Nick Maxwell

The execution of a National Army officer a century ago followed two shocking killings in rural Kerry in the months after the end of the Civil War. By Owen O’Shea The attitude and approach of the National Army and the Free State government to the notorious behaviour of many senior army figures in County Kerry … Read more

By John O’Brien Lawn tennis exploded onto the Irish social scene in the summer of 1874, just weeks after the first advertisements for lawn tennis equipment appeared in English newspapers. As the 1875 season approached, Lawrence’s ‘depot for manly sports’ on Sackville Street began to advertise tennis equipment in the Irish Times. From the end … Read more

By Peter W. Halligan Teresa McGrath (1865–1907) was awarded the Royal Red Cross in 1899 for her exceptional bravery in nursing wounded soldiers of the 36th (Sikh) Regiment of Bengal Infantry at the siege of Fort Gulistan in September 1897. The Royal Red Cross is the highest military decoration awarded to nurses who show exceptional … Read more

By Stephen Collins In the decade after Catholic Emancipation in 1829 Ireland was convulsed by political agitation, as Daniel O’Connell led a concerted campaign to get his supporters elected to the House of Commons. Longford was a prime example of how the battle lines were drawn during a series of elections in the 1830s; while … Read more

By Ray O’Connor Savings banks were financial institutions that promoted moral improvement among the lower social orders by advocating a strong work ethic, sobriety and thrift. They encouraged the poor to make financial provision for infirmity, illness and old age by offering a financial service that provided a safe place to deposit any savings. Savings … Read more