The Fenian excitement has somewhat subsided. The police force here (which is rather small in number for the ordinary duties of this large and important district) has been strengthened for some time past by the men of the Knock, Corraclare and Mount Rivers stations. They are every night under arms and a constant patrole is kept up in the town and neighbourhood.
On Saturday evening last sub-Inspector Kennedy and a party of the Constabulary, arrested at their houses in this town, C. Mahony, a baker, Michael Egan, a painter, Martin McDonnell, a tailor. Tim McNamara (saddler) and Michael Sullivan, (Militia man) for complicity in the Fenian conspiracy. A cane sword was found with Egan; and the tailor is alleged to have been employed for some time making the green regimentals for the soi distant Captains and of the movement. This is now the eighth arrest in this town in connection with Fenianism. Four men were arrested on Saturday in Cooraclare. A large force of Constabulary patrol the street and country. Sub-Inspector Kennedy, Head Constable Eaton and the men under their charge have been most vigilant and unwearied in the discharge of their duties, and they have been well supported by Admiral Studdert B. Cox and N.S. O'Gorman Esqrs the neighbouring magistrates.
The man named Fennell (one of the party who attacked the Coast Guard station at Kilbaha and who was found wounded in the house of a farmer of the district, named James Keane) is recovering from the effects of his wound, and is in charge of a party of Police at Keane's house. Keane has been arrested and lodged in Bridewell on a charge of harbouring a felon. None of the others engaged in the attack have yet been arrested, but four or five of them are well known and there is a sharp look out for them, so that it is probable they will soon be made amenable to justice. Wilmott the coast guard who was so severely wounded is recovering.
A party of Marines under command of Lieut. Treacy from the Frederick William now lying at Foynes, have occupied the Cappa barrack adjoining the quay of this town; and a guard of marines are placed on duty at the Bridewell here, where the Fenian prisoners are confined.
The Public houses were closed in this town by order of the Magistrates from 9 o'clock on Saturday night until Monday morning which has tended to produce an unusually sober Patrick's day.
The police from the out districts are now returning to their various stations
The Coast-guards at Cappa station under Captain Jones, have been under arms for several nights past and the men of the Revenue Cutter Fry, have also been on shore several nights under arms.
A disgraceful circumstance is reported connected with the attack on the Coast-guard station at Kilbaha. It appears that two of the coast-guards who were looking on at Wilmot being attacked and knocked down, never gave him any assistance though they were armed. These two men were on Tuesday arrested and brought up in the gunboat of the Frederick William guard ship to Foynes, there to await an investigation into their conduct. Their names are Lloyd and Stamford. The courageous conduct of Wilmott on the occasion is deserving of the highest commendations; and had the other two men of the station displayed equal valour, most of the attacking party would have met with just retribution on the spot.
Connolly R.I.C Barracks Attack July 25, 1919 In July 25, 1919, Commandant Martin Devitt and Ignatius O'Neill with thirteen IRA men launched a midnight assault on the Connolly R.I.C Barracks.
Equipped with two rifles and thirteen shotguns, the IRA opened a frontal attack at close range which eventually proved ineffective against the defenders who were using high powered rifles.
Commandant Devitt, who never took defeat easily, regrouped his men and decided on an alternate plan by which he would attempt to enter through the main door. After acquiring a sledge hammer, he crawled, under fire, to the front entrance and splintered the door. This however, proved insufficient as a chain gate on the inside still made entry impossible. He called on the Police to surrender several times without success. Instead they hurled hand grenades through the splintered door. As day-light approached, the attackers were forced to withdraw.
Although the IRA did not succeed in capturing the Barracks, the destruction of the roof and windows caused by shotgun fire resulted in the immediate withdrawal of the police from the area to headquarters in Ennis.
The night was bright and still. Tension was in the air. The Tans were expected any hour. The men behind the flagged barricades waited nervously, unsure of their own courage to withstand the bloody confrontation with the hated enemy. Days before, the cry went out to every corner of the parish: "The Black and Tans are coming, they're going to burn Mullagh'! The village was ready to carve it's name into history.
An obscure village was on the verge of becoming embroilled in guerrilla warfare resulting from the death of Capt. Lyndrum, a district magistrate. He was killed in an I.R.A. ambush at Craggaknock railway-crossing and his body was hidden. Failing to find his body, the Black and Tans threatened to burn every house from Ennistymon to Kilkee, unless it was given up. Cooraclare, Mullagh, Doonbeg were on the short list. Reliable information reaching the volunteers had pinpointed the night of September 29th, 1920 for the burning of Mullagh. There was good reason to take the threat seriously. Hence Mullagh's preparedness. A decision was taken immediately by the leaders of the various companies throughout the parish to defend the village.
A day or two before the arrival of the Tans, Mullagh was abuzz with activity. Strategies were planned of the best way to defend the village and it's people. Volunteers "on the run" were making a stand reminiscent of the Alamo - the odds were certainly as great. Plans were made, scrapped, remade and revised. But, by the evening of the 29th of September definitive plans were agreed on and fortifications were firmly erected. Guiding and directing operations were the company leaders, Commandants Danny Montgomery, Padla Sexton and Capt Joe Daly. All three were brave and resolute men.
The Square became the focal point for the ambush. Stone flags uprooted from the church (some weeks earlier it had been concreted and tiled) provided the main source of fortification. Lines of flags were placed in front of the opening between Casey's old shop and the church. Flags were carried across the square to Murphy's gate (entrance to new sportsfield) and provided excellent cover for those defending that position.
Men were also positioned behind the wall in Murphy's haggard and also adequate protection was offered the men behind the high wall in O'Dwyers lawn. Two men were perched behind the chimney on top of Tadhg Mooney's (now Michael Casey's extended supermarket), hand grenades at the ready. A lone figure, Michael Griffin, lodged himself in the gallery of the church. Being an excellent marksman, he hoped to pick off Tans by aiming through one of the small windows.
Earlier a decision to evacuate Mullagh was taken and as preparations for the ambush were now in full swing; people evacuated their homes for safer locations. Many had prearranged to stay with cousins, others with friends. James Kelly's (better known as Jackie Kelly's) provided shelter for the greatest number of people. As many as fifty men, women and children spent the night there. Here, quite bizarredly, it was not a night of fear and tension, but of festivity. Tea, bread, cakes and drink were freely available. Among those present were Tadhg Scanlon and Birdy Donnellan. Few slept. Dan O'Brien (the baker) graced the house with his presence, livening the proceedings with his wit. Time and again he called for another rosary "for the salvation of Mullagh".
Pat Sexton's, Bonavilla, was another house of refuge for at least thirty uprooted souls. Jack Sexton (then five years old) recalls sleeping in a settee bed amidst eleven good ladies! Lilly Roche (nee McKeogh) remembers walking from Mullagh to Bonavilla with her twin sister Tessy, both nibbling away at finger shaped biscuits and excited at the prospect of staying in a strange house.
Mrs. Mooney, with sons Tadgh and Josey, took the Mass-path to P.J. Moroney's. P.J. recalls his father having several new pairs of boots and shoes in safe keeping for John Downes. Another safe house was Pat Hogan's - Miko Sean O'Brien spent the night there but failed to get a wink of sleep. Some moved just a safe distance from the village. Pat O'Dwyer (Peter's father), Paddy Murray and Tommy MacNamara, all slept down in the valley in the "Black Haggard". Peter, then a ten-year-old, sought the sanctuary of his cousin's in Bonavilla. Johnny Murray (aged 10) has a clear recollection of being taken by ass and cart to his aunt's home near the Blessed Well (St. Joseph's).
Cathy Neenan, then a twenty-year-old, and her mother left the village for safer pastures, burying many bottles of whiskey in the back garden of their pub before departure. The house might go up in flames but the whiskey was safe!
Two brave souls refused to leave the village. Among these was Jim McKeogh: "God Damn Black and Tans", weren't going to shift him. John Corry also stayed, believing the whole affair a ruse by criminal elements in the I.R.A. to rob his thriving shop. "Let them burn the house down around me, I'll not budge", was his response to pleas to evacuate.
Outside the village, but directly on the route the Tans would take, the late Jim Donnellan was determined not to budget and slept the night peacefully in his own home.
By 6 p.m. plans were complete and the volunteers (IRA) were in position. Details were gone through for the umpteenth time. The moon saw to it that darkness would not descend. By eight o'clock the night had assumed a ghostly pattern. Fifty volunteers awaited their fates. Bravery was now called for and many had this in abundance. Commandants Gerry Killeen and Matt Gleeson steeled their nerves for the task and kept a watchful eye on the men under their command. Courage was not the sole preserve of the Commandants. Jamsey O'Keefe, Jimmy Downes, Mick Gorman, Paddy Clancy, Paddy O'Dea and not least Stephen Ryan, had all shown remarkable courage on other occasions and would not be found wanting now.
Not all were fearless guerrillas. Mike Looney (a surviving member of that night) recalls: "A lot of shakey fellas were there, praying and hitting their chests". A common factor with many of the volunteers was the lack of experience in hardened combat. Few had tasted direct confrontation with the enemy. Hard to gauge how they would react to the rawness of battle. Likewise, inadequate fire-power would have dampened their confidence. Most had only shotguns, interspersed with a few single-shot rifles, plus a liberal supply of grenades. Mike Looney was one of the few to have a Webley revolver (accidently found in a stack of corn) and six rounds of ammunition. A volunteer beside him was not so lucky; armed only with a powder and shotgun with a defective hammer to boot. It worked occasionally!
Sentries were essential to any successful ambush. Many were well positioned that night to give reliable signals. Haran's hill, the Castle hill and the hill adjacent to Quilty school were key points for sentries. According to Mickey Montgomery, whistles were used to signal the approach of the Tans on occasions like this.
The men now waited for their rendezvous with destiny. Hour followed upon hour. Twelve o'clock came and went. No Tans in sight, no tell-tale lights, no sound of lorries. Dawn approached. And at 4:30 a.m. the decision to abandon the village was taken. Volunteers dispersed quietly and unobtrusively. A welcome anti-climax to a night which promised blood and guts.
Why they didn't come remains a mystery. Some say the discovery of Lyndrum's body changed their minds. Others believe the Tans were afraid of the consequences. The former view is more plausible. A more intriguing question: what would the outcome have been if they had come? Given that most of the volunteers had only shotguns, almost inevitably, on a bright night, they would prove no match for the bolt action repeating rifles of the Tans. To echo Miko Looney: "Terrible slaughter surely" would follow. Most, if not all, knew in their hearts this incontrovertible truth. It is, therefore, incumbent upon us to salute the men of sixty-nine years ago who were prepared to risk their lives for their own people.
(This and other stories are available in the Kilmurry Ibrickane Parish Magazine which is published annually to raise money for the local athletic clubs in the parish. You can request copies of the magazine by writing to Mr. D. Dillon, Glaun, Connolly, County Clare.)
April 27, 1867 Clare Freeman and Ennis Gazette THE FENIANS IN AMERICA The following appears in the New York Sun of the 9th instant -
"The Headquarters of the Fenian Brotherhood, at No. 19 Chatham-street gives every indication of something in the wind. The moral effect of the late rising appears to have led to renewed exertions on the part of the officers of the organization. Yesterday officers visited the military and naval offices and it is rumoured that no distant day the green flag will once more be flung to the breeze and that many will follow it's fortunes. Great secrecy is preserved. A committee delegated by the cen res representing the Irish Republican Brotherhood in England, Scotland and Ireland have just issued an address to Irishmen in this country, in which they state that they have made every effort to conciliate the two branches of the organization in America but without avail, and sets forth the overtures made. The address denounces O'Mahony and Stephens, and calls upon the Irishmen in this country to rally around them (the committee) furnish them with the means and they will work faithfully for the redemption of Ireland.April 27, 1867 CANADIAN PREPARATIONS AGAINST THE FENIANS The Ottawa Correspondent of the Morning Post writes: -
"The volunteers throughout the country will soon all have been supplied with the Snider Spencer, or the Peabody breech-loading rifles , armed with which weapons they will present a formidable front to any foe who may be insane enough to cross our borders. During the past week a large quantity of arms of the Sniper pattern with suitable ammunition were dispatched from the citadel at Quebec for the use of the volunteer force in Upper Canada and four hundred Peabody rifles have been served out to the Victoria Rifles in Montreal. In the course of a lecture delivered by Colonel Macdougal Adjutant General of Militia in that city, a few days ago he said that he utterly disbelieved in the ability of the Fenians to place 5,000 armed men along the whole of our frontier from Detroit to Maine. When we consider that Canada is garrisoned with 12,999 regular troops and several batteries of regular artillery and that these are backed by the volunteer field batteries of Canada - that these troops are so distributed that, by means of cur railways, we could concentrate at any given point a force which would be three times stronger numerically, and ten times stronger both morally and effectively than any Fenian force which could be collected at the same point any serious annoyance, much less any serious danger from Fenian attempts, utterly of the question. Should they come, however, in large or small force, they will find to their cost that we are thoroughly prepared for them.
Ennis, Saturday, April 27, 1867 Clare Freeman and Ennis Gazette THE SPECIAL COMMISSION
This Commission resumed its sittings on Wednesday before the Lord chief Justice, the Right Hon. Justice Fitzgerald and Baron Deasy.
The following prisoners were put to the bar:
Thomas Burke (otherwise called "General Thomas F. Burke")
"Captain" John McCafferty (otherwise called William Jackson)
Edward Duffy,
Patrick Meares
Patrick Doran
George Connelly
Jarleth Mooney
Thomas Joseph
William Clarke
John Hughes
Charles Byrne
Luke Fullam
Lawrence Fullam
James Gorman
Terence Kelly
John BeirneThe indictment charging the prisoners with high treason was read by the clerk of the crown.
"After a number of preliminary objections had been raised by prisoners' counsel, involving lengthened arguments on technical points - the prisoners were at last called upon to plead.
Thomas Burke, John McCafferty (otherwise, William Jackson), Edward Duffy, Patrick Meares, and Patrick Doran, severally pleaded Not Guilty.
The remaining prisoners were then removed not being called upon to plead for the present.
The court was unable to proceed further on the first day - so much time having been occupied in disposing of objection after objection to the indictment and the constitution of the jury panel by counsel for prisoners.
The entire of the next day (Thursday) was occupied in challenging the jurors who were being empanelled to try the prisoners (Burke and Dolan) against whom the crown has decided to proceed in the first instance. It was not until an advanced hour that the Crown succeeded in getting a jury sworn, and it was then too late to proceed with the trial.
The Attorney General stated the case for the prosecution at the sitting of the Court yesterday. Three witnesses were then examined for the Crown - Patrick Keogh, Patrick Condon, alias Godfrey Massey, and John Joseph Corydon. Both the later, Massey particular, appeared to be men of superior intelligence and of education. They had both held commissions in the Confederate army during the American civil war. The evidence given by Massey, who gave the orders for the recent rising, was of a very interesting character, and, with the testimony of Corydon, afforded a much fuller and clear insight into plans and arrangements of the leading conspirators than had ever been given in former trials.
Profiles from Troubled Times Kilmurry-Ibrickane Parish Magazine, 2000 Commd't Christopher McCarthy
4th Batt. West Clare Brigade
Killed in Action, June 1921
Chrisopher McCarthy was a native of Cloonlaheen. He was a member of a very large family and a brother of the late Archbishop John McCarthy of the African Missions.
His parents operated a general business and licensed premises at Cloonlaheen and a licensed premises at Miltown Malbay.
His membership in the I.R.A began when he organised the Coore Coy (company) in 1917, and became its Captain.
Later this young patriotic and ambitious officer extended his organisational talent to much larger areas and succeeded in forming the 4th. Batt. of the West Clare Brigade, and served as its first Commandant.
He was arrested in 1918, and a prison sentence in Limerick Jail followed.
After his release from prison he continued his activities with greater vigour and determination. In early 1920 he formed an "Active Service Unit" in the Batt., and made many requests to the Brigade for arms without success, as the area was not considered suitable for any large scale engagements.
Having envisaged a much more active career in the "Fight for Independence" he was gripped with a feeling of dissatisfaction and transferred to the East Clare Brigade, where he served with distinction.
He was killed in action at Cratloe with Lieut. Michael Gleeson (Meelick). Both men were surrounded by enemy troops, and they fought until they fell in action, about one month prior to the Truce in July 1921.
Volunteer Matthew Lynch, Aged 22
Mullagh Company, 4th Batt. W.C. B (West Clare Brigade)
Later attached to the Dublin Brigade
A native of Mount Scott, Mullagh - educated in Coore National School. when he finished his schooling, he was employed by Mr. Thomas Burke who operated a general hardware business in Miltown Malbay.
Mat as he was usually called was an ideal, and noble youth, strictly honest in all his dealing, and inspired with love and devotion to the welfare of his Country and its people.
His membership in the Volunteers began in 1917 in Mullagh where he became a worker in the organisation and training of that Company.
Atfter completing his apprenticeship in the hardware business, he decided to go to Dublin, where he joined the Dublin Brigade, and continued to be an active member of the I.R.A until he became ill.
Mat then returned to his residence in Mount Scott, where despite the best medical aid he passed peacefully away after a very short illness , (Aug 15, 1920).
He was buried with Military Honors on August 17, in Kilbrigid Cemetery.
Volunteer Dan Crawford, Aged 22
Coore Coy, 4th Batt.
West Clare Brigade
Educated in Coore National School
An unusually tall and athletic young man, an outstanding Gaelic Football player, and a successful competitor in jumping events at many of the local sports meetings.
His membership in the I.R.A. started in 1919, and he had a very active rating throughout the Black and Tan War in his area.
He was arrested at Cahercanivan, Kilmihil. A prison sentence followed. While in prison he went on "Hunger Strike" which impaired his health.
He died in October 1924, which was soon after his release from prison.
He was buried in Killernan Cemetery with Military Honors , and a suitable Memorial was erected.
(This and other stories are available in the Kilmurry Ibrickane Parish Magazine which is published annually to raise money for the local athletic clubs in the parish. You can request copies of the magazine by writing to Mr. D. Dillon, Glaun, Connolly, County Clare.)
From Ennistymon Parish Magazine 1999 Commandant Martin Devitt Killed in Action by Sean Earls Holidaying recently in the Ennistymon/Lahinch area were Mary Devitt and Pat Nolan of Illinois, U.S.A, first cousins of Mrs. Frances O'Reilly, Lahinch. Their father James was born in Cahersherkin and emigrated to the U.S.A in the early 1900's. Their uncle Commandant Martin Devitt born in 1896 was killed in action at the age of twenty-four years on February 20th, 1920 in the fight for Irish freedom.
At the age of fifteen years, Martin was apprenticed to his uncle's drapery business in Ennistymon. He was one of the first volunteers in the area. From an early age he took a big interest in Irish culture, games and the Irish language.
On that fateful date in 1920, plans were complete to attack and disarm an R.I.C patrol at Crow's Bridge, Inagh. Commandant Martin Devitt was accompanied by Ignatius O'Neill, Pat Lehane and Patrick Devitt (his brother). As a patrol approached, they opened fire forcing the police to take cover immediately. Due to the presence of civilians who accidently got in the line of fire, the attackers were placed at a disadvantage.
Commandant Devitt in attempting to gain access to a more advantageous position was fatally wounded. His partner, O'Neill was severely wounded while removing him from the area. The Fourth battalion suffered its greatest defeat when it lost one of its most heroic and patriotic soldiers. His gallantry in action and daring acts of bravery were an inspiration to all who knew him. As a tribute to this great soldier, a beautiful memorial was erected on the very spot where he fell in action. It was unveiled by Commandant Tom Barry, Cork on Sunday, April 18, 1954.
To read a bit more on Martin Devitt visit the Clare Library Site http://www.clarelibrary.ie/eolas/coclare/history/war_of_independence/memoirs_andrew_odonoghue.htm ALL UP IN ARMS AGAINST THE EVICTORS IN COUNTY CLARE Brooklyn Eagle Thursday, July 19, 1888 Tenants Cut the Bridges Between Kilrush and Kilkee - the Plan of Campaign Adopted in Tralee. The Work of the bailiffs engaged in making evictions at Kilrush, County Clare, is being obstructed by the population, who have cut all the bridges between Kilrush and Kilkee and taken other measures to delay the progress of the evictors. The chapel bells are tolling to warn the people of the approach of the officers.
The plan of campaign has been adopted by the tenants on the Murphy estates at Tralee, County Kerry.
Illicit Seizure at Killaloe Clare Freeman April 24, 1867 On last week a man named Flynn of this place was detected by one of the police in Limerick in the act of selling a quantity of illicit spirits. Flynn was arrested at the time; and his daughter, who was with him, took a car in Limerick and made for Killaloe in all haste to have the house cleared but was rather late, as the Constable of Limerick gave full chase with a quicker horse and was as soon on the pot as she was. With the assistance of the Killaloe police he searched the house and found a quantity of illicit spirits, and materials for more, together with a still in full working order, all of which were consigned to the Killaloe barrack.
Flynn was tried here on yesterday and fined 12 pounds for 6 months in Ennis Jail. He went to jail and is to be brought to Limerick to be tried there for the selling of the spirits.
Flynn keeps a mill in the town and is in comfortable circumstances and has a son in College.
Brooklyn Eagle October 2, 1902 Native of Ireland and Prominent Lawyer of Buffalo John Cunneen, who will be the next Attorney General of this state(New York) if the Democrats win, is a native of Ireland, having first seen the light at Ennis, County Clare on the 18th of May 1848.
He came to this country in 1861 and studied law. He is regarded as one of the foremost lawyers of the state. He has always taken an active part in Democratic politics and is chairman of the Erie County General Committee of that party.
Brooklyn Eagle September 24, 1883 Groans for the Queen Notwithstanding the proclamation of the Government forbidding the holding of meetings in the counties of Clare and Limerick on Sunday, several thousand persons headed by a priest, gathered in Milltown Malbay, County Clare, yesterday and attempted to hold an Irish National League meeting. A large police force was present and prevented the organization of the meeting. A magistrate read the prohibitory proclamation and the crowd dispersed, uttering groans for the Queen and shouting "God save Ireland".
Clare Freeman March 30, 1867 The Fenian Movement The result of the investigation before the magistrates in this town which closed on Monday evening, was that the following thirty-two prisoners have been committed for trial: -
- John Byrnes
- James Halloran
- John Maguire
- Cornelius Sullivan
- James McNamara
- Pat Hickey
- Ned M'Inerney
- Quin, the soldier of the 74h
- Stephen Slattery
- Thomas Walsh
- Patrick Hagerty
- Stephen Hehir
- John Tuohy
- John O'Neill
- John Nelson
- James Rochford
- Michael Hassett
- John Cunningham
- Dick Fitzgibbon
- Patrick Kelly
- Thomas Moran
- John McMahon
- Michael Crohan
- Richard Wall
- Thomes Hanrahan
- James Doyle
- George Dixon
- John Molony
- John Crowe
- James Crowe
- Michael M'Mahon
Two of the accused parties named Madigan and Crean were discharged in addition to the two others named Flannery and McInerny who were discharged on Saturday last. It appeared the magistrates did not consider the evidence sufficiently strong against those parties - but their discharge does not in the slightest degree invalidate the evidence of the approvers. Indeed with regard to Flannery, there was no doubt that he was with the party at Drumcliffe but it was alleged on his behalf that it was through fear he went with them and that he afterwards ran way from them. If this be true it shows how little sympathy many of the farmers have with the movement as we believe Flannery was the only farmer among the prisoners.
In addressing the bench on behalf of the prisoners, Mr. M. Molony described the offence as merely a misdemeanour for which the magistrates should take bail - or at most, an offence under what was called the Whiteboy Act. It was, of course, quite right for Mr. Molony to strive to mitigate the offence, of his clients, but Mr. Morphy, Crown solicitor, plainly informed the Bench of what is patent to everyone, that the crime of the prisoners was much more than either a misdemeanour or a Whiteboy offence - that in fact, the prisoners were liable to be indicted for high treason. The Magistrates, however, returned them for trail under the Whiteboy Act, it is optional with the magistrates to take bail in any of the cases. It rests entirely with the law officers of the Crown, to decide in the information taken against the prisoners what may be the nature of the indictments they will prefer against them.
With regard to the evidence given by the approvers in these cases, it has not been shaken in any material point. Indeed both Navin and Ryan narrated the events on the night of the rising in a very plain and straightforward manner. It was, no doubt, to save themselves when taken into custody that they made such a full disclosure. We understand that it was through the vigilence of that very efficient police officer, Constable Alexander, that Nevin was first discovered to have been implicated in the movement. This Constable has, on many occasions, displayed great zeal and ability in detecting crime and has several times received thanks of the magistrates. We cannot doubt that his conduct will also receive the notice it deserves at the hands of his superior officers. And it is but right to add, what we have already stated on previous occasions that all the members of the Force in Ennis have been most active in the discharge of the very arduous duties devolving upon them in connection with this rebellious movement. Nor can the Force either here or in any other part of the country afford to relax in any degree their vigilant exertions. They are well aware that the lower classes of the community around us are almost universally connected with this mischievous organisation and hence, the present vigorous measures must be followed up until the misguided people are taught in a way they will not soon forget, that to destroy the peace and prosperity of the country and render life and property insecure, is no trifling matter in the eyes of the Executive Government - but such as imperatively demands the severest punishment.
Another of the party who assembled at Drumcliff on the 5th has been arrested and lodged in our County Gaol. His name is Charles O'Brien. He has been for some time, we believe, in the employment of a tradesman in Ennis, but was originally from the neighbourhood of Liscannor where he was arrested on Monday last. He was alluded to by the witness Ryan at the late investigation
The soldier of the 9th regiment who was also alluded to by Ryan and Nevin, as taking an active part in the movement at Drumcliffe has also been arrested at Pembroke where his regiment is stationed. He was brought to Ennis on Thursday evening and was yesterday fully identified by Nevin and Ryan. His name is Richard Meade. It appears he has been on leave of absence at Limerick when he joined the insurgents here on the night of the 5th inst.
Monday morning last, Constable Alexander and a party of police discovered two bottles filled combustibles concealed in a hay stack on the premises of Patrick Nelson of Cahircalla (whose son is among the Fenians returned for trial). The bottles were brought to the barracks and found to be granader (?) when examined by the 74th and Mr. Curling, S.I. The dangerous combustibles were doubtless intended for the attack on the police barrack.
Various rumors have been afloat regarding the abrupt departure for America, so soon after the Fenian outbreak, of the Rev. J. Kemmy, P.P. Our readers will doubtless remember, that some time since, this rev. gentleman favoured us with a letter for publication (written from his residence at Liscannor) in which every strong language by no means of a flattering character, was used in reference to ourselves. Among other things, the rev patriot foretold, what a rapid flight we would make from the country, the moment the Fenians rose; and we were certainly led to infer from his letter that his own parish would, when the time came, furnish a numerous and valiant army.
Clare Freeman February 2, 1867 ____________________ To Be Let From the 25th of MARCH next, And a lease given - the House and Lands of C A S T L E P A R K Situated on the Western Coast of CLARE, and quite near the Village of LISCANNOR, and for Beauty of Scenery, health and sea-bathing, can- not be surpassed in Ireland THE HOUSE is commodious and in thorough repair, and contains 2 Sitting Rooms, 1 Bedrooms a good large Kitchen, Pantries, &c, &c The Offices consist of stabling for 8 horses, and large-coach-house, lofted all over, together with cow-house and sheds of every description - all well enclosed by a 10 foot wall. The Land consists of 12 Irish acres of the primest description of meadowing, enclosed by a 9 foot wall and in five divisions. There is a well walled in garden and a never-failing Spring well, which is much valued in that locality. Snipe, cock and water fowl shooting is first rate and is the only part of Clare where you will get regular white trout fishing in season - also right of Turbary Apply to R. Floyd, Meelick Cottage or to Daniel Doyle, Esq, Solicitor 106 George Street Limerick Meelick, January 1867 Brooklyn Eagle April 5, 1878 Death of Alderman O'Reilly's Father Daniel O'Reilly, father of the Alderman of the Twelfth Ward, died last night, after an illness of nearly five months at the age of 77. Deceased was born in Feakle, County Clare, Ireland. When a young man he settled in the City of Limerick, where he reared a large family, of whom the Alderman and one sister only remain. During the excitement previous to 1848 deceased was an active member of the Sarsfield Club, Limerick and an ardent supporter of "Young Ireland" principles. the family came to this country in 1856 and became residents of this city. The funeral will take place on Saturday from St. Mary's R.C. Church, South Brooklyn.
Brooklyn Eagle Recent Events - March 12, 1889 Landlord Creagh and his sister of County Clare Ireland were shot at on the way to church and both dangerously wounded, the former's nose being shot off.
Recent Events - December 21, 1886 Several Parnellite members of Parliament succeeded yesterday in hoodwinking the police and collecting and escaping with the rents due from the tenants on the Vandeleur Estate in County Clare, Ireland.
Clare Freeman January 19, 1867 The Case of Mulcahy, The Fenian At the sitting of the Court of Queens Bench on Thursday, the Lord Chief Justice delivered judgement in the case of Denis Dowling Mulcahy. His lordship reviewed elaborately the curcumstances under which the case came before him and then referred in detail to the points raised in the demurer on behalf of the prisoner. The three main questions raised were as to the jury panel of 1865 serving as that for 1866; the qualification or otherwise of jurors, one of whom was over 60 years of age and whether the indictment was properly framed, the words "considering and compassing" being considered by prisoner's counsel insufficient to constitute as overt act, such as that charged in the indictment. Upon all these points the Lord Chief Justice pronounced the judgement of the majority of the court to be in favour of the crown. Mr. Justice O'Brien differed only from his brother Judge upon one point - namely, with regard to the construction of the act relative to the age of jurors. He considered that Mr. Fry, who was the juror objected to by the prisoner on the ground stated being over 60 he was disqualified from acting, and not, as was held by the other members of the court merely exempted. Mr. Justice Fitzgerald and Mr. Justice George also delivered judgement, agreeing with that pronounced by the Lord Chief Justice. The prisoner was then formally ordered back to custody for the execution of judgement standing against him.
Clare Freeman, January 19, 1867 Landed Estates Court - January 16, 1867 County of Clare - the Estate of Charles Monek Wilson, Owner and Petitioner Lot 9, Part of the lands of Kilmore, 127a (acres), 1 r (rood), 3 p (perches) bought by Mr. Singleton for 2,020
Lot 10, Part of the lands of Kilmore, 95 a, 2r,3p bought by Mr. John M'Donnell for 850
Lot 11, Part of the lands of Kilmore 108a, 1 r, 11p, Bought by same purchaser for 990
Lot 12, Part of same lands, 158a, 2 r, 21 p, purchased by same purchase for 1020
Lot 13, Part of same lands, 159a, 3 r, 2p Purchased by Mr. Singleton for 1, 925
Lot 14, Part of the same lands, 136a, 2r, 14p, same purchaser for 2125
Lot 15, Part of the same lands, 920a, 3r, 22 p. Same purchaser for 920
Lot 16, the lands of Finlea Lower, 154a, 1 r, 15p, purchased by Mr. John Scanlon for 845
Lot 17 the lands of Upper Finlea, 331a, 2r, 38p, purchased by Mr. William Studdert for 1,720
Lot 18, the fee-farm rent issuing out of the lands of Killestry 247a, 2r, 27p. mr William Hannigan purchased for 410
Lot 19, the house and tenements in the town of Killaloe, Mr. A. Ellis purchased in trust for 270.
Messrs Henry and Dillon, solicitors.
Clare Freeman February 2, 1867 Fatal Accident
An unfortunate man about 30 years of age, named Patrick Landers, from Lissycasey between Ennis and Kilrush, fell into the river it is believed on Saturday night last in this town, whilst under the influence of drink, and perished. The body has not yet been found
Lord Inchiquin, family and suit have left Dromoland for his lordship's town residence, 47, Prince's Gardens, London to attend to his Parliamentary duties.
January 26, 1867 An inquest was held in Kilrush on Tuesday on the body of Mrs. Doyle who died suddenly while coming rom the R.C. Chapel on Monday morning last. The jury returned a verdict "Died by the visitation of God.".
Clare Freeman January 26, 1867 Killadysert Petty Sessions - Monday
On the Bench, Edmond Blake, Esq. R.M. (chairman and Morgan John O'Connell Esqrs.
Although no Sessions had been held for six weeks previously, the cases for adjudication on Monday last were few and unimportant.
John Frawley summoned Pat Cunneen for 6 pounds 10 shilling wages. The complainant did not appear - a convincing proof that his claim was unfounded. The Bench offered to award a compensation to defendant for loss of time, but he declined it - considering doubtless, that it would be difficult to get from Frawley.
Daniel Malone summoned Michael Kean, a very old and troublesome aquaintance of the Bench, for assaulting him in a most violent manner, at Carrowreigh on the 10th instant - The assault in question was the result of a dispute concerning a boundary which divided the lands in the occupation of the litigants and which was thrown down by the defendant to suit his own purposes after having made the satisfaction of the valuator by the complainant and another man.
The case was clearly proved and Michael Kean was accordingly ordered to pay a fine of 10s and 2? 6d costs for the assault and 2s 6d fine, and 1s 6d costs for the wilful dilapidation of the boundary.
John Collins also summoned Michael Kean and his two sons, Patrick and James, the former for committing wilful trespass and injury to his property by stopping a water course which ran through a portion of his land, and the later, for aiding and assisting their father in the commission of the trespass.
This case was also clearly proved, but it appearing that the complainant, in consequence of time owing to the hardness of the frost, did not sustain any considerable injury through the conduct of the defendant, the latter was fine only in the mitigated penalty of 6 d and 2s 6d costs. His sons were also fined in a similar amount, so that on the whole, our old acquaintance from Carrowreigh paid pretty dearly for his whistle on Monday last.
Seven persons named Pat Quinn, John Collins, John O'Connor, John King, Pat Malone, John Coughlan, and Michael O'Brien, were summoned at the suit of the constabulary, for the abominable vice of drunkenness, each of whom were ordered to pay a fine of 1s 6d with costs of court.
The court soon after adjourned, after which Mr. Blake proceeded to grant licenses to have and carry fire-arms &c, in this district.
Sheriff's Sale County of Clare To Wit Alexander Bannatyne and James Bannatyne trading under the style of James Bannatyne and Sons, Plaintiffs. Peter McMahon and Denis Kerin, Defendants: To be sold by public Auction at the Court House, Ennis, on Monday, the 1st day of April, 1867 at the hour of Two O'Clock p.m., under and by virtue of the Writ of "Fieri Facias" in this cause, the chattel interest of the Defendant, Denis Kerin, in the lands of Leekaun, in the Barony of Inchiquin and County of Clare. Dated this 27th day of March 1867 Edmund M. Blood Sheriff, Co. Clare Richard Pearson, Auctioneer. John Cullinan, Esq, Jun, Plaintiff's Attorney, Bellevue, Ennis, will give any information required as to term, rent &c, under which said lands are held. Clare Journal
Thursday, January 11th, 1912Connolly - United Irish League
At a meeting of the above branch held on Sunday last, Mr. Thomas Doohan presided. The other members present were Messrs. P. Casey [Treasurer], P. Baker [Secretary], P. Queally, D.C., James Doohan, D.C., P. Doohan, D. Boland, M. Meere, P. O'Neill, P. McInerney, M. Harvey, M. Moloney, D.C., M. Greene, J. Kennedy, J. Doohan, M. O'Neill, J. Hehir.
The following delegates were appointed to attend the West Clare Executive Meeting: M. Meere, P. Doohan, P. McInerney.
Delegates were also appointed to attend the convention to be held in Ennis on August 17th.
The Chairman urged the members of the Committee to do all in their power to make the coming meeting a great national success and expressed his belief that the purchased as well as the unpurchased tenants would attend the great National Demonstration to rescue that long-lost, sought for "Land of the People."
The Clareman
October 5,1901United Irish League
A meeting of the Kilmaley and Connolly branch of the above was held on Sunday last. Dr. T. R. Killeen presided. Mr. Cahill suggested that arrangements be made for a collection in support of the Parliamentary Fund.
After some discussion it was decided to adjourn it for a future meeting.
The following resolution was unanimously adopted: Proposed by James O'Grady and seconded by James Burke - "That we, the Kilmaley and Connolly Branch of the United Irish League earnestly request all persons who have not become members of the branch to do so immediately." Seven new members were enrolled. Next meeting - 27th October.
The Saturday Record
August 8th, 1908United Irish League - Inch Branch
A meeting of the above branch was held on Sunday. Mr. Michael McKey, D.C., was presiding. The following delegates were unanimously appointed to attend the Executive Meetings for the ensuing year: Michael McKey, John Gibson, James McNamara, Michael Gregan, James Killeen and William Corbett.
Clare Journal, Monday, March 13th, 1899
Ballynacally County Division: Meeting in KilmaleyOn Sunday last a meeting was held in Kilmaley for the purpose of selecting a suitable candidate to represent the Division on the County Council.
Mr. James Cahill presided and on coming forward said he had great pleasure in introducing his friend, Mr. Griffin who was coming forward as a Nationalist and Home Rule Candidate for their division. Mr. Cahill dwelt at length on Mr. Griffin's nationalist principles and said he would give his entire attention to the Amnesty Question. He said it was a shame to have the victims of the past locked up in prison cells without having one kind word from those who reaped the benefit of their toil.
Mr. Griffin, who was received with cheers and shouts of "Welcome", said he had come to offer himself as a candidate for the Country Division of Ballynacally. From his practical experience as a guardian and from the opportunities he had of attending the meeting of the grand Jury, he hoped to be able to represent his constituents fairly and honestly. He said he did not pretend to be a speech maker but when the work was to be done, he would be there in the interest of his division and in the interest of his country to do it. He would support a Land Purchase Bill, not only for the tenant farmers but also for the labourers. He was of the opinion that a great deal more contentment and happiness would exist in this country if the people all had their lands purchased.
Mr. E. Murphy, P. L. G., of Kildysart Union, who addressed the meeting and strongly supported Mr. Griffin's candidature, was louldy cheered. The meeting unanimously agreed that Mr. Griffin should be their chosen candidate.
Clare Journal, Monday, Feb 28th, 1910
Transfer of Fr. Luke O'Brien, C.C. Kilmaley to KilrushThe news of the above transfer cast a shadow of the deepest regret over the united parishes of Kilmaley, Inch, and Connolly.
Fr. O'Brien, during well nigh fourteen years, has laboured indefatigably and self-sacrificintly, a lover of God's chosen poor and His holy religion and an energetic teacher of the youth under his charge - such were the qualities that distinguished the young priest who has now gone to continue his sacred mission near Scatter's Holy Island - a fitting place, one might say, for one so kind and sincerely holy.
He carries with him, however the prayers and well-wishes of his old associates and Fr. Flynn alluded in feeling terms to his sterling worth as a priest and to the sorrow he felt for his departure from the parish at Inch Mass on Sunday.
Fr. O'Brien helped largely in the building of Connolly and Kilmaley schools and when Rev. J. Glynn, P.P came to 'guide the destinies' of Kilmaley, he ably assisted him in the renovation of the then dilapidated churches of the parish.
He always took a deep interest in the education of the youth in both religious and secular matters. It was, however, as a Temperance advocate, as a friend of the poor, as a consoling comforter of the sorrow-stricken and distressed that he won his way to the hearts of the parishioners. The latter have already taken some steps to present him with some small token of their esteem.
Clare Champion, Saturday, July 4th 1936
Hurling in Cusack Park: Kilnamona Beat KilmaleyA spirited encounter delighted a big holiday crowd at Cusack Park, Ennis on Monday. Each team had a strong following and the various phases of the game aroused the enthusiasm of each set of admirers alternately.
Although there were a few showers and when the final whistle blew there were two peals of thunder, the weather was favourable and the spectators thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
In the division, three teams emerged on equal terms - Kilnamona, Kilmaley and Ballyea. On the draw for elimination Ballyea got a bye and the other two teams had to meet. Both Kilnamona and Kilmaley were recently organised and prepared earnestly for the fray. The rivalry between them was very keen and the result was that their encounter attracted one of the biggest crowds that has ever been seen at a Junior hurling match in Clare.
Kilnamona were slow to start and in the early stages of the game Kilmaley were seen to advantage, their better combination and precision enabling them to establish a lead of seven points before Kilnamona got into their stride. However, by steady play Kilnamona gradually reduced the lead. At half-time the score was Kilmaley 2-3, Kilnamona 2-1.
In the second half the excitement was quite intense. Kilmaley fought vigorously to retain their advantage and Kilnamona were equally determined to deprive them of it. After ten minutes dour struggle Kilnamona scored a goal. This so heartened them and inspired them with so much confidence that despite a strong resistance by Kilmaley, they wore down the opposition and when the referee, Joe Madigan blew the final whistle they were the winners on the score, Kilnamona 5-2, Kilmaley 2-3.
Prominent for the winners were Rynne, 'Fox' Griffey, McTigue and Moloney (in goal). For Kilmaley Murphy played excellently and Neylon was outstanding until he had to retire injured.
Kilmaley: D. McKee, P. Murphy, M. Murphy, P. Cahir, W. Murphy, P. Leahy, J. Burke, T. Neylon, J. O'Loughlin, J. Pilkington, L. Burke, P. Daffy, P. Griffin, J. Maher, M. Burke.
Kilnamona: D. Moloney, A. Doherty, P. McTigue, M. McTigue, M. McGuane, M. King, J. Rynne, M. Sullivan, F. McTigue, J. Griffin, F. Cunningham, P. Rynne, A. McTigue, J. Kelly, M. Kerin.
Referee - Joe Madigan
