drowning (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 6 July 1945, p. 3). Jimmy was a publican and was involved in the wholesale wine and spirit business. For many years he bottled his own Guinness and blended his own whiskey. When he died in 1990 he was survived by only two of his siblings Nellie and Johnny (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 21 Dec. 1990, p. 20).
(6) Michael “Mick” Aylward (1908-1937) emigrated to Australia and worked as a motor mechanic. He returned to Waterford around 1935 and died at 1 Arundel Square of TB on 20 Sept, 1937. He was 29 years of age. According to his obituary in the Munster Express he returned to Waterford due to ill health and was survived by 9 of his siblings (Munster Express, Fri. 24 Sept. 1937, p. 6).
(7) Ellen “Nellie” Aylward (1909-1992) married William Cummins in 1930. William (1905-1991) was the son of Nicholas Cummins (Sea Capt.) and Brigid Rockett of 5 Ballybricken, Waterford. William and Ellen had 5 children and lived at 6 Barker St., Waterford. William after being educated at De La Salle (Waterford) began working at Robertson, Ledlie, Ferguson and Co. as a draper. When he retired in 1975 he was a department manager of the company now known as Shaws and had been a member of staff for 54 years (Munster Express, Fri. 5 April 1991, p. 22).
(8) Margaret Mary Aylward (1911-1911) was born on 31 May 1911 at 1 Arundel Square and died almost 4 months later on 4 September 1911 of enteritis. Enteritis is an infection of the small intestine.
(9) Catherine “Kitty” Aylward (1912-1944) was the first of the siblings born at Kilcop, parish of Killea, Waterford. Kitty was a hairdresser and married Richard “Dick” Boland (b. 1908) in June 1933 at Butlerstown. The couple had four children. Just 11 years after her marriage, Kitty died of TB in 1944 at the age of 31. Dick Boland was the son of Henry P. Boland (Civil Servant) and Charlotte Taylor née Nolan. The death register records Kitty’s name as “Kathleen Attracta Boland.” She died at the Newtown Building and her husband was present at her death. Dick Boland in 1944 was employed as a commercial traveller (traveling salesman).
(10) Brigid Aylward (1914-1922) was born and died of Kilcop of TB at the age of 8.
(11) John “Johnny” Aylward (1915-1995) was educated at Mount Sion and worked at Hearne & Co, the Quay (Munster Express, Fri. 20 Jan. 1995, p. 12). He emigrated to Melbourne, Australia in 1936 and returned to Waterford in 1937. While in Australia he engaged in several occupations including fruit picking and book-keeping. Upon returning to Waterford he took up his mother’s former profession of confectionary. With his brother Patrick “Bernard” they set up a successful wholesale confectionary business that was operated from 1 Arundel Square. In 1943, in Waterford, Johnny married Margaret Hodge (1915-2002) the daughter of James Hodge (carpenter) and Margaret Doyle of “Avonlea,” Ballytruckle (Munster Express, Fri. 8 Jan. 1943, p. 5). A month after the marriage Johnny’s partner and brother, Patrick “Bernard” died. Johnny and Margaret Aylward had six children and lived at “Clooneen,” Passage Road Waterford. After returning to Waterford from Australia Johnny “conceived, promoted and established 17 companies, industries and business concerns…His first venture was in the wholesale distribution of groceries, confectionaery, fruit etc. from premises at the corner of Thomas’ Hill & O’Connell St.. He also went into the wholesale cash and carry business in Waterford and expanded to Clomel, Thurles amd Kilkenny. In 1952 with Kurt Kraus he launched Southern Refridgeration and later established Snowcream Ltd. John Aylward revealed that the original name of the business was Snow White and after a letter from Walt Disney’s lawyers the name of the business became Snowcream. In 1961 Johnny formed Arcade Ltd. dealing in the sale of furniture, TV sets, toys etc. Johnny was the last of the siblings (Munster Express, Fri. 20 Jan. 1995, p. 12).
(12) Patrick Bernard Aylward; (1916-1943) was known by his middle name Bernard within his family. Bernard was only a little over 2 weeks past his 6th birthday when his mother died in 1922 and 12 ½ years old when his father died in 1929. Nine months after becoming an orphan he emigrated to Australia.
“Presentation to Cathedral Altar Boy—A delightful and touching little ceremony was held at the Sacristy of the Cathedral last night when the altar boys assembled to make a presentation to Master Bernard Aylward, son of the late John Aylward, Arundel Square, who is leaving Waterford tonight by the Rosslare Express, for Australia. He has been for some years one of the most regular attendants of the altar boys attached to the Cathedral, and his willingness on all occasions, coupled with a charming disposition, made him a great favourite with the priests and the boys there. In presenting him with a watch last night, the gift of his companions, Father O’Connor referred feelingly of the great grief they all felt at his departure, and express the hope the future would hold for him a bright and successful career in the new world. Master Aylward, who is only 13 years of age, will join other members of his family already settled in Australia” (Irish Examiner, Fri. 22 Nov.1929, p. 5).
Bernard remained in Melbourne, Australia until 1938 when he returned with his brother Johnny to Waterford. Bernard was a confectioner and as stated above he and Johnny set up a wholesale confectionary business. On 9 July 1942, during the Waterford Regatta, Bernard dived into the River Suir to save a young girl. He received a commendation posthumously for saving the child’s life (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 6 July 1945, p. 3). According to his nephew John Aylward he never fully recovered from the event and died on 21 February 1943 at the age of 26 from TB. On the death register it provides that he died at 43 St. Ursula’s Terrace and his brother Jimmy was present when he died. It is also noted that he had the TB for 3 months. The Waterford News & Star reported that the child he saved was May Drohan, of Lower Yellow Road, Waterford, a granddaughter of Col. P. Caulfield, Mayor. The child lost her footing on the Ferry hulk and toppled into the water. “Patrick Aylward, O’Connell St….plunged, fully clothed, into the river and succeeded in keeping the girl’s head above the water until she was taken into a boat…” (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 10 July 1942, p. 4).
(13) Teresa Aylward (1917- 1985) married Michael O’Toole (farmer) in 1948 in Waterford. Michael O’Toole (b. 1917) was from Killea, Dunmore East, Waterford. The couple had 4 children.
The Waterford News & Star noted its regret to learn of the illness of Mrs. Teresa O’Toole, Liccawn, Dunmore East. She is wife of “a well known farmer in the area and before marriage was Miss Heeresa (sic) Boland (sic) of Waterford (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 1 Feb. 1985, p. 17). Her maiden name was of course Miss Teresa Aylward.
(14) Bartholomew “Bart” Aylward (1919 -1939) was the baby of the family and was only 3 when his mother died and 10 when his father died. He joined the Irish Air Corp in 1937 and was stationed at Baldonnell Aerodrone in Co. Dublin. He died at St. Bricin’s Military Hospital. He was survived by 7 of his siblings (Munster Express, Fri. 3 Nov. 1939, p. 6) Per the death register Bart died from heart failure on 13 October 1939 at the age of 19 due to embryonal carcinoma of the testis. It is the most common form of cancer in young men aged 15-35.
No. 1 Arundel Square: The Arundel Inn
In 1952 Jimmy applied to the Waterford Circuit Court for an extension of his liquor license to change the premises to make it more suitable for the license trade. At the time of the application Jimmy was a publican and wholesaler in Arundel Square. Garda Sergt. Sammon testified that the authorities had no objection to the application and stated that the premises were congested. He opined that the new license would make the premises more suitable. However, it was Jimmy’s testimony in the case that provides insight to the business after his father’s death. Jimmy testified that his family had been in the licensing trade all of his life. He took over in 1928, but his old license lapsed in 1933 through mismanagement of business. Jimmy candidly stated, “I was young at the time and I gave out a lot of credit” (Munster Express, Fri. 2 March, 1945, p. 1). At the time Jimmy began to run the business in 1928 he was only 21 years of age and his father died early in 1929.
After Jimmy’s license lapsed Thomas Jackman held it. In 1945 an article in the Munster Express noted the “re-opening of licensed premises under the management of James J. Aylward. The proprietor has been attached to the staff of John Egan and Sons, Barronstrand St. for a number of years, and the experience gained was said to be an added advantage to the services. Mr. Aylward’s late father conducted a flourishing business in the same premises for many years” (Munster Express, Fri. 2 March, 1945, p. 1).
In 1945 Jimmy applied to the court and a new license was granted. In 1950 he took out a wholesale license, as a result of which his shop became congested with cases and barrels. In the night time he usually had to put four or five people in the small office on the Arundel Square side, but if his application for an extension was granted, he would turn it into a small snug (Munster Express, Fri. 12 Feb. 1954, p. 2). The extension of the license was granted and Jimmy secured a lease from the corporation for No. 2 Arundel Square. Part of the premises at No. 1 Arundel Square became the Arundel Inn. In 1960 Jimmy “blazed a trail at Johnstown [Waterford] by opening the Wander Inn, Waterford’s first bar-restaurant (Munster Express, Fri. 8 July 1960, p. 1).
Please send any corrections or further information to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
Special thanks to John Aylward for sharing family information and photos of his fascinating family.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
For a short article on life expectancy in Ireland see, Brendan Walsh, “Life Expectancy in Ireland Since the 1870s,” 48(2) The Economic and Social Review (2017) pp.127-143.
One Hundred Years Ago: October 1922
In October 1922 the death and destruction caused by the Civil War continued. The postal strike ended, but post offices and mail continued to be targets for both Irregulars and criminals. Railway lines, bridges and telegraph wires also continued to be targeted by the Irregulars hoping to disrupt communications. Locally there was an increase in ambushes of National Troops. Glenmore featured in local newspapers in October 1922 primarily due to attacks upon the Dublin & South Eastern Railway (D.&S.E.R.) and its equipment. Also, located was a small obituary of a young Glenmore woman, Kate Ryan née Hoynes (1877-1922). Today, we are going to feature these Glenmore stories and other local events that were reported in local newspapers 100 years ago.
Local Ambushes
AMBUSH NEAR BALLYHALE. A group of six members of the National Army stationed in Thomastown were ambushed at Knockwilliam bridge, a short distance from Ballyhale, at about 2 a.m. on October 3rd. The soldiers led by Commandant Denis O’Brien were travelling in a lorry and were returning from Mooncoin. They were within about ten yards of the bridge, when they were ambushed by the Irregulars, who had taken up positions behind the wall overlooking the road. The National troops immediately took cover and returned fire. The Irregulars, who are stated to have numbered 30, called on the troops to surrender. No surrender took place and after about ten minutes the Irregulars retreated. Thomas Murphy, the driver of the lorry was wounded in the wrist and leg. The National troops returned to Thomastown (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 Oct. 1922, p. 8.
AMBUSH AT JERPOINT. On the afternoon of the 4th of October Commandant Denis O’Brien with three troops were traveling in a motor car heading in the direction of Ballyhale when they were fired upon by Irregulars at Jerpoint Abbey (New Ross Standard, Fri. 13 Oct. 1922, p. 3).
AMBUSH AT FERRYBANK. On Monday night the 9th of October a considerable amount of shooting took place near the Ballybricken Jail caused by people refusing or neglecting to halt when challenged by the sentry. No injuries were reported. However, on the Kilkenny side of the river, Sergt. Stanny Furlong of the National Army at 11 p.m. was walking along Ferrybank when he was held up by two men armed with revolvers. One then shot him twice at point blank range in the thigh and abdomen. The ambulance came under fire as it came to the scene to pick up the wounded soldier (Munster Express, Sat. 14 Oct. 1922, p. 5).
Attacks on Railways & Post Offices
Telegraph poles were cut in the Glenmore district on the night of the 6th of October (New Ross Standard, Fri. 13 Oct. 1922, p. 5). Later, the railway wires were cut as well as the signal cabin broken into and the telephone stolen. In consequence of the railway wires being cut between Glenmore and Waterford on the D.&S.E. Railway, the up morning passenger trains for Dublin were unable to run in time to catch the connection at Macmine (New Ross Standard, Fri. 27 Oct 1922, p. 5). The continued disruption of rail services through Glenmore led to the Great Western Railway steamers sailing everyday between Waterford and Fishguard instead of 3 times per week (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 Oct. 1922, p. 4).
The down passenger train arriving in New Ross at about 9:20 was held up south of Rathgarogue and some parcels taken from the van (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 Oct. 1922, p. 8). On the evening of the 18th the upmail train was held up near Glenmore and cigarettes were stolen (New Ross Standard, Fri. 20 Oct. 1922, p. 5).
A determined but unsuccessful attempt was made during the first week of October to burn down the signal cabin at Kilmacow railway station. A telegraph pole near the signal cabin was sawn through (Munster Express, Sat. 7 October 1922, p. 6). Near Ballyhale railway station on Tuesday night as the train left the station a man in a group of men hurled what turned out to be a large bomb into a carriage filled with people. Two of the passengers were national soldiers, Lieut. Foley and Lieut. O’Rourke. Foley “pluckily seized it and hurled it through the opposite window…before it had time to explode” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 13 Oct. 1922, p. 3).
The Postmaster of Knocktopher featured in the news for his response to men threatening to blow up the post office. On the 28th of September at 8:45 p.m. loud knocking was heard at the door of the Knocktopher Post Office. The attackers demanded the post office be opened at once for the IRA. The postmaster, E. Cody, refused to open. The men insisted, stating they would bomb the house. The Postmaster told them to bomb away, but he would not open the door. He then began to ring a hand bell which made the attackers leave. The local pubs were raided the same night (Munster Express, Sat. 7 Oct. 1922, p. 4). The Mullinavat Post Office was raided during the last week of October and some money taken. Shops in the village were also visited and cigarettes, etc. stolen (Munster Express, Sat. 28 Oct. 1922, p. 5).
The Ferry Mountgarrett bridge which was destroyed during the War of Independence was again damaged in October 1922. The wooden bridge crossing the Barrow River just north of New Ross had its beams sawn through rending the bridge unsafe (New Ross Standard, Fri. 13 Oct. 1922, p. 8).
Efforts to End the Civil War
It was reported that peace negotiations towards a “desirable ending of the present armed conflict” was being led by a member of Dáil Éireann (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 Oct. 1922, p. 5). It was also reported that a Proclamation was issued by the Free State Government at the beginning of October 1922 The Proclamation provided for a full amnesty and pardon to any person engaged in insurrection or rebellion who, on or before the 15th of October, voluntarily turned in all firearms, arms, weapons, bombs, ammunition, and explosives, and public and private property, unlawfully in his possession and lands or buildings unlawfully occupied by him, and agreed not to take any part in, or aid or abet social insurrection, rebellion, or armed opposition to the Free State Government. All who fulfilled the conditions would be allowed to return to their homes. The proclamation was issued in hopes of “restoring peace without further bloodshed” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 Oct. 1922, p. 4).
An editorial in the New Ross Standard stated, “We have always thought it very unfortunate that the irregulars and their friends and supporters did not throw in their lot with the Free State party, when they would have been in a position of effecting good instead of inflicting injury and ruin on the country. In the popular assembly they might have stiffened up the backs of those whom they declared to be too tame and not advanced enough. Those young men, who are now without voice in the nation’s Government, owing to having taken up an antagonistic attitude towards the majority might have urged their views and impressed the majority in the National assembly, to which they might have belonged, and thus have accomplished many of their objects” (New Ross Standard, Friday 6 October 1922, p. 4).
Under the Proclamation, no arms were surrendered in New Ross, but several young men in the districts near Bunclody surrendered their arms thanks to the efforts of Rev. Kevin Doyle, C.C., Kilmyanal (New Ross Standard, Fri. 20 Oct. 1922, p. 7).
Prisoners
Locally a few arrests were reported in newspapers who also made a point of reporting where arrested persons were taken. Early in the month National Troops arrested a young man near Tullogher and took him to Thomastown (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 Oct. 1922, p. 8). After the local ambushes, National troops quartered at Mullinavat made several arrests in the neighbourhood, including a man named Phelan, of Listerlin, who was conveyed to Kilkenny (Munster Express, Sat. 14 Oct. 1922, p. 5).
The New Ross Standard reported that the London Observer published that the Free State was seeking to acquire the largest of the Saltee islands, off the coast of Wexford, to build a concentration camp to accommodate all the Civil War prisoners. It opined, “the situation is most healthy, but a large amount of building would be required.” Ironically the newspaper noted, “It was in a cave on this island that Bagenal Harvey, a leader of the rebels in 1798, was captured by soldiers. It was not suspected as a resort for some time until a soldier observed some soap suds outside the cave, and discovered that it was occupied by Harvey, who, was immediately apprehended, and later executed” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 Oct. 1922, p. 4).
On the morning of the 10th an attempt to escape from Mountjoy Prison was made by a number of Irregular soldiers. The escape attempt resulted in the deaths of a national solider, two military police officers, and a prisoner. Two other soldiers were wounded and a prisoner was also wounded. Found in the cells of prisoners were 2 land mines, explosive chemicals, a revolver and ammunition (New Ross Standard, Fri. 13 Oct. 1922, p. 4).
Restoring Law & Order
In an attempt to stop the crime spree that had gripped the country a Proclamation was issued on the 2nd of October. This Proclamation provided that civilians charged with 4 categories of criminal offences would be tried in Military Courts. The offences included: (1) taking part in, or aiding or abetting any attacks upon National Forces; (2) looting, arson, seizure, destruction or removal of, or damage to public or private property; (3) possession of any bomb or explosive substance (without proper authority), firearm or lethal weapon, or any ammunition; and (4) the breach of any general order or regulation made by the Army Council. Possible sanctions listed in the notice included: death, penal servitude, imprisonment, deportation, internment and fine (Munster Express, Sat. 21 Oct. 1922, p. 5).
It was reported in early October that the Civic Guards were established in most of the towns In “Southern Ireland.” Described as “…a fine body of young men and must not be regarded in the same light or spirit as the old R.I.C., who were a semi-political force.” The New Ross Standard wrote, “The R.I.C., in addition to giving a certain amount of protection to the civil population, were utilised to bolster up and protect landlordism and foreign domination during the people’s struggles. They were the prop of alien rule in Ireland. Now all has been changed. Young men from our midst have been appointed to protect life and property in the country. Their hands will be full for some time at least, as during the struggle of the last 5 years the people of Ireland, particularly the youth, become very much demoralised and given to mischief. For instance, where houses have become vacant the windows have been smashed by incorrigible youths, and in those places where electric and other means of public lighting have been installed the lamps have been smashed by the same urchins. Playing handball on the streets and general disorder and lawlessness characterise those young parties everywhere. They overly declare, ‘We can do what we Iike; there is no law in the country now.’ It is now up to the new police force to restore order, and it is up to the people to support them” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 Oct. 1922, p. 4).
On the 14th of October 1922 a detachment of 28 men of the Civic Guards arrived in Waterford from Dublin. These new unarmed police officers were to replace the armed troops attempting to police the City (Munster Express, Sat. 21 Oct. 1922, p. 3).
Others blamed the unrest on emigration. The Irish Evicted Tenants and Land Settlement Association stated that hopes were given to young people during the long struggle for Ireland’s rights that thousands of acres under grazing and other land held under the eleven months’ system would be split up and divided to afford young people a living. “Thousands of our young men and women who would have been glad to settle down at home have emigrated to America and elsewhere…This is the cause of unrest in this country” (New Ross Standard, Friday 6 October 1922, p. 4).
Impact on Civilians
Bullets and bombs kill indiscriminately not being able to tell friend from foe. In October 1922 civilians across the country were killed. On Sunday the 8th of October at about 3 p.m., about a mile south of New Ross, Julia Molloy was fatally shot on the Camblin Road. At the military inquest others testified that they were out walking when shots rang out. No witness was certain where the shots originated although some heard shooting earlier on the Kilkenny side of the river. Witnesses included: Michael O’Connor, merchant, South St. Robert Rickerby, John Locke, William Walsh and Samuel Jacob, all of South St. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 13 Oct. 1922, p. 5). The death register provides that Julia died on the 8th of October at Oaklands. Her sister K. Molloy was present when she died. Julia was a single 45 year old shopkeeper on South Street, New Ross.
On the same day that Julia Molloy was shot and killed, a group of young men motoring from Kilkenny to Waterford to attend a terrier coursing meeting at Mulinabro, were fired on at Castlebanny. One of the men named Reilly was wounded in the side. The wind screen of the car was destroyed by the bullets. The men did not proceed to Waterford, but returned home via Thomastown, where Reilly had his wound attended to by Rev. Fr. Grace, of Ballyhale (Munster Express, Sat. 14 October 1922, p. 5.)
An excursion train was scheduled to run on Sunday the 15th of October 1922 for the Wexford vs. Kilkenny, Leinster Hurling Semi-Final in Dublin. The train left Waterford at 8 a.m. and Glenmore at 8:17 A third return fare from Waterford or Glenmore was 8s. while from New Ross the fare was 7s. 6d (New Ross Standard, Fri. 6 Oct. 1922, p. 5). The game was played under ideal conditions so far as the weather was concerned, the ground was excellent, but the attendance was on the small side. It was a “rather one sided contest, and the superiority of the Kilkenny men was in evidence…despite the fact that they had considerable difficulty in fielding a team. Members of the team only reached Dublin a couple of hours after the scheduled time due to damage on the Great Southern line in Kildare. Other team members from Mooncoin traveling on the D.&S.E.R. from Waterford also encountered rail trouble. To overcome the problem four members of the junior Kilkenny team played in the senior team. Wexford also had difficulties in fielding a team due to “troubles at home.”” The County Champions, Crossabeg were not represented. Sean O’Kennedy, the ex-All Ireland football captain, came to the rescue and played as the goalkeeper. He, J. Mythen and M. Neville were members of the 1910 team. Kilkenny won 6 goals, 6 points to Wexford 1 goal. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 20 Oct. 1922, p. 3).
The Kilkenny People (Sat. 7 Oct. 1922, p. 4) appeared more interested in football. “With the passing of the Leinster Championship matches the next big game to be looked forward to is the senior football match between the old rivals, Glenmore and Cloneen, which should again prove a red letter attraction at St. James’s Park.” A football challenge match, between De la Salle College (Waterford) and Glenmore was billed to take place at Slieverue on the 29th of Oct. (Munster Express, Sat. 28 Oct. 1922, p. 5). Unfortunately, we could not locate a report of the match or the score.
A Glenmore Funeral
A brief obituary appeared in the Munster Express. On Thursday the 19th the funeral of Mrs. Ryan, Gaulstown, Glenmore took place and was largely attended. The deceased lady had been apparently in good health up to a short time previous to her death, and much sympathy is extended to her relatives in their bereavement (Munster Express, Sat. 28 Oct. 1922, p. 5). A search of 1922 death records revealed that Mrs. Ryan was Kate Ryan née Hoynes (1877-1922) a 43 year old widow of a farmer. She died of acute gastric enteritis on the 17th of October. Her brother Michael Hoynes of Ballybrahee was present at her death. Thanks to the Hoynes family tree prepared by Michael Hoynes (b. 1948) we know Kate was married to Peter Ryan (c. 1869-1921) and the couple had no children. A marriage record was located. Peter Ryan of Gaulestown (farmer) married Kate Hoyne of Ballybrahee on the 22nd of February 1906 at Glenmore. The fathers of the couple were Laurence Ryan (farmer) and John Hoyne (farmer). Peter Ryan died at Gaulestown, Glenmore on the 21st of May 1921 at age 52 of endocarditis.
Please send any corrections or additional information to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
The featured photo above is the Junior Kilkenny Hurling Team that played and defeated Dublin on the 15th of Oct. 1922 in the Leinster Junior Hurling Semi-Final at Croke Park (Freemans Journal, Mon. 16 Oct. 1922, p. 3).
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Rickardsland, Glenmore (1961) [Updated]
Today, we are going to feature information that Danny Dowling recorded regarding the residents of the townland of Rickardsland around 1961. The Irish for this townland, according to Kelly’s, The Place Names of the County of Kilkenny (1969, p. 110) is Fearann Risteaird, or Richard’s land. It is divided into North and South Richardsland with a total area of 88 acres. No further information is supplied by Kelly. Over the years the name has been spelled in different ways on headstones etc., but Danny referred to it as Rickardsland.
In the 1833 Griffith’s Valuation Applotment Records the townland of Richardsland or Rickardsland is not found. In the old civil parish of Kilcoan both Weatherstown and Moulerstown are present. It may be the case that Rickardsland was an area within a larger townland similar to Grogan in Davidstown. Sometimes areas along the edge of a townland split off because landlords sold them or altered them in some way. A good example is Ringville that was once part of Rochestown. Unfortunately Danny isn’t available to explain how or when Rickardsland became a townland.
A newspaper search employing the various spellings of Rickardsland turned up very few articles or references prior to the 1960’s. However, in 1869 the Kilkenny Moderator (Sat. 20 March 1869, p. 2) reported on the “County Grand Jury Fiscal Business” and levied £34,629 2s. 0d. in 44 half yearly instalments for the re-building of the New Ross bridge. County Kilkenny was “at large” to pay £29,810 8s. Four districts were established. District 1 comprised the townslands closest to the bridge such as Rosbercon, Annagh, Shanbough (sic) and they were to pay the sum of £819 1s.8d. District 2 comprised parishes in Dysartmoon, Listerlin and Kilmakevoge and Kilcoan including Cappagh, Ballybrahy, Richardsland north, Richardsland south, Moulerstown and Flemingstown to pay £968.0s.0d. The fourth and last district was composed of most of the rest of the current parish of Glenmore including: Aylwardstown, Robinstown, Ballyfacey, Kilbride and further outlying townlands Darbystown, Glenpipe, Ballymartin etc. to pay £863 6s.8d. Excluded from all four districts were the townlands in most of the old civil parish of Kilcolumb such as Rochestown, Rathinure, Scartnamore, and Davidstown etc. See the end of our previous blog of 14 December 2019 for further details concerning the destruction of the New Ross bridge by ice.
The newspaper search did turn up a number of greyhound’s with Rickardsland in their names including Rickardsland Rose (Irish Examiner, Thurs. 12 Nov. 1964, p. 15); Rickardsland Phil (Kilkenny People, Fri. 7 May 1971, p. 16) and Rickardsland Prince (Irish Press, Sat. 9 Oct. 1954, p. 13). We assume that greyhounds were bred in Rickardsland or by a former resident to honour his or her native townland.
Danny Dowling in 1961 recorded only 2 families or households in Rickardsland. Birthdates or birth years are provided for some of the older residents gleaned from available public records. For some time after drafting his notebook, Danny recorded the dates of death or simply recorded that a resident had died or left the townland. The recorded information reveals that in 1961, 6 people resided in Rickardsland North and 10 people residing in Rickardsland South (16 total). The population of the townland is comprised of 8 males and 8 females. The Roche family was the largest family with ten members in the household. There was no household recorded of a single person living alone.
Recorded Residents
Males= 8
Females= 8
Eldest Recorded Resident= Margaret Fitzgerald née Woods (1906-1997). In 1961 Margaret Fitzgerald was only 55 years of age and according to available records she was 7 months older than her husband James Fitzgerald (1906-1979). Margaret was born on 11 April 1906 in Ballymartin, Rosbercon to Nicholas Woods (farmer) and his wife Bridget Woods née Dungan. When she died in 1997 she was 91 years of age. The obituaries for James and Margaret Fitzgerald are on the Family, surname F, page and may be accessed by clicking here.
Recorded Work
Farmers = 1 (1 males)
Farm workers = 2 (2 males)
Motor garage worker = 1 (1 male)
Domestic servant = 1 (1 female)
Meat Factory Worker = 2 (2 females)
General Labourer = 1 (1 male)
RICKARDSLAND NORTH
[1] FITZGERALD
Fitzgerald, James (21 Nov. 1906-26 April 1979) Farmer
Fitzgerald, Margaret (11 April 1906-15 Sept. 1997) wife
Fitzgerald, Mary, daughter
Fitzgerald, Nicholas (1938-2015) son, farm worker (twin)
Fitzgerald, William (1938-2010) son, farm worker (twin)
Fitzgerald, Martin A., son, student
RICHARDSLAND SOUTH
[2] ROCHE
Roche, Thomas (22 Dec. 1912-11 June 1989) General Labourer
Roche, Margaret (28 April 1911-8 Aug. 1992) wife
Roche, Mary, daughter, meat factory worker
Roche, Johanna, daughter, meat factory worker
[Roche, Margaret, daughter, domestic servant]
Roche, William, son, motor garage worker
Roche, Kathleen, daughter, domestic servant
Roche, Edward, son
Roche, Bridget, daughter
Roche, Eileen, daughter
Roche, Martin, son
[Correction–the birthdate of Margaret Roche née Long was incorrect and has been corrected. Margaret Roche née Long was the daughter of Edward Long (labourer) and Johanna Long née Corcoran of Weatherstown, Glenmore. The third eldest child of the Roche family, Margaret Roche, was not in Danny’s list and has been added in brackets. The death notice for Thomas Roche (1912-1989) and the obituary of his wife Margaret Roche née Long (1911-1992) may be found on our Family, surname Q-R page and may be accessed by clicking here. ]
Thirteen years after Danny recorded the information concerning Rickardsland townsland, in 1974 the Kilkenny Co. Council agreed to erect a new pump at Rickardsland South, Glenmore (New Ross Standard, Fri. 21 June 1974, p. 2). Thus into the mid-70’s roadside water pumps were being installed in Glenmore parish by the County Council.
The featured drawing of the greyhound above is a Player’s cigarette card courtesty of the New York City Library Digital Collection. See, George Arents Collection, The New York Public Library. Greyhound Retrieved from https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47e2-1f79-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99
Please send any further information of corrections to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
John Aylward (1870-1929) Native of Rochestown, Glenmore
[updated]
The families of Glenmore, like so many other families in agricultural parishes across Ireland watched their young people leave to seek opportunities elsewhere. Families tended to be large, and farms could generally only support one family. Often the eldest son was earmarked for the family farm and his siblings left. Sometimes the young people went across oceans to settle in Australia, Canada or the US. Many went to England and some sought their livings in New Ross and Waterford. Today, we are going to feature John Aylward (1870-1929) a native of Rochestown, Glenmore who went to Waterford to learn the grocery trade and became a successful businessman. Notwithstanding his success in business his love of the land appears to have remained with him. He purchased a farm five miles outside of Waterford City, in Kilcop, Woodstown, Co. Waterford.
Rochestown, Glenmore
John Aylward was born on the 16th of February 1870 to James Aylward (farmer) Rochestown and Mary Aylward née Aylward. John’s parents were married at Ballyknock, Rosbercon on the 12th of February 1857. As highlighted in our previous post of 24 January 2022, Mary Aylward née Aylward was a cousin of Edward Walsh (1862-1946) the proprietor of the Munster Express.
John Aylward and his wife, Mary Aylward née Aylward, had at least 11 children including: (1) Patrick Aylward (1858-1928) of Kill; (2) Ellen Aylward (b. 1859); (3) Tobias Aylward (b. 1860); (4) Catherine Aylward (b. 1862); (5) John Aylward (c. 1863/1864); (6) Thomas Aylward (b. 1865); (7) Bridget Aylward (b. 1867); (8) James Aylward (b. 1868); (9) John Aylward (1870-1929) of No. 1 Arundel Square, Waterford; (9) James Aylward (b. 1872); (10) Rev. Michael Aylward (b. 1874)(Christian Bros. Australia) and (11) Bartholomew Aylward (1876-1929) of Michael St. Waterford. As often happened in large families if a child died a younger sibling was often given the name of the deceased sibling.
The Aylward farm where James and Mary Aylward raised their family in Rochestown, Glenmore is presently owned by Paul Harney and his wife Ann Marie (née Doherty). Paul’s mother was Nellie Aylward (c. 1934-2011), the granddaughter of James Aylward (1872-1959). Nellie married Michael Harney (c. 1924-1996) of Co. Waterford. Interestingly Michael Harney had Glenmore roots prior to his marriage as he was the grandson of one of the Hoynes of Glenmore.
Aylward’s of the Square
John Aylward (1870-1929) moved to Waterford City about 1889 as apprentice to the grocery trade with the late Mr. Philip Murphy (Irish Examiner, Fri. 1 March 1929, p. 13.) About five years later his brother Bartholomew (1876-1929) also moved to Waterford as an apprentice to the grocery trade, but he went to James Knox (c. 1836-1904) of 1 Arundel Square to learn the trade. After the apprenticeship period the brothers purchased premises at Peter St. and opened a business there. The 1901 Census records John (29) and Bartholomew (23) living at No. 1 Peter St., Waterford. Also in the household was Mary Wyse (53) a widow who was their domestic servant. John was a grocer & publican while Bartholomew was a grocer’s assistant. The building was listed as a “public house” and the three occupants occupied 2 of the 5 rooms. Later, John Aylward took over the Knox Arundel Square premises and Bartholomew went into business by himself on Michael Street (Munster Express, Fri. 19 April 1929, p. 8).
On the 30th of April 1901 John Aylward (shopkeeper) married Margaret Raftice (1877-1922) (shop assistant) at St. Patrick’s Church, Waterford City. The bride was the daughter of Nicholas Raftice and his wife Joanna Fitzpatrick. Margaret Aylward née Raftice was born on the 25 April 1877 at Thomastown. Her father Nicholas was a cooper when she was born, but the marriage record reflects that he was a farmer. In the 1901 Census Margaret Raftice was 23 years of age, a confectioner, and a visitor in William Fitzpatrick’s public house, No. 10 Black Friar’s. It is assumed that William Fitzpatrick was Margaret’s uncle. William Fitzpatric was 58, a grocer and spirits trader and was born in Kilkenny.
At least 14 children were born to John and Margaret Aylward (per the obituary of their son James (Munster Express, 28 Dec. 1990, p. 8). The known children include: (1) Nicholas Aylward (1904-1964) born at 2 Peter St., Waterford City; (2) Mary Josephine “Mai” Aylward (b. 1905); (3) James Joseph Aylward (b. 1902); (3) Johanna Aylward (b. 1906); (4) James Aylward (b. 1907); (5) Michael Aylward (b. 1908); (6) Ellen Aylward (b. 1909); (7) Margaret Mary Aylward (b. 1911); (8) Catherine (b. 1912) born at Kilcop, parish of Killea, Waterford; (9) Brigid Aylward (1914-1922) born and died at Kilcop; (10) John Aylward; (11) Bernard Aylward; (c. 1916); (12) Bartholomew Aylward (c. 1919 -1939) and (13) Teresa Aylward. Unfortunately, Irish birth records after 1917 are not available to the public. However, from the births of John & Margaret’s children we know that John acquired 1 Arundel Square about 1905 and Kilcop House & farm about 1912.
James Knox (c. 1836-1904) of 1 Arundel Square was a native of Ullid, Kilmacow, Kilkenny. He moved to Waterford City and became a grocer and tea, wine and spirits merchant. Knox was an alderman and became mayor of Waterford in 1897. Thanks to the advertised public sale of the Knox business we have details concerning John Aylward’s business commencing. The following details are from the Munster Express (3 Sept. 1904, p. 5) “No. 1 Arundel Square, Waterford Re: Alderman James Knox, Deceased. Executor’s Sale of Valuable 7 day Licensed Premises; Highly Important to Grocers, Tea, Wine and Spirit Merchants. Lease, 115 years; rent £19 10 s License £11.
To be sold by public auction as a going concern, on the premises on Tuesday 20th Sept. 1904 at 12 o’clock by the direction of the Executors of the late Alderman James Knox. The valuable leasehold interest and good will (with the benefit of the fillings which deceased held for many years from John Jameson and Sons, Ltd) and extensive business concerns at present in full working order, and doing a most lucrative trade, known as No. 1, Arundel Square, Waterford.
The shop is double-fronted, fitted with plate glass windows, new counters, shelves, drawers, and gas; front and side entrances; bottling room, store, etc.; hall and staircase, breakfast room and dining room, drawing room, 3 bedrooms, attic, kitchen, yard and w.c. All held under Lease from the Waterford Corporation for an unexpired term of 115 years, at the nominal rent of £19 10s. per annum; License £11.
The premises are situated in the centre of the city, close to Barronstrand street, and command a large proportion of the City of Waterford and Co. Kilkenny trade. The shop is admirably fitted with every accommodation for the carrying on a first-class wholesale wine, whiskey and Family Grocer’s Business. The entire premises are complete and in perfect order, not requiring one penny outlay. The attention of intending purchasers of licensed property is invited to this sale, as no better house, situation, and nominal rent has been offered in Waterford for many years. Immediate possession will be given. Immediately after will be sold the Stock-in-Trade of tea, sugar, fruit, sauces and miscellaneous items appertaining to the trade. Whiskey barrels, glasses, measures, pump, scales, weights, tea bins and canisters, Iron safe, truck, forms, chairs, tables and some few articles of furniture. P.A. Murphy solicitor and Thomas Walsh & Son, Auctioneers.”
The 1911 Census reveals that John was 40 and Maggie was 33. The couple had 6 children under the age of 8. Also present in the household were three young men (grocer assistant and 2 grocer apprentices); and two young women (a cook and nurse maid). The premises were listed as No. 1 & 2 of Arundel Square. It was a first class house and the 13 members of the household occupied 9 rooms.
1922
Sometime around 1912 John Aylward bought Kilcop House and farm although No. 1 Arundel Square appears to have remained the official address of the family. On the 5th of February 1922 his daughter Brigid Aylward died. Although the newspapers extended sympathy to Mr. and Mrs. John Aylward, Arundel Square on the death of their 8 year old daughter in the flu epidemic, the death certificate reveals that Brigid died at Kilcop. The child died of bronchial pneumonia which may have been a complication of the flu. Her mother Margaret was present when she died (Munster Express, 11 Feb. 1922).
Just 7 months later Margaret Aylward née Raftice died on the 7th of September 1922 at Kilcop. Margaret was only 44 years of age. The death registry records that she died of TB. Margaret’s obituary notes that she “belonged to good old South Kilkenny stock,” (Munster Express, Sat. 16 Sept. 1922, p. 4). Before the end of the month John placed the Kilcop property for sale. The advertisement for the sale in the Waterford News & Star (Fri. 22 Sept. 1922, p. 3) reflects details of the property as well as John’s apparent wealth.
“Kilcop Lower—within 5 miles of Waterford and 1 mile of Woodstown Strand
Mr. John Aylward (owing to a recent family bereavement has instructed us to sell by public auction, on the lands, on Tuesday, 26th September 1922, at 12 o’clock, the interest in his valuable holding at Kilcop Lower containing 44a. 24r. 0p., S.M. of prime grass and tillage land, on which is erected a first class two storeyed dwellinghouse. It contains entrance hall, dining room fitted with ornamental mantelpiece, drawing room with white marble mantelpiece, stair case, 6 bedrooms, 2 servants’ rooms, kitchen with Stanley range, scullery, pantry, store room, fruit and vegetable garden. FARMYARD—stables, lofted; coach house, barn, dairy, boiler house, cow and cattle houses, slated and in good repair. All held in fee simple subject to an annuity of £18 11s. 2d. payable to the Irish Land Commission; also a Tithe Rent Charge of £1 11s. 4d. per annum. Poor law valuation, £40 3s. 0d. The Crops: about 5 ½ acres potatoes, turnips mangolds and cabbage will be included in the sale of the lands. This is a most compact holding, highly manured, well fenced and watered. Immediately after will be sold: 3 dairy cows, 5 calves, 2 goats, quantity of poultry, bay gelding, 5 years, trained to all work. Bay Mare, 4 years, most promising, trained to all work; two handsome ponies, 3 and one year old. Crops—Rick 2nd crop hay, about 7 tons; 8 large stacks of oats. Farm Implements—sociable trap and harness, saddle and bridle, training gear, trap cart with sideboards (equal to new), spare wheels, 2 sets of tackling, back straps and chains, plough, scuffler, the Victor Mower and reaper, spring and double harrows, stone roller, chaff cutter, turnip cutter, wheelbarrow, set of creels, large metal pot, 2 pig trough tubs, larch posts, crosscut saw, hammers. Stable requisites, dairy utensils, churn, pans, tins, galvanised iron tank to hold 150 gallons, ladders, etc. Household Furniture: 6 Mahogany chairs in hair cloth, lounge, dining table, side table press, brass fender, c? vase overmantel, oilcloth, oil painting ship “Drumeraig” off the harbour, metal umbrella stand, side table, oilcloth, lamps, 6 double and single iron bedsteads, spring palliasses, hair mattresses, 2 feather beds, chairs, wardrobes, chest of drawers, window hangings and poles, kitchen tables, chairs etc. Immediate and clear possession together with the root crops now growing on the land will be given to the purchaser. For further particulars apply to P. R. Buggy, Solicitor, O’Connell St., Waterford or to Thomas Walsh & Son, Auctioneers and Valuers, The Mall, Waterford.”
1929
After Margaret’s death John did not remarry and the family lived above the business at 1 Arundel Square. In November 1928 his brother Patrick died in Kill, Co. Waterford (Irish Examiner, Tues. 27, Nov. 1928, p. 8). On the 28th of February 1929, at the age of 59 John died from pancreatic cancer. His brother, Bartholomew Aylward died on the 12th of April at his residence, Michael Street (Munster Express, Fri. 19 April 1929, p. 8). The death register records his cause of death as stomach cancer. Thus within 5 months three of the Aylward brothers raised in Rochestown, Glenmore died in 1929.
In a future post we will reveal what happened to the children of John and Margaret Aylward of No. 1 Arundel Square, Waterford.
For posts concerning other Glenmore men who had grocery, wine and spirit businesses in Waterford see: William Aylward of Parkstown, Glenmore discussed in our post of 21 June 2020, and Nicholas Forristal Phelan (1857-1942) posted on 24 January 2021.
Please send any corrections or additional information to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
Updated 16 Oct. 2022: The featured photo above is James Aylward (c. 1835-1916) and Mary Alyward née Aylward (c. 1838-1908) of Rochestown, Glenmore. Special thanks to their great-grandson John Aylward for sharing today his family tree and photos.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Queen of the Plough 1958: Peggy Mullally (c. 1932-1997) of Davidstown, Glenmore
The Glenmore Ploughing Association was established in 1938. For further information see our previous post of 7 March 2021. Within a couple of decades Glenmore was well represented in ploughing competitions. The Irish Press noted in 1960 that one Glenmore farm produced four plough champions who won every competition at local, county and national levels in recent years under the National Ploughing Association rules (Sat. 2 April 1960, p. 4). This farm was the Mullally Farm of Davidstown, Glenmore. Today, we are going to feature Peggy Mullally. In 1958, twenty years after the Glenmore Ploughing Association was formed, four years after women were allowed to compete under National Ploughing Association rules, and just two years after taking up ploughing, Peggy won the title “Queen of the Plough.” Peggy was one of 11 children of Thomas Mullally (c. 1897-1951) and Johanna Mullally née Walsh (c. 1898-1983). In addition to her prowess at ploughing Peggy was described as “an excellent horsewoman,” she hunted and jumped and was fond of a game of golf (Irish Press, Wed. 28 Jan. 1959).
Special thanks to Tommy and Essie Mullally for sharing their memories and newspaper clippings. We had a wonderful visit.
National Ploughing Championship 1958
In 1956 Peggy started ploughing. Her brother Tommy confirmed last week that she had no experience of ploughing on the farm. She attended ploughing competitions with her brothers, and subsequently joined in the tractor ploughing competitions. In 1956, Peggy placed 10th in the National Competition. In 1957, at Boyle she secured third place (Irish Press, Wed. 28 Jan. 1959). According to the Irish Press, the title of Queen of the Plough was to be hotly contested in 1958. In 1957 there were joint Queens, Eileen Duffy of Galway and Muriel Sutton of Wickow, but the national newspaper stated that Peggy, “the sister of the holder of the men’s championship” was a strong contender for the 1958 crown (Wed. 12 Feb. 1958, p. 11.)
The 1958 National Ploughing Championship was held on the 12th and 13th of February at Tramore. Just before her class started a stranger gave Peggy a sprig of white heather saying that it would bring her good luck. Peggy wore it throughout the competition. Peggy drove an Allgaire tractor and used a Star plough that was manufactured in Wexford. Peggy won the crown as “Queen of the Plough” at Tramore in 1958, and was presented with a silver crown. At the same time another County Kilkenny woman won “Queen of the Dough.” Mrs. Elizabeth Gorey, the widow of Denis J. Gorey, T.D., Burnchurch House, Cuffesgrange won first prize in the National Wholemeal Bread making Competition. The attack in June 1922 on the Gorey home was featured in our previous blog post on 6 June 2022.
Other successful Kilkenny competitors at Tramore included Peggy’s twin brothers. The Munster Express stated “great credit is also due to the twin brothers, Richard and Thomas Mullally, Glenmore, who secured second place for Kilkenny in the senior two furrow tractor event,” (Fri. 21 Feb. 1958, p. 4). Tommy Mullally recalled last week that there was terrible mud at Tramore in 1958.
Prizes and Appearances
At Tramore Peggy was crowned at a dance held at the conclusion of the championships. The gown that she wore for her cornation was given by Shaws of Waterford and was made of 25 yards of fabric. Unlike previous Queens, Peggy during her reign made several appearances and even travelled internationally. Several newspapers commented on her appearance, and the advertised dowry of £100 for Plough Queens who married during their rein. The only catch was that the dowry was only paid if the Queen had not attained her 25th birthday on the date of the wedding. Peggy wore the silver crown and her gown when she led a parade in March 1958 through the streets of Dublin driving a tractor. A victory dinner dance was organised by the County Kilkenny Ploughing Committee in April. The victory dance was held at the Mayfair Ballroom in Kilkenny city and Peggy was presented with an inscribed clock by the County Ploughing Committee (Kilkenny People, Sat. 26 April 1958, p. 9). The music was rendered by Sean O’Connor and his band from Cork featuring electric organ and violin (Munster Express, Fri. 18 April 1958, p. 4).
At the Spring Show held at the RDS in Ballsbridge in May 1958, the then Minister for Agriculture, Paddy Smith, presented the national ploughing winners with trophies. Peggy was presented with a silver bracelet by ALG Tractors, Ltd., Borris-in-Ossory, Laois, in recognition of her work with an Allgaier tractor (Irish Independent, Fri. 9 May 1958, p. 5).
Although no photo or article could be found regarding Peggy’s appearance in a Cork parade we did locate the following article. “Efforts are being pursued through the initiative of a progressive garage owner at the eastern end of the town to have Peggy Mullally, Kilkenny, “Ireland’s Queen of the Plough” driving in the parade. She will be awarded a £100 dowry if she will marry during the twelve months of winning her title. Perhaps on Wednesday next she will make the acquaintance of a West Cork man and collect her £100 prize” (Southern Star, Sat. 13 Sept. 1958, p. 3).
The Waterford News & Star announced that “The Queen Goes to Germany.” Peggy was leaving to spend “a holiday in Germany.” The trip was sponsored by Porsche Diesel Tractors, Ltd. The article stated that Peggy used a Porsche tractor during the Tramore championships (26 Sept. 1958, p. 6). Peggy left on the 30th of September via Dublin airport and flew into Zurich for a week’s holiday (Irish Press, 1 Oct 1958, p. 6). Both Allgaier and Porsche were German companies. At the end of the Second World War, Porsche Diesel Company was supplying engines to Allgaier for its tractors. Porsche took over the tractor manufacturing in 1957, but ceased production in 1963.
National Ploughing Championship 1959
In January just a few weeks before the 1959 Championships it was announced that Peggy would not defend her crown. In 1959, the Championship was held in Burnchurch, Co. Kilkenny on the 28th and 29th of January. It was announced in Waterford that Peggy only recently returned from a tour of Germany, where she was guest at International ploughing contests and had no time to practice for the Championship” (Irish Press, Wed. 7 Jan. 1959, p. 4). It appears that Peggy after her week long vacation in October returned to Germany to attend International ploughing contests.
In spite of having had little time for training, Peggy competed in 1959 and came in second overall. She also won the prize for the best furrow (Kilkenny People Sat, 7 Feb. 1959, p. 4).
Although Peggy did not win the £100 dowry or meet a West Cork man, she did meet and marry a farmer from the Kilclareen,Templemore, Tipperary, Eugene Laffan and the couple had a daughter. Peggy Laffan née Mullally died in 1997, and her obituary is available on our obituary page under her married name Laffan.
Kilkenny Victory Dinner Dance 1958–(Front left to right, seated) Mick Muldowney, Jo Mullally Prendergast, Seamus Mullally, Queen Peggy, Richie Mullally, Maura Mullally Kelly, James Kelly, ? (Second row of 9: Kathy Vereker, Nola O’Donoghue, Tommy Ryan, Molly Doherty?, Mary Barron, Mary Fitzgerald, johnny Vereker, Tom Cuddihy, Richie Doherty (Third Row) profile Statia Ryan, Mickey Murphy, Mikey Barron, Dick Cody, Paul Fitzgerald (middle of mirror), Paddy Griffin, Jimmy Prendergast, Paddy Culleton, Tom Aylward
Please send additional information or corrections to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
The featured photo above of Peggy wearing her crown was taken at her coronation at Tramore and published in the Farmer’s Journal (22 Feb. 1958, p. 25). Murphy Motors of Glenmore sold Allgaier tractors. See our previous post of 27 June 2020 regarding Michael Murphy of Murphy Motors.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Kilbride, Glenmore (1961)
Today, we are going to feature information that Danny Dowling recorded regarding the residents of the townland of Kilbride, Glenmore around 1961. The Irish for this townland, according to O’Kelly’s, The Place Names of the County of Kilkenny (1969, p. 109) is Cill Bride, or St. Brigid’s church. The townland is comprised of 378 acres. “This long townland stretches from the Ballyfasey (sic) road to within less than a mile of Glenmore village. Carrigan states that the holy well, Tobar Bride, was drained and destroyed in 1842; also that the baptismal font and holy-water stoup of the old church lie in the graveyard. Fields here are Croichtin na g cnemh, little croft of the bones, and Pairc Mhanais, Manus’s field.” For further information on the old Kilbride graveyard click here.
In the 1830 Griffith’s Valuation Applotment Records the townland had three landlords: George Caulfield; Mary Anne Tighe, widow and Hariet Cuffe. The tenants included: Thomas and Michael Freney (93 acres); Thomas Malone (32 acres); James, Laurence and Edmond Mackey (40 acres); John, Mary, Michael Colleton & James Walsh (85 acres); John Colleton, James Reddy, Edmond Hanrahan, James McDonell & Andrew Dunn. It appears that the last group of men held 114 acres in commonage). Eleven years later, Edmond Hanrahan was a witness in an 1841 murder that took place in Kilbride. See our previous blog post of 18 July 2021 regarding the murder, our blog post of 21 July 2021 regarding the trial and lastly our blog post of 24 July 2021 regarding the killer’s sentencing and execution.
Danny Dowling in 1961 recorded 10 families or households in Kilbride. Birthdates or birth years are provided for some of the older residents gleaned from available public records. For some time after drafting his notebook, Danny recorded the dates of death or simply recorded that a resident had died or left the townland. The recorded information reveals that in 1961, 43 people resided in Kilbride with the population comprised of 22 males and 21 females. The John Culleton family was the largest family with 8 family members in the household. There were 2 households ( James Reddy & Thomas Freyne) where it was recorded that a single person lived alone.
Recorded Residents
Males= 22
Females= 21
Eldest Recorded Resident = The oldest Kilbride resident was James Culleton, Sr. (24 January 1867-23 July 1962 ) who was 94 in 1961. On the 8th of December 2019 Danny Dowling stated that old Jim Culleton was born when the New Ross bridge was knocked down by ice. The New Ross mid-wife was not able to attend at his birth because the bridge was destroyed. For further details see the end of our blog post of 14 December 2019.
Recorded Work
Farmer = 7 (7 males) (including 1 retired farmer)
Farm Labourer/Worker = 5 (5 males)
Carpenter = 4 (4 males) (including 1 retired carpenter)
Building Labourer = 1 (1 male)
Oil Lorry Driver = 1 (1 male)
Butter Maker = 1 (1 female)
KILBRIDE RESIDENTS
[1] POWER
Power, Mary (25 July 1871) (died 20 June 1961)
Synott, Patrick, farm worker
Synott, Anastatia, wife
[2] REDDY
Reddy, James (13 July 1926) Farmer
[3] CULLETON
Culleton, John (18 Oct. 1911) Farmer
Culleton, Margaret (1917) wife
Culleton, James, son, farm worker
Culleton, Johanna, daughter
Culleton, Mary, daughter
Culleton, Patrick, son
Culleton, John, son
Culleton, James, Sr. (24 June 1867) father, retired farmer
[4] CULLETON
Culleton, Michael (18 Oct. 1878) Farmer (died 28 Feb. 1962)
Culleton, Alice (5 June 1895) wife
Culleton, James, son, farm worker
Morrissey, James (6 May 1896) boarder, farm worker
[5] KENNEDY
Kennedy, Patrick (13 Oct. 1890) Retired Carpenter (dead no date recorded)
Kennedy, Johanna (28 Sept. 1892) wife
Kennedy, Martin, son, carpenter
Kennedy, Richard, son, carpenter
Kennedy, Edward, son, carpenter
Kennedy, Margaret (28 Oct. 1929) daughter
[6] FREYNE
Freyne, James (27 July 1905) Farmer
Freyne, Mary Anne (30 Oct. 1908) wife
Freyne, Johanna, daughter, butter maker (married & left home)
Freyne, James, son, farm worker
Freyne, Mary Katherine, daughter
Freyne, Bridget, daughter
Freyne, Margaret, daughter-in-law
[7] GRACE
Grace, William (1917) Farmer
Grace, Ellen (1925) wife
Grace, Mary, daughter
Grace, Margaret, daughter
Grace, Alice, daughter
[8] HANDRICK
Handrick, Patrick (3 Sept. 1907) Building Labourer
Handrick, Margaret (1917) wife
Handrick, Garrett, son
Handrick, James, son
Handrick, Kathleen, daughter
Handrick, Bridget, daughter
[9] MURRAY
Murray, John, Oil Lorry Driver
Murray, Eileen, wife
[10] FREYNE
Freyne, Thomas, Farmer
Please send any corrections or additional information to glenmore.history@gmail.com.
The featured photo above is the Kilbride graveyard.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh