Danny Dowling (1927-2021)
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Third Glenmore Gold Sign
Glenmore History in partnership with Glenmore Tidy Towns posted a few Glenmore historical signs around the village and parish earlier this spring and summer. Today, we are going to feature the Glenmore Gold Sign posted to provide information on the Ballyverneen, Glenmore Brick Works. The Gold Sign is on a tree along the road to the Pink Rock overlooking some of the fields of Ballyverneen located adjacent to the River Barrow. This area was bisected by the railway and was once a hive of industrial activity with several brick pits. For readers who cannot visit the area see below…
Contents of the Third Glenmore Gold Sign
Brickmaking in Glenmore took place in the Ballyverneen marshes during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, if you look out across the marshes you can observe areas where water stands with little vegetation growing in or under the water. These are some of the pits from the old brick works. Brickmaking was a seasonal industry. Preparations began in March or early April depending on the weather. To prepare the site vegetation was removed, as well as the top soil. Water was then pumped out of the cut. A gang of 10 to 12 men would then begin the labour, intensive job of making bricks from the clay. On average 3,000 bricks per day were made. The bricks were burned for five days in clamps built near the Glenmore pill to allow the finished bricks to be placed on boats for transportation. The last clamp of the brick making season was usually burned from the 10th to 15th of August and allowed the gang to take part in the harvest.
Several local families operated brick works. The last men operating brick works on the Ballyverneen Marshes were Thomas and William Forristal of Ballyverneen. They ceased operations in 1899 when work began on the railway link between New Ross and Waterford. The railway line crossed the marches over the best mud deposits. After the railway was complete both men in 1907 attempted to return to brickmaking. Both ceased by 1910.
For details regarding local families, wages, the process and workers see, Danny Dowling, “Glenmore Brickyards: A Forgotten Industry,” (1974) Old Kilkenny Review, pp. 42-51.
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Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
For more information on Ballyverneen, Glenmore see our post of 21 April 2022.
The Tragic Mary Norris née Fitzgerald (1869-1904) of Aylwardstown, Glenmore
Last week we came across a file of obituaries in Danny Dowling’s (1927-2921) vast collection. Within the file the 1904 short obituary of Mary Norris née Fitzgerald was found. This short obituary revealed that Mary died a 34 year-old widow at her brother Richard Fitzgerald’s residence in Aylwardstown. She left “four young orphan children to mourn her loss.” In researching her husband and children it became apparent that this family represented the hardships faced in that era including the dreaded T.B. See our N Glenmore Family page for Mary’s obituary (New Ross Reporter, Sat. 12 Nov. 1904, p. 5).
Mary Norris née Fitzgerald (1869-1904)
Mary was born on 26 December 1869 at Aylwardstown the daughter of John Fitzgerald (1830-1892) (farmer) and his wife Margaret Donovan (1839-1924). The couple were married at Slieverue on 27 February 1867. Mary was their eldest daughter and one of 11 children including [1] Richard Fitzgerald (b. 1868); [2] Mary Fitzgerald (1869-1904); [3] Bridget Fitzgerald (b. 1873); [4] Patrick Fitzgerald (b. 1875); [5] James Fitzgerald (b. 1876); [6] Peter Fitzgerald (b. 1877); [7] Margaret Fitzgerald (b. 1879); [8] Ellen Fitzgerald (b. 1881); [9] Michael Fitzgerald (b. 1882); [10] Walter Fitzgerald (b. 1884); and [11] John Fitzgerald (b. 1830).
Mary Fitzgerald at the age of 24 married Thomas Norris (farmer). The couple were married on 7 January 1894 at Glenmore. Thomas was residing at Rathfadden Cottage, Waterford and was the son of Patrick Norris (farmer) and his wife Bridget. The witnesses at Mary’s wedding were Kate Fitzgerald, the bride’s sister and Richard Whittle, who is thought to have been the groom’s cousin.
Children of Thomas & Mary Norris née Fitzgerald
Thomas and Mary had seven known children born within eight years of marriage. All of their children were baptized at Trinity Without, Waterford. The children are listed in their order of birth and throughout this post their order of birth number is retained.
Their eldest child, [1] Patrick Norris was born and baptized on 22 February 1894. It was recorded that the couple were living on the Yellow Road, Waterford, and Thomas was employed as a farmer. A daughter joined the family the next year. [2] Bridget Norris was baptized on 31 January 1895. The date of birth on the birth registry list’s Bridget’s birthday as 8 February 1895. Obviously, Bridget could not be baptized before she was born. Her birth was registered by a mid-wife who obviously recorded the wrong date. Thomas’s profession was listed as a cattle dealer. [3] Similarly John Norris was baptised on 22 March 1896, but his date of birth on the birth register was recorded as 29 April 1896. The family residence was listed as Upper Yellow Road, Waterford.
[4] James Norris was born on 22 March 1897 and was baptized the following day. For the first time Mary registered the birth of her child. A second daughter was born in 1898. This child was also named Bridget suggesting that the Bridget born in 1895 had died. [5] Bridget Norris was baptized on 21 July 1898. On the birth register her date of birth is recorded as 18 September 1898. Mary again registered the birth of this child, but did not register the birth until 21 November 1898. It is likely that Mary provided the September birthdate in order to avoid a fine for failing to register the child’s birth within the prescribed period. [6] Thomas P. Norris was baptized on 14 March 1901, and [7] Margaret Mary Norris was born 27 December 1902 and baptized the following day. Thomas’s profession was again listed as farmer when Margaret was born.
1901 Census
By the time Mary Norris died in November 1904 she had already buried three of her children as well as her husband. The 1901 Census provides the last glimpse of the family together. The family were living at Rathfadden. Thomas Norris was 33, a farmer, and noted he was born in Waterford City. Mary Norris (née Fitzgerald) gave her age as 29, and noted she had been born in Co. Kilkenny. Only 4 of their children are recorded in the 1901 Census because Margaret Mary was not born until 1902.
In the 1901 Census [1] Patrick Norris was 7. [4] James Norris was 4. [5] Bridget Norris was 2 and [6] Thomas Norris, Jr. was 1 month old. All the children were born in Waterford City. Also living with the family was a general domestic servant named Hannah Kennedy, Hannah Kennedy was 18 years of age and was born Waterford City. According to the 1901 Census, the family had a stable; coach house; cow house; piggery; fowl house; and boiling house.
Family Deaths
As stated above Mary’s daughter [2] Bridget Norris (b. 1895) died prior to 1898. Her son [3] John Norris (b. 1896) apparently died prior to 1901. Death certificates could not be located for either child searching both Norris and Morris.
Mary’s husband Thomas Norris died on 10 September 1902 at Rathfadden Cottage. He was listed as a 35 year-old farmer and his cause of death was TB. The death register provides that he received medical treatment for 4.5 months before his death. His sister Margaret Whittle of Yellow Road, Waterford was present when he died. Mary’s last child [7] Margaret Mary Norris was born about 6 weeks after her father’s death. We were also unable to locate a death certificate for Margaret although a Margaret Mary Norris died in 1907 in Ferrybank. The record reflects that her father John Norris was present when the child died.
Mary’s 25 year old brother Patrick Fitzgerald (1875-1903) died on 1 March 1903. Per the death register he died of heart disease, but had received no medical attention. Mary died 3 November 1904 at her brother Richard Fitzgerald’s home in Aylwardstown, Glenmore. Per her short obituary Mary was only survived by four of her children. Thus, [2] Bridget Norris (b. 1895), [3] John Norris (b. 1896) and [7] Margaret Mary Norris (b. 1902) predeceased Mary.
1911 Census
Aylwardstown, Glenmore
Mary’s mother, Margaret Fitzgerald née Donovan, was a 70 year old widow in 1911. She reported giving birth to 11 children and 8 were alive in 1911. Per the 1911 Census, four of her children were living at home with her: Richard Fitzgerald (38); Margaret Fitzgerald (27); Ellie Fitzgerald (26); and Michael Fitzgerald (25). She also had four grandchildren living with her: [4] James Morris (Norris, 11); [5] Bridget Morris (Norris, 10); [6] Thomas Morris (Norris, 9) and Margaret Bradly, (4).
Waterford—Upper Yellow Road
With only three of the Norris children in Aylwardstown we went back to Waterford and found [1] Patrick Norris (aged 17) living with his grandmother Bridget Norris. Bridget was 73 years of age, a widow and housekeeper. Also in the household was Patrick’s uncle Matthew Norris (38). The Census provides that Matthew Norris was employed as a cattle dealer, was married for three years but had no children. His wife was Johanna Norris (38). Lastly, Patrick’s cousin George Evans (8) was also residing in the house. George had been born in England. Both George and Patrick were scholars (attending school).
It is not clear from the census whether the family was residing in Rathfadden Cottage, However, in 1911 the property consisted of a stable; 2 cow house; piggery; (no fowl house) and boiling house.
The Norris Orphans
It was difficult to find information on the orphaned Norris children until we found Bridget Hynes née Fitzgerald’s (1898-1990) obituary. “She was the last surviving member of the Norris family and was sister of the late Patrick Norris, New Zealand; Thomas Norris, Campile, Co. Wexford; and James Norris, England, late of Carriganurra, Slieverue…” (Kilkenny People, Fri. 4 May 1990, p. 17). Armed with where her siblings lived we were able to find some information.
[1] Patrick Norris (1894-1925)
Patrick left London on 15 October 1914 for Australia. He enlisted 30 March 1915 as a private in the Australian Imperial Force. He enlisted at Brisbane and had his medical exam in Australia. He is found on the Embarkation Roll 1914-1918. He listed his uncle Matthew Norris, of 26 Upper Yellow Road, Waterford as his next of kin. He was with the 1st Light Horse Brigade of the 2nd Light Horse Regiment. His Service Number is 1257. Prior to his enlistment he worked as a clerk.
Patrick’s service records are available in the Australian National Archives. He was physically described when he enlisted as being 21 yrs of age; 5 feet and 6¾ inches tall; 135 lbs; with a fair complexion; brown eyes; and dark hair. While deployed to Egypt a letter dated 13 Jan 1918 queried why his 4/ per diem of his pay from 1 September 1915 had not been paid to Mr. Henry D. Keane, Solicitor, O’Connell Street, Waterford.
Patrick served from enlistment in 1915 until 15 May 1919. Most of the time Patrick was in Egypt. Although there were no major battles fought in Egypt in World War I it served as a staging ground and held strategic importance because of the Suez Canal. The majority of Patrick’s military file contains information concerning medical issues he suffered. However, there is a notation from July 1917. “When on active service drunkenness in the field.” He lost 10 days pay. For an interesting article and photos of the Australian troops in Egypt during WWI see, D. Beard (2022) “Kangaroos by the Pyramids.”
Patrick returned to Australia on 5 August 1919 and was considered disabled due to “Pulmonary Tuberculosis.” In a document entitled “Medical Report of an Invalid” the date and place where Patrick became a casualty was “dysentery” in Egypt in 1917. The doctor stated that there was Malaria in Egypt in 1918 and influenza in September 1919. Patrick began tubercular treatment on 12 January 1920 and continued on it until September 1920. During his service in Egypt he did not suffer a wound but contracted cholera in July 1916. This resulted in a 14 day admission to hospital. He got scabies three times and malaria twice. His last attack was in November 1918. The report concluded that he suffered with a sore nose for 4 years.
Three medals were issued to Patrick including: (1) 1914/1915 Star; (2) the British War Medal and (3) the Victory medal.
On 1 February 1923 Patrick married Rose Eileen Graham (1902-1976). A daughter, Jean Dorothy Norris (1923-2009) was born on 16 February 1923 at Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Patrick’s obituary in the Dalby Herald (Tue. 6 Jan. 1925, p. 3) appears to reflect that T.B. was viewed in Australia in much the same way as it was viewed in Ireland.
The death occurred in Toowoomba, yesterday of Mr. Joseph Patrick Norris, who has been a resident of Loam street, Darby, for the past 11 months. Mr. Norris was a native of Waterford, Ireland, and came to Australia some years ago. When the war broke out he enlisted and joined the first machine gun corps and served for five years with the A.I.F. and received a severe gunshot, wound in the thigh. He came to Dalby for health reasons a year ago, and gradually grew worse. He was admitted to the General Hospital on December 28th, and removed to a hospital in Toowoomba, on New Year’s Eve. He leaves a widow and one child, a girl of two years of age. The funeral took place yesterday in the Roman Catholic portion of the Toowoomba cemetery. Mrs. Norris accompanied by Mrs. C. Harvey, left for Toowoomba yesterday morning to be present at the funeral.
In researching Patrick an article was found that reflects the plight of other ex-servicemen in Australia with T.B. in 1925 (The West Australian, Wed. 27 May 1925, p. 10).
Letter to the Editor—Sir—We, ex-soldier consumptive in the Edward Millen Sanitorium, read with amused interest the statement by Dr. Courtney, the Repatriation C.M.O. that work will cure tuberculosis. Every man here, without exception, was a working man and broke down working. If work cures why do men get the disease? He says further, that in some States work is done by in the sanatoriums, yet, Victoria, his own State, had ten deaths for the last quarter. They were certainly cured, but, hardly in the usual understanding of the word. All medical authorities on TB agree…that it may be arrested which is vastly different than cured…Few of the public know of our many disabilities…During 50 years I have known many medical fashions for treating T.B. [including] long sea voyages; change of climate; high altitude; …sunbaths and cod liver oil. All discarded now as useless…
In the meantime our weekly leave to see our homes and friends has been cut out the one particular thing that did more to cheer us up and help us bear our troubles than anything else we do… Signed, L.W.F. Harvey, secretary of the T.B. Sailors & Soldier’s Association of Australia (W.A. Branch). Edward Millen Sanatorium, Victoria Park
[4] James Norris (1897-1983)
James Norris (labourer) of Aylwardstown, Glenmore married Ellen Vereker (b. 1908) of Ballyhomuck, Big Wood, Mullinavat. The couple were married on 14 October 1928 at Bigwood, Mullinavat. Ellen was the daughter of James Vereker (labourer) and his wife Margaret Henebery. Ellen was born on 24 August 1908. Per his sister Bridget’s 1990 obituary James lived in Carriganurra, Slieverue and England. We believe that James and Eileen had several children and it is not known when they moved to England.
We did locate a James Norris who died on 6 February 1983. The England and Wales National Probate Calendar (Index of Wills and Administrations) provides that his address was 69 Blackmead, Orton, Malborne, Peterborough which is in Cambridgeshire, England. We believe that his wife Eileen died in September 1997 per the England and Wales Civil Register Death Index. However, this date of death has not been verified with an obituary etc.
[5] Bridget Norris (1898-1990)
Bridget Norris, of Aylwardstown, Glenmore, married Maurice Hynes (1889-1952) (farmer) who was also from Aylwardstown. The couple married at Glenmore on 31 May 1929. Maurice Hynes was born on the 6th of August 1889 at Aylwardstown, the son of Martin Hynes (farmer) and his wife Anastasia Aylward. Shortly after Bridget and Maurice married the couple moved to Monassa, Callan, Co. Kilkenny, where they farmed. The couple had three children; a son and two daughters. Their son back in the late 1970’s or early 1980’s worked at the Waterford Cattle Mart.
Maurice Hynes died, aged 63, on 3 May 1952 of Tuberculosis Pneumonia. The following year Bridget was summoned for assaulting a neighbour. From the newspaper account the neighbour had caused one of Bridget’s cows to miscarry. When the neighbour was “turning back” another cow the two women got into an argument. The neighbour allegedly made disparaging remarks about the deceased Maurice and Bridet lost her temper and brought her stick down on the other woman’s head. The judge refused to convict Bridget and told the parties he would wait 3 months to see how they got on (Kilkenny People, Sat. 19 Sept. 1953, p. 4).
[6] Thomas Norris (1901-1966)
Most of the information regarding Thomas Norris is courtesy of Ann Fitzgerald’s publicly available research. Thomas Norris married Bridget “Bridie” Kavanagh (1922-2004) on 18 August 1954. The couple had children and farmed at Ballykerogue, Campile, New Ross, Wexford. Ann Fitzgerald noted that Thomas inherited the farm from his aunt Katie Fitzgerald. [Catherine “Kate” Fitzgerald (b. 1871) was married twice. Her first husband was Edward Costello. Edward and Kate were married at Glenmore on 21 August 1906. Edward was from Ballykerogue. After Edward died Kate married James McGrath on 1 December 1923 at New Ross. James was a widower and lived at Dunbrody, Wexford. Kate had no children.
Thomas Norris died 5 March 1966 and resided at the New Ross Road, Ballykerogue, Campile, Wexford. The death register provides that he was a married farmer and his age was given as 61. Thomas died of cardiac asthma which he suffered with for 6 hours. His brother-in -law Martin Kavanagh was present at his death.
LATE MR. T. NORRIS—The death occurred on Saturday of Mr. Thos. Norris, at his residence, Ballykerogue, Campile, and the remains were removed to Horeswood Church the same evening. The funeral took place to Ballykerogue Cemetery on Monday. Sympathy is extended to his bereaved wife, children and relatives (New Ross Standard, Sat. 12 March 1966 p. 16).
Please send any corrections, additional information or photos to glenmore.history@gmail.com .
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Native of Ballinclare, Glenmore: Richard Canon Aylward (1872-1954)
Today, we feature Richard Canon Aylward (1872-1954) a native of Ballinclare, Glenmore. Canon Aylward had a love of the Irish language and from 2009 has a biographical sketch in the Dictionary of Irish Biography written by Lesa Ní Mhunghaile. Unfortunately, the biographical sketch has his birthplace wrong. Canon Aylward was born and reared in Ballinclare, Glenmore, not Aylwardstown, Glenmore.
Historian Julian Walton wrote an article regarding Canon Aylward which was published in the Old Kikenny Review in December 1978 (p. 349-351). Julian Walton sent a copy of his article to Danny Dowling (1927-2021) Glenmore’s historian with a note to Danny stating “With Compliments.” This article is now available on line.
Early Life
Canon Aylward was born at Ballinclare, Glenmore on 26 January 1872 to Edmund/Edward Aylward (c. 1835-1908 and his wife Johanna Phelan (1834-1922).
Ballinclare has two Aylward families. According to locals the two Aylward families were the same family going back. Another Richard Aylward was baptized at Glenmore on 23 January 1871 to Thomas Aylward and his wife Judtih Hennessy. This has proved difficult for some people tracing their family trees who have wrongly identified Canon Aylward as a married man with three children.
Canon Aylward wrote in 1927 that both his parents could speak Irish, but they did not speak Irish to their children (Walton, p. 349). Canon Aylward noted that after he became a priest and learned “a few books of O’Growney”…”they really delighted to speak it to me” (Walton, p. 350).
Siblings of Canon Aylward
Edmund/Edward Aylward (1835-1908) a farmer of Ballinclare married on 13 Feb.1868, at Glenmore, Johanna Phelan (1834-1922) of Ballyfacey. Edmund’s father was John Aylward (farmer) and Johanna’s father was Richard Phelan (farmer). To this union we have found in parish records that six children were born:
[1] Mary Aylward (b. 27 Nov. 1868)
[2] John Aylward (9 Feb. 1870—6 Jan. 1956) [Per death register John never married.]
[3] Richard Aylward (26 Jan. 1872—1 Dec. 1954) [Canon Aylward]
[4] Edmund Aylward (25 May 1873—19 Dec. 1904) [Died aged 30 of suspected T.B.]
[5] Michael Aylward (29 Oct. 1874—3 March 1961) [Married Maryann Irish of Ballinlammy on 11 July 1907 in Waterford City].
[6] Johanna Aylward (25 July 1878—8 April 1890) [We believe that Johanna died at the age of 12 of influenza at Ballinclare. Michael Aylward was present when she died].
Obituaries
Several newspapers published obituaries for Canan Aylward outlining his education and work. Below is the obituary from the Kilkenny People (Sat. 4 Dec. 1954, p. 7) which perhaps unsurprisingly provides the most detail concerning his education and work. Additional information gleaned from other sources has been added in square brackets [ ].
Other obituaries for Canon Aylward not cited elsewhere in this post include: Irish Times (Fri. 3 Dec. 1954, p. 7); Irish Independent (Fri. 3 Dec. 1954, p. 10); Irish Examiner (Fri. 3 Dec. 1954, p. 4); and Evening Herald (Thur. 2 Dec. 1954, p. 1).
Death of Very Rev. Richard Canon Aylward, Native of Glenmore (Kilkenny People, Sat. 4 Dec. 1954, p. 7)
We very deeply regret to announce that the Very Rev. Richard Canon Aylward, P.P. Durrow, died at Aut Even Hospital, Kilkenny, on Wednesday. He had been in failing health for some time past and was in Aut Even for about 6 weeks before his death. [Per the death register Canon Aylward died of a cerebral thrombosis or blood clot in the brain. He suffered with it for 6 weeks]. By his death the Diocese of Ossory has lost one of its best-known priests.
Education
Born 82 years ago in Glenmore, Co. Kilkenny, he received his early education at the local Schools [Glenmore National School per Fr. M. Mernagh, (2000) Glenmore Times, p. 41] and at the old Classical College, Kilmacow. He later went to St. Kieran’s College and Maynooth. [Per Fr. M. Mernagh he studied for the priesthood at Maynooth.] He was ordained in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny on June 9, 1898.
Appointments
His first appointment was to the curacy of Dundee, Scotland, and on his return to his native diocese he was appointed Bishop’s Secretary [Canon Aylward was secretary to Bishop Brownrigg (Munster Express, Fri. 10 Dec. 1954, p. 8)]. [Before taking up his role as Secretary to the Bishop he was curate of St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny (New Ross Standard, Fri. 10 Dec. 1954, p. 2)].
In 1905 Canon Aylward was appointed first Professor of Irish in St. Kieran’s College, and in 1919 he succeeded Very Rev. C. Canon McNamara, P.P., VF. Castlecomer, as President of St. Kieran’s. His appointment to the Presidency came at a very critical time when the minds of people were turned away, to some extent, from educational natters, but his sterling qualities of mind and health fitted him admirably for the responsible work which he was called upon to perform.
[Per Lesa Ní Mhunghaile, Canon Aylward in 1920 wrote a document “strongly criticising the educational standards attained by boys entering the college, as he believed that they had not received in national school the basic training required for entry to St Kieran’s. During his presidency the college was raided on more than one occasion by crown forces in search of evidence of students or staff being involved in subversive acts.”]
In 1925, he was appointed Parish Priest of Durrow, being succeeded as President of St. Kieran’s by Father Patrick Collier, now [in 1954] the Bishop of Ossory. In Durrow, Canon Aylward succeeded a man of similar interests, the Very Rev. Canon Carrigan [(1850-1924)] whose History of the Diocese of Ossory is the leading work of its kind.
Irish Revival Movement
Canon Aylward took an early interest in the Irish Revival Movement and it was while Professor of Irish in St. Kieran’s that he was asked by the local branch of the Gaelic League to give a lecture on his great kinsman, John O’Donovan [(1806-1861)] of Slieverue, whose greatest work The Annals of the Four Masters, is numbered among the Irish classics.
Canon Aylward’s interest in O’Donovan was aroused at an early age and he spent many years of his life in research on the subject. The fruits of his labour will be seen when his original work, The Life of John O’Donovan will be published.
[According to Julian Walton (1978) after Canon Aylward’s death his work was given to Father Peter Birch and Professor Delargy, with a view to having it published. Father Birch later became the Bishop of Ossory. Scholars who reviewed it all agreed that it represented a vast amount of work, but it was too long and cumbersome and full of transcripts of materials published elsewhere. No publisher would touch it. “So the work on which Canon Aylward had lavished so much care over so many years remains unpublished to this day.”]
The Irish language was ever dear to Canon Aylward’s heart. He was one of the foundation members of Ring College [Waterford, officially recognised in 1907], and was appointed to the committee of Management of that college in 1920. The Chalice presented by him is still used. [He spent many years as teacher in the summer courses at Ring College and while there presented a chalice which is used in the chapel (Kilkenny Journal, Sat. 4 Dec. 1954, p. 7)].
As a Parish Priest
Canon Aylward was not only a great priest but a great Irishman, imbued as he was with all the qualities that go to make an Irish priest. He was quiet and unassuming to the point of shyness, and it was characteristic of him that in 1948 on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of his ordination, at his own request, no public demonstration was held to mark this event other than the prayers of his parishioners. He was fond of his books, but scrupulously exact in his attention to his duties of his state.
His kind and gentlemanly character won for him the love and devotion of his people. His special friends were the children of the parish, whom he loved tenderly and for whom he always had a wonderful attraction. [According to the Nationalist & Leinster Times (Sun. 11 Dec. 1954, p. 22) Canon Aylward during “his 30 years ministry in the South Laois parish…endeared himself to the parishioners. His charity knew no bounds and his saintly ways were an edification.”]
Parish Building Projects
As Parish Priest of Durrow he was responsible for the renovation of Cullohill schools the building of Gurteen new school, the extension of Durrow cemetery and securing of sites for a new boys’ school and parochial House in Durrow.
Survived By
Canon Aylward was survived by two brothers Messrs Michael and John Aylward, Ballinclare, Glenmore. He was uncle of Sister Alphonsus [Mary Aylward (1913-1992)], Presentation Convent, Kilkenny, and Sister Philomena [Catherine Aylward (1918-1997)] of California. He was a first cousin of Mother Gerard, Mother-General of the Order of the Sacred Heart, Marymount, United States, and a distant relative of Mother Mary Butler of the same Order, the Cause of whose Beatification is being promoted. He was also a cousin of Rev. John Hoynes [(1916-1978) native of Ballybrahee] C.C., Callan. [Fr. Hoynes paternal grandmother was Margaret Hoynes née Aylward of Ballybrahee, Glenmore.]
[The Bishop of Ossory, Most Rev. Dr. Collier presided at Office and Requiem Mass in Durrow Parish Church, after which the funeral took place (Irish Press (Sat. 4 Dec. 1954, p. 11)].
Canon Aylward’s Glenmore Grandparents
Canon Aylward’s paternal grandparents were John Aylward (Ballinclare) and Mary Walsh (Davidstown). They were married at Glenmore on 4 Feb. 1834.
Canon Aylward’s maternal grandparents were Richard Phelan and Judith/Joanna Dunphy. Richard Phelan and his wife Judith/Joanna Dunphy were also the grandparents of Mother Gerard (1873-1960). Canon Aylward’s mother, Johanna Aylward née Phelan (1834-1922) was a sister of Mother Gerard’s father John Phelan (bapt. 1832).
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See our post of 28 Jan. 2021 regarding the Very Rev. Mother Marie Gerard Phelan (1873-1960).
See our post of 24 Jan. 2021 regarding Nicholas F. Phelan (1857-1941), Mother Gerard’s brother and family.
See our post of 13 March 2021 regarding John O’Donovan (1806- 1861).
See our post of 17 Sept. 2021 regarding William Canon Carrigan (1860-1924).
Please send any corrections or additional information or photos to glenmore.history@gmail.com .
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
The photo above of a young Richard Canon Aylward (1872-1954) was taken from his memory card.
From Danny’s Files: “The Land Grabbers”
While sorting through some of Danny’s vast collection yesterday, I came across the lyrics of a song published in the Kilkenny Journal on Christmas Day 1880. The title of the song is “The Land Grabbers” and it is was sung to the “King O’Toole” air.
When the Land League formed it was determined that in order to put pressure on landlords pressure would be placed also on people not to move into the property where the eviction occurred. It was hoped that if the property was idle a settlement between the evicted tenant and landlord would be reached, and the tenant returned to the property.
If a person moved onto the property he would be identified by the local chapter of the Land League as a “land grabber.” In several local cases houses and farms were idle for three or more years because no one was willing to take up the property for fear of being labelled a “land grabber.” Thus, landlords who believed that they could evict and find a better tenant or secure more rent were risking the property sitting idle for years.
Contemporary newspapers accounts reveal that the “land grabber” when spotted in a town or village would be followed by one or more persons ringing bells to attract attention. People would not deal with a land grabber. For example, merchants and publicans would refuse to sell anything to a land grabber and likewise the land grabber’s cattle, pigs and crops would not be bought on market days. A person who dealt with a land grabber risked the wrath of the members of the Land League and its supporters. (For a concise history of the era see, Joe Pellegrino, Irish History Since 1850.)
Glenmore Branch of the Land League
The Glenmore Branch of the Land League was formed in October 1880. Father Michael Cody, a native of Carrickcloney, Glenmore, and the Curate of Mullinavat, was arrested in December 1880 for making “threats” to a Land Grabber in Mullinavat. Shortly thereafter these lyrics were published in the Dublin Weekly News on Sat., 18 Dec. 1880 (p. 5) and in the Kilkenny Journal on Christmas Day.
See our post of 8 March 2020 regarding the Glenmore Land League and the Ballyfacey Evictions
See also our post of 14 June 2020, Creative Boycotting in Late 19th Century Ireland.
The Land Grabber Verse
“The Land Grabbers” (Air—King O’Toole)
Ring the Bell! Ring the Bell; Ring it up and down!
Ding-a-dong! Ding-a-dong; a Grabber is in town!
His goods are in the market, but there we’ll let them lie,
He’ll have to take them home again, for nobody will buy.
Dong-a-dong! Ding-a-dong! Rattle well the bell;
The Grabber wants to buy things; but nobody will sell,
For his silver or his coppers, no matter how they clink,
He cannot get a bit to eat, or get a drop to drink.
Ring the bell! Ring the bell! What will the Grabber do?
For riding on the highway his horse has lost a shoe,
But not a single blacksmith can anywhere be found,
To hammer in a nail for him, in all the country round.
Ding-a-dong! Ding-a-dong! His servants will not stay,
The men have all deserted him—the women ran away,
He has to make his beds, and wash his bits of delft,
And when he wants his dinner, he must cook it for himself.
Ring the Bell! Ring the Bell!—The landlord oft is bad,
The agent and his bailiffs are enough to drive one mad,
But of all the hateful robbers by whom our land is curst,
Since Cromwell came to plunder us, the grabber is the worst,
In the Nation.
Please send any corrections or further information to glenmore.history@gmail.com
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
From Danny’s Files: Household Hints from the Early 20th Century
Danny Dowling (1927-2021) collected a large assortment of historical newspaper articles. Some were directly related to Glenmore or surrounding areas, and some articles reflect a time and activities long forgotten. Today, we are going to highlight some of Danny’s collected articles that best fall under the description of “household hints.” We have attempted to identify and explain any ingredients that may not be known today. Our explanations are in square brackets [ ]. We conclude with a 1910 joke found in one of Danny’s hints files concerning two Waterford aristocrats.
Washing Hair
Most people today probably assume that shampoo was available 100 years ago. That does not appear to be the case. “An Old Fashioned but Excellent Julep—an excellent julep for washing the hair can be made by mixing a cupful of soapy water with a teaspoonful of powdered borax and then beaten up with a yolk of an egg. This is well rubbed into the roots and length of the hair, and is then washed out in clear warm water. It leaves the scalp clean and the hair delightfully soft and glossy.” (Kilkenny Moderator, Sat. 28 July 1923, p. 4)
[“Borax is a powdery white substance, also known as sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, or disodium tetraborate. It’s widely used as a household cleaner and a booster for laundry detergent. It’s a combination of boron, sodium, and oxygen.” For more information concerning its use as a pesticide and current research etc. see, WebMD].
An interesting note Danny made is simply dated 1913. This note also concerns hair. “Never wet the hair at night, and if there is a tendency to deafness never do so at any time.”
“Dandruff may be removed by the occasional application of a shampoo wash composed of the yolk of an egg beaten by up with a pint of rainwater and 1 ounce of rosemary spirit. The mixture must be beaten thoroughly and used warm, being rubbed well into the skin of the head.” (New Ross Standard, Fri, 5 Aug. 1910, p. 11)
Clotheslines
A clothesline may be easily cleaned by wrapping it round a washboard and thoroughly scrubbing it in soapsuds. (Re-published from the Derry Journal, Mon. 20 Dec. 1915, p. 3)
Boil a new clothesline and the it will not twist. New ropes are apt to twist. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 29 Sept. 1911, p. 11)
Pest Control
When setting a mouse trap use raw meat instead of cheese for the bait. (Re-published from the Derry Journal, Mon. 20 Dec. 1915, p. 3)
“A preventative against moths, and one which forms a pleasant sachet powder as well. Grind to a powder the following ingredients in equal quantities: cloves; carraway seeds, nutmeg, mace, cinnamon, and Tonquin beans with as much orris root as the other contents put together. Fill little bags with the powder and scatter among the clothes.” (Leinster Leader, Sat/ 23 Sept. 1911, p. 23)
[According to Mama Jean’s Natural Market website orris root powder is the dried and ground root of the iris plant. It smells similar to violets ,and today is used as a fixative in perfumes to enhance other aromas. It has stabilizing properties that help preserve scents in cosmetics, potpourri etc.]
[Tonka beans are a product of the South American cumaru tree, contain a naturally occurring chemical known as coumarin. Since coumarin can cause health problems such as liver damage, the Federal Drug Administration of the US has enforced a ban on tonka beans since 1954.]
Recipes
Potato Scones—Mash boiled potatoes quite smooth, adding a little salt. Then knead out with flour or barley meal to thickness required. Toast on gridle, pricking them with a fork to prevent blistering. Eaten with butter they are superior to crumpets and very nutritious. (1906 article name of newspaper not copied)
The secret to frying fish is to brown the breadcrumbs before using them. Bake the bread in the oven, and crush to crumbs. Be sure a beaten egg covers the fillets of fish. Then dip the fillets in the bread crumbs. Fry in plenty of hot fat (Re-published from the Derry Journal, Mon. 20 Dec. 1915, p. 3)
If eggs that are to be boiled hard place them in rapidly boiling water. The yolk will not become dark on the outside. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 17 Feb. 1911, p. 11)
First Aid and Health
“If you get a fishbone in your throat a raw egg should be swallowed immediately. Do not drink anything, but well chewed solids, such as bread often helps to remove a fishbone.” (Lancashire Evening Post, Tues. 1 April 1913)
“For anyone suffering from rheumatism they will find great relief from this simple remedy. Put some dry mustard between flannel, and constantly wear it in your boots, house shoes etc. Replenish the mustard every now and then.” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 17 June 1910, p. 10)
“A simple cure for Rheumatism and Gout….crush some horse chestnuts, scald them and apply as a poultice.” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 24 Feb. 1911, p. 11)
Cleaning
To clean a lamp chimney hold it over the steam of a kettle for a few moments, then polish it with a clean, dry cloth. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 25 Nov. 1910, p. 10)
Rubber gloves worn for dishwashing and housework should be thoroughly washed before being taken off the hand. In this way they are kept free from impurities and wear longer. (Lancashire Evening Post, Tues. 1 April 1913)
Furniture polish that will act more like varnish on furniture can be made. One gill of linseed oil, 1 gill of white wine vinegar, ½ ounce of butter of antimony. Mix each in order and shake well between each. Shake well before using. Apply a little on a soft rag, and finish with a soft duster. This will dry almost as soon as rubbed on. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 25 Nov. 1910, p. 10).
[“Butter of antimony” is an outdated term for antimony trichloride (SbCl3), a chemical compound known for its pungent odour and waxy, butter-like consistency. It was historically used as a reagent in various chemical reactions and tests, including a test for vitamin A. Warning Butter of Antimony is toxic if ingested, inhaled or comes into contact with the skin. For further information see, Facts.net].
“To renovate dark stained furniture, soak a rag in paraffin and rub it on the stained furniture. Leave it to dry for a few minutes. Polish with a clean soft cloth, and you will find all marks will disappear. No unpleasant smell of paraffin will be left behind.” (New Ross Standard, Fri. 29 Sept. 1911, p. 11)
Miscellaneous Hints
“Sliced onions scattered about a room will absorb the odour of fresh paint.” (Irish Independent, Fri. 25 Jan. 1918, p. 2)
“Tight boots or shoes are much more easily put on when thoroughly warmed by turning the soles to the fire.” (Farmer’s Gazette, Sat. 1 March 1913, p. 22)
“A useful machine oil is made of one part of paraffin and three of olive oil”. (New Ross Standard, Fri. 14 July 1911, p. 11)
Joke About Waterford Aristocrats
Some years ago, Lord Charles Beresford and his brother the Marquis of Waterford were driving in London when the former suddenly said, “Wouldn’t you like to upset that truck of apples?”
Lord Charles Beresford beckoned a boy and said, “Would you like to earn half a sovereign?”
“Do you mean it, sir?”
“Certainly. Go and knock over that truck of apples.”
The boy pocketed the coin and soon the apples were rolling all over the road. A policeman immediately arrested the boy, who said: “These gentlemen over there told me to do it.”
“Sorry gentlemen; but I must make a case of this.”
The three were brought to the police court. The Magistrate asked their names.
“The Marquis of Waterford.”
“Lord Charles Beresford.”
“Your name, my boy?”
“I ain’t going to give a pal away. Put me down, The Duke of Wellington.” (Hampshire Telegraph, Fri. 9 Dec. 1910, p. 12).
Please send any corrections or additional information etc. to glenmore.history@gmail.com . Please feel free to comment below or on our facebook page about any of the content.
For Glenmore Folk Remedies see our post of 22 Dec. 2019.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
From Danny’s Files: The Obituary of Richard “Dick” Dunphy (1878-1908)
Today, we feature a young Glenmore man whose untimely death resulted in a long, passionate, and detailed obituary in the Munster Express. This long obituary was found in Danny Dowling’s (1927-2021) large collection of obituaries of Glenmore people. The obituary is below in italics. The sub-headings were added and did not appear in the original published obituary.
Background
Richard Dunphy was born on the 26th of March 1878 in Ballyverneen, Glenmore. He was baptized the following day and his parents were James Dunphy (farmer) (1857-1887) and his wife Ellen Malone (1857-1941). James Dunphy of Ballyverneen married Ellen Malone, of Weatherstown, on 9 May 1877 at Glenmore. The groom was the son of Richard Dunphy (farmer) and the bride was the daughter of James Malone (farmer). Another child, John Dunphy (1880-1956) was born on 22 February 1880 to James Dunphy and his wife, Ellen Malone.
James Dunphy (1857-1887) died of pleurisy on 20 February 1887. He was a farmer, and his 10 year old son, Richard Dunphy, was listed in the death register as being present at his death. His, wife, Ellen Dunphy née Malone (1857-1941) died on 1 July 1941 of shock after suffering a burn. She was 85 years of age at the time of her death per the death register. Her son John Dunphy was present at her death. Richard “Dick” Dunphy (1878-1908) died on the first of April 1908 at his home in Ballyverneen, Glenmore, of acute atrophy of the liver. His brother, John Dunphy, was present at his death.
The Obituary
Richard Dunphy’s obituary appeared in the Munster Express (Fri. 18 April 1908, p. 2 ). It is extremely long and appears to have been written by a friend rather than the newspaper.
The Late Mr. Richard Dunphy, Glenmore: A Companion’s Appreciation
“Invidious grave! How dost thou rend in sunder
Whom love has knit and sympathy made one.”
A great gloom hangs heavily on Glenmore. A grand personality has ceased to exist and brighten the big glen. A young, noble, and cheerful heart has ceased to share our joys. The lights have been extinguished from the kindest, merriest eyes. The able scholar, the shapely athlete, the brilliant conversationalist, the big faithful heart, the soul of honour, the tongue of truth, lies among the quiet dead. Glenmore weeps–the glen he loved so well, the people he delighted so often. There is a mournful sadness over all things in his native parish, for our absent one loved the hills and the fields and the flowers. All mourn for him now, for there is none so beautiful to take his place.
It was necessary to spend but one hour in Mr. Dunphy’s company to discover his wonderful abilities and virtues. It was immaterial what topic was discussed–he was the master. The subject may be a subtle theological one; it may be a disputed fact in history; it may be on the drama, a social problem, or a political question; or perhaps on the fine point of a football contest–all were easily and efficiently diagnosed by “Dick.” One marvels at the great memory, the extensive reading, and the vast experience which generated such varied knowledge.
Enjoyed a Good Yarn
He had ever at hand a large supply of the most interesting antidotes, which he told with such with such expression and humour that the dullest loved to hear him. How often we “held our sides” when he passed witty remark or told what he liked to term a good “yarn.” Few possessed to such a degree the power power of creating around him an atmosphere of good cheer and happiness. His bright, happy, easy manner became reflected on all around him, and all were happy.
Unlike many other brilliant conversationalists, he was never offensive but always edifying. His views on all questions ever bespoke an honourable and virtuous soul; his “yarns” ever portrayed intelligent wit and modest simplicity. Seldom have intelligence, wit, virtue and simplicity been so happily blended in one man. He was just the personality we wanted, and his loss is an irreparable one to society.
Love of Glenmore
Our dear departed one loved the place of his birth in an uncommon degree. Nothing could give him greater delight then to spend a holiday roaming round the hills and dales of his native Glenmore. How we shall miss that bright cheering smile, that gay, lightsome, athletic form swinging along over the roads and through the fields.
As himself would say–he loved the simple life. Simplicity in every form attended him, simplicity in amusement (I saw him recently enjoying a game of marbles)–simplicity in manner, simplicity in all things. This is all the more remarkable when we remember his duties as an Excise Officer brought him in touch with many pretentious people and cities in the United Kingdom. He always came back to us the same happy-going, modest, merry soul.
Glenmore Football
His prowess in the football field is known in many an Irish county, but nowhere so well as his native parish. Where ever he happened to be stationed he sought the best Gaelic Club , and immediately became its guide, philosopher, and friend. When the Glenmore Football Club needed help he was home like a streak of lightening. He several times travelled home from England to help the Glenmore boys win the 1906 Championship. He was our guiding star and our idol. It was a sad moment when the captain placed a beautiful wreath on his grave.
Education
The late Mr. Dunphy sowed the first seeds of his learning and great virtue in Glenmore National School, where he was the delight of his teacher Mr. Curran.He next spent some years in Good Counsel College, New Ross. Here his exceptional abilities marked him for many favours. He graduated to Blackrock College, Dublin, where he had a distinguished course. Deciding to become a Civil Servant he next entered the Civil Service Institute, Dublin, where after a few months special tuition he secured fourth place in the dUnited Kingdom at the Excise examinations in 1899. He had recently been promoted to Second Class Officer of Excise in Kilkenny.
Last Illness
Not feeling well for some time past he returned home, and after a few weeks’ illness he died most happily. The last Sacraments were administered by the Rev. Father Crotty, C.C. whose zeal for his spiritual welfare, both before and after death, could not be greater. Deceased was interred on Friday, the 3rd of April and the funeral was of Immense proportions. Requiem Office and High Mass were celebrated for the repose of his soul.
Often in future years when discussing the incidents of our career, out thought will revert to that green spot in Glenmore Cemetery, beneath which lies the truest and noblest comrade we have ever known. To his sorrowing family we offer our deepest sympathy.
Success of a Glenmore Student
We located a 1900 article entitled “Success of a Glenmore Student,” that gives further details regarding Richard “Dick” Dunphy’s success with the Excise exam.
“At the examination held last November for situations in the Excise Department of the Inland Revenue, Richard Dunphy, of Glenmore, obtained 5th place in Ireland and 16th in the United Kingdom, with highest marks, 94 per cent in English Composition. Originally, he was a pupil of Mr. Curran, whose sons gained success lately, he was for some years a student of the College of Good Counsel, New Ross, which he went to University College Blackrock, familiarly known as the “Castle,” to whose fine training his success is so largely due. His final preparation was made at the Civil Service Institute, Rutland Square, Dublin, to the staff of which he is indebted for their careful attention and great knowledge of examinations. 940 candidates competed for 80 vacancies in the examination in which he was successful” (New Ross Standard, Sat, 23 June 1900, p. 4).
We found a head stone in St. James’s Cemetery in Glenmore Village that had inscriptions for Ellen Dunphy née Malone and her youngest son, John Dunphy. We could not locate an inscription for Richard “Dick” Dunphy (1878-1908).
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For information on the 1906 Glenmore Champion Football Team see our post of 30 August 2020. For a brief history of Blackrock College see the Blackrock College webpage.
Please send any additional information, corrections or photos etc. to glenmore.history@gmail.com . The featured photo above is Ballyverneen, Glenmore looking out onto the Barrow River.
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh