A number of 1916 Commemoration events are set to take place in Boyle over the Easter season following many months of hard work by a committee formed last year to connect with family members of the Old IRA (Boyle area) at home and abroad.
People were invited to share stories, information and memorabilia in preparation for the commemoration and recognition of their family’s part in the movement for Independence 1914-1922. This happened in parallel with Barry Feely’s research for his new book as he prepared to tell the story of the Old IRA in Boyle, including the prominent role of his own father and uncle.
For the Record is a commemorative exhibition of photographs, archival documents and memorabilia of Boyle Old IRA Members 1914 – 1922. The exhibition will be opened by Matt Molloy in King House, Boyle on Easter Saturday at 3pm and will run until Saturday April 2nd.
Molloy’s father James had a daring escape from the Boyle Military Barracks in 1921 and the image above is of a drawing by Boyle-based artist Vitya Malirsh, depicting the scene
On Easter Sunday a ceremonial gathering will be observed as volunteers’ relatives attend 11.30am mass wearing their family member’s Old IRA medal.
And on Friday week, April 1st, They Dared to Challenge (in the Garrison Town of Boyle), the associated research publication by Barry Feely will be launched at King House at 8pm. The book is a fascinating, highly detailed account of the revolutionary period (1914 – 1922) with photographs and drawings depicting many of the key events. From archival sources, personal contacts and unrivalled local knowledge, Barry has put together a unique record of events in Boyle during a crucial period in Irish history.
The book and events have received funding from Roscommon County Council under Roscommon Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme. This and all events are detailed in the Roscommon 2016 Centenary Programme publication and the national website
www.ireland.ie/events/strand/community-participation