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Election of Glenmore Midwives
An interesting article can be found in the Waterford Standard newspaper of Saturday the 23rd of July 1910 where two young Glenmore women were being considered for the same midwife post. The article notes that the Waterford Board of Poor Law Guardians met in their weekly meeting on Wednesday the 20th of July 1910 in the Boardroom of the Union Workhouse. The Chairman of the Board of Guardians, Mr. David Hyland presided. One of the items on their agenda was the “election” of a maternity nurse for the Workhouse. The salary associated with the position was £25 per year with the “usual allowances.” The Clerk reported that he had received two applications for the position. The first candidate was Miss Johanna Young, of Ballyfacey, Glenmore, who had a certificate of training from the Cork Lying-in Hospital which was dated the 14th of December 1909. The second candidate was from Miss Annie Power, of Glenmore, who obtained her diploma from the Coombe hospital, in Dublin, in June of 1910.
It is reported that the Board immediately became divided. A vote was taken and how each member of the Board voted is reported in the article. Newspapers from before and around the turn of the twentieth century are full of criticisms regarding the political nature of how people were appointed to positions under the control of the Poor Law Guardians.
The 1910 article provides that eleven members of the Board voted in favour of Miss Power including: Thomas Power, of Callaghane; Michael Flynn, of Ballygunner; George Gamble, of Kilmeaden; James Power, Raheen; Edmond Curran, Ballintray; Thomas Kelly, of Aylwardstown; John Power, Ballygunner—temple; Richard Fitzgerald; Edmond Donovan; Captain W. Coghlan; and James Kirwan.
Seventeen members of the Board voted in favour of Miss Young including: The Mayor of Waterford, Councillor James Hackett; Captain R.C. Carew, Justice of the Peace; Maurice Power, of Moonamantra; James Maddock, of Gracedieu; Patrick Shortis, Ferrybank; John Vereker, Michael Riordan, of Ballyshoneen; John Healy; T. Holden; J. Holden; John Moore; G.D. Bishop; P.W. Kenny; James Farrell; P. Fitzgerald; John O’Neill, of Ullid; and James Young.
Miss Johanna Young, was declared elected to the position. Miss Young obtained her qualification 6 months prior to Miss Power, but that is not discussed in the newspaper article. A review of the 1901 Census of Glenmore reveals that Johanna Young was from Ballyfacey Upper, Glenmore and was born in about 1885. She was the daughter of Richard Young (c. 1843) and Kate Young (c. 1844). Her father was a carpenter and farmer. Johanna Young in 1901 had three brothers and a sister living at home including: George Young (farm labourer, aged 32); Laurence Young (carpenter, aged 26); Richard Young (farm labourer, aged 21) and Mary Young (aged 23). Also living with the family was Richard and Kate’s niece Kate O’Leary who was 4 years of age. In the 1911 Census, Johanna Young was 25 years of age living at John’s Hill in Waterford City with 27 other health care workers, primarily nurses. Johanna’s occupation is listed as “maternity nurse, workhouse.”
The unsuccessful candidate Miss Annie Power, was the daughter of Thomas Power (c. 1847) and Mary Power (c. 1847) of Robinstown, Glenmore. Annie was born around 1883, so she was about two years older than Johanna Young. Annie’s father, Thomas Power was a farm labourer and in the 1901 Census four of her brothers are also living in the home as well as her 12 year old cousin Michael Walsh. The names of her brothers are: Patrick Power (farm labourer, aged 25); John Power, (labourer, aged 23); William Power (farm labourer, aged 20); and James Power (scholar, aged 15). The 1911 Census reveals that Annie is 27 and her occupation is maternity nurse. Her parents are aged 66 and only one of her brothers is living at home; James Power is 24 and employed as a post man. Also in the house is Kate Power, aged 10, Thomas and Mary Power’s granddaughter.
Twenty-four years before the two young Glenmore women sought the midwife position at the workhouse, the Kilmackevoge Dispensary Committee met to commence finding a midwife to replace Mrs. Alice Mackey who had died. The death register provides that a Mrs. Anne Mackey, of Weatherstown, Glenmore died at the age of 80 on the 8th of June 1886. Her husband Philip Mackey was present when she died and her occupation is listed as midwife.
An account of the Kilmackevoge Dispensary Committee meeting is found in the Waterford Standard of 17 July 1886. The Committee members in attendance included: Thomas Reidy, William Fitzgerald, John Fitzgerald, Thomas Freaney, Richard Phelan, P.L.G. (Poor Law Guardian); David Carroll, and Mr. John Lawless, P.L.G. These men determined that due to the size of the area to be covered that the district should be divided into thirds and two new midwives were required for the poor to “obtain the attendance of a midwife when required.” The Committee men then went on to recommend that the salary of Mrs. McGrath, the midwife at Mullinavat, be reduced from £12 to £7 per year, and that the two new midwives would also be paid £7 per year. One of the new midwives would reside at Glenmore and the other at Slieverue. They were required to send their proposal for approval to the Local Government Board. It was also proposed that the “election” of the new midwives would take place at Slieverue the first Tuesday in August.
As reported in the Waterford Standard of 16 October 1886, the Local Government Board wrote to the Kilmackevogue Dispensary Committee and inquired into whether Mrs McGrath, midwife, was satisfied regarding the reduction of her salary from £12 to £7 as proposed by the Dispensary Committee. Not surprising it was reported that Mrs. McGrath was not satisfied with the proposal to reduce her salary. The attendees at the October meeting were: Thomas Reidy; John Lawless, P.L.G.; M. Malone; Patrick O’Reilly; J. McDonald, P.L.G,; P. Grant; Edmond Forristall, P.L.G., William Fitzgerald; Edmond Delahunty; Edward Duggan, Ryan, and Major Gyles, J.P.; Thomas Freany and John Fitzgerald.
John Lawless proposed and John Fitzgerald seconded a motion that recommended that Mrs. McGrath’s salary would be reduced from £12 to £8 a year, which was the original salary she had when appointed. It was noted that in the future she would have a smaller district and less duties. An amendment to this resolution was proposed by Mr. Forristall, seconded by Mr. Ryan, that proposed no reduction in Mrs. McGrath’s salary. The amendment lost by one vote. The Lawless resolution to cut Mrs. McGrath’s salary to her starting wage of £8 was adopted by one vote.
It was further proposed to divide the district midwife duties as follows. For the midwife to be appointed for Slieverne, she would be responsible for part of district of Electoral Division of Rathpatrick and Kilcolent (sic), also adjoining townlands of Ballincrea Electoral Division, including: Nicholastown, Attateemore, Ballincrea, Davidstown, and Monroe. The midwife to be appointed for Glenmore, would be responsible for the Electoral Division of Kilmackevogne and Kilbride, also the adjoining townlands of Ballincrea Electoral Division, including Knockbrack, Catsrock, Coolnaleen, Ballindare, and Ballinlaimmy. Mrs. McGrath would be responsible for the Electoral Divisions of Killahy, Farnogue, and Kilbacon.
Just prior to the meeting ending a resolution was made not to reduce Mrs. McGrath’s salary. Perhaps there was concern that the Local Government Board would not sanction the advertising of the two needed midwife posts if the Committee continued to seek to cut Mrs. McGrath’s salary. Unfortunately, the newspaper does not record the reason for the resolution. Mr. Forristall seconded the motion. Although the Chairman said in his opinion it would be unwise to interfere with the matter he took a vote. Mr. Lawless opposed the motion on the grounds of economy and convenience. Unfortunately, the newspaper article does not record why he thought his proposal to put Mrs. McGrath back on her starting salary was convenient. The motion not to cut Mrs. McGrath’s salary was voted upon and declared passed.
Our next posting will outline some of the unusual events surrounding the Glenmore Dispensary.
The featured image of the midwife is by Andres Campillo. The drawing of the nurse is by Henry Monnier.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Tragedy and Perseverance on Both Sides of the Atlantic
A recent query from a young reader caused further research into Laurence “Larry” Duggan (1832-1905) born and raised in Ballinaraha, Glenmore. In the U.S. most of the records are in the name “Lawrence or Larry Dugan” and in Ireland most of the records record his name as “Laurence Duggan.” According to the 1900 New York Census, “Lawrence Dugan” of Babcock Hill, Bridgewater, Oneida County, New York was a farmer, 68 years of age and a widower. He reported that he was born in Ireland in February 1832, immigrated to the US in 1853, and was a naturalised U.S. citizen. What makes Laurence Duggan unusual is the fact that at the age of 72 he returned to Glenmore to visit his family and drowned in St. John’s River in Waterford City in early 1905.
The Inquest
On Tuesday the 24th of January 1905, the body of what was described as a middle-aged man was pulled out of St. Catherine’s Pill in Waterford City near the bridge at the courthouse grounds. The Waterford Chronical newspaper of 25th of January 1905, wrongly identified the remains of those of Martin Duggan, a returned American. “The circumstances concerning his death are involved in mystery, but the Constabulary entertain no suspicion of foul play.” The alleged mystery is never explained, but it is reported that some letters were found on the body which showed that the deceased was attempting to have his return ticket to New York extended. His return ticket was due to expire in February and he sought the assistance of Messrs. Ward Bros., the general Emigration and Shipping Agents, of 2 Barronstrand Street, Waterford. A review of the Waterford City Directory of 1900 indicates that the Ward Bros. also conducted a saddlery business at those premises.
Although the name of Lawrence Duggan’s brother is not provided in the newspapers account of the inquest, based on the 1901 census, it is believed he was staying at his brother Peter Duggan’s home in Ballinaraha, Glenmore. Peter and Larry’s sister, Margaret Duggan was the second wife of Martin Murphy, of Ballinlammy, Glenmore. Martin Murphy and Margaret Duggan Murphy were the parents of Michael Murphy. Based on the 1901 Census, Martin Murphy was dead and his widow, Margaret was 75 years of age in 1901. Michael Murphy was 45 and his wife Mary was 28. According to the Diary of James Aylward, of Ballyhobuck, Glenmore, Michael Murphy and his wife Mary were married in February 1901.
During the course of the inquest into the death of Lawrence Duggan it was noted that money was found on the deceased when he was pulled from the water. The police were directed to give the money to Michael Murphy to bury his uncle. A witness, James J. McKenna, of 38 Johnstown Road, Waterford testified that he was coming home through the Park on Monday night about 6.30 o’clock and entered the park at the gate lodge. He saw a man who walked past him and when he glanced at the man he was standing at a tree near the bank of the river near the lavatory. When the witness got to the park fountain he heard a splash and cries of “Help, help!.” The witness raised the alarm and sought help from another man because witness could not swim. He saw the man in the water give a couple of “kicks” but was pulled out by the tide and disappeared.
Dr. J. H. Kelleher testified that he viewed the body in the morgue, and with the exception of a few scratches on the face, which were possibly caused at the time of death, there were no marks of violence. In his opinion death was due suffocation through drowning. The third witness at the inquest was Owen Long, of Miller’s Marsh, who testified that he found the body at John’s Bridge at 11: 30 o’clock on Tuesday morning. A verdict of death by accidental drowning was returned, but a rider was added calling on the ” responsible authorities” to provide more protection along this portion of the river.
Life in the US
A search revealed that a Laurence Duggan sailed on a ship called the Laurence Forristal from Waterford and arrived in New York on the 20th of May 1853. The records provide that he was 25 years of age. Laurence Duggan married his wife Anna, another Irish immigrant, and their first child, Richard Dugan was born in Albany, New York in 1856. By 1860 the family was in Schoharie County, New York and a second son, John, was born in 1858. In 1863 Laurence registered for the draft. He reported that he was 32 years of age, married, and worked as a labourer. A James Dugan, age 34, is also on the list. It appears that Laurence did not serve in the Union Army during the Civil War. By 1870 the family was resident in Bridgewater, Oneida County, New York. Laurence had purchased a farm and he and Anna had 7 children: Richard Dugan, 13; John Dugan, age 12; Mary Dugan, age 9; James Dugan, age 7; Thomas Dugan, age 5; Maggie Dugan, age 3 and Annie Duggan, age 1. At least one more child was born to the couple, Ellen “Nellie” Dugan was born in April 1878. Unfortunately, the 1890 Federal Census was destroyed by fire.
There are several farm related documents in state records submitted by “Larry Dugan” of Babcock Hill, Bridgewater, Oneida County, New York. By 1900 Anna had died as well as their eldest son, Richard Dugan (1856-1890); and it appears that Mary Dugan may have died of TB on the 8th of July 1874. In the 1900 Census Laurence is 68 and living on his farm with his daughter, Margaret who is 26, his son Thomas who is 35 and his married daughter Nellie Kelly who married in 1898 to James Kelly. Nellie is 23 and James is 33. In October 1904 Laurence Dugan set off, apparently on his own, to Glenmore, Co. Kilkenny, Ireland. He never returned to his home or children in New York state. Laurence Duggan left an estate in New York and his Will was duly probated in Oneida County.
In an attempt to discover how or if the news of his tragic drowning was reported in New York a different tragedy was discovered in the Boston Globe edition of the 19th of March 1906. At the Dugan Farm on Babcock Hill, Bridgewater, Oneida County, New York, Thomas Dugan awoke to find the farmhouse on fire shortly before midnight. He raised the alarm and the newspaper account reports that he perished while saving the others in the house. His sister Maggie, after escaping the smoke filled house, dressed only in a nightdress ran barefooted in the snow half a mile to a neighbour seeking help. His sister Nellie and her husband James gathered their two small children and also escaped the burning house. A 14 year old farm worker who was sleeping upstairs escaped by knocking out the window and jumping. The Dugan family lost their brother, home and possessions, but the 1940 Census reveals that Margaret Dugan was still operating the dairy farm. Ellen “Nellie” Duggan Kelly died on 1 May 1936. Nellie’s children in 1940 were residing on the Dugan Farm with Margaret. Margaret Dugan lived to the age of 86 and died on the 12th of December 1961.
Shortly after Laurence Dugan’s drowning death in January 1905 his sister Margaret Duggan Murphy died in May 1905. His brother Peter Duggan died in 1911. (DD Notebook 2, Interview of Hannah Murphy Dowling). Tragically his nephew, Michael Murphy, of Ballinlammy, Glenmore died suddenly on the 11th of November 1909 leaving his widow, Mary with 6 young children after eight years of marriage. In the 1911 Census Maggie Murphy was 9, Hannah Murphy was 8, Mai Murphy was 6, Martin Murphy was 5, Bridget Murphy was 3 and Michael Murphy was 1. Young Hannah Murphy above was Danny Dowling’s mother.
The featured portion of a modern map of the City of Waterford is included to illustrate the area of the park and St. John’s River which empties into the tidal River Suir.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Glenmore and Mr. Parnell
Danny Dowling in notebook 23 listed a large number of articles referencing Glenmore including the above entitled article that was published in the Wexford People newspaper on Saturday the 7th of February 1891. Today, we will feature the first article in that edition and Sunday we will feature the second article. These articles provide a glimpse into how politics in that era divided the people of the parish of Glenmore.
The Division of the Glenmore National Land League
For our international readers—Charles Stewart Parnell (1846-1891) was an Irish politician, who was elected to Parliament, became leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party, and the President of the Irish National Land League. As discussed in a recent post the Glenmore Branch of the National Land League was established in 1880 when the local parish priest called the parishioners together to form a local branch. The division in the National as well as the local Branch occurred after William O’Shea, a former Parnell supporter, filed in December 1889, for divorce from his wife Katherine on the grounds of her adultery with Parnell. The divorce was granted in 1890 after Parnell did not dispute the charge. The scandal caused the Catholic clergy of Ireland to speak out against Parnell and split the National Land League.
The newspaper articles, of the 7th of February 1891, reveal details concerning the division of the Glenmore Branch over Parnell and lists a large number of local Land League supporters. The meeting took place about 9 months prior to Parnell’s death at the age of 45.
“Glenmore League met on Sunday. The Rev. J. Dunphy, Adm., occupied the chair. A discussion took place about the sending of money collected for the evicted tenants, and it was finally agreed to send it to the joint treasurers in Dublin, on the understanding that no official of the Central League should have anything to do or say to it.
The question of affiliating the Branch was then introduced, and a warm discussion took place. The majority of those present were not disposed to have anything to do with the central office, managed by Mr. Harrington and Co., at least until the rules of the constitution were carried out by having its officers elected, and not self-constituted, as they are at present. It soon became evident that the Parnellites, Parnell-likers, were not disposed to be ruled by the majority, and that they were bent even upon starting an opposition branch.
The new chairman strongly condemned this on two grounds. First, because he believed that there was no assembly in the world wherein the rule did not prevail that the minimum would be bound by the majority. Secondly, because he considered that the existence of two leagues in a parish would be prejudicial to the interests of religion and country alike, and as for as he was concerned he would never countenance the idea. If, then, the minority persist in the idea of establishing a branch, why let them, but the public would know at what door to lay the charge of creating disorder and disunion in the National Ranks. Not until every effort failed in cementing the dissentients together was there any resolution put forward to test the real feelings of the committee.
Father Brenan C.C., then proposed, and Mr. J. Fitzgerald, seconded, the subjoined resolution –that we consider the pretentions of Mr. Parnell to the further leadership in the Irish Parliamentary Party highly prejudicial to the best interests of the country, that we call upon the whole body of our representatives to adjust their difference, and under a new leader press forward the final settlement of the land question and the labour question, as the Irish farmers will never rest satisfied until the old cry “the land for the people” is realised. Amidst some disorder and confusion the resolution was put from the chair with the following result: For the resolution the following persons voted: Father Brennan, Messrs. John Fitzgerald, Vice-Chairman; James Irish, P.L.G.; Walter Grant; James Aylward; W. Irish; E. Cody; Wm. Hartley; James Dunne; E. Haberlin; P. Kehoe; and the chairman—12. Against—Messrs, T. Forrestal; P. Forrestal; J. Hanrahan; P. Irish; J. Doherty; and J. Reddy—6. The chairman then declared the resolution carried by a majority of two to one.”
Glenmore and the Evicted Tenants Fund
The 49 persons who contributed to the Evicted Tenants Fund as well as the amounts contributed were published in the newspaper as follows: Rev. J. Dunphy, Adm £1; Rev. H. Brennan, C.C. £1; Messrs. J. Fitzgerald, vice chairman, £1, 10s; P. Fitzgerald, £1,5s; Thomas Forrestal, £1, 3s, 6d; Mrs. Mary Grant, 15 s, 9d; Mrs. Roche, 14s, 6d; M. Barron, 14s; Wm. Irish, 12s, 6d; Mrs. Mary Fitzgerald, 12s, 6d; James Aylward, T. Kennedy, R. Raftice, 11s each; R. Grant, J. Wall, E. Cody, M. Maher, P. Fitzgerald, M. Kennedy, W. Forrestal, 10s each; R. Dunphy, 9s, 9d; J. Mullally 9s; 6d; J. Morrissey, 9s, 3d; E. Aylward, R. Roche, 3s each; J. Irish, M. Gorman 7s, 5d; W. Grant, 7s, 3d; Mrs. Aylward, 6s, 8d; Widow Kennedy, N. Murphy, 6s, 6d each; John Kennedy, R. Vereker, T. Aylward, 6s each; John Murphy, Mrs. Mackey, 5s each; Richard Kennedy, 4s, 6d; Richard Prendergast, 4s; T. Fitzgerald 3s, 10d; P. Walsh 3s; Mrs. Roche, 2s; E. Haberlin, 1s, 6d; W. Neill, M. Cahill, Michael Walsh, P. Forrestal 1s each; P. Byrne, R. Wall, P. Quinn; J. Forrestal, 6d each.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Thomas Keane: The Last Waterford Tobacco Spinner
One of the best things about transcribing Danny Dowling’s handwritten notebooks is reading about the interesting people Danny interviewed over the years. Most were from Glenmore, had Glenmore connections, or had some historical fact or story that Danny found interesting and thought should be recorded. Today’s blog falls into the last category.
While working as a Housing Officer in Waterford, Danny met and later in 1975 interviewed Jack Keane, British Railway Cottage, Adelphi Quay, Waterford. Jack Keane informed Danny that his father, Thomas Keane was the last man to make handmade tobacco in Waterford. His grandfather was also a tobacco twister.
Thomas Keane worked for the Slaney Tobacco and Snuff Manufacturers. The Slaney firm was the last tobacco manufacturers in Waterford. The Slaney premises were on Broad Street where the gas showrooms were in 1975. The Slaney factory was in the same building at the rear of the retail shop and overhead in the lofts. From the stalks of the tobacco leaves, which were waste after the manufacture of tobacco, snuff would be made. The business had three apprentices and another man named Walsh also worked with Thomas Keane. Slaney also made what was called “pigtail” chewing tobacco from Cavendish Leaf. It was very mild. Unfortunately I could not find any advert in a local newspaper or business directory concerning Slaney.
Jack Keane told Danny that his father was a good cricketer, and played for the Ballytruckle team. The Keane’s lived on Poleberry Street as did an uncle of Jack Keane’s named McConnell who was a carpenter.
In 1979 Danny again interviewed Jack Keane who provided more information about his father and spoke of his own life. Jack Keane’s father, Thomas Keane, died in the 1930’s aged 84 years. The Slaney firm was bought out by Carroll’s of Dundalk. The manufacturer of tobacco and snuff discontinued in Waterford just prior to the outbreak of World War I.
Jack Keane worked all his life with British Rail as an inspector. Jack explained to Danny that he served in the first World War in the Royal Irish Regiment. Jack served from 14 December 1915 until 21 March 1918. Jack was taken prisoner at Messines Ridge, and worked as a POW in Duisburg.
After the war Jack Keane went to work for British Rail which acquired control of the Waterford Steamship Company. Its headquarters were on the Mall near the old Adelphi Hotel. The old Waterford Steamship Company had its berthage opposite Reginald’s Towner. British Rail had ships plying to Southhampton, London, Bristol, Glasgow and Liverpool. Bristol and Waterford, and Liverpool and Waterford had direct sailings.
Although Jack Keane referred to his father and grandfather’s profession as tobacco twisters according to the 14 October 1899 edition of the Waterford Standard the profession was known as “tobacco spinners.” The article notes that Waterford City since 1663 had a number of ancient Guilds or Fraternities including buttonmakers, weavers, tobacco spinners, rollers and cutters. The 1899 article bemoans the fact that some of the ancient trades had disappeared altogether from the city such as the buttonmakers, tobacco spinners, rollers and cutters. Notwithstanding the 1899 newspaper article, census records from 1911 support that his father, Thomas Keane, was employed in 1911 as a “tobacco spinner.”
Although Jack Keane did not provide a lot of information to Danny concerning his personal life the census helps piece together his early circumstances. In 1911 Jack or John, aged 13, was living at 76 Poleberry with his father Thomas Keane, aged 54, a widower. Thomas declared his profession as “tobacco spinner.” Thomas and Jack Keane were boarders in the house of Patrick and Mary Ellen Keily. The only clue as to Jack’s mother is his reference to his uncle being named McConnell, a carpenter, who also lived on Poleberry. The 1911 census provides two McConnell’s who are carpenters in Waterford. Patrick McConnell is living alone and James McConnell is 24. In 1911 neither lived on Poleberry. The 1901 Census does show that a McConnell family was living at 67 Poleberry. Patrick McConnell, carpenter, was 48; his wife Alice McConnell was 49, and James McConnell was 15.
In the two short interviews Danny recorded information concerning a profession and industry that had flourished in Waterford for over 200 years and disappeared from Waterford in the first decade of the twentieth century. The interviewee was a soldier and POW in the Great War and returned to Waterford.
Update, we have just surpassed 10,000 views. Thank you all for your continued support and queries. The transcription of Notebook 22 is complete and we will update the family pages etc. as time permits.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Glenmore’s WW1 Military Marker for Private J. Gaule [Updated]
A reader recently asked about a military marker in the Glenmore church yard of a Private J. Gaule (service number 29019), who died on the 4th of July 1918, at the age of 21. Our reader said that he has wondered about J. Gaule for years. A quick check of Danny Dowling’s notebooks revealed that this military marker is for John Gaule, of Haggard, Glenmore who served in the British Infantry in WWI, with the Machine Gun Corps. Danny in notebook 21 made notes regarding John Gaule, but there is no indication where Danny obtained the information recorded. According to Danny’s notes John Gaule was the son of Richard Gaule and Mary O’Brien and the grandson of Michael Gaule and Bridget Power.
The military marker is on the right hand side of the front entrance against the front wall of the churchyard. There are two other Gaule markers that provide clues concerning John’s family. The three Gaule markers against the front wall of the Glenmore churchyard provide the following information.
Marker 1:
29019 Private J. Gaule, Machine Gun Corps (Inf), 4th July 1918, aged 21
Marker 2:
In loving memory of Mary Gaule, died 26th of April 1902,
Richard Gaule, died 28th of January 1940,
My dearest husband James Gaule, died 26th November 1912, aged 71
Interred Kensal Green, London
Marker 3:
In loving memory of our dear parents,
Martin Gaule died 25th of June 1981, aged 80 years,
His wife Ellie, died 12th June 1986, aged 84 years,
Also their twin son, Bill who died in his second year,
His brother Martin died 15 August 2014, aged 85 years,
His wife Eileen, neé Murray, died 18th July 2005, aged 84 years.
According to the birth register John Gaule was born on 15 May 1896 at Ballinlammy, Glenmore. The 1911 Census reveals that John Gaule was living with his family in Knockbrack, Glenmore. The Head of the household was Bridget Gaule, age 77. The rest of the members of the household are as follows: Patrick Gaule, age 38, single, son of the head of household; Richard Gaule, age 44, widower, son of the head of household, agricultural labourer; John Gaule, age 15; Martin Gaule, age 10; James Gaule, age 8 and Michael Power, age 11 (cousin).
The 1901 Census reveals further information. John Gaul (sic) was 5 years of age and living with his family in Ballinlammy, Glenmore. The head of household was his father Richard Gaul, aged 40, and employed as an agricultural labourer. John’s mother is listed as Mary, aged 39. The other members of the family include: Stasia, aged 11; Maggie, aged 8; John, aged 5; Anne, aged 3 and Martin, aged 8 months.
The census records support that the three markers in the Glenmore church yard refer to the same family. For example marker 3 contains John’s brother Martin (c. 1900-1981) and Martin’s family. Marker 2 contains John’s parents Richard (c.1861-1940) and Mary (c. 1862-1902).
British military records reveal that John Gaule was awarded two medals: the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.
The National Archives of Ireland contains John’s handwritten Will. On the 2nd of June 1916, John wrote the following simple Will, “After my death leave all to my father Richard Gaule, Haggard, Glenmore, Co. Kilkenny, Ireland.” The Will was processed on the 29th of January 1919. Other records in the file reveal that John enlisted at Waterford. John died from wounds sustained in France/Flanders and died at the Belton Park Military Hospital, Granthan, Lincolnshire, England. Belton Park was also where WWI machine gunmen training camps and depots were located. To view John’s Will held by the National Archives see, http://soldierswills.nationalarchives.ie/reels/sw/1918_22/GauleJ_E669256.pdf.
A quick walk around the Glenmore churchyard today did not reveal additional British military markers, but according to Danny’s notebooks another Glenmore man John Ryan, of Rochestown, served in the British Army during WWI and died in 1919. We will feature John Ryan and the mystery surrounding him in a future post.
Update of 3 Sept. 2021–Catherine Davies née Kearney, aged 92, made contact via her son Stephen Davies and shared a verse written by John Gaule which he gave to his father before he went off to join the war. The verse was given to Catherine by her mother Anastatia Kearney nee Gaule (the sister of John Gaule). John Gaule was called “Jack” by his family.
Remember dearest father, Remember days gone by, Your son he is a solider, And he's not afraid to die.
From the information provided we were able to find further information regarding some of the siblings of John Gaule ( 1896-1918). His sister Maggie Gaule (b. 26 Jan. 1894) married James Treacy on 12 January 1914 at Mullinavat. James Treacy was the son of William Treacy and Mary Treacy née Dee. Annie Gaule was the maid of honour. His sister Anastatia Gaule was born on 2 May 1890 per the Glenmore parish register. However, the civil register lists her birth as occuring on 1 April 1890 and her mother is listed as Mary Murphy. The information for the civil registration was provided by Bridget Gaule who was present at the birth. Anastatia Gaule married Michael Kearney (smith) on 8 July 1912 at St. Patrick’s of Waterford City. Michael was the son of Tom Kearney (smith). Witnesses to the wedding were William Hartley and Katie Meany. The addresses of the bride and groom are “The Square.” Some of the children of this marriage were found in the publically available records including: [1] Michael Kearny (b. 5 Aug. 1912); [2] Bridget Kearney (b. 9 Feb. 1914); and [3] Mary Kearney (b. 10 Aug. 1915). We know from the birth records that the family resided in Arundal Square, Waterford City when Michael was born and then moved to Gurteens, Slieverue where the father continued to work as a blacksmith.
Update: 13 October 2021, Stephen Davies indicated that Michael Kearney and Anastatia “Statia” Kearney née Gaule had a total of 14 children. The following names were supplied by Stephen: [4] John Kearney; [5] Anastatia “Daney” Kearney; [6] Ellen “Nell” Kearney; [7] Richard “Dick” Kearney; [8] Maggie Kearney; [9] Andrew Kearney; [10] Agnes Kearney; [11] Johanna Kearney; [12] Catherine “Katie” Kearney; [13] Angela Kearney.
Michael Kearney died when his daughter Catherine “Katie” was 13. When her father died the family moved to Rathpatrick and a year later Catherine “Katie” Kearney went to her sister Mary in England.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
After the Ballyfacey Evictions: The End of the Father Neary Story
As contained in a previous post Father Patrick Neary (1828-1887), the parish priest of Mullinavat, played a prominent role in the formation of local Land Leagues branches and more importantly in the failed Ballyfacey, Glenmore evictions in August 1885. The local people remained on alert until a settlement was reached. The terms of this settlement can be found in the 11th of September 1885 edition of the Waterford News. “It appears that in those cases the evictions will not be carried out, an amicable arrangement having been made through the exertions of the respected pastor, Father Neary, which will enable the tenants under sentence of death to hold their homes, by the payment of a year’s rent, wiping away all arrears and legal costs.”
Local contemporary newspapers reveal that Father Neary continued to speak at rallies and other Land League events. For example, it was reported in the 18th September 1885 edition of the Waterford News, that Father Neary, during the National League Meeting in Portlaw, publicly stated that land agent Major Hamilton had lied and produced copies of correspondence to that effect. Father Neary continued working and supporting the Land League until his sudden death on the 20th of February 1887 a few weeks before his 59th birthday.
The following obituary was published in the Freeman’s Journal on Thursday the 24th of February 1887. The obituary contains the names of 65 clergy from across County Kilkenny and the southeast.
DEATH OF THE REV. P. NEARY, P.P., of MULLINAVAT
The death of the above reverend gentleman, which took place at Galmoy, in the north of the county Killkenny, on Sunday last, was startling news all over the diocese of Ossory, and indeed all over the south of Ireland. As an archaeologist the rev gentleman’s ability was most distinguished, which was often evidenced by the numerous papers which he contributed from time to time upon archaeological subjects. The funeral passed through Kilkenny on Monday at 3 o’clock. All the business houses were closed as a mark of respect for the deceased gentleman. As a patriot the gallant stand which Father Neary made upon a recent occasion against the cruel evictions in Mullinavat was generally believed to be one of the pluckiest and most successful which has been made during the whole land struggle. The remains were conveyed from Kilkenny to Mullinavat on Monday, and on Tuesday after the Office and High Mass the interment took place. At the Requiem Mass and Office solemnised in the parish church, there were His Lordship Most Rev. Dr Brownrigg, Bishop of Ossory, presiding; Rev. John Carroll, P.P., Kilmacow, celebrant; Rev. John Roe, C.C., deacon; Rev. R. Knaresborouglh, C. C., sub-deacon ; Rev. James Shortall, C.C., Templeorum, master of ceremonies. In the chair were: Very Rev. Edward M’Donald, P.P. V.G. ; Very Rev. Canon Kelly, P.P. Castlecomer; Rev. Walter Keoghan, Adm., St John’s, Kilkenny; Rev. M. O’Connor, C.C., Tallogher; Very Rev. M. Barry, President St. Kieran’s College, Kilkenny; Rev. D. O’Halloran, C.C., Callan; Rev. Walter Walsh, C. C., Slieverue; Rev. James Dunphy, C.C., Glenmore; Rev. Patrick Tracey, C.C., Rathdowney; Rev. P. Meany, C.C., Mullinavat; Rev. John Ryan, C.C., Tullaron; Rev. J. Lynagh, C.C., Inistioge; Rev. Edward Delahunty, P.P. Thomastown; Rev. Thomas Feehan, C.C., Thomastown; Rev. Peter Doyle, C.C. Callan; Rev. J. Dillon, C.C. Ferrybank; Rev. Maurice Hawe, C.C. Mooncoin; Rev. Edward Walsh, P.P. Clara; Rev. Patrick Sheehan, Admn. Cathedral, Waterford, Rev. James Henneberry, Chaplain, Kilkenny Union; Rev. P. Aylward, C.C. St Patrick’s; Rev. Martin Keoghan, P.P. Lisdowney; Rev. Michael Murphy, Professor, St Kieran’s College; Rev. Michael Cody, P.P. Castletown; Rev. P. Hoyne, C.C., Aghavillar; Rev. J. Purcell, P.P. Temploreum; Rev. John M’Grath, Adm, St Patrick’s, Kilkenny; Rev. M. Rowe, C.C., Bennett’s Bridge; Rev. Patrick Walsh, C.C., Ballyfoyle; Rev. Edward Murphy, C.C., Temploreum, Rev. T. Grant, C.C., St. Canices; Rev. Bowe, C.C., Rosbercon; Rev. Philip Power, C.C., St John’s, Waterford; Rev. E. Walsh, C.C.; Rev. James Cosgrave, Principal, the College, Kilmacow; Rev. Peter Nowlan, C.C., Conahy; Rev. Joseph Tiothy, Professor, St Kieran’s College; Rev. T.R. Walsh. Admin., St Mary’s; Rev. John Bow, C.C., Gowran ; Rev. John Prendergast, C.C., Urlingford; Rev. John Grace, C.C., Castlecomer: Rev. J Downey, C.C, Ballyuskill; Rev. James Holohan, P P. Tullaherin; Rev. W. Egan, C. C, Waterford; Rev. M. Dalton, C.C, St Canice’s, Kilkenny; Rev. Wm. Connelly, C.C, Ballycallan; Rev Wm. Cassin, C.C, St. Mary’s, Kilkenny; Rev. P. O’Keeffe, C.C. Galmay; Rev. P. Phelan, C.C., Cullohill: Rev. Edward Butler, C.C., St. John’s, Kilkenny; Rev. John Shortal, P.P. Durrow; Rev. John Walsh, P.P., Slieverue, Rev. James Purcell, C.C., Slieverue; Rev. James Shortall, C.C., Templeorum; Rev. James Doyle, Adm.,Baflyhale; Rev. Father Bannan, 0 P, Black Abbey, Kilkenny; Rev. M. M’Grath, C.C., St. John’s, Kilkenny; Rev. Joseph Canon Dunphy, P.P. Mooncoin, Rev. Thomas Kennedy, C.C., Kilmacow; Very Rev Father Matthew, O S F C; Very Rev. Father Bernard, O S F C, The Friary. The chief mourners following the coffin were- Rev. P. O’Keeffe, C.C. Galmoy; Mr. J B. Hogan and Mr. M.A. Hogan, Ormonde House, Kilkenny; and the Right Worshipful P.M. Egan, Mayor Kilkenny.
The Wexford People of Saturday the 26th of February 1887 reported the following was on the breastplate of the coffin:Rev. P. Neary
Mullinavat
Died
20th February 1887
R.I.P.
Soon after Father Neary’s death an appeal went out internationally for funds to place a fitting memorial on his grave. A large, impressive, granite Celtic cross was acquired from William Collins and Sons, Waterford and the following inscriptions are on the granite marker:
(Side 1)
Rev. Patrick Neary
Born 2nd March 1828
Died 20th February 1887
R.I.P.
(Side 2)
Erected to the memory of a devoted priest and patriotic Irishman
By his numerous admirers at home and abroad.
Although chief mourners are generally family members there is no obvious family link between Father Neary and Rev. P. O’Keeffe, C.C. Galmoy; Mr. J B. Hogan and Mr. M.A. Hogan, Ormonde House, Kilkenny; and the Right Worshipful P.M. Egan, Mayor Kilkenny.
The Hogans were auctioneers and also dealt in painting and decorating per the advertisement found in P.M. Egan’s 1884 book listed below with a link. It appears that most of the listed chief mourners shared Father Neary’s interest in history and archaeology.
John Hogan (1884) Kilkenny: The Ancient City of Ossory, published and printed by P.M. Egan. http://www.askaboutireland.ie/reading-room/digital-book-collection/digital-books-by-county/kilkenny/hogan-kilkenny/ John Hogan was elected Mayor of Kilkenny in 1883.
P.M. Egan (Patrick McEgan Egan) (1884) The Illustrated Guide to the City and County of Kilkenny, http://www.askaboutireland.ie/aai-files/assets/ebooks/82-Egan-Kilkenny/82-Kilkenny.pdf was written, published and printed by P.M. Egan. P.M. Egan was twice elected Mayor of Kilkenny in 1887 and 1888. P.M. Egan died in 1903 at the age of 60 and his obituary provides that he was a National School Teacher and gave that up to go into the printing business in Kilkenny. He also had a book and stationary shop in Waterford.
Father Neary is referenced in both of the books above.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh