British War Office files on the 1916 Rising—which were marked secret for 100 years—have been discovered by researchers examining records on courts martial from both world wars.
The files contain personal letters, court notes and details of the execution of rebel leaders, including Connolly and Pearse. Among themis a signed message from Connolly saluting the people for rising against British rule.
They were among records released to the Public Records Office in Kew. A map drawn by a British officer details the graves of executed leaders. Dr Michael Laffan, lecturer in modern Irish history at UCD,said he was surprised at the release of the records. The documents include a medical certificate signed by two doctors declaring Connolly’s fitness to stand trial.
Geraldine Collins,
Irish Independent,
22 May 1995
