Last War of Independence action remembered in Camolin

By Dan Walsh

The 100^th anniversary of the locally titled Camolin Ambush – the last action in the War of Independence in County Wexford – was commemorated in a small but dignified ceremony in Camolin village this evening.

At least four generations of the Carton family were present at this evening’s event.

Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin, Leas – Cathaoirleach of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council recalled the Camolin Ambush a century ago and said; “it is only right a fitting that we should remember the events 100 years later.”

The Enniscorthy Historical Re-Enactment Group provided colour party led by Capt. Ray Murphy. After a minute’s silence at the scene of the attack at the wall of Valentia House the attendance led by the colour party marched to the graveside of Patrick Carton in the local graveyard where Capt. Murphy fired a single shot (blank) over Patrick Carton’s grave. Capt. Murphy then ceremoniously presented the spent shell to Patrick’s grand-daughter, Peggy.

Local IRA Volunteer Patrick Carton and a four-man party of RIC officers were engaged in an incident in which an explosion took place and the RIC party received minor injuries, but Patrick made good his escape across the fields without any injuries on June 5^th, 1921. It was the last action during the War of Independence in County Wexford. The Truce was called six days later on June 11th.

This evenings’ remembrance ceremony organised by John G. Kavanagh, local historian, and archaeologist and historian Barry Lacey, with the support of the Carton family.